Are you considering an all inclusive resort in Costa Rica for your next vacation?

There are TONS of amazing all-inclusive Resort options at a variety of price points and for all interests located throughout the country.

In fact, Costa Rica is home to 30 beachfront and jungle resorts that will be perfect for your next tropical vacation.

We love to visit all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica when we are looking for a chance to relax and have everything included in our stay.

Since moving to Costa Rica in 2016 we have visited several different resorts throughout the country and have a good understanding of which resorts are the best to visit, what to look out for when booking, and which resorts you should avoid.

We created this guide to help you plan the perfect all inclusive stay that meets exactly what you are looking for in a luxury Costa Rica experience.

So, lets get to it!

Costa Rica All Inclusive Resorts at a Glance

Here are our top picks for resorts in the country based on different travel styles.

1. The W Costa Rica

Location

The W Costa Rica is located on Playa Conchal. This beach is continuously voted as the nicest in Costa Rica. It is secluded, beautiful, and has perfect waters for swimming or snorkeling

The Vibe

I would call this place relaxed luxury. The vibe seems friendly and approachable with a refinement to it. 

Personally, I think the interior design team at this place did an amazing job. I love how they incorporated so much wood throughout without making it seem dark. 

I also think you can’t beat the location here for a relaxed getaway in Costa Rica. 

Amenities

• Access to the Reserva Conchal golf course 
• Direct beach access
• Well equiped fitness center
• Full service spa
• Exercise classes
• Access to the two pools (one is adults only)
• Daily entertainment programs

For all you gold enthusiasts, there is a golf course, putting green, and driving range at Reserva Conchal. This is an 18-hole course with views of the Pacific Ocean designed by Robert Trent Jones II. 

Golf is not included in the all-inclusive rate. However, this is a private course and staying at the resort gives you the ability to book a tee time. 

Off Site activities

From Conchal, it is possible to go on a catamaran tour, try SUP, go snorkeling or diving, take a day trip to Palo Verde, and more!

Rooms

There are a lot of different room options here depending on your budget and the number of people in your group. It is also to stay in the on property villa which has a private pool and five bedrooms. 

Dining

There are five restaurants and bars on the property. These are:

COCINA DE MERCADO:

• Serves international and local cuisine from light fare to comfort food.
• Concept: Open-market with show kitchen, pizza counter, and griddle station
• Open for: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Latitud 10° Norte Restaurant

• Style: Fine dining with innovative cuisine by the executive chef
• Features: Incorporates the latest Costa Rican mixology trends
• Open for: Dinner

Zona Azul Beach Club Firepits

• Experience: Private beach club with party atmosphere
• Highlights: Padoga-style VIP cabanas, DJ-mixed pool parties
• Open: Everyday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

WET® Deck

• Cuisine: American
• Atmosphere: Ultimate poolside scene
• Features: Sunbeds, barstools, cabanas for shade
• Bar hours: 10 AM to sunse

Living Room Bar

• Ambiance: Lively atmosphere for mingling
• Open for: Lunch and dinner

Who it is Best For

We think this resort is best for families with older children, couples, or friends who are looking to play golf. Younger kids are allowed, but the vibe is definitely a bit more refined.

How to Book All-Inclusive

By default, this is not strictly an all-incusive resort. You will need to add on the all-inclusive package.

To do that, select your date and room and you will need to toggle to “Deals and Packages” instead of “Standard Rates”.

This is on the top of the room booking section. 

I included a screenshot for you to help you find it. From here you can select to add on the all-inclusive package. 

The all-inclusive package includes Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Dinner, Snacks, Beer, Cocktails, and Soft drinks.

2. Secrets Papagayo All Inclusive – Adults Only

Secrets Papagayo is an adults-only all-inclusive resort. We like this place for its breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and proximity to the Liberia International Airport.

Location

Although this resort is called Secrets Papagayo, it actually isn’t located directly on the Papagayo Peninsula. The resort is located next to the small beach village of Playa Hermosa, near the Papagayo Peninsula. 

Amenities

• 202 spacious suites, each with a private balcony or terrace.
• Unlimited luxury experience with 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini-bar, and more.
• Five bars serving unlimited top-shelf spirits.
• Two pools
• Beachfront access
• Secrets Spa offering massages, body and facial treatments, and a full-service beauty salon.
• Fully equipped fitness center.
• Daily and nighttime activities.

Dining Options

Here you can experience a variety of international cuisine at seven top-notch restaurants. 

You can choose from four à la carte options, a buffet venue, a poolside grill, and a cozy café. 

For a special romantic meal, you can dine in the privacy of your suite or on the beach. 

There are also 24-hour dining options and room service.

Who It is Best For

We think this is perfect for couples who are on their honeymoon or just looking for a relaxing getaway in a secure and scenic beach location.

Why We Like It

As a married couple without kids, this place is kind of our dream. It is nice to enjoy a resort experience with only other adults, eat delicious food whenever you want, have plenty of activities to do nearby and have a really short drive from the Liberia International Airport. 

Nearby Things to Do

• Visit Rincon de la Vieja
• Check out Nauyaca Waterfall
• Go Beach Hopping
• Take a Catamaran Tour
• Go Diving

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

This resort is completely all-inclusive. So, there is nothing special you need to add to your reservation to include the all-inclusive option.

3. The Westin Golf Resort & Spa

Get ready to experience the charm of Costa Rica at The Westin Golf Resort & Spa! This place is a haven of serenity and luxury, surrounded by stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Location

The Westin Golf Resort & Spa is located in Playa Conchal in the Guanacaste Province. This beach village is located just north of Tamarindo.

Amenities

The resort offers tons of premium amenities. These include:

• The resort features a challenging 18-hole championship golf course, offering panoramic ocean views.
• A state-of-the-art spa within the resort offers a wide variety of treatments for body and soul rejuvenation.
• Other facilities include a fully equipped fitness center, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and water sports facilities at the nearby beach.
• All rooms and suites at the resort are equipped with plush furnishings, modern amenities, and private balconies with breathtaking views.
• Free Wi-Fi access and 24-hour room service are provided for maximum guest convenience and comfort.

This resort is located next to the W Conchal. The golf course here is the 18-hole course with views of the Pacific Ocean designed by Robert Trent Jones II. 

Golf is not included in the all-inclusive rate. However, this is a private course and staying at the resort gives you the ability to book a tee time. 

Dining Options

Guests at The Westin Golf Resort & Spa have so many unique dining options available. Each restaurant offers a distinct atmosphere and culinary style.

The restaurants are:

• Manglar Seafood: A beachside-style eatery offering refreshing seafood, salads, and salsas. Perfect for a casual dinner with a resort atmosphere. Open for dinner.
• Bamboo Bamboo Asian: An Asian blend restaurant Offers a range of options from steamed beef gyoza to Pad Thai. Open for dinner.
• Spirula Trattoria Pizza: Serving pasta and wood-fired pizzas near the beach. Also features a pool bar for you to relax under an umbrella with a cocktail. Open for lunch and dinner.
• La Sabana Steak House: Recovers regional cattle-rancher traditions and combines it with a steak house style. Open for dinner.
• Faisanella International: Offers sophisticated appetizers and delectable entrées in an atmosphere accentuated by dramatic vaulted ceilings and pool views. Open for lunch and dinner.
• El Ranchito Bar-B-Q: Enjoy tasty quick bites at this casual restaurant and bar near the resort’s main pool. Open for lunch.
• Mitra Market International: A new gastro-market-style restaurant with international and local cuisines. Features a unique rotisserie, Asian creations, local flavors, and nightly entertainment, plus 2 bars with signature mixology. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Caracola Poolside Restaurant: Offers traditional Costa Rican and American dining in our resort’s beautiful outdoor palapa. Open for lunch.
• Cauri Lobby Bar & Bistro: Offers stunning golf course views and refreshing drink options. Open for dinner.
• Imperial Sports Bar: Enjoy cocktails, great music, and the big game in this indoor-outdoor sports bar and lounge. Features relaxed outdoor seating and a DJ’s nightly rhythms.

There are also two swim up bars on the property.

Who the Resort is Best For

The Westin Golf Resort & Spa is suited for a wide range of travelers. 

I suggest it for: 

– Golf enthusiasts interested in a luxury golf experience 

– Families looking for a vacation with a variety of activities for all ages

– Couples seeking a romantic getaway

– Food lovers who are interested in the all-inclusive dining experience and the chance to try several different types of cuisine

Nearby Things to Do

• Go surfing or try a surfing lesson
• Visit downtown Tamarindo
• Take an ATV tour
• Take a day trip to Palo Verde National Park
• Go beach hopping

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

This resort is all-inclusive, so any room you book will come with the all-inclusive package. 

Just note that golf is not included in the room rate. You will need to pay for any rounds separately.

4. Planet Hollywood

Location

Planet Hollywood is one of the few resorts located directly on the Papagayo Peninsula

The Vibe

If you are traveling with kids, this place will be so much fun for the entire family. We also love that it is a new resort with top-notch design and amenities. It’s just an all-around great place to be. 

Amenities

Multiple restaurants, multiple bars, a kids club, several swimming pools, white sand beach access, STARS kids club, splash kids zone, disco, daily and nightly entertainment, a spa, and more!

Off site activities

Papagayo Peninsula is a great jumping off point for tons of adventure. For a fun day trip we suggest a catamaran tour with snorkeling or a visit up to Rincon de la Vieja National Park. 

Rooms

This resort offers rooms and suites which can sleep up to eight guests. 

In other words, if you are a small family there are options for you, or if you would like to travel with another family there are two-bedroom suites with pool table, balcony, and hot tub. 

Dining

There are seven restaurants on the property. These include: 

SO CAL GOURMET FOOD EMPORIUM

• International cuisine
• Features global culinary trends and local farm-fresh dishes
• Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

EAST SUSHI & TEPPANYAKI BAR

• Japanese cuisine
• Chef’s showmanship at the sushi bar and grill
• Open for dinner

SUNSET STRIP STEAKHOUSE & GRILL

• Steakhouse with old Hollywood charm
• Open for dinner

OVERTIME SPORTS BAR

• Pub with cold beer
• Shows major sports games and awards shows
• Open for lunch and dinner

BLUE STAR TEX-MEX CANTINA

• Tex-Mex cuisine in a saloon-style atmosphere
• Signature fajitas and Tex-Mex classics
• Open for dinner

GUSTO ITALIAN TRATTORIA

• Romantic Italian trattoria
• Uncork, unwind, and celebrate life
• Open for dinner

GUY’S! BURGER JOINT

• Unique dining experience with a revved-up menu
• Selfie-worthy design
• Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure
• Open for lunch

How to Book the All Inclusive Option

This hotel is entirely all inclusive, so there is no need to add anything extra to your reservation.

As a guest here you get: 

All-Inclusive room, food, and beverages.

All drinks – domestic beer, cocktails, and select international brands.

Unlimited reservation-free dining.

24-hour room service.

5. El Mangroove Autograph Collection

Location 

El Mangroove is located on Playa Panama which is a relaxed beach just north of Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste. This resort is about a 20-minute drive from the Liberia International Airport. 

The Vibe

The grounds here are beautiful. You feel so secluded in luxury here. Plus, you can’t beat the location. It is only about 20 minutes from Liberia International Airport. We like that it has a boutique hotel feel to it. 

Amenities

The property has two restaurants, a spa, a well-equipped fitness center, beach access, a beautiful pool, and more!

Rooms

El Mangroove offers a variety of rooms and suites which can sleep between two and four guests. All rooms are modern and done up nicely.

Dining

MAKOKO

• International cuisine in Costa Rica
• Offers a diverse menu of Costa Rican dishes, innovative flavors, and refreshing drinks

MAKOKO BAR

• International cocktails in Guanacaste
• Ideal for enjoying signature cocktails during your stay

MATISS

• International restaurant with an open-air setting
• Stunning ocean view of the Gulf of Papagayo
• Poolside service and extensive room service menu

EL SHACK BAR

• Variety of signature cocktails and mocktails
• Unique products and infusions for delightful drinks

MALÚ

• Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with influences from 5 Mediterranean ports (Greece, Italy, Spain, France, and Morocco)
• Emphasizes the Agro-marine gastronomy concept
• Menu features dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced, and seasonal ingredients

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

This resort is not an all-inclusive resort by default. Instead, you will need to add the all-inclusive package to your reservation. 

To do that, select your date and room and you will need to toggle to “Deals and Packages” instead of “Standard Rates”.

This is on the top of the room booking section. 

The all-inclusive package includes Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Dinner, Snacks, Beer, Cocktails, and soft drinks.

6. Riu Guanacaste

Location

RIU Guanacaste is located on Matapalo Beach. This is just south of Playas del Coco and north of Playa Flamingo

The Vibe

This is one of the most popular and largest resorts in the country. If you want the full all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica vibe, this is a good option. 

It is located next door to its sister resort, RIU Palace.

We find it a bit too big for us, but with an active family who wants to all do different things, we think this is a really good pick. 

Amenities

24 hour a day all-inclusive, three swimming pools, a water park, daily entertainment, volleyball courts, tennis courts, fitness center, resort spa, beach access, free diving lesson in the pool, kayaks to use.

