3 Stunning Costa Rica Hotels That Made My Solo Adventure Unforgettable
There’s something about Costa Rica that just gets under your skin—in the best way possible. The moment I landed, I knew this trip was going to be special. Two nights in each hotel, six stunning locations, and an adventure packed with beaches, wildlife, delicious food, and incredible people.
Traveling solo, I had the freedom to explore at my own pace, immersing myself in the beauty of each destination. From luxurious beachfront resorts to secluded jungle retreats, every hotel had something unique to offer. Whether it was waking up to a breathtaking ocean view, indulging in a world-class spa, or sharing stories with fellow travelers over a delicious meal, each stay was a memorable part of my journey.
If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering where to stay, let me take you along on my adventure. I’ll share my experiences at six extraordinary hotels—what I loved, what stood out, and why you might want to add them to your bucket list. Ready to explore paradise? Let’s dive in!
Margarita Ville Beach Resort - Playa Flamingo
Ever walked onto a beach at night and found yourself staring at a sky filled with more stars than you’ve ever seen? That was my first impression of Playa Flamingo. I arrived after a long but scenic drive from Monteverde, stretched my legs, and took in the view. The sky was bursting with stars, the air was warm, and the sound of waves created the perfect soundtrack for my arrival. Then, as if the universe decided to put on a show, a lightning storm lit up the sky in a dramatic, almost poetic display.
Margaritaville Beach Resort is the kind of place that balances relaxation and adventure effortlessly. The exterior has a charming Spanish-style design, while the interiors are sleek and modern. My Standard Room with a king-sized bed was surprisingly spacious about 400 square feet with soft, all-white linens, a private bath, and even a mini-fridge stocked with goodies (for an extra charge, of course). Though my room didn’t have an ocean view, I was just steps away from the resort’s thatched-hut swim-up bar, an expansive pool, and miles of pristine white-sand beach.
The first night, I indulged in a late dinner at Arenas, the resort’s beachfront restaurant. The menu is a fusion of international cuisine with local Costa Rican flavors, and most ingredients are sourced from their own organic farm. I started with a Green Monster cocktail, made with cacique (a local liquor) and a bright green herbal liqueur. For dinner, I opted for the Polly Curry, a Caribbean-style coconut curry chicken dish with steamed basmati rice. Every bite was flavorful and comforting. Meanwhile, my server shared fun tidbits about life in Costa Rica and even taught me a few Spanish phrases.
The next morning, I woke up late (because that’s what vacations are for, right?), grabbed a book, and headed straight to the beach. Playa Flamingo is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it’s protected and meticulously maintained. The soft, powdery sand was perfect for barefoot walks, and the waves were just strong enough to make swimming exhilarating. After lounging under the sun, I joined a guided nature walk with the resort’s activities manager, who pointed out native wildlife and breathtaking viewpoints I would have otherwise missed.
That afternoon, I took part in one of the resort’s highlights: a sunset catamaran cruise with Panache Sailing. After a short motorboat ride from the dock, I climbed aboard the catamaran with a small group of travelers, ready for an evening of sailing, snorkeling, and sipping on rum punch. We spotted dolphins, marveled at the coastline, and even took a swim near a secluded cove. The sunset was nothing short of magical painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and deep purple.
Back at the resort, the atmosphere was lively yet laid-back. I grabbed a cocktail at It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar and listened to live music before calling it a night. The next morning, breakfast was a treat fresh tropical fruits, made-to-order omelets, and Costa Rica’s famous gallo pinto (a delicious mix of rice and black beans). The lovely ladies at the omelet station even gave me a mini Spanish lesson while they cooked.
One of the things that stood out about Margaritaville Beach Resort was the staff. Everyone, from housekeeping to maintenance, was friendly and genuinely happy to help. I even stumbled upon the hotel’s team-building exercise, where staff members took a group photo near the giant flip-flop at the entrance before heading off to deep clean different areas of the resort. It was clear that they took pride in their work, and it made my stay even more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a resort that offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and fantastic service, Margaritaville Beach Resort is an excellent choice. Whether you’re watching an impromptu lightning storm, sipping cocktails by the pool, or sailing into the sunset, every moment here feels like pure Pura Vida.
