San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is known for its lush green mountains and valleys. It’s an ideal destination for nature-loving couples and families, as well as solo backpackers who want to see the best of the country’s wildlife.
Having a lazy river right in the hotel is perfect for your vacation. Grab a float, jump in and let the slow current take you laps around the hotel. Some hotels may have flora set up to provide you with a scenic view as you drift along.
To help you make the most out of your stay in this lovely city, we’ve gathered some of the best hotels in San Jose which offer incredible recreational amenities like lazy rivers and nature views. Check it out below!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 13, 2024.
1. Pamper session at the Radisson San Jose, Costa Rica (from USD 142)
Conveniently located near local attractions such as Children’s Museum and Bolivar Zoo, Radisson San Jose - Costa Rica is a 4-star hotel boasting of modern rooms and an array of premium recreational amenities. Pamper yourself with massages and body treatments, soak in the spa tubs, or relax at the hotel’s lazy river. Hungry? Grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant featuring a nice garden view. There is also a bar/lounge where guests can order their favorite drinks. The hotel is popular among couples but is also an ideal destination for solo travelers.
“What a fantastic hotel! Excellent value for the price. Staff and service were fantastic, room and hotel beautiful, food wonderful and plentiful.” — Carol
Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica
Address: Calle Central y Tercera Av 15, Barrio Tournon
1.07 km (0.7 mi) from Plaza de la Cultura
2. Privacy and relaxation at Cabinas Caribe Luna (from USD 50)
Make yourself feel at home at Cabinas Caribe Luna, a lodge nestled in heart of Cahuita. Rooms have private patios where guests can relax in the hammocks and dine while enjoying the lush views. There are also plenty of recreation opportunities including a lazy river and a large garden filled with wildlife. Other activities guests can avail on the site are horse riding, canopy tour, snorkeling, fishing and hiking.
“Huge cabinas, stylishly finished, veranda, lovely gardens” — Denise
Cabinas Caribe Luna
Address: 200 meters West of the Police Station, then 50 meters North, Cahuita
136.69 km (85.0 mi) from Plaza de la Cultura
3. The eco-friendly Tiskita Jungle Lodge
Since it’s a family-run eco-lodge, Tiskita Jungle Lodge’s charm lies in its homey feel and incredible nature views. Here, guests can relax at the lazy river, swim at the private beach, or explore the rainforest trails. It is a recommended vacation spot for families with kids, who would surely enjoy the rich wildlife surrounding the area, including monkeys and birds. Business travelers are also welcome here since the lodge is equipped with dry cleaning/laundry services, multilingual staff, and luggage storage.
“Tiskita is a lovely, family-run eco-lodge with a wide variety of things to see and do.” —John Alan
Tiskita Jungle Lodge
Address: Punta Banco De Pavones 7 km al sur de Pavones
203.58 km (126.5 mi) from Plaza de la Cultura
4. Embracing nature at Lavas del Arenal (from USD 79)
Lavas del Arenal is a nature lover’s dream. Located nearby El Bosque Forest Reserve, it also features nice views of the famous Arenal Volcano. Recreational amenities are set in tropical gardens, including a lazy river, an outdoor pool, and barbecue facilities. If you want a taste of the regional cuisine, they have an on-site restaurant that serves meals all day. Other popular nature activities among visitors are bird watching, canopy tours and rafting.
“Hotel Lavas Del Arenal is tucked away in the middle of trees, down a dirt road, and away from the chaos of the city. It’s about as authentic as it gets.” — Larina
Hotel Lavas del Arenal
Address: 300 Oeste de la Escuela de EL Bosque,
81.68 km (50.8 mi) from Plaza de la Cultura
5. Embracing the beach life at Finca Exotica Eco Lodge (from USD 88)
A destination for couples and romantics, Finca Exotica Eco Lodge is located on Carate Beach near Corcovado National Park. Its main features include a lazy river and a private beach access. You can also dine with your loved one at the on-site restaurant, or take yoga classes and get massage treatments together. Rustic furnishings adorn bungalows, and guests can choose either a room with a sea view or a garden view. Other leisure activities for guests include fishing, day trips and excursions of the region.
“Amazing stay in the wilderness! Stars as ceiling, outdoor shower, typical jungle hut, well-organized tour in Corcovado park with our guide!” —Barbara
Finca Exotica Eco Lodge
Address: Playa Carate a lado del parque nacional Corcovado Peninsula de Osa
177.73 km (110.5 mi) from Plaza de la Cultura
Luxury and comfort in the midst of the Costa Rican jungle
Many of these San Jose hotels offer an experience that others could only dream of. Imagine being in the midst of the jungle while being pampered and having all the luxuries of a wonderful leisure vacation—how cool is that?
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