7 Beautiful Costa Rica Beach Resorts for Surfing, Swimming, and Sunbathing

Cloud forests, volcanoes, epic ocean swells, and bioluminescent bays make Costa Rica a playground for nature lovers. The Central American country is a hot spot for ecotourism and many of the best resorts serve as relaxing base camps for outdoor adventures. Zip lining, chasing waterfalls, and rain forest treks have a place in any well-crafted Costa Rica itinerary. Still, you'll also want to carve out some time to soak up every sun-splashed second on the stunning stretches of Pacific and Caribbean coastlines.

Whether you're planning a dedicated beach vacation or want to tack on a few days of sun and surf after inland exploration, there's a property for you. From big-name hotels that preside over private crescents to boutique stays right on the sand, these are the best beach resorts in Costa Rica.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Luxury reaches new heights at the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. Less than an hour's drive from the Guanacaste Airport, the 198-room property offers easy access to numerous golden-sand beaches and calm waters. As soon as you arrive, the manicured grounds and dazzling indoor-outdoor design set the tone for a nature-immersive stay. Standout amenities include a tranquil spa with rituals inspired by local healing traditions, a hilltop wellness shala, multiple infinity pools, serviced beach cabanas, a surf school, and an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. As expected at a property of this caliber, the staff goes above and beyond with no detail overlooked. From cold towels and freshly cracked coconuts upon arrival to the warm send-off when you depart, the entire experience ticks all the boxes of a world-class resort.

Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas

In Costa Rica, some properties straddle the line between hillside and beachfront. Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas, an adults-only sanctuary on the Pacific coast of Guanacaste, is one of them. A sustainable thread runs throughout the resort, which leads the eco charge through water conservation efforts and does regular beach cleanups. Each of the 21 villas boasts a private terrace, saltwater infinity pool, and expansive sea views. Getting delicious food delivered straight to your door is one of those hotel perks we all love, but in-room massages? Well, that's another level of vacation relaxation. Plus, it's just a short walk or golf cart ride down the path to the beach.

Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

A tropical paradise with luxury amenities and lush surroundings, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort offers the serenity and seclusion of a jungle stay while still being just steps from the beach. The 131 spacious rooms and 21 suites give off modern tree house vibes with lots of wood and huge glass windows. The spa encourages rejuvenation through massages, facials, and well-being practices like reiki and sound healing. Guests can sign up for activities, from snorkeling to pottery painting, or borrow an electric bike to reach one of the lesser-visited beaches on the 1,400-acre Papagayo Peninsula.

Florblanca Resort

Looking for an easygoing escape? Perched on the powder-soft sand in the low-key town of Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula, Florblanca exudes laid-back charm and a sustainable soul. It's relaxed, intimate, and at peace with the tropical vegetation that's all around. Accommodations follow suit. The 11 beachfront villas are unfussy, but not without contemporary comforts like soaking tubs, carved stone sinks, and king-sized beds. Plus, each one provides a sense of privacy and ease, courtesy of the jungle-cocooned open-air spaces with handwoven hammocks. A dedication to holistic wellness is ingrained in everything from seaside yoga and early morning surf sessions to farm-to-fork cuisine and voluntourism activities.

W Costa Rica — Reserva Conchal

Parked on Conchal Beach, the W Costa Rica is certainly a fun place to vacation, but it doesn't have the same party-forward energy as many of the brand's other outposts. Don't worry, this splashy, modern resort still has a swim-up bar that serves fruity cocktails, as well as the punchy atmosphere you'd expect from a W property — yes, there's even a club called Zona Azul — but that stuff comes secondary to the 150 rooms and suites with private plunge pools, outdoor thrills, golf, spa sessions, and dining. It's more sundowners after surf lessons than spending the entire day partying.

Hotel Nantipa - A Tico Beach Experience

The distinction between a hotel and a resort typically comes down to amenities. By that definition, we'd call the 29-key Hotel Nantipa a boutique resort. It has a spa sanctuary with two treatment rooms, a foliage-framed infinity pool, and stand-alone bungalows featuring indoor and outdoor showers, hammocks, and private plunge pools. There's also a beachfront restaurant called Manzú, which serves delicious casual fare and craft cocktails. Guest can partake in on-site mixology classes, yoga sessions, and movie nights, or have the concierge coordinate surf lessons, horseback riding in Mal Pais, and excursions to the Montezuma Waterfalls.

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is one of those places that instantly makes guests feel right at home. It's a family-friendly resort, with 310 spacious rooms and suites, ample amenities — including an infinity pool, hammocks, multiple restaurants, a kids' club, and a gorgeous beach — and babysitting services. Basically, it's a vacation destination in and of itself. That's not to say adventure-oriented travelers won't want to venture beyond the pristine grounds. Those eager to explore can check out a nearby turtle nesting sanctuary or visit the town of Tamarindo.