Los Altos De Eros Boutique Hotel & Spa
Hidden in the jungle with breathtaking ocean views, Los Altos de Eros is a boutique luxury hotel that feels like a secret paradise. The moment I arrived, I could tell this was a special place secluded, serene, and designed for total relaxation. The name itself translates to “The Heights of Love,” and it’s easy to see why.
I stayed in one of the Poolside Queen Rooms, just steps away from the resort’s gorgeous infinity pool. The room was cozy yet elegant, with tropical décor, an indoor/outdoor shower, and an inviting atmosphere that made it easy to unwind. Every morning, I woke up to the sounds of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves, feeling completely at peace.
The communal dining setup was a highlight of my stay. Meals were served at a shared table, creating a wonderful opportunity to connect with other travelers. Chef Javier prepared delicious breakfasts each morning, though I would have loved a bit more variety. One evening, I joined his weekly cooking class, where we learned to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes it was such a fun and interactive experience!
The resort also offers a world-class spa, and I made sure to book a massage and facial. The spa is open to day visitors as well, so appointments fill up quickly. While I wished there was more availability for hotel guests, the setting was absolutely stunning think open-air treatment rooms, the sound of running water, and a sense of total tranquility. After my treatment, I relaxed in the hot tub, which, unlike the spa, was always available to guests.
Though the location is remote, the staff helped arrange transportation for day trips. I visited Playa Avellanas and Tamarindo, both about 30 minutes away, and explored the charming nearby town of Guaitil, famous for its handcrafted pottery. Monica and Ari, the hotel managers, were incredibly helpful in making sure I had everything I needed.
One thing to note: The resort is quite secluded, so if you’re looking for nightlife or a variety of dining options, you’ll need to venture out. The included meals were delicious but had limited choices mainly one set dinner option each night, though they accommodated dietary preferences.
Overall, Los Altos de Eros is a dreamy escape for those seeking peace, luxury, and stunning views. If you’re all about relaxation, spa days, and connecting with fellow travelers over fantastic food, this is the perfect place to experience Costa Rica’s Pura Vida lifestyle.
Pacific Kalokairi – Tamarindo
If you’re looking for a hidden gem that feels both exclusive and luxurious, Pacific Kalokairi is it. Nestled in the jungle, just a short drive from the heart of Tamarindo, this boutique eco-hotel is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of town while still being close enough to explore.
I stayed in a Jungle View Room, and wow—what a view! Perched higher up in the forest, the hotel offers panoramic sights of the ocean and lush greenery. Whether lounging on my balcony or floating in the stunning infinity pool, I was constantly reminded of the beauty surrounding me.
The highlight of my stay? The incredible staff and the on-site restaurant. From the moment I arrived, the team made me feel so welcome. They helped me plan my days, book excursions, and even arranged transportation—an absolute lifesaver since I didn’t have a rental car. Their warmth and hospitality made my trip so much more enjoyable.
And let’s talk about the food! Every meal I had at Pacific Kalokairi was prepared by Chef Daniel, and it was some of the best I had in Costa Rica. The menu changed daily, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and every dish was a delight. I dined at the hotel multiple times simply because the food was that good.
The hotel itself is stunning. The rooms are beautifully designed—modern yet cozy, with thoughtful touches like all-natural bath products in refillable bottles (a huge eco-friendly win). The spa is a serene oasis, offering rejuvenating treatments that leave you feeling refreshed and completely at ease.
One thing to note: the location is secluded, so if you’re someone who wants to be in the heart of Tamarindo, you’ll need to plan for transportation. However, for me, the tranquility and breathtaking surroundings were worth it. Watching the sunset from my private terrace and waking up to the sounds of the jungle made my stay feel truly magical.
If you want a peaceful, high-end retreat with impeccable service and a touch of adventure, Pacific Kalokairi is an absolute must-visit. I already know I’ll be coming back!
