The Best Hotels in Costa Rica, From Pristine Eco Lodges to Luxury Resorts

Source: Vogue

Is it possible for one destination to appeal to every type of traveler? Costa Rica—with its peerless natural beauty—comes pretty close. And the best hotels in Costa Rica work hard to highlight this bounty via design, programing, excursions, food, and advocacy. Whether you’re staying in the jungle, near a volcano, over bubbling hot springs, on mountain slopes, or along the ocean, Mother Nature comes first in Costa Rica. And everything else that a hotel wants to show off is thoughtfully and carefully layered on top.

Maybe the best way to pick the best hotel in Costa Rica is to first consider what kind of nature experience you want to have. Do you want a beach with a variety of surf breaks? Or do you want to be high in the sky—living your best life in a cloud forest? Or maybe you want to be next to a volcano where your private plunge pool is actually an extension of a mineral hot spring? See, not many travel destinations can offer this variety or this level of natural beauty; there’s a reason why it’s home to one of the world’s Blue Zones.

From its perch on a hilltop overlooking the car-free development of Las Catalinas, Casa Chameleon peeks out of lush tropical foliage like a hidden treasure. And with only 21 tropical-chic villas (each with a plunge pool), the level of intimacy it offers is unrivaled. The only thing better might be the unbelievable views you’ll get of the rainforest and the sea. The spectacular sunsets you’ll see from the cocktail lounge have lured even non-guests to the hotel, who come for the Sentido Norte Restaurant next door, one of the top culinary experiences in the region. When you’re ready to explore, the hotel can organize a litany of immersive excursions, from catamaran tours and surfing lessons to horseback riding to the foot of a volcano and zip-lining over the Costa Rican rainforest.

Amenities: Restaurant, bar, infinity pool, in-room spa treatments

Bonus Tip: For a special occasion or private dinner, book the brand-new Green House, an exclusive-use event space built into a stunning greenhouse.

Address: Playa Danta, Guanacaste

Website: Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas