Costa Rica’s 9 most extraordinary accommodations

From misty cloud forests and vibrant rainforests to stunning beaches and majestic volcanoes, Costa Rica is truly remarkable in its diversity. This Central American gem is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, macaws, sloths, and four types of monkeys.

Accommodations here reflect the diverse landscapes, ranging from treehouses and forest campsites to an airplane transformed into a unique apartment, all with a focus on minimizing the impact on Costa Rica's delicate ecosystems.

Whether it's hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, or ziplining, there are countless thrilling adventures to enjoy. Alternatively, you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and embrace the pura vida lifestyle.

Regardless of your budget, here are some of the most unique places to stay in Costa Rica for a memorable vacation that’s eco-friendly.

1. Thrilling adventures at Pacuare Lodge

Why take a 4WD when you can access this secluded rainforest retreat via white-water raft, navigating the exhilarating Class III and IV rapids of the renowned Río Pacuare?

Nestled along the riverbank and surrounded by stunning jungle vistas, Pacuare Lodge represents the pinnacle of rustic luxury, featuring 20 exquisite suites adorned with Indigenous art, a tranquil spa, and a multi-tiered restaurant with views of the river.

Situated just two and a half hours from San José, this family-operated lodge emphasizes sustainability by partnering with the indigenous Cabécar community for cultural and nature excursions.

Once you've navigated the rapids to reach this haven, thrill-seekers can dive into even more exhilarating activities, such as challenging hikes, ziplining, and canyoning, with conservation fees supporting various local initiatives.

2. Experience regenerative living at Rancho Margot

Twenty years ago, a Chilean scientist acquired 400 acres of former cattle ranch land near Lake Arenal and set out to rejuvenate the devastated landscape with native plants and wildlife.

Today, Rancho Margot operates as a unique blend of off-the-grid ecolodge, self-sufficient organic farm, and living laboratory, where the owners cultivate crops, generate electricity, and craft furniture from timber sourced through reforestation efforts.

Guests can choose to stay in a bunkhouse or a spacious bungalow, with days filled by exploring the expansive ranch, hiking around the Arenal Volcano, kayaking on the lake, horseback riding, mountain biking, and rappelling down waterfalls. After an active day, relax in natural spring-fed rock pools before enjoying a delicious farm-to-table meal.

3. Enjoy a caffeine-infused retreat at Finca Rosa Blanca

Awaken to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee at Finca Rosa Blanca, a carbon-neutral organic coffee farm and art-filled boutique hotel. Inside, 14 uniquely designed suites and villas burst with color, thanks to the creativity of local artists.

The property boasts stunning tropical gardens filled with oversized wonders, from massive Swiss cheese plants to vibrant blue morpho butterflies.

Finca Rosa Blanca is nestled in the verdant Central Valley, near the historic towns of Heredia and San José. Guests can learn the journey of coffee beans from picking to roasting, followed by a tasting experience. Adventure tours and visits to local artisans and cacao farms are also available.

4. Experience a treetop escape at Topo’s Tree House

Instead of chopping down trees to create his ecolodge, Slavko 'Topo' Topolovsek designed it to embrace them.

The outcome is a multi-level, two-bedroom tree house nestled among the expansive branches of a rubber tree, featuring large aerial roots integrated into its structure. It's perfectly positioned for watching monkeys, sloths, and toucans.

The treehouse is just a stone's throw from the black sand beach at Playa Negra in Cahuita, a village with roots in West Indian immigration on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

Visit the beachfront Reggae Bar for live music and traditional Caribbean dishes like coconut chicken or grilled red snapper. Be sure to join a guided snorkeling tour over the coral reefs in nearby Cahuita National Park.

5. Enjoy a picture-perfect experience at La Caravana

The retro-chic Airstream trailers at La Caravana are just as Instagram-worthy as the breathtaking sunsets visible from their doorsteps, framed by the palm-lined golden expanse of Playa Carillo.

Select from a beautifully refurbished Overlander, Argosy, or Avion Imperial caravan for your stay near one of Costa Rica's finest beaches.

Each trailer features air conditioning, fully-equipped kitchenettes, workspaces for digital nomads, and private gardens perfect for dining and relaxing, with local eateries just a stroll away.

Playa Carillo invites you to unwind and savor life’s simple joys, fostering connections with the local community, and your friendly hosts can organize activities like surfing lessons, boat tours, and horseback riding.

6. Experience the unique stay at 727 Fuselage Home

With its vibrant red nose protruding from the rainforest, this vintage Boeing 727 jet is perhaps the most unconventional accommodation in Costa Rica.

Salvaged from San José airport and transformed into a unique two-bedroom apartment, this former passenger jet is surprisingly spacious and adorned with hand-carved Indonesian teak, featuring a bathroom in the cockpit. While the engines are removed, staying here still gives the sensation of soaring above the treetops.

The plane is situated within the expansive grounds of Hotel Costa Verde, enveloped by lush tropical vegetation.

You're just a short stroll away from Playa Espadilla, adjacent to the immensely popular Manuel Antonio National Park—don’t be surprised to spot squirrel monkeys darting across the fuselage! Keep the aviation theme going at El Avion, a C-123 Fairchild cargo plane transformed into a bar and restaurant in Manuel Antonio.

7. Jungle Camping at La Leona Ecolodge

Nestled on the edges of the wild and breathtaking Corcovado National Park on the remote Osa Peninsula, La Leona Ecolodge is a family-operated glamping destination located within a private reserve. Cozy, safari-style tents are perched on wooden decks, providing views of either a secluded beach or dense rainforest.

Wander through jungle trails—the park is home to Costa Rica's four native monkey species and stunning macaws that roam freely—or simply relax in a hammock and let the wildlife come to you.

Afterward, enjoy a refreshing shower under the sun or stars, dine at the open-air restaurant, and drift off to sleep listening to the soothing sounds of the Pacific waves.

8. Snuggle up in the cloud forest at Chira Glamping Monteverde

Experience the wildlife-rich cloud forests surrounding Monteverde at Chira Glamping. No need for sleeping bags; these round pods are equipped with plush beds, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and minibars, along with outdoor showers and hot tubs.

Monteverde’s mist-shrouded reserve is home to charmingly named hummingbirds, sloths, howler monkeys, and more. Trek through primary, secondary, and open forests, then indulge at San Lucas, a treetop restaurant featuring glass cube tables perched high on the mountainside.

The unexpected nine-course tasting menu featuring contemporary Costa Rican dishes will take you on a culinary journey across the country, complemented by stunning views and the sounds of the forest.

9. Stargaze from your bed at Green Moon Lodge

Green Moon Lodge is a unique dome house, crafted with love by its owner, Katrin Heintschel, using a blend of concrete blocks and dishwasher detergent.

With assistance from her artist friends, Katrin adorned the lodge with botanical and marine designs, complete with intricately welded iron doors and windows.

This private rental is nestled in the hills of Montezuma on the laid-back Nicoya Peninsula, one of the five Blue Zones worldwide linked to longevity and a top destination in Costa Rica.

Head to the coast for surfing, sunbathing, and watching nesting sea turtles. When you're not observing monkeys and butterflies in the tropical garden, you can open the roof and gaze at the stars from your bed.