Top 10 All‑Inclusive Costa Rica Resorts: Beaches, Rainforests & Family Fun
Costa Rica, a compact 19,700‑square‑mile nation, offers a living laboratory of volcanoes, rainforests, hot springs and an astonishing 29 national parks, including the famed Arenal Volcano National Park. The country’s abundant wildlife—sloths, anteaters, monkeys, tree frogs, sea turtles and even jaguars—makes every stay an adventure.
For families seeking more than sunshine, the Pacific coast is home to some of the world’s finest all‑inclusive resorts. From zip‑lining through jungle canopies to surf lessons, scuba diving and white‑water rafting, there’s an activity for every age and interest.
The Best All‑Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica
1. The Westin Reserva Conchal – Playa Conchal
Located just an hour’s drive from Liberia International Airport, the 2,400‑acre Westin Reserva Conchal sits between rainforest and beach. Its all‑inclusive dining package features à la carte or buffet options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and beverages, both alcoholic and non‑alcoholic. The Westin Family Kids Club, non‑motorized water sports, tennis courts, table games and nightly entertainment are all included in the room rate, with Wi‑Fi free of charge.
Additional amenities—golf, spa treatments, motorized water sports, diving and fishing—are available for a fee. Family suites and multiple freshwater pools provide private relaxation for guests of all ages.
2. Planet Hollywood Beach Resort – Culebra
With nearly 300 rooms overlooking the Papagayo Peninsula, Planet Hollywood blends Hollywood glamour with Costa Rica’s natural beauty. The resort’s all‑inclusive plan covers unlimited dining, 24‑hour room service and all drinks, while the Kids Club, Teens House and themed restaurants cater to younger guests.
Adventure seekers can book canopy tours, zip‑lining, horseback riding, snorkeling and sailing—all curated by the resort to showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems.
3. Fiesta Resort – Puntarenas
Only 50 minutes from San José, Fiesta Resort offers 400+ rooms on dark volcanic sand along the Pacific. Families enjoy a comprehensive all‑inclusive plan that covers meals, drinks, kids’ and teen clubs, recreational activities, non‑motorized water sports and nightly entertainment.
Owned by a Costa Rican family, Fiesta supports local communities while providing budget‑friendly luxury for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
4. Occidental Tamarindo – Playa Langosta
Set just outside Tamarindo, this 200‑room hotel overlooks Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas, a Blue Flag‑certified beach and nesting site for leatherback turtles. All‑inclusive rates include buffet meals, snack bars, pool‑side quick service, sand volleyball, tennis and live evening shows.
5. Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica – Playa El Jobo
Dreams Las Mareas embraces the lush mountains and jungles surrounding El Jobo beach. Guests receive unlimited access to eight restaurants, kids’ and teen zones, non‑motorized water sports, scuba lessons and nightly entertainment—all within a family‑friendly setting.
6. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica – Playa Matapalo
The 538‑room all‑suite resort boasts Splash Water World, four pools and the RiuLand Kids Club. Inclusive rates cover all meals, snacks, beverages, 24‑hour room service, sports, daytime and evening entertainment, and an introductory scuba lesson.
7. Hotel Riu Guanacaste – Playa Matapalo
Neighbouring the Riu Palace, this 700‑room hotel offers similar amenities with a larger selection of rooms and two‑room family suites. All‑inclusive pricing mirrors the Palace, including five restaurants, beverages, 24‑hour service and a complimentary scuba lesson.
8. Barcelo Tambor – Tambor
Surrounded by gardens and waterfalls, the 400‑room resort overlooks Ballena Bay and offers direct beach access. Rooms accommodate up to four guests, and two‑room suites provide a living area with sofa beds—ideal for families.
The all‑inclusive package includes three daily buffet meals, optional a la carte dining, a kids’ club, teens’ house, a waterfall pool and water‑sports center featuring windsurfing, boogie boards and kayaking.
9. Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo – Playa Flamingo
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville brand thrives at this 120‑room resort on Flamingo Beach. Family‑style rooms—studio kitchens, bunk‑bed suites and two‑bedroom options—accommodate up to six guests.
All‑inclusive pricing covers three meals, snacks at four restaurants, beverages, popcorn in the on‑site theater, beach boogie boards and a complimentary bicycle rental.
10. Best Western Jaco Beach Resort – Jaco
Best Western Jaco offers a more budget‑friendly all‑inclusive experience while still providing unlimited food and drinks. Guests dine at three on‑site restaurants, enjoy three swimming pools (including a kids’ pool), playgrounds, volleyball, tennis and beachfront fun.
The resort is a short walk from Jaco Beach and the town’s shops and eateries, and staff can arrange tours to nearby national parks.
Travel Tips for Families Visiting Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s climate is divided into three seasons. High season—December to April—covers the dry Pacific side and is the most expensive. Low season—May to November—offers lower prices and a drier Caribbean coast. Easter, Christmas and New Year’s remain peak times.
Safety is a priority: Costa Rica has no standing army, free education, robust healthcare and a reputation for environmental stewardship. Traveling with local experts and following a well‑planned itinerary significantly enhances safety and enjoyment.
Choosing the right region depends on your family’s interests. Whether you prefer beachside relaxation, rainforest trekking, volcano tours or cultural immersion, Costa Rica’s diverse microclimates mean there’s always something new to discover.
Note: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is not all‑inclusive. Its rates are per room with a 12% resort fee covering services and daily activities.
