Best Hotels in Costa Rica - My Experience (Part 1)
There’s nothing quite like the rush of arriving in a new country—the anticipation, the adventure, and, let’s be honest, the exhaustion of travel. After a smooth flight from Houston to Liberia, Costa Rica, I knew I wanted a place to unwind before diving into my next adventure. Enter Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela—a spot that made the transition effortless. With its prime location, cozy rooms, and a breakfast spread worth waking up for, it was the perfect first stop. Here’s everything you need to know about this convenient and comfortable stay.
Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
Photos courtesy of the Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
There’s something about stepping off a plane in a new country that just hits differently, right? That mix of excitement, a little bit of exhaustion, and a whole lot of "what's next?" After a smooth flight from Houston, Texas, I finally landed in Liberia, Costa Rica, and let me tell you, the moment that warm, tropical air hit my face, I knew I had arrived somewhere special. Now, I don’t know about you, but after a flight, I like to ease into a new place rather than dive headfirst into the action. So, my game plan? Find a comfy spot near the airport to recharge before heading out to explore. Enter Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela—the perfect place for a smooth landing before the real adventure begins.
The hotel is just five minutes from the airport, and they offer a free shuttle every 30 minutes—super convenient when you just want to drop your bags and relax. Finding the shuttle was a breeze: just a quick right turn out of the airport, and there’s a designated waiting area. Within minutes, I was on my way, cruising through Alajuela and already feeling the Costa Rican charm. Checking in was effortless. The staff? Super friendly. You know when you meet people who genuinely enjoy their jobs? That was the vibe here. A warm smile, a quick rundown of the hotel’s perks, and I was set. I could already tell I’d made the right call.
I stepped into my room and immediately felt at ease. Spacious, clean, and—most importantly after a long day of travel—an ultra-comfy bed. The desk setup was great too, perfect for any last-minute trip planning or catching up on emails (if you’re into that kind of thing on vacation!). The minibar? Ready to keep my drinks cold, and the in-room safe gave me peace of mind for my valuables.
One of my favorite things about traveling? The food. And the breakfast here did not disappoint. Waffles, scones, eggs, fresh fruit, and even build-your-own yogurt bowls. Plus, they had both classic American options and traditional Costa Rican dishes—talk about starting the day right. I’m a coffee lover, so discovering the coffee machine on my floor was the cherry on top. Costa Rican coffee? Absolute perfection.
Another huge perk? The hotel is within walking distance of everything you might need. Forgot to pack something? There’s an outdoor store just a minute away. Need snacks or travel essentials? Walmart is literally a minute’s walk from the hotel. Want to grab a quick bite? Plenty of restaurants and a small plaza nearby. And if you’re arriving late and too tired to venture out, the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar have you covered with late-night bites and drinks.
If you ever find yourself landing in Liberia, Costa Rica, and want to take a breather before jumping into full adventure mode, I can’t recommend this spot enough. Great location, amazing staff, comfy rooms, and a solid breakfast to kickstart your trip. Would you rather hit the ground running when you travel, or do you like to ease into it like I do? Let me know I’d love to hear how you start your trips!
For now, pura vida! On to the next adventure…
Lost in the Clouds: My Stay at Monteverde Lodge
Have you ever been somewhere that felt like stepping into another world? A place so peaceful and surrounded by nature that time slows down, and all your worries fade into the background? That’s exactly how I felt at Monteverde Lodge & Gardens in Costa Rica. Tucked away in the cloud forests of Monteverde, this lodge is the kind of place that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s technically close to town, but once you step onto the property, you feel completely removed from civilization in the best way possible.
Winding paths through lush gardens, the soft rustle of the wind through the trees, birds singing their morning songs… It’s the kind of serene atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. Have you ever had that feeling where you breathe in and suddenly feel lighter? That’s Monteverde Lodge for you.
I stayed in the Cotinga Suite, and let me tell you—this place is a dream. A private terrace, direct access to the gardens, and a front-row seat to nature’s finest show. I spent my mornings sipping coffee while watching birds flit between the trees and listening to the calming sound of water flowing from a nearby creek. At night, the stillness was almost surreal, broken only by the occasional distant call of wildlife. And the bed? Like sleeping on a cloud. Pillowtop mattress, soft robes, and that cozy, rustic ambiance with just the right touch of luxury. If I could have bottled up that feeling and brought it home, I would have.
This Lodge is exquisite. It has simple yet elegant decor, beautifully designed gardens, well-maintained trails, and phenomenal service. Stay at this accommodation to reconnect with nature with the fewest distractions. Listening to the rolling creek, singing birds, buzzing bees, and butterflies every morning was a delight.
Dining at El Jardin Restaurant was an experience in itself. Imagine enjoying a meal surrounded by lush greenery, with the fresh mountain air adding to the flavor of every bite. The food? A perfect mix of Costa Rican, American, and European flavors, made with locally sourced ingredients.
One morning, I had the most incredible breakfast—fluffy pancakes drizzled with local honey and fresh tropical fruit on the side. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause and savor every bite. And in the evening? A delicious seafood dish paired with a glass of wine while the sun dipped behind the trees. Pure bliss.
That said, the gastronomic experience left much to be desired and did not meet my expectations at this price point. The food offerings were not particularly appealing, and I didn’t appreciate using a Kindle to view the menu. We were served pineapple core instead of flesh, and the happy hour was a bit lackluster. I was also baffled by the coffee service at breakfast, which is served in a French Press coffee maker without a timer. Timing is imperative for this coffee preparation method. I wish it were served in a Costa Rican Chorreador instead, but its current form needs an hourglass or digital timer and an empty carafe for the brewed coffee to bring it to standard. The best bite was the homemade bread and jam. The service was excellent. Monteverde Lodge isn’t just about relaxing (though it does that very well). The property has scenic walking trails where you might just spot monkeys swinging through the trees or other curious creatures wandering by. One afternoon, I saw a wild animal casually strolling through the garden—just from my window! Talk about up-close-and-personal with nature. The heated pool quickly became my go-to spot, especially in the evenings when the mountain air turned a bit crisp. Floating in the warm water, looking up at the mist rolling over the treetops, was pure magic.
And then there’s the vivarium, a peaceful little reading spot where I curled up with a book and just let time drift by. Sometimes, the best part of traveling is those quiet moments when you just exist and soak it all in. In a heartbeat. Monteverde Lodge & Gardens isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience. A chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and truly unwind. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or just someone who needs a break from the chaos of daily life, this place is a must-visit. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and highly recommend it. I hope they revise aspects of their gastronomic experience to elevate it to the next level. Have you ever stayed somewhere that made you feel completely at peace? That made you want to freeze time, just for a little while longer? If not, maybe it’s time to plan a trip to Monteverde. Would you put this on your bucket list?
Chasing Sunsets: My Stay at Occidental Tamarindo
Image courtesy of Occidental Tamarindo
Have you ever stayed somewhere that felt like the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation? That’s exactly what I found at Occidental Tamarindo in Costa Rica. Nestled right by the beach and surrounded by nature, this place felt like a hidden retreat where the ocean meets the jungle. The moment I arrived, I could feel the laid-back vibe of the place. The hotel might not be the newest on the block, but it has a charm that makes you feel instantly at home. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, stepping outside, and seeing the ocean stretch out before you. Not a bad way to start the day, right? Tamarindo itself is just a short drive away, but honestly, I was more than happy just soaking in the beauty right here. The beach is stunning, with golden sand and rolling waves that make it a dream spot for both relaxing and surfing. If you’ve ever wanted to try riding the waves, this is the place to do it!
I stayed in one of the 198 rooms at the hotel, and while it wasn’t ultra-modern, it had everything I needed comfortable bed, refreshing AC, and most importantly, a view that stole the show. There’s something magical about watching the sunset from your balcony, the sky exploding into shades of orange and pink while the palm trees sway in the breeze.
The best part? It’s an all-inclusive hotel, so I didn’t have to stress about where to eat or what to do. Everything was right there waiting for me. If you’re anything like me, food is a huge part of the travel experience. And let me tell you Occidental Tamarindo did not disappoint. Every meal featured an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, and I was blown away by the quality. From juicy pineapple to perfectly ripe avocados, the flavors were as vibrant as the surroundings. The buffet had a nice selection, and while it wasn’t the most gourmet dining experience, it definitely hit the spot.
