3-Star Hotels with Spa in Costa Rica

Cariblue Beach and Jungle Resort is celebrated for its enviable location nestled between the lush jungle and the pristine shores of Cocles Beach, offering seamless access to sun, sand and surf. The resort’s serene environment, set amidst verdant tropical gardens, creates an immersive experience perfect for relaxation and wildlife encounters. Its proximity to Puerto Viejo town and nearby attractions like Cahuita National Park enhances the appeal for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The resort's breakfast receives high praise for its extensive buffet selection, catering to diverse dietary preferences including vegan options. Freshly made egg and omelet stations, typical Costa Rican dishes, fresh fruits and smoothies contribute to a satisfying start to the day. Despite minor critiques regarding wait times and limited variety, the overall breakfast experience is fantastic and well-rounded.

Dinner at the hotel's restaurant is often lauded for its delicious and varied cuisine, featuring dishes like thin-crust pizza, salmon and steaks. The addition of live music on weekends creates a pleasant dining atmosphere. While some guests find the prices steep and portion sizes small, the quality of food remains a highlight. Exploring nearby dining alternatives is a common choice due to these considerations, yet the overall restaurant experience is highly recommended.

Accommodations at the resort are praised for their spaciousness, comfort and charming jungle views. Air-conditioned rooms and bungalows often feature amenities like terraces with hammocks. However, issues such as humidity, outdated furnishings and maintenance problems occasionally detract from the experience. Nevertheless, daily cleaning and comfortable setups contribute to a relaxing stay.

Cleanliness is a strong point at Cariblue with numerous guests appreciating the spotless rooms and well-maintained facilities. The pool area, in particular, is noted for its cleanliness. Although some bathrooms are considered outdated and occasional musty smells or insects are noted, the diligent work of the cleaning staff generally ensures a pleasant environment.

The resort staff receives significant praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Notable mentions include David at reception and the breakfast "Egg-Master." Despite a few reports of inconsistent service at reception, the overall sentiment towards the staff is highly favorable, contributing to a welcoming and seamless experience.

Wi-Fi connectivity at the resort presents a mixed picture with some guests praising its strength while others encounter reliability issues, particularly in rooms. Improvements in coverage and stability would greatly enhance the overall guest experience.

The spa is well-received, offering a variety of treatments in a clean and relaxing ambiance. Guests frequently commend the massages and the expertise of the masseurs. While occasional booking system confusion and less favorable interactions with the spa receptionist are noted, the overall spa experience is highly positive.

The pool areas are another highlight with multiple pools to choose from, including one with a swim-up bar. The well-maintained and scenic pool environment, combined with the presence of wildlife like sloths, adds a unique charm. Minor concerns like excess chlorine do not overshadow the overall positive feedback.

The beachfront location is a major asset, providing easy access to the beautiful Caribbean coastline and its accompanying amenities like a beach bar and surfboard rentals. Despite minor swim suitability concerns, the beach experience is highly praised for its convenience and natural beauty.

Lastly, parking at the resort is ample, easily accessible and free. The secure, monitored and shaded parking facilities contribute to the peace of mind of guests traveling by car, rounding out a comprehensive and accommodating experience at Cariblue Beach and Jungle Resort.

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa is highly acclaimed for its idyllic and peaceful setting in the heart of the jungle, featuring stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and lush green surroundings. The hotel's strategic location allows easy access to key attractions like the La Fortuna Waterfall and downtown La Fortuna, making it a great base for exploring the area. Although some guests found the location slightly secluded, they appreciated the quiet atmosphere away from the main tourist spots. Wildlife sightings such as toucans and armadillos further enhance the enchanting experience at Casa Luna.

The breakfast at Casa Luna is widely praised for its delicious, varied and generous menu. Many guests highlight the amazing à la carte offerings, fresh fruit and omelette bar. Despite a few comments on the need for better variety and timing, breakfast is generally considered a highlight of the stay. Dinner also garners positive reviews with many enjoying the fresh, flavorful food and the fair pricing. While some find the menu limited and the prices high, the excellent service and enjoyable ambiance, especially with live music, make for a pleasant dining experience.

