Eco-Resorts in Costa Rica You'll Love
Sustainable travel insights and guidance
Costa Rica has long been a pioneer in sustainable tourism, with eco-resorts that seamlessly blend luