Costa Rica, a Latin American country, surrounded by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is a beach paradise. The best time to come here is between November and April.
Manuel Antonio is a laid-back destination with gay-friendly beaches such as Espadilla Beach and Playitas Beach. Experience the vibrant nightlife in gay bars here, such as Drunken Monkey, and gay-friendly restaurants, including Emilio’s Cafe. Be sure to visit Manuel Antonio Park for a magical tropical rainforest experience. The capital city of San Jose is also a thriving gay-friendly destination. Nature lovers visiting the city should check out La Sabana Metropolitan Park. Plaza de la Cultura is a great place for live entertainment, people-watching, and socializing. Other highlights of the country include Arenal Volcano National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest, ideal for ecotourism lovers.
If you’re searching for comfortable accommodation, check out this list of gay-friendly hotels in Costa Rica!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and the property's inclusivity for guests from all walks of life. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 28, 2025.
1. Hotel Aguas Claras, Puerto Viejo (from USD 849)
To enjoy the best of Puerto Viejo, consider staying at this luxurious boutique property. At Hotel Aguas Claras, you can enjoy direct access to a beach - Playa Chiquita. Take part in water sports such as snorkeling at Cahuita National Park, bicycling and kayaking at Punta Uva, and hiking at Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
Each of the comfortable suites and bungalows comes equipped with Wi-Fi, organic toiletries, lounge areas, and daily housekeeping, among others. For great Caribbean vibes and delicious food with music and entertainment, visit the on-site DaLime Beach Club Restaurant & Bar. If you wish to sample Afro-Caribbean cuisine, check out the other on-site restaurant, Papaya.
Puerto Viejo is an excellent choice for single gay travelers and couples alike, with a chilled-out nightlife and young crowd. So, sit back and relax on the beach and soak in the tropical beauty of this place.
Hotel Aguas Claras Member of the Cayuga Collection
Address: Calle Caracola, Playa Chiquita Limon
209.43 km (130.2 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
2. Hotel La Mariposa, Manuel Antonio (from USD 280)
Hotel La Mariposa enjoys an enviable location overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific. Located in Manuel Antonio, a gay-friendly hotspot in Costa Rica, the hotel is only a five-minute drive to the famous Espadilla Beach.
Ensuring a romantic and tranquil stay with your significant other, this property offers various room types, all having either a balcony or a terrace with majestic views of the ocean. However, the Standard Garden View room offers lush garden views only. You can have a fun-filled stay here with various activities such as a hiking tour of the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park or a white water rafting trip.
Be sure to visit the on-site Le Papillon restaurant offering fresh and delectable cuisine 1,000 feet (304.80 meters) above the Pacific Ocean!
Hotel La Mariposa
Address: Manuel Antonio beach
66.04 km (41.1 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
3. Gaia Hotel & Reserve- Adults Only, Manuel Antonio (from USD 280)
Gaia Hotel & Reserve is an exceptionally beautiful adults-only nature retreat tucked away in 15 acres (6.07 hectares) of virgin rainforests. The 5-star property offers luxurious suites and villas that feature views of the ocean, forest, or infinity pool. Visitors can choose from five delectable breakfast options at La Luna before embarking on the hotel’s private nature hike to view different species of fauna.
Upon returning, luxuriate with the extensive spa treatments offered at the on-site Terra Spa. Gaia SkyLounge is the place to be to admire a romantic sunset and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while sipping specially made cocktails.
To explore the LGBTQ scene here, spend time at Playa Playitas – a well-known gay beach for socializing and perfecting your tan. Drunken Monkey, on the other hand, is ideal for a fun evening.
Gaia Hotel & Reserve- Adults Only
Address: Quepos-Manuel Antonio, Km 2.7
65.16 km (40.5 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
4. Aves Hotel Montezuma, Montezuma (from USD 66)
Delicious and beautifully presented breakfast, nearby restaurants, helpful staff for dining recommendations
Great value for money, affordable pricing
Secluded and private, close to Montezuma waterfalls, short distance from beaches, peaceful and pristine surroundings
Two swimming pools, yoga deck with jungle+ocean view, modern rooms, spacious villas
If you’re seeking a tranquil hotel in Montezuma, look no further. Built on the Montezuma hills, the stunning Aves Hotel Montezuma is surrounded by lush greenery and excellent views of the ocean. Delight in all the creature comforts in the Balinese-inspired rooms, Serenity Suites, or Chez Mu - the luxury villa overlooking the Pacific. All of these include an expansive outdoor deck, a kitchenette, high ceilings, and views of the pool, jungles, or ocean.
Further, enjoy a refreshing dip in the 17-meter (55.77-foot) lap pool or sip on cocktails poolside while you relax. Alternatively, you can bask in the sun and have a rejuvenating soak in the hot tub. Moreover, you may want to attend yoga classes at the Shala, with panoramic ocean views.
Aves Resort Montezuma This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 200 Meters North of the Montezuma Waterfall Canopy, 60111, Montezuma, Costa Rica
51.59 km (32.1 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
5. Wyndham Tamarindo, Tamarindo (from USD 112)
Wyndham Tamarindo offers upscale and spacious rooms and suites to its guests. The accommodations feature balconies or terraces with excellent views of the ocean. They also offer top-notch amenities, including flat-screen HDTV, complimentary Wi-Fi, plush beds, and air-conditioning. Guests may access an infinity pool to start their day, then head to Vista for a delicious breakfast to recharge.
Playa Conchal, 11.8 miles (18.99 kilometers) from here, is a must-visit - it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica with clear blue waters and shores packed with shining shells. If you’re in the mood for a fun evening, head to the aptly named Kinky Tamarindo, a gay bar featuring themed nights and live performances.
Wyndham Tamarindo This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 200 metros al este y 800 metros al norte del Banco Nacional de Tamarindo
144.53 km (89.9 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
6. Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, Nosara (from USD 199)
Delicious breakfast with unbeatable views, excellent restaurant, and fresh, high-quality food.
Reasonable pricing for luxurious experience with stunning views.
Perched on a hillside with mesmerizing sunset views, close to nature and attractions.
Infinity pools, spa, nature trails, shuttle service, and spacious rooms with breathtaking views.
With balmy summer days and stunning beaches, Nosara in the Guanacaste province has the recipe for a great holiday destination. While in the village, check into Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, an eco-friendly lodge that is a slice of heaven on earth. It boasts one of the most picturesque vacation settings with views of the coast, hills, and a nature reserve.
The hotel spoils guests with amenities such as a spa, infinity pools, and yoga sessions. In addition, you can sunbathe on the sun deck or just admire the stunning views from the panorama deck. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar for discerning diners. As for accommodation, all rooms are inclusive of air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, and plush bedding for your comfort.
Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge
Address: Boca de Nosara Nicoya Guanacaste
116.89 km (72.7 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
7. Hotel Los Ranchos, Jacó (from USD 79)
The budget-friendly Hotel Los Ranchos offers a tropical oasis that affords guests peace and relaxation. The 3-star property features air-conditioned double rooms and apartments and bungalows that even include a kitchen for preparing your daily meals. The accommodations also come with an ensuite shower or bath, a television, and a mini fridge. Additionally, the hotel has a charming pool surrounded by sun loungers and also serves a daily breakfast.
Jaco Beach is just 0.6 miles (0.97 kilometers) from the hotel and is a great place to swim and surf. Further, the hotel benefits from its location close to Jaco’s shopping and nightlife. If you’re up for a long drive, San Jose, with its gay bars and nightclubs is around 63.1 miles (101.55 kilometers) from here.
Hotel Los Ranchos
Address: Calle Las Olas
18.03 km (11.3 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
8. Hotel Serenity, Manuel Antonio (from USD 87)
Book accommodation in this charming boutique hotel, Hotel Serenity, for an unforgettable stay in Manuel Antonio. It’s just an eight-minute drive to Playa La Macha, a secluded clothing-optional beach popular with gay tourists. This property is also within easy walking distance of shops, bars, and eating venues. The cozy rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, cable television, a mini fridge, and a safe for your valuables.
The hotel also offers a swimming pool and a breakfast area to start your day right. After a hearty morning meal, you can walk to the bus stop and hop on a bus to Manuel Antonio National Park, which boasts tropical forests and lovely beaches.
Hotel Serenity
Address: Quepos Centro 25 metros oeste del Banco Nacional de Costa Rica
63.62 km (39.6 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
9. Balmoral Hotel, San Jose (from USD 107)
Guests of Balmoral Hotel can easily visit San Jose’s National Theater, Craft Market, and Plaza de la Cultura, all within a five-minute walk from the hotel. Before exploring these attractions, fuel up with a complimentary breakfast consisting of delicious local cuisine. You’re also guaranteed a comfortable sleep with plush bedding in soundproofed and air-conditioned rooms.
Travelers keen to explore San Jose’s nightlife can head to Club El Teatro, at a walkable distance of 16 minutes. Perhaps the most famous gay spot in San Jose, this club offers drag shows, dance, music, and drinks, so you’ll have a memorable night and meet interesting folks here. Party till the wee hours of the morning and sleep in late. You can hit one of the cafes at the hotel once you wake up to feel refreshed.
Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District
Address: Central Ave, between 7th and 9th St
62.86 km (39.1 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
10. Hotel Playa Espadilla y Gardens, Manuel Antonio (from USD 161)
Hotel Playa Espadilla y Gardens offers a complimentary breakfast to jumpstart your day. Free Wi-Fi to connect to social media is available, as well. The rooms are decorated with colorful local artwork creating a welcoming vibe. You can conveniently store drinks and leftovers in the in-room refrigerator or use the coffee maker provided for your daily caffeine fix.
The hotel is a 27-minute walk to Manuel Antonio Beach. With pristine white sands and calm surfs it is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The beach is encircled by palm trees and rainforests - just perfect for a serene experience. For an intimate evening, visit Emilio’s Café, an LGBTQ-friendly restaurant. With amazing views of Manuel Antonio Beach and live jazz on weekends, it’s the ideal setting for a romantic dinner.
Hotel Playa Espadilla y Gardens
Address: Del Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio
67.75 km (42.1 mi) from Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty and nightlife of Costa Rica
Costa Rica lures visitors for many reasons. Apart from its many natural wonders, it offers LGBTQ-friendly destinations, with hotspots such as Manuel Antonio and San Jose. Enjoy the beaches, rainforests, and mountains along with the vibrant nightlife by booking one of the above-listed hotels!
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