Rooms at Casa Luna Hotel & Spa are celebrated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfortable furnishings. Guests appreciate the rustic charm combined with modern amenities such as air conditioning and well-appointed bathrooms. Stunning views from balconies and terraces, along with luxurious extras like whirlpools, enhance the overall comfort and relaxation. Despite some guests noting a dated feel or lack of modern amenities in a few rooms, the majority find their stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Cleanliness is a standout feature at Casa Luna with guests frequently praising the spotless rooms, clean pool area and beautifully landscaped gardens. The hotel's high standards of maintenance and attentive housekeeping add to the welcoming environment. Staff receive high commendations for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism, particularly at the reception. Occasional remarks about less attentive staff do not overshadow the overall positive feedback.

The spa at Casa Luna offers an exceptional experience with a variety of treatments performed amidst the natural beauty of the jungle. Guests consistently highlight the heavenly massages, reasonable prices and professional service. The spa's tranquil ambiance, combined with hot tubs and jacuzzis in the garden area, enhances the relaxing experience.

The pool area is another highlight, featuring a large swimming pool and a selection of heated jacuzzis set within a beautifully landscaped environment. Guests appreciate the clean, inviting atmosphere and the convenience of a poolside bar, making it a perfect spot for leisure.

For those traveling by car, Casa Luna provides free, secure onsite parking with ample space and easy access, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Families find Casa Luna an ideal destination with spacious and clean rooms, several pools and jacuzzis and a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by wildlife, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and fun.

Overall, Casa Luna Hotel & Spa stands out as a serene retreat offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort with excellent facilities and services, making it a delightful choice for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga presents a remarkable retreat against the backdrop of Costa Rica's lush jungle, ideally situated to offer breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. This tranquil haven is praised for its serene ambiance, providing a peaceful escape from the usual tourist destinations while remaining conveniently close to natural attractions like Arenal Volcano Park. The diverse accommodations, ranging from cozy tents nestled among the bamboo to bungalows with lake vistas, allow guests to immerse themselves wholly in nature.

Guests consistently highlight the establishment's dedication to providing a health-focused and gratifying experience, particularly through its dining options. Both breakfast and dinner are celebrated for their fresh, vegetarian-friendly selections, with meals creatively using locally-sourced ingredients. Though some diners find the menu prices on the higher side, the value is reflected in the high quality and inventive approach to vegetarian cuisine.

The rooms and tents, though rustic, offer comfort tempered with exceptional views, providing a unique opportunity to relax in nature's embrace. While the cleanliness is often praised, a few inconsistencies in upkeep are noted. Ultimately, Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga excels in delivering a clean and appealing environment complemented by attentive staff, whose hospitality enhances the guest experience.

The spa offers a diverse range of therapies that receive high acclaim for relaxing visitors amidst stunning volcanic and lake views. While the pool's small size and occasional maintenance issues are noted, it provides a charming spot to unwind and enjoy the picturesque surroundings, compensating for its limitations.

Yoga sessions held amidst the natural sounds of the jungle offer personalized guidance to suit all skill levels, ensuring a therapeutic experience. Although the WiFi connectivity varies across the property, with stronger signals in communal areas, the establishment remains a choice location for those craving a holistic getaway, spotlighting an idyllic integration of wellness, nature, and tranquility.

Hotel Santo Tomas, a historical property located in the heart of San José, offers a highly praised overall experience characterized by its excellent location, warm hospitality, and charming amenities. Its strategic placement within walking distance of major cultural attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant city. Guests appreciate its picturesque setting, combining historic architecture with a peaceful ambiance despite being in the city center. The hotel's attentive staff, including the owner Thomas, adds to the welcoming atmosphere by providing valuable local insights and maintaining a clean environment throughout the premises.

The hotel's breakfast service is well-received, offering a flavorful start to the day with traditional Costa Rican dishes in a serene poolside setting. Dinner at the hotel is equally delightful, with authentic menu options and praised seafood offerings, all served in a cozy, inviting restaurant atmosphere.

Rooms at Hotel Santo Tomas blend colonial elegance with modern comforts, featuring high ceilings and bright spaces, especially on the upper floors with balconies. Cleanliness is a standout feature, appreciated by guests across the property, which includes a well-maintained pool and jacuzzi area set in a beautiful courtyard.

Additional amenities such as a quaint gym, reliable Wi-Fi, and ample secure parking enhance the convenience and comfort of staying at this historical establishment. These features, along with the family-friendly environment and supportive accommodations for travelers with children, make the hotel a top choice for those seeking a mix of heritage charm and modern hospitality in Costa Rica's capital.

Hotel Banana Azul - Adults Only is a charming retreat, renowned for its idyllic location along Playa Negra's stunning black sand beach. Guests are frequently captivated by the calming sounds of the ocean and the lush jungle setting, which provides a serene and almost secluded natural escape, yet it's conveniently close to the vibrant Puerto Viejo. This picturesque location, alongside well-maintained gardens and a palpable Caribbean charm, enhances the tranquility and allure of the stay.

The hotel earns high marks for its breakfast experience, characterized by delicious, varied à la carte options that include fresh fruits and hot dishes, starting early for guests' convenience. While some yearn for more variety, the quality and taste, alongside friendly and attentive service, create a delightful start to each day.

Dinner at Banana Azul is appreciated for its excellent quality and creative presentation, particularly the fish dishes and tuna steaks, making dining at the hotel's restaurant a satisfying experience that often negates the need to explore external dining options. Although a few guests mention that the menu can be limited or pricey, and service occasionally slow, the overall ambiance and flavorful offerings largely satisfy visitors.

The rooms, praised for their rustic yet modern comfort, often come with private terraces, hammocks, and stunning ocean views. However, experiences can vary, with some accommodations lacking desired lighting and soundproofing. Cleanliness is a strong point, with many guests noting the well-kept grounds and rooms. Minor maintenance issues are sometimes reported, but the general ambiance remains positive and welcoming.

The exceptional service provided by the staff is a standout feature, as they are consistently applauded for their friendliness, professionalism, and eagerness to ensure a comfortable stay. The staff's efforts contribute significantly to an inviting and homey atmosphere.

Wi-Fi connectivity is generally good, with coverage extending to the beach, although some areas experience inconsistency. The pool, while small, is charming and tranquil, creating a peaceful spot amidst lush surroundings.

The beach access is a particular highlight, with guests enjoying the clean, well-maintained beachfront and the convenience of immediate proximity to the Caribbean waters. This accessibility enhances the relaxing experience, complemented by effective beach service and the beautiful natural setting.

Parking is convenient and secure, with ample spaces adding to guests' ease and contributing positively to their overall visit. Bed quality receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding them comfortable, while others note issues with size and cleanliness.

Overall, Hotel Banana Azul - Adults Only offers a serene and picturesque escape, strengthened by its dedicated staff, beautiful location, and pleasant amenities. Despite minor variances in specific aspects like dining and room conditions, the general experience is one of relaxation and enjoyment, making it a recommended retreat for adult travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.

Blue Iguana shines with a prime location in the heart of Samara. Just a short walk from the beach, it offers guests easy access to sandy shores and is conveniently positioned near the town center, enhancing the overall experience with a serene, beach-friendly vibe. Visitors are often pleased with the breakfast offerings, particularly the breakfast tipico, which is noted to be enjoyable despite occasional issues with service speed and noise from other guests.

The staff at Blue Iguana consistently receives praise for their friendly and accommodating nature, ensuring guests feel welcome and supported throughout their stay. The hotel teams' dedication to service positively impacts the overall experience, adding to the establishment's hospitality charm.

The inviting pool serves as a delightful feature, providing a refreshing escape in a charming setting with vibrant decoration and ambiance. Though modest in size, the pool complements the nearby beach for relaxation and leisure, offering a pleasant respite from warm weather.

Despite these positives, the rooms at Blue Iguana face challenges such as size, cleanliness, and inconsistent amenities, with some rooms needing updates for improved comfort. Issues such as noisy environments and discomfort with bedding are highlighted by guests, indicating areas for improvement in room quality. Nevertheless, the proximity of attractions, the peaceful ambiance, and the charming decor helps offset some of these drawbacks, contributing to a memorable stay.

While cleanliness in shared areas could be better maintained, the lush plants surrounding the property create an enchanting atmosphere, enhancing the aesthetic appeal despite occasional maintenance issues. The accommodation targets basic facilities, emphasizing proximity to beach access, central location, and overall ambiance as key factors for an enjoyable stay.

Colours Oasis Resort ADULT ONLY is favorably situated in a tranquil neighborhood, offering guests a quiet retreat while retaining convenient access to San José's attractions. The resort's location is particularly praised for its proximity to La Sabana Metropolitan Park and local amenities like restaurants and a supermarket, making it a desirable choice for those who appreciate a mix of serenity and accessibility. Although the hotel is not directly in the bustling city center, quick Uber rides make it easy to explore further afield. The unique, lively atmosphere of the resort, especially appealing to the LGBTQ+ community, adds to its charm.

The breakfast experience at Colours Oasis Resort receives generally positive feedback, with guests frequently commending the excellent quality and taste of the meals. While some feel the offerings could use more variety and note occasional pricing issues, the dining experience is largely seen as delightful, enhanced by exceptional bar service.

The rooms evoke mixed reactions. Guests appreciate the spacious layouts, comfortable beds, and pleasant garden views. However, many note the need for renovation due to outdated decor, poor ventilation, and cleanliness issues such as unclean floors and stained linens. Despite these concerns, the beds' comfort remains a redeeming quality for many visitors.

Staff at the resort are widely acclaimed for their warmth, friendliness, and exceptional service. Team members like Sebastian, Bryon, Liz, Omar, Jordan, and David are praised for their dedication to enhancing guest experiences. Their attentiveness and willingness to assist contribute significantly to the overall welcoming atmosphere of the hotel.

The pool is highlighted as a major attraction, appreciated for its cleanliness and relaxing ambiance. Although a few guest reviews suggest improvements to the pool chairs and water temperature, the pool area remains a favored spot for relaxation.

In summary, Colours Oasis Resort ADULT ONLY is recognized for its favorable location, excellent staff, and inviting atmosphere, with some room for improvement in its accommodations.

Hotel La Rosa de America presents a serene and tranquil retreat ideal for travelers seeking convenience near San Jose's Juan Santamaria Airport. Its location in a quiet residential area offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush gardens, providing a buffer from the bustling city center. This oasis, only a short 15-minute drive from the airport, is praised for its ease of access, making it an excellent choice for travelers starting or ending their Costa Rican adventure.

The hotel excels in its breakfast offerings, where guests consistently enjoy a plentiful and delicious start to the day with traditional Costa Rican dishes such as gallo pinto, fresh fruit, and homemade banana bread. The buffet-style arrangement provides convenience, while packed breakfasts cater to early risers with thoughtful consideration. The on-site restaurant enhances the dining experience, delivering authentic and flavorful Costa Rican meals, appreciated for both quality and price amidst the calming poolside ambience.

Guests find comfort and cleanliness in the hotel’s accommodations, with rooms arranged in individual cabinas or bungalows that ensure privacy. Praise for the beautifully maintained and practical rooms is frequent, highlighting air conditioning, comfortable beds, and clean bathrooms. The hotel's grounds, characterized by their tidiness, uphold a welcoming atmosphere that extends to the impeccably cared-for pool area, adding to the charm of the property.

The staff at Hotel La Rosa de America are commended for their professionalism and warmth, enhancing the guest experience through attentive service and helpfulness. This friendly engagement contributes significantly to the hotel's tranquil ambiance, setting it apart as an excellent choice for those seeking comfort paired with exceptional service.

Families find the hotel particularly appealing, with spacious suites accommodating larger groups and a safe environment filled with engaging activities. The thoughtful inclusion of amenities such as baby beds and family-friendly spaces fosters an inviting atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay for all ages.

While WiFi service receives mixed reviews, with connectivity strongest near the reception, the overall experience at Hotel La Rosa de America remains delightful with ample positives. Secure and convenient parking, coupled with the picturesque pool set amidst beautiful gardens, further enhances the overall appeal. Despite some mention of minor room or dining closures, the hotel's three-star rating reflects a charming and practical stay filled with natural beauty and genuine hospitality.

Hotel Las Colinas in La Fortuna offers a delightful experience marked by its prime location, exceptional staff, and comfortable accommodations. Nestled in the heart of the city, guests enjoy easy access to local attractions, including restaurants, shops, and the iconic volcano. The hotel's central positioning, along with its rooftop terrace featuring stunning vistas, makes it an ideal choice for exploring the vibrant city on foot.