The daily entertainment includes: 

• Daytime entertainment program for children ages 4 to 12 (daily)
• Daytime entertainment program for adults (daily)
• Riu evening program or live music (daily)
• Theme parties for guests of the Riu Resort, once a week
• Access to the “Pacha” discotheque (open 6 nights a week)

Rooms

Rooms range from basic rooms to two-bedroom suites which can sleep up to six guests. Most of the rooms are somewhat simply designed and not overly fancy. However, you probably won’t be spending too much time in your room anyway. 

Dining

This is an all-inclusive resort which means all meals, snack and drinks are included in your stay. There are multiple on-site restaurants and dining experiences you can choose from. T

hese include a buffet restaurant, “La Toscana” Italian restaurant, “Furama” Asian restaurant (with a sushi buffet), a steakhouse restaurant, and “Tucán” which is a gourmet restaurant.

There are also five bars including a swim up bar. 

Who We Suggest it For

This is 100% for families! We love an all-inclusive option for a family trip, plus this place has activities for everyone. And, your kids will definitely love the waterpark. RIU Guanacaste is also a bit more budget friendly than some of the other resorts in the country.

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

This resort is completely all-inclusive, so all reservations will include the all-inclusive plan.

7. RIU Palace

Location

RIU Palace is located on Playa Matapalo, south of Playas del Coco

Vibe

This is a large beach front resort that has something for everyone. If you are debating between this resort and RIU Guanacaste, I would choose the palace if you are traveling without young children. RIU Guanacste has more to offer for kids. 

Amenities

Recreational Facilities:

• Gym
• Beach volleyball court
• Group fitness activities in the RiuFit area (6 times a week)
• Floodlit hard surface tennis court (300 m)
• Steam bath
• Whirlpool bath
• Windsurfing
• Stand up paddle surfing (SUP)
• Snorkelling equipment
• Kayaking
• 1 introductory scuba diving lesson in the pool

Entertainment:

• Daytime entertainment program for children ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 to 12 at “RiuLand” (daily)
• Daytime entertainment program for adults (daily)
• Evening shows
• Riu evening program
• Live music (daily)
• “Pacha” discotheque (open 6 nights a week)

Additional Benefits:

• Free entry to the discotheque and the Casino (drinks not included)
• All accommodation, taxes, and tips included

Dining

There are five restaurants on the property. These include a buffet restaurant, “Krystal” Fusion restaurant, “Tokio” Japanese restaurant, “L’Anfora” Italian restaurant (buffet starters), “Papagayo” steakhouse.

There are multiple bars located throughout the property and alcohol dspensers in the rooms.

How to Book the All Inclusive Option

This is an all inclusive resort. All stays will include the all inclusive amenities.

8. Dreams Las Mareas

Location

Dreams Las Mareas is located in La Cruz (just north of Liberia in the northwest corner of the country).

It’s a short drive from the resort to Santa Rosa National Park and Guanacaste National Park.

Amenities

• Features two swimming pools
• There is a well equipped fitness center
• You can enjoy the world-class spa which offers rejuvenating treatments
• The concierage can organize water sports, hiking, and local wildlife exploration for adventure enthusiasts
• 24-hour room service

Dining Options

The dining options here are insane, in a good way. You will never run out of options.

1. Barefoot Grill: Located by the beautiful infinity pool, enjoy delicious grilled favorites and quick bites in a casual setting. Open for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. with an outdoor bar and ocean view.
2. Barracuda: Sip on a tropical drink at our pool bar while enjoying the pool area. It’s the perfect spot for a casual beach experience.
3. Coco Café: Indulge in premium coffee and deli snacks in a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Desires: Dance the night away and savor top-shelf cocktails at this music lounge. It’s the ideal place for a casual night out.
5. El Patio: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of our Mexican restaurant while enjoying delicious à la carte specialties.
6. Himitsu: Embark on an authentic Pan-Asian culinary journey with exotic à la carte specialties from Japan, China, and Thailand. Experience casual elegance at its finest.
7. Manatees: Take a swim and enjoy a refreshing drink at our swim-up bar overlooking the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a casual day by the pool.
8. Oceana: Delight in fresh fish and seafood served à la carte while enjoying beautiful seaside views. Experience casual elegance at its best. Open for dinner with an elegant seating area.
9. Portofino: Indulge in à la carte Italian gourmet dining in an elegant atmosphere.
10. Preferred Club Bar: Exclusive for Preferred Club guests, bar at the Preferred Club Lounge serves fresh drinks and snacks.
11. Rendezvous: Enjoy live music and the best cocktails at our lobby bar. It’s the perfect place to unwind in a casual setting.
12. Revive: Quench your thirst with healthy drinks and snacks at the spa bar. It’s the perfect spot for a daytime casual refreshment.
13. Seaside Grill: Indulge in a light à la carte meal for lunch, tropical cocktails, and grilled specialties at this beachfront restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner.
14. Sugar Reef: Savor fresh drinks while enjoying lovely ocean views at this oceanfront bar. It’s the perfect spot for a casual beach experience.
15. Tortuga: Relax by the pool area with tropical drinks at our pool bar. Enjoy the beach vibes in a casual setting.
16. World Café: Treat yourself to a buffet-style restaurant serving international specialty items and classics. Casual dining awaits you. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Who it is best for

