Costa Rica is one of the world’s most romantic honeymoon destinations: volcano-backed hot springs, misty cloud forests, private jungle villas, and pristine Pacific beaches. Below are five standout resorts each in a different part of the country and broken down why they’re perfect for newlyweds, what’s included, typical price ranges, the best activities, a short price comparison, practical tips before you go, and a short FAQ to help you plan.
1) Nayara Springs — Arenal / La Fortuna
Why it’s one of the best: Nayara Springs is an adults-only, luxury villa resort set in the rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano. It’s famous for private plunge pools fed by hot springs, ultra-romantic villa design, and award-winning spa experiences ideal for couples seeking privacy, luxury, and nature immersion.
Perks & inclusions:
- Private villas with plunge pools (many fed by natural thermal springs).
- Breakfast options included in many rates; welcome cocktail and fresh fruit in-villa.
- Twice-daily housekeeping, complimentary mini-bar items (varies by package).
Top activities:
- Guided rainforest walks and wildlife spotting, Arenal Volcano viewpoints, zip-lining, hanging-bridge walks, and a couples’ treatment at the spa.
Typical nightly price range:
- Expect approximately $600–$1,200+ per night for private spa villas in high season; smaller suites are lower. (Rates vary by season and room type.)
Best for: Couples who want absolute privacy, in-villa hot springs, and upscale service.
2) Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa — Arenal / La Fortuna
Why it’s one of the best: Tabacón sits in lush rainforest and is built around natural thermal rivers an iconic romantic experience in Costa Rica. The resort combines easy access to Arenal activities with extensive thermal pools and an internationally renowned spa.
Perks & inclusions:
- Access to on-site hot springs and thermal river pools exclusive to guests.
- Spa treatments and nature experiences organized by the resort.
- On-site restaurants with views of the volcano and rainforest.
Top activities:
- Thermal river bathing at dusk (very romantic), spa rituals, guided night walks to spot frogs and insects, and canopy/zipline tours nearby.
Typical nightly price range:
- Roughly $400–$800 per night, though suites and private villas push higher in peak season.
Best for: Couples who want the “hot springs + rainforest” honeymoon hallmark without sacrificing creature comforts.
3) Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo — Guanacaste (Pacific Coast)
Why it’s one of the best: If you want a classic luxury-beach honeymoon white-sand coves, oceanviews, world-class service — the Four Seasons on Papagayo Peninsula is Costa Rica’s top beachfront pick. It blends five-star amenities with nature and activities (surfing, snorkeling, sailing) on the Pacific.
Perks & inclusions:
- Multiple restaurants and bars, full-service spa, infinity pools, golf nearby, and curated experiences (private beach dinners, sunset sails).
- Family and couple-focused amenities; many room packages include breakfast.
Top activities:
- Snorkeling, surfing lessons, private boat charters (sunset cruises), horseback riding, and spa treatments.
Typical nightly price range:
- Expect $800–$1,500+ per night in high season for ocean-view rooms and suites; villas are higher.
Best for: Couples seeking polished beachfront luxury with lots of activities and fine dining.
4) Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort — Manuel Antonio
Why it’s one of the best: Small, sustainable, beachfront luxury in Manuel Antonio steps from the national park beaches and wildlife. It’s highly romantic for couples who want beach access and jungle wildlife (monkeys, sloths) with boutique-hotel intimacy.
Perks & inclusions:
- Complimentary a-la-carte breakfast included in many rates.
- Private access to small beaches, easy hiking to Manuel Antonio National Park, and on-site concierge for tours.
Top activities:
- National park excursions for wildlife spotting, stand-up paddle boarding, dolphin tours, and sunset beach dinners.
Typical nightly price range:
- Roughly $400–$800 per night, depending on room category and season.
Best for: Couples who want a beach + jungle combo, local wildlife, and a boutique, eco-aware property.
5) Lapa Rios Lodge — Osa Peninsula / Corcovado (Eco-lodge)
Why it’s one of the best: For adventurous couples who want pure, remote nature, Lapa Rios is an award-winning eco-lodge in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Expect rustic-luxe bungalows, rainforest views, and guided nature immersion.
Perks & inclusions:
- Guided nature walks and many eco-tours arranged by the lodge. Packages often include meals and guided excursions.
- Strong conservation and community programs stay supports protection of the rainforest.
Top activities:
- Guided hikes in Corcovado National Park, birdwatching, waterfall swims, boat tours, and night walks.
Typical nightly price range:
- Expect $300–$700 per night depending on bungalow and season (remote location increases tour costs).
Best for: Couples who want an off-grid, nature-first honeymoon experience with ethical tourism credentials.
Price Comparison
- Nayara Springs (Arenal, private hot-spring villas): $600–$1,200+.
- Tabacón (Arenal, thermal rivers): $400–$800.
- Four Seasons Papagayo (Guanacaste, beach luxe): $800–$1,500+.
- Arenas Del Mar (Manuel Antonio, beachfront boutique): $400–$800.
- Lapa Rios (Osa Peninsula, eco-lodge): $300–$700.
What to know before you go to Costa Rica Honeymoon
- Seasons matter. Dry season (December–April) is popular and more expensive; green/rainy season (May–November) can be quieter, greener, and cheaper but still offers plenty of sun, especially on the Pacific coast.
- Travel time between destinations. Costa Rica is small but roads can be slow flying between regions (e.g., San José to the Osa Peninsula or Guanacaste) can save hours. Plan your honeymoon route to minimize long drives.
- Pack for nature. Lightweight rain jacket, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes for hikes, and a waterproof bag for beach/jungle days.
- Health & safety. Bring any prescription meds, and check routine vaccination and travel advisories. Mosquito protection is important in jungle areas.
- Book experiences early. Private dinners, spa treatments, guided wildlife tours, and popular zipline slots fill up quickly, especially during high season.
- Eco-responsibility. Many top properties emphasize conservation. Respect local rules (no single-use plastics where banned) and prefer biodegradable/reef-safe products.
FAQs
Q: Which area is best for a first-time Costa Rica honeymoon — beach or jungle?
A: If you want sun and swimming, pick Guanacaste or Manuel Antonio. For hot springs and rainforest romance, Arenal is perfect. For remote nature and wildlife, head to Osa/Corcovado. Mix two regions for variety.
Q: Do resorts offer honeymoon packages or private dinners?
A: Yes, most luxury resorts offer romantic packages, private beach dinners, couples’ spa treatments, and welcome amenities. Contact the resort concierge before arrival to arrange upgrades.
Q: Is Costa Rica expensive for a honeymoon?
A: It ranges. You can honeymoon on a moderate budget, but top luxury resorts (Nayara, Four Seasons) will be pricier. Choosing dates in green season, shorter stays at premium resorts, or a mix of boutique lodges can balance costs.
Q: How long should a Costa Rica honeymoon be?
A: 7–10 days is common so you can enjoy at least two regions (for example, 3–4 nights in Arenal + 4–5 nights on the Pacific coast).
Final thoughts
Costa Rica is a honeymoon playground that caters to very different tastes: private hot-spring villas (Nayara Springs), thermal-river spa romance (Tabacón), five-star beach indulgence (Four Seasons Papagayo), intimate beachfront boutique (Arenas Del Mar), and off-grid, wildlife-rich eco-lodges (Lapa Rios). Choose the vibe you want quiet luxury and privacy, or action and wildlife and consider splitting your stay between two regions for the best of both worlds. For best rates, book early, consider green-season discounts if you don’t mind brief rains, and contact resorts directly to add honeymoon extras (private dinners, room upgrades, surprise spa treatments).
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