One thing I wasn’t a huge fan of? The menu system. Instead of a traditional menu, I had to scroll through a Kindle to check out my options, which felt a little out of place. And while happy hour was nice, it didn’t exactly blow me away. But hey, when you’re sipping a drink with your toes in the sand, it’s hard to complain!
What kind of traveler are you? The kind who loves to sit back and relax, or the type who’s always looking for the next adventure? Either way, Occidental Tamarindo has something for you. For the relaxation seekers, the on-site spa is a must. Massages, facials, and beauty treatments—this place is designed to make you feel like royalty. I didn’t get a chance to try everything, but just knowing the option was there made me feel extra pampered. For the adventurers, there’s surfing, nature trails, and plenty of day trips to explore the surrounding area. Tamarindo is known for its lively beach town vibe, and if you want to check out local shops and restaurants, it’s just a quick trip away.
No stay is perfect, and while I had an incredible time, there were a few small things that could be improved. The tennis court on the property was a great idea but wasn’t well maintained, so it wasn’t really usable. And the coffee service at breakfast—served in a French Press with no timer—left me a little puzzled. If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll know that timing is everything when it comes to getting that perfect brew. I would have loved to see a Costa Rican Chorreador instead!
Jardin Del Eden Boutique Hotel
Have you ever stepped into a place that instantly feels like a secret paradise? That’s exactly how I felt the moment I arrived at Jardin Del Eden Boutique Hotel in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. It’s adults-only, which means peace, privacy, and pure relaxation. Sounds perfect, right? Let me take you on this little adventure with me.
Tucked away in lush gardens, this boutique hotel feels like a hidden gem. It’s close enough to Tamarindo’s lively beach town, but once you step inside, it’s a whole different world. Think serene, tropical, and incredibly inviting. The kind of place where you instantly take a deep breath and say, “Yep, I needed this.”
Walking through the gardens, you’re surrounded by vibrant flowers, swaying palm trees, and the soothing sounds of nature. Then, there’s the pool area—perfect for lounging, dipping in the cool water, and just soaking up the Pura Vida vibes.
Let’s talk about the rooms. Mine had a stunning ocean view, and waking up to the sound of birds and distant waves? Unreal. The decor is a blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, with locally sourced wooden furniture that adds an authentic touch. The bathroom was spacious, and yes, there’s a massive shower with excellent water pressure—because little details like that matter!
Food lovers, you’re in for a treat. Breakfast is a gourmet buffet with fresh fruit, pastries, eggs made to order, and even mimosas (because why not?). Every morning felt like an indulgence.
And dinner? A three-course gourmet experience. Every night, a new menu featuring fresh seafood, organic local produce, and a perfect blend of Latin and Mediterranean flavors. If you’re a dessert person, just know you’re in trouble—the sweet treats here are dangerously good.
Now, let’s get to the real highlight—the hotel’s private beach garden. A short, scenic walk leads you to this secluded spot right by the ocean. Picture comfy lounge chairs, a refreshing plunge pool, and a beachfront bar serving up incredible cocktails. Sipping a mojito while watching the sunset over Tamarindo Beach? Absolute bliss.
The bartenders, especially Kevin and Allan, were amazing—friendly, funny, and always ready with a great drink recommendation. If you haven’t tried a chili guaro shot yet, trust me, you need to.
Feeling zen? Start your day with a yoga session in the garden or try a sound healing session with their wellness ambassador. Need a little adventure? The hotel helps arrange excursions like sunset catamaran cruises, national park eco-tours, and even day trips to nearby beaches. I took a boat tour through the national park and spotted crocodiles, howler monkeys, and even a sneaky raccoon stealing food from another boat—classic wildlife comedy.
Jardin Del Eden is perfectly situated—just a five-minute walk from Tamarindo’s restaurants, bars, and shops. So whether you want a quiet retreat or a night out in town, you get the best of both worlds.
Absolutely. Jardin Del Eden exceeded all my expectations. The combination of tranquility, luxury, and top-notch service made it an unforgettable stay. The staff went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed, from recommendations to little personal touches.
If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Costa Rica that offers relaxation, delicious food, and easy access to adventure—this is it. So, what do you think? Would you book a stay here? Or have you already been to Tamarindo? Let’s talk travel in the comments!
