Costa Rica is one of the most diverse destinations on earth, with over 12 unique ecosystems and two distinct coasts. While that’s part of what makes this country so special, it’s also why deciding where to stay in Costa Rica with family can be overwhelming. You want to make sure you stay somewhere safe, but depending on your travel preferences, you may prefer somewhere more nature-focused, somewhere busier with lots of amenities, or somewhere in between. This post will help guide you on where to stay in Costa Rica with family, depending on what kind of family you are.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families Who Love Nature
Manuel Antonio
A UNESCO Heritage Site, Manuel Antonio is arguably Costa Rica’s most celebrated national park. It combines beautiful beaches with lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, making Manuel Antonio villas the perfect place to stay for a nature-loving family. Top activities here include hiking, wildlife watching, snorkeling, and swimming.
Pros of Staying in Manuel Antonio
- Abundant wildlife and natural beauty
- Easy to organize family-friendly nature activities
- Beautiful, calm beaches
Cons of Staying in Manuel Antonio
- Crowded at peak times
- Less nightlife
Manuel Antonio Villa Pick
9 bedrooms, 9 bath
$4,559-$13,797/night
One half of the Seaside Estates, Seaside 2 is a modernist masterpiece with a host of amenities, including a pool lounge, two bars, a theatre room, a spa, and multiple double-height spaces. It also features stunning floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Manuel Antonio and its surrounding islands.
Seaside 2 – Manuel Antonio
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families Who Love Luxury
Peninsula Papagayo
A secluded and serene peninsula off the Caribbean coast, Peninsula Papagayo villas are quickly emerging as some of the world’s premiere luxury stays. The peninsula itself is known for its natural beauty, including its lush coastline and its dramatic cliffs. Enjoy sailing, explore hidden beaches, or play a round on the Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course.
Pros of Staying on Peninsula Papagayo
- Exclusive amenities
- Private, pristine beaches
- World-class golf
- Very safe
Cons of Staying on Peninsula Papagayo
- Higher prices
- Lack of local culture
- Limited nightlife
Peninsula Papagayo Villa Pick
6 bedrooms, 7+1 half
$8,571-$15,714/night
Cutting into a promontory, Cielomar is an architectural masterpiece that stuns at every turn. From the infinity edge pool lined with charcoal-black volcanic stone to give a deep blue color to the viewing platform that practically extends into the sea, every detail of this villa has been carefully considered.
Cielomar – Peninsula Papagayo
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families with Teens
Jaco
If you have an active family with teens, Jaco villas offer a great mix of surf culture, fun activities, and nice views. Located along the Pacific coast, Jaco features wide, sandy beaches framed by lush hills and mountain views. Popular activities here include surfing and swimming at the bustling Jaco Beach, exploring Cararara National Park, and going zip-lining or ATVing.
Pros of Staying in Jaco
- Wide variety of activities
- Established infrastructure
- Lots of nightlife
- Access to national parks and nature reserves
Cost of Staying in Jaco
- Not tranquil
- Can get crowded
Jaco Villa Pick
9 bedrooms, 5+4 bath
$1,650-$2,400/night
Sitting on the south end of Jaco Beach, this 3,700 square-foot villa has everything you need to comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests, including a large, ocean-facing pool. It also features front and rear balconies, an outdoor shower, a large barbecue area, and more.
Casa Rio Mar – Jaco
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families to Relax
Playa Conchal
Known for its unique beach made up of crushed shells and calm, clear water, Playa Conchal is just north of Tamarindo on the Pacific coast. Playa Conchal villas take the relaxation one step further with modern stays that the whole family will love.
Pros of Staying in Playa Conchal
- Beautiful, unique beach
- Calm water that’s great for young kids
- Good snorkeling nearby
- Great golfing
Cons of Staying in Playa Conchal
- Limited dining and entertainment
- Playa Conchal is not as much of a secret anymore
Playa Conchal Villa Pick
4 bedrooms, 4 bath
$450-$3,900/night
A modern tropical villa, Casa de Sophie sits right by the famous golf course in the Reserva Conchal. It features a gorgeous infinity pool, natural materials, and an open concept. It all combines to create a seamless blend of relaxation and convenience.
Casa de Sophie – Playa Conchal
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families with Young Children
Las Catalinas
Founded in 2006, Las Catalinas is an eco-friendly, pedestrian-only town. Like the town itself, Las Catalinas villas have been designed with sustainability in mind and are very family-friendly. Las Catalinas also makes a great base from which to discover all the adventures in the surrounding area, including mountain biking and diving off the Catalina Islands.
Pros of Staying in Las Catalinas
- Great hiking and mountain biking
- Lots of water sports
- Eco-friendly and safe
- Pedestrian only streets
Cons of Staying in Las Catalinas
- Limited nightlife and shopping
- Somewhat remote
Las Catalinas Villa Pick
7 bedrooms, 7+1 half bath
$3,700-$8,000/night
Bursting with bright colors and authentic artwork, Casa Pelicano truly celebrates Costa Rican culture. From the lush tree canopies surrounding the home to the ornate tiles and rich murals inside, all the way to the many little balconies surrounding the main courtyard, this villa is full of delightful surprises.
Casa Pelicano – Las Catalinas
Where to Stay in Costa Rica for Families with Older Kids
Tamarindo
Once a sleepy fishing village, Tamarindo has grown to become one of the most popular surf spots along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. The opening of the nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park in 1990 made it one of Costa Rica’s best tourist spots, giving the town its unique, lively atmosphere. Tamarindo villas let you experience all the fun while still giving you a private refuge to retreat to.
Pros of Staying in Tamarindo
- Lively atmosphere
- Lots of shopping and dining
- Good surfing
- Plenty of hiking and adventure nearby
Cons of Staying in Tamarindo
- More commercialized than other areas
- Can be busy and noisy, including at night
Tamarindo Villa Pick
8 bedrooms, 8+1 bath
$2,400-$4,900/night
Spread out over 15,000 square feet on a secluded hillside yet just a 5-minute walk to the beach and the town center, Casa Alang Alang is a perfect mix of seclusion and convenience. Extra features like two overflowing pools, a natural mosquito repellant system, and an open living room combine to create the perfect indoor/outdoor experience.
Casa Alang Alang – Tamarindo
Where to Stay in Costa Rica with Family that’s off the Beaten Path
Dominicalito
A small, tranquil beach town for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Dominicalito offers an authentic, local feel characterized by lush rainforest and rugged coastline. Explore the nearby waterfalls. Enjoy the tide pools. Spot whales in season. Dominicalito villas let you enjoy that authentic pura vida.
Pros of Staying in Dominicalito
- Quiet and less crowded
- Abundant natural beauty
- Close to nature reserves and waterfalls
- An authentic Costa Rican experience
Cons of Staying in Dominicalito
- Fewer amenities and services
- Limited nightlife and dining
Dominicalito Villa Pick
4 bedrooms, 4+1 bath
$875-$2,250/night
Nestled in the mountains surrounding Dominicalito Bay, Casa Amigos combines a contemporary design with touches like a double negative edge pool, an open concept living space, and breathtaking ocean views. This is where the rainforest meets the ocean, and it’s all yours to enjoy.
Casa Amigos – Dominicalito
Summary of Where to Stay in Costa Rica with Family
- For families with teenagers: Jaco
- For families who love nature: Manuel Antonio
- For families who love luxury: Peninsula Papagayo
- For families who love to relax: Playa Conchal
- For families with young children: Las Catalinas
- For families with older children: Tamarindo
- For families who want to go off the beaten path: Dominicalito
Still Not Sure Where to Stay in Costa Rica with Family?
Hopefully, by now you have a better idea of where to stay in Costa Rica with family. If you’re still not sure where to stay with your family, then get in touch with one of our villa specialists. They’ll be happy to suggest the best destination for your family based on your travel dates and preferences. Contact us today for a personalized recommendation!
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