Guests repeatedly praise the hotel staff for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether indulging in the hotel's tasty food or relaxing in its inviting common areas, visitors appreciate the combination of comfort and convenience offered. The cheerful presence of staff like Fran, who is noted for outstanding service, further enhances the guest experience.

Breakfast at Hotel Las Colinas is generally well-received, recognized for its delicious and varied offerings. The inclusion of breakfast in the lodging price adds value to the stay, with options like pancakes, French toast, and omelettes catering to diverse tastes. Guests appreciate the quality of the coffee, although some express a desire for healthier offerings, such as yogurt and fruit.

Room reviews indicate satisfaction with cleanliness and functionality, providing good value for the price. While not luxurious, most rooms are clean and comfortable, with some offering a pleasant view of the volcano. Though there are mentions of simplicity and minor issues with aging equipment and noise, many find the accommodations suitable for a budget-friendly stay in La Fortuna.

Overall, Hotel Las Colinas maintains reliable cleanliness standards, with positive feedback regarding its upkeep. Although some reviews highlight areas needing attention, most visitors find the property meets their hygiene expectations.

In summary, Hotel Las Colinas stands out for its advantageous location, friendly staff, and satisfactory amenities, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in La Fortuna.

Hotel El Manglar excels in providing a tranquil and picturesque retreat in a lush peninsula setting, just steps away from the pristine Playa Grande beach. Guests consistently laud its serene atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff, and convenient access to both the untouched beach and nearby amenities. Nestled within a national park, the hotel’s location offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility to local exploration.

While the hotel itself doesn’t offer on-site breakfast, nearby dining establishments such as Café Azul and Café Cantarana receive positive remarks for their quality breakfast options, enhanced by discounts through hotel vouchers. Dinner options around the hotel, including the highly recommended Cantarana restaurant, offer delicious local flavors though they may come at a premium cost.

The rooms at Hotel El Manglar, though described as small, are well-equipped with essentials like air conditioning and coffee machines, providing a comfortable stay with a focus on cleanliness. Staff are often commended for their exceptional service, boosting guest satisfaction and ensuring an inviting, familial atmosphere. Although Wi-Fi connectivity is a challenge, particularly in rooms, the hotel's beautiful pool area and direct access to the tranquil Playa Grande beach are repeatedly highlighted as standout features.

Families find this hotel a cozy and peaceful retreat, appreciating its child and pet-friendly nature, while solo travelers and couples enjoy the serene beachside ambience. Overall, Hotel El Manglar offers a relaxing escape, characterized by a harmonious blend of natural beauty, friendly service, and practical amenities, ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway in Costa Rica.

Buena Vista del Rincón Eco Adventure Park Hotel & Spa is lauded for its stunning location amid natural beauty, providing guests with breathtaking views of the volcano and the sea. The expansive eco park offers a peaceful retreat with diverse activities, from hiking and hot springs to wildlife encounters. Visitors appreciate the serene environment and well-maintained grounds, despite the challenging access via unpaved roads, which add to the adventurous journey.

The breakfast experience garners mixed reviews, though many guests praise the fresh and plentiful buffet selection, highlighting traditional Costa Rican dishes enjoyed against picturesque views. Dinner at the hotel's restaurants, particularly Mirador and Jaguar, receives high praise for delicious and fresh meals, complemented by exceptional service despite high pricing.

The accommodations are diverse, with several guests enjoying spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms, especially those immersed in nature near the lake. The rustic charm and tranquility of the cabins are appealing, though improvements in noise control, decor, and amenities are suggested for some units. The overall cleanliness of the hotel is appreciated, even as certain areas like bathrooms occasionally need better maintenance.

The staff is frequently commended for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing significantly to an inviting atmosphere. The spa is a standout feature, offering beautiful hot springs and rejuvenating treatments that leave a lasting impression. The pool area, featuring natural hot water pools, is generally enjoyed for its eco-friendly ambiance despite some minor inconveniences like limited loungers.

Beds receive mixed opinions; while some are comfortable, others could benefit from better mattresses and bedding. Nevertheless, the hotel's natural charm and quality service create a memorable experience for guests seeking a tranquil escape amidst stunning surroundings.