Best Costa Rica Resorts & Lodges For A Family Vacation (All-Inclusive Included)

A dad holds his infant son over ocean waves on Del Mar Beach.
Photo Courtesy: Milea Emmons Virojanapa
Del Mar Beach

You’re guaranteed to have an awesome stay at these Costa Rica resorts & lodges for a family vacation! From beautiful Caribbean beaches to breathtaking rainforests, Costa Rica offers everything you could want. Enjoy rest and relaxation on the water or get up close and personal with local wildlife at one of the best Costa Rica resorts and lodges for a family vacation. Of course, where you stay can make or break your vacation, so make sure you choose a good hotel! Luckily there are a lot of family-friendly options in Costa Rica, whether you’re looking for a laidback vacation or non-stop adventures. You’re sure to make lasting memories thanks to the neverending activities these hotels offer! To help you plan a future vacation to Costa Rica, we’ve compiled this parent-approved list of the Best Costa Rica Resorts & Lodges For A Family Vacation. Keep reading to learn more! 

Best Family All-inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica

Is your family searching for an all-inclusive hotel in Costa Rica that’s perfect for kids of all ages? If you’re planning to relax at your hotel most of your vacation, it’ll make the process easier (especially with younger children!). We recommend one of the following Costa Rica resorts for your family vacation.

READ NEXT: Exciting One-Week Itinerary In Costa Rica With Young Kids

The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

An areial view of The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation, featuring lush foliage and clear blue waters.
Photo Courtesy: The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

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Your family will never want for anything at The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-inclusive Golf Resort and Spa! Situated near Playa Conchal, this luxurious, all-inclusive resort is located just 20 minutes from the Tamarindo Airport in Costa Rica and is surrounded by beautiful natural forests and beaches.

Here, families can book Deluxe One-Bedroom Suites with two double beds and a sofa bed, or larger Family Suites with one king and a sofa bed. Some even have a balcony! Nearby, you’ll find all of the activities and amenities you want, including dining, entertainment, beaches, pools, golf courses, and more. No wonder it’s one of the best family resorts in Costa Rica! 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

Inside the kids' club at The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa, featuring bright colors and fun toys.
Photo Courtesy: The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

With one of the largest freshwater pools in Central America, kids love staying at The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-inclusive Golf Resort and Spa. Whether they are spending time in the whirlpool, hanging out in the exclusive kids’ pool, or enjoying time in the sun, you can be sure your kids are always having fun. The Westin Family Kids Club offers many activities and entertainment for your little ones, including games, crafts, exploration, and enrichment. Get the whole family together for a rousing game of tennis on one of the three tennis courts featuring floodlights, or enjoy one of the thrilling activities available through the resort, including kayaking, snorkeling, and bike rentals. 

Why Parents Love It

Parents will have a great time at The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-inclusive Golf Resort and Spa! Get a soothing massage at The Heavenly Spa by Westin. Parents also love the state-of-the-art workout facility, featuring a modern gym, fitness classes, and more. 

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

A pool lined with yellow chairs at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

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Families can experience the best of Costa Rica at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa. As one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, this family-friendly hotel is ideally located in Guanacaste near Tamarindo Town. Not only is it perfect for shopping, dining, and surfing, but it’s also only 25-minutes from the Tamarindo Airport. Between oceanfront activities, an array of dining options on-site, and amenities for all ages, no wonder travelers love this kid-friendly resort! Families can choose between accommodations such as one-bedroom suites or guestrooms, which are all outfitted with either one king bed or two doubles. All have views of either the pool, ocean, or garden. What a wonderful way to enjoy your family vacation in Costa Rica! 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

The game room at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, featuring foosball and other large game tables.
Photo Courtesy: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

Kids have plenty of reasons to love the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa. A beautiful, free-flowing infinity pool gives them plenty of opportunities to splash during your stay. There’s also a separate children’s pool for little ones to make friends. Plus, with access to Mansita Beach, kids can also enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, surfing, jet-skiing, and more. The JW Adventure Kids Club is also open daily to children between the ages of four and twelve. Here, little ones can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities such as arts & crafts, nature walks, and biking. Other excursions can also be arranged outside of the hotel, such as horseback riding, fly-fishing trips, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. Volleyball and tennis are also available if families want to challenge each other to a friendly game. 

Why Parents Love It

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is committed to providing parents with a wonderful stay in Costa Rica. While kids are off exploring, pull up a lounge chair to the hotel’s Azul Pool Bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink on a hot afternoon. There’s also a nearby whirlpool that parents can use. When you’re craving even more relaxation, head to the Spa by JW Marriott for a soothing treatment. Or, get your blood pumping at the fitness center or by running along the hotel’s designated jogging trail. If you want to enjoy a date night, the hotel also offers babysitting services. Head to one of the seven restaurants or two bars on-site to extend your perfect day in Costa Rica. 

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica

An arieal view of the pristine white hotel buildings and grassy lawn at the Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica

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The Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is one of the best all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica. Located in Guanacaste, approximately 40 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, it’s nestled on the edge of the beautiful Matapalo Beach. Families staying here will have access to everything they need directly on-site, from dining to amenities, activities, and more. That’s why it’s one of the best family resorts in Costa Rica, and a popular place to visit with young children too. Families staying here can choose between rooms like a Junior Suite with two double beds and a garden/ocean view, a two-bedroom Family Suite, or a Jacuzzi Suite complete with its own hydro tub. 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

The water slides and splash pad at Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica.
Photo Courtesy: Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica

The Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica knows how to show kids a good time! Little ones can splash in one of the hotel’s four swimming pools, one of which is specifically for children. Plus, the hotel has its very own Splash Water World waterpark! On nearby Playa Matapalo, kids can also make use of the hotel’s water sports equipment, including snorkeling, kayaks, windsurfing, and more. There’s also a children’s playground on-site if they prefer to burn some energy outside of the water. When parents need some alone time, bring kids between four and twelve to the Riuland Kids’ Club, where they’ll enjoy daytime entertainment with others their own age. With its beautiful location, the hotel also offers other chances to see the property with tours or excursions the whole family can enjoy. Find things to do together like learning to paint at the RiuArt Atelier! 

Why Parents Love It

Parents can enjoy adults-only amenities at The Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica. Spend an afternoon sunbathing at the hotel’s pool with a swim-up bar, where you can enjoy a drink or two. At the Renova Spa, guests can choose from different holistic treatments inspired by the Costa Rica wilderness. There’s also a gym, jacuzzi, and sauna to unwind in. Or, play a game of volleyball or tennis at one of the on-site courts. For parents who love golf, the Four Seasons Golf Club has incredible views. If you want to extend your alone time, the hotel also has a discotheque and a casino. 

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

An aerial view of Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation, nestled along a rugged Costa Rican coastline.
Photo Courtesy: Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

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Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica truly lives up to its name. Located in Playa El Jobo in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region, this secluded family resort is approximately an hour and a half from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport. Though it’s more remote than other Costa Rica resorts, it offers families a luxury all-inclusive stay surrounded by lush green mountains and jungles. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t want to travel far to experience Costa Rica, as everything you need – from nightly entertainment to food, land, or water activities, and more – is available right at your fingertips. Luxury suites offer sweeping views of the jungle, mountains, or ocean, featuring one king-size bed or two doubles. Plus, guests can enjoy perks such as a mini-fridge that’s stocked daily, 24-hour room service, and a helpful concierge. It’s no surprise this is one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation! 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

Three kids excitedly slide down a water slide at Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica.
Photo Courtesy: Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica is one of the best resorts for kids! Children can enjoy the hotel’s main oceanfront pool or “La Cascada,” a special water slide with an adjacent pool for kids. Or, hit the beach for fun non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, kite surfing, and snorkeling! Introductory scuba diving lessons are also available in the pool. Other activities include playing bocce ball or water polo, local wildlife tours, or deep-sea fishing. At the Explorer’s Club, kids between three and twelve can also enjoy a supervised kids program with age-appropriate activities. Meanwhile, teens between thirteen and seventeen can hang out at the Core Zone. The hotel also hosts beach parties, a beach Olympics, and more exciting theme nights for families to enjoy together. Catch a film during Movie Night or take cooking, dance, or Spanish lessons together. Don’t forget to try out the hotel’s bungee trampoline! 

Why Parents Love It

Parents will love the all-inclusive offerings at Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica. A steaming whirlpool near the hotel’s main pool is perfect for adults who want to unwind while kids are playing. Then, sneak in a workout at the state-of-the-art fitness center or relax your muscles at Dreams Spa by Pevonia. It offers a range of a-la-carte treatments to choose from. Parents can also keep in shape by jogging around the hotel. Classes such as yoga or water aerobics are also scheduled often. Babysitting services are also available, so parents can extend their date night to one of the hotel’s eight restaurants or five bars on-site. 

Best Resorts in Costa Rica for Families

Not all of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation are all-inclusive. Some travelers want the freedom to explore the island and come and go as they please, especially if they’re traveling with teens. If you’re searching for a more flexible trip, consider staying in one of the following Costa Rica resorts for your family vacation.

Looking for things to do? Consult this list of 15 Amazing Things to Do in Costa Rica with Kids!

W Hotel Reserva Conchal

The pool and hotel grounds at night at W Hotel Reserva Conchal, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: W Hotel Reserva Conchal

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Located just steps from Playa Conchal, the W Hotel Reserva Conchal offers everything you need for the perfect family vacation to Costa Rica. The Tamarindo Airport is less than 30 minutes away, and you can take in the lush forests and white sand beaches Costa Rica has to offer. Families can choose between a selection of spacious one-bedroom suites with king beds and a partial ocean view (some even have a plunge pool!) Or, a two-bedroom suite with one king bed and two queens. Incredible panoramic views are available all over the hotel regardless of where you sleep, offering a relaxing and invigorating getaway for the whole family. 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

The pool and bonfire area at W Hotel Reserva Conchal at night.
Photo Courtesy: W Hotel Reserva Conchal

If you have some thrill-seekers on your hands, your kids have to check out the high-energy adventures available at the W Hotel Reserva Conchal. From surfing and snorkeling to hiking and kayaking, there is no shortage of activities to help your children burn through their energy. At the Jungle Kids Club, little ones can play while parents enjoy some alone time. The Beach Chocolate Factory offers all the sweets your little ones could want, and there are also plenty of activities to enjoy in the Games Room. Kids love spending time with other guests their age in the Games Room, playing games, watching movies, making crafts, throwing water balloons, and much more.

Why Parents Love It

The W Hotel Reserva Conchal offers adults amazing amenities too. Parents are sure to love the Zona Azul Beach Club, a unique beach club designed for adults. Enjoy top-notch food and drinks surrounded by the beautiful Costa Rican views and the best beats. Visit the AWAY Spa if you need some rest and relaxation, or spend the day on the 18-hole golf course. There’s also a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment and free weights. 

Experience stunning wildlife in a tropical rainforest. Costa Rica Vacation Rentals.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

An aerial view of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation, nestled along a sandy Costa Rican shore.
Photo Courtesy: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

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Find your next family adventure at the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo! Nestled on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo and Culebra Bay, this family-friendly resort is approximately 45 minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport. It’s perfect for families seeking a luxury vacation in Costa Rica’s gorgeous Guanacaste Province, surrounded by some of the best beaches on the island. Families staying here can choose accommodations such as guest rooms with ocean views, one-bedroom suites with large outdoor patios, and two or three-bedroom villas with kitchens and plunge pools. Plus, kids eighteen and under stay for free with an adult! The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is definitely one of the best Costa Rica hotels for families! 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

Two kids playing on the beach near Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo offers kids non-stop fun. There are three swimming pools, including the hotel’s two main pools and a special kids pool with toys. Nearby Playa Virador is a popular snorkeling spot, while Playa Culebra is better for kayaking, boogie boarding, and other water sports. At the Four Seasons Children’s Center, kids ages 4 through 12 can enjoy outdoor activities immersed in nature or crafts and games indoors, complementary and always rotating. There’s also a teens-only clubhouse just steps from the basketball court, equipped with a flat-screen TV, DVDs, a pool table, and video games. Kids can also enjoy guided on-site activities such as nature hikes to spot monkeys or colorful birds, cycling, and more. On rainy days, the hotel organizes various classes such as salsa, cooking, or chocolate-making for families to take together.  

Why Parents Love It

Adults love the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo for many reasons. Parents staying here can rejuvenate with morning meditation, yoga classes, and more at the hotel’s fitness center. Remember to also relax by the adult-only pool, where you can lounge with a drink. The hotel also has a spa and salon offering a variety of services such as massages or scrubs, as well as treatments for kids and teens. Continue your alone time into the evening, where the hotel’s lively Anejo bar fills with music, aperitifs, and tapas. Parents can also head to La Reserva to sample Latin American rum, try Pesce for amazing Italian food, or take advantage of in-room dining. Babysitting is also available. 

Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

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Families searching for a private island oasis will feel right at home at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort. Located on an expansive private reserve overlooking the ocean, this family-friendly resort sits near Playitas and Espadilla Beach. It’s also approximately two hours from Juan Santamaria International Airport, accessible by car or a domestic flight to Quepos. In addition to unique features like the chance to spot monkeys on-site, Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort also offers access to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park. Suites have amazing views of the park, the ocean, and the rainforest, with a luxury master bedroom suitable for two adults with two children. Combined rooms can be booked, and most suites also have a balcony. No wonder this is one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation!  

Why the Kids Will Thank You 

Kids will have a guaranteed blast at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort. The hotel has two swimming pools, plus direct access to two beaches that offer water sports. Surf, kayak, or go humpback whale watching on an extraordinary excursion! Other scheduled activities include movie nights, making tortillas, and designing bracelets. The hotel also has four resident guides to help kids spot rainforest wildlife during fun tours. Between early morning bird-watching and nature hikes after dark in Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll find plenty of memorable ways to experience the rainforest. In fact, you may even spot more animals on the hotel’s quiet property than in the park! The hotel will also help families find the perfect adventure for them, whether zipline across the treetops or diving from the top of a cascading waterfall. 

Why Parents Love It

Parents can stay refreshed their entire stay at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort! At Las Brisas Wellness Center, adults can indulge in wellness treatments such as massages, and even take yoga classes. The hotel is also a foodie’s paradise. Enjoy a kid-friendly menu with familiar staples at Playitas Beachfront Restaurant & Bar, or exotic dishes at Mirador Oceanview Restaurant. The hotel is also one of the first to enact a “Dock To Dish” program where guests can fish for seafood and then have it cooked fresh before their eyes. 

Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

The pool outside of the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo hotel buildings at night, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

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The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is perfect for a vacation with kids! Overlooking Culebra Bay in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, this kid-friendly resort is located approximately 30-minutes from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport. You’ll never be bored on this 1,400-acre private peninsula, with a dynamic roster of activities, dining experiences, and more. All rooms face Culebra Bay, showcase outdoor terraces, and come with a choice of one king or two queen beds. Suites feature a king-bedded master bedroom, living room, enhanced work area, and spacious balcony. Some even have a plunge pool, pantry, and dining rooms. Adjoining guest rooms are available as well just in case teens need their privacy!

Why The Kids Will Thank You

A young boy kayaks in a yellow kayak while staying at the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo.
Photo Courtesy: Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo offers little ones plenty of fun. Enjoy four pools, one of which has a shallow-entry ideal for kids, plus access to three different beaches. Water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and more are available thanks to local vendors along the shore. Go scuba diving, white water rafting, or charter a boat! Kids ages five to twelve will also love the daily roster of activities offered at the CAMBI Kids Club, from nature walks to arts & crafts. Or, try an exclusive excursion with Camp Jaguar, perfect for teens. Have an older kid who needs an extra dose of adrenaline? Costa Rica has plenty of adventures for kids, like ziplining! If kids want to venture out for more, the hotel is only an hour away from some of Costa Rica’s best attractions. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary or Rincón de la Vieja National Park!

Why Parents Love It

Parents can unwind at The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. The hotel offers families an adults-only pool for those seeking tranquility away from kids. At the Onda Spa, you can also choose from indigenous-inspired treatments that harness the healing power of nature. There’s a 24-hour fitness center too. For dinner, eat a casual meal at Andaz Beach House or escape to the romantic Ostra, the hotel’s signature seafood restaurant. Whether you visit a Latin tapas bar or take in the breathtaking views at Rio Bhongo, there’s something for everyone here!

The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

The stunning hotel buildings at The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal at night, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

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The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal sits on a mountainside 1,000 feet above the Arenal Volcano! Though it’s located more than two hours away from Juan Santamaria International Airport, the hotel can provide guests with transportation to and from the property for an extra cost. Families staying here can book one-bedroom suites with king beds or two-bedroom suites with king beds, single beds, and a pull-out sofa. There are also Family Suites, with two king-sized beds and two twin sofa beds, and Penthouse Suites with a large master bedroom and living area. 

Why the Kids Will Thank You 

Kids will be in paradise at The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal! With panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano, the hotel offers 28 hot spring pools spanning over 4 acres of recreational area. Don’t forget about soaring down the hotel’s famous Monkey Slide! Plus, a daily schedule of activities offers age-appropriate programs to keep children entertained throughout the day. This includes water tubing, rock climbing, and horseback riding, as well as access to the hotel’s game room and tropical putt-putt. Animal-loving kids will be delighted to visit The Club Rio Outdoor Center and Wildlife Preserve, which provides a variety of on-site outdoor recreation options including river kayaking, fishing, and Calcium Canyon hiking trails. Plus, there are tours of the Wildlife Preserve offering unique views of rescued animals!

Why Parents Love It

The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal is great for adults too. Parents will love how The Sanctuary Spa encompasses an entire level of the main building and offers an array of massages, facials, body wraps, manicures, and pedicures. The hotel also has plenty of bars where you can sit and enjoy a drink or two. Plus, five unique dining options, including the award-winning Las Ventanas Restaurant and Ginger Sushi. It’s definitely one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation!

Best Family Lodges in Costa Rica

Searching for the ultimate adventure in Costa Rica? Stay at a lodge! Lodges offer families comfortable accommodations in the middle of Costa Rica’s gorgeous wildlife. This puts you in a great place to explore the island’s biodiversity and is a great idea for adventurous families who love camping or glamping. If you don’t want a Costa Rica resort, here are our recommendations for some lodges for your family vacation.

Rafiki Safari Lodge

A balcony overlooking the pool and jungle views at Rafiki Safari Lodge, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: Rafiki Safari Lodge

Break out of the norm when you stay in the heart of the tropical forest at Rafiki Safari Lodge. With more than 600 acres of private reserve land, your family can experience the rainforest ecosystem firsthand. Don’t worry if camping isn’t your thing, because the Rafiki Safari Lodge provides the best in “glamping” amenities, including luxury safari tents, world-class dining, and activities for the whole family. Tents include a spacious porch with rocking chairs and a coffee table, plus a sizable bathroom. Each room has two single beds and one double bed, and some even have a bunk bed to sleep up to five guests. 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

Kids beds in the upstairs of a lodge at Rafiki Safari Lodge.
Photo Courtesy: Rafiki Safari Lodge

For kids, Rafiki Safari Lodge offers a grand adventure in Costa Rica unlike any other. From white water rafting to hiking by waterfalls, there are plenty of activities to keep your children engaged and entertained throughout your vacation. The incredible Rafiki Beach Camp offers a little oasis for the whole family, letting you camp right on the beach! Kids love spending time in the water, watching the local wildlife, and kayaking down the Savegre River. From the thrilling zipline tours to surf lessons, there is always something to entertain your kids and help them create lasting memories. 

Why Parents Love It

Parents love the unique experience Rafiki Safari Lodge offers. The whole family gets to spend quality time together in Costa Rica, enjoying the natural landscape and wildlife. After a long day of exciting activities, parents can also enjoy a massage therapy session right in the tent!

Tortuga Lodge & Gardens

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Less than three hours northeast of San Jose sits an incredible rainforest escape, the Tortuga Lodge & Gardens! Tucked on the island’s Caribbean coast, this is one of the best Costa Rica hotels for families thanks to its unique eco-adventures, incredible landscape, and world-class amenities. In fact, this river lodge features a private nature reserve on the Tortuguero River! Families can take advantage of this incredible view from the comfort of their rooms, which all feature turndown service, balconies, and hammocks, among other amenities. Offerings range from rooms with one King Bed and one single to one queen bed and one full. Or, even a Penthouse Suite that can sleep five. 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

The dining area, nestled along the water, at Tortuga Lodge & Gardens.
Photo Courtesy: Tortuga Lodge & Gardens

Get your kids out in nature at the Tortuga Lodge & Gardens with boat rides, kayaking trips, and nature walks led by experienced guides. Children love to spend time fishing on the Tortuguero River, swimming in the infinity pool, relaxing in hammocks, and visiting turtle nesting sites. For kids that love wildlife, there is no shortage of creatures to search for during your stay. The whole family can spend time watching baby turtles hatch or exploring the local village. There are also great opportunities for giving back to the Costa Rican community during your stay. Older children and young adults can spend time with local children from Tortuguero, learning about their lives and helping them learn English. 

Why Parents Love It

Parents love the unique atmosphere of the Tortuga Lodge & Gardens. The relaxed environment helps the whole family slow down and enjoy precious time together. Enjoy a casual drink with friends by the poolside terrace, for example. With authentic Caribbean cuisine and activities customized for your family, every day offers a new and memorable experience. Offering sweeping views over the Tortuguero River, the hotel’s on-site restaurant can also provide adults with a romantic atmosphere. Eat dinner surrounded by flickering candles and Tiki torches!

Peace Lodge, La Paz Waterfall Gardens

An aerial view of the pool at night at Peace Lodge, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, one of the best Costa Rica resorts for a family vacation.
Photo Courtesy: Peace Lodge

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Just an hour north of San Jose, you’ll find Costa Rica’s stunning Peace Lodge. Located in the La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, the mountain views don’t stop here. The Poás Volcano is only 20 minutes away, and La Paz River Valley is right outside your window. In terms of accommodations, all eighteen rooms here have a similar configuration featuring a stone fireplace and waterfall shower. Peace Lodge sits more than 5,000 feet above sea level, ensuring the air is always cool and crisp for the perfect rainforest getaway. 

Why The Kids Will Thank You

Kids love seeing the incredible wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. All guests of Peace Lodge can access the park, including the animal sanctuary exhibits, at no additional cost. Children also enjoy the special times of day when only Lodge guests are allowed in the park, keeping crowds down and offering the best times to see the animals. There are plenty of activities for your little ones to enjoy outside of the park as well, including freshwater fishing, nature tours, bird watching, and more. With a Jacuzzi tub in every room and themed accommodations, it may be hard to get your kids to leave the hotel! 

Why Parents Love It

Parents love the unique setting of the Peace Lodge. A stay here includes unlimited access to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park. Here, guests can explore nearby hiking trails and waterfalls. The Ventanas Verdes Spa also offers parents the perfect spot for relaxation with an amazing view. Adults can even book massage sessions in their rooms! 

Happy Travels!

A mom rests on a hammock with her infant son in Costa Rica.
Photo Courtesy: Milea Emmons Virojanapa
Del Mar Beach

We hope you liked our list of the Best Costa Rica Resorts & Lodges For A Family Vacation! From ziplining through verdant rainforests to spotting wildlife, enjoying delicious cuisine, and relaxing on the beach, your family will love making memories together in Costa Rica! No matter which kind of hotel you’re searching for, we’re confident our list of the Best Costa Rica Resorts & Lodges For A Family Vacation will have one to suit your needs. Happy travels to Costa Rica! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Child hiking trail through Yellowstone National park.

How to Plan a Yellowstone National Park Family Vacation

Everyone knows that Yellowstone National Park makes for a classic family vacation. Strolling the boardwalks...

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A family of five stands on a sandy beach on a sunny day in Turks and Caicos.

Best Beaches® Turks and Caicos Review By A UK Family

Beaches Turks and Caicos may not seem like a typical vacation destination for a UK...

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Three children swimming in blue water in Cayman Islands.

All About the Cayman Islands With Kids: Important Information You Need to Know

If you’re traveling to the Cayman Islands with kids, there’s some important information you need...

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Travel Gift Ideas

National Park With Kids

Family Travel Tips

Baby with blue eyes and pacifier sitting in carseat

5 Questions to Help You Decide Whether or Not to Bring a Car Seat

Deciding whether or not to travel with your child’s car seat is one of the...

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A book, pencil, camera, lense on the table

How To Purchase Travel Insurance For Families

Learning how to purchase travel insurance for families is the first thing to do before...

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A man hikes along a trail with a young girl on his back in a carrier, with a large lake and mountains in the background.

Best Insect Repellent Alternatives to Bug Spray and Lotion

Choosing the best alternatives to bug sprays and lotions for kids can be a difficult...

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Families Love Travel Team

The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.