Dreams Las Mareas is the perfect destination for travelers who want a mix of tranquility, luxury, and adventure.

We like it because it is kind of remote. There is not a whole lot around besides the rest, but I think that is definitely part of the appeal.

I suggest this spot for foodies, couples, and people just looking for straight up relaxation.

Nearby Things to Do

• Visit Santa Rosa National Park
• Take a day trip to Rincon de la Vieja
• Go hiking at Guanacaste National Park

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

This is an all-inclusive resort, so all reservations automatically include the all-inclusive option.

9. Margaritaville

Margaritaville is a Jimmy Buffet inspired resort with a focus on relaxation, good vibes, and fun.

Location

This resort is located in Playa Flamingo on the Pacific Coast just north of Tamarindo. The beach here is often considered one of the nicest beaches in the country. 

The Vibe

I guess the best word to describe this place is “fun”. You will never run out of things to do here. Everyone in the family will enjoy it. And we love that they give the option to add the all-inclusive package, or not. The choice is yours! 

This is not a formal luxury resort. It is ver laid back, as Jimmy Buffet would want. 

Amenities

Multiple restaurants, multiple bars, tennis courts, daily scheduled activities, covered kids pool, pools, a spa, beach access, and more!

Our favorite thing to do here is to participate in all the daily scheduled activities which are included in your stay. These activities include exercise classes, painting classes, table game tournaments, and more!

Dining Options

There are several on site restaurants and bars. They are:

Banana Wind Cafe:

• Cuisine: Coastal Central American flavors with seafood, grass-fed beef, and organic ingredients.
• Menu includes fresh fish Ceviche, Classic Fish Sandwich, traditional platters like Arroz con Camarones, and house-made desserts.

Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe:

• Menu features flatbreads, gourmet pizzas, pasta, salads, and Italian desserts.
• Signature cocktails available.
• Offers spectacular views of the resort and beach.

5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill:

• Rooftop dining venue with panoramic views of the resort and the Pacific Ocean.
• Offers hand-crafted cocktails, cold beers, and a full food menu.
• Eight large screen TVs for sports events.
• Live music and entertainment on select nights.

License To Chill Pool Bar:

• A swim-up pool bar offering refreshing cocktails, lunch, and light fare.
• Signature drinks like License To Chill Margarita and Green Monster.

In Room Dining:

• Enjoy resort cuisine from the comfort of your room or suite.
• Menu includes items like the Flamingo Burger, Ceviche, Fresh Salads, and Sandwiches.
• Please note that room service is not included in the all-inclusive plan.

Who it is best for

We think this resort is perfect for families or small groups of friends that just want to have fun and don’t want to worry about bothering the romantic honeymoon crowd. 

How to Book the All-Inclusive Option

When you make your reservation you will have the option of adding on the all-inclusive plan. 

If you decide to go for the all-inclusive plan, here’s what you’ll get:

Delicious Meals & Snacks: You’ll enjoy three delicious meals every day, plus snacks at Banana Wind Cafe, 5″o Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe, and License to Chill Pool Bar.

Note: Takeout, room service, and in room mini bar are not included in the all-inclusive package

Endless Drinks: Unlimited house brand beverages and spirits. Think house wine, cocktails, Costa Rica draft beer, juices, and soft drinks. Cheers!

Beach Fun: You can use beach boogie boards for up to 2 hours per day, absolutely free.

Biking Adventure: Complimentary bicycle rental are available once during your stay.

Movie Night: If you fancy a cozy movie night, you’ll enjoy complimentary popcorn and a drink at the resort movie theater.

10. Pacuare Lodge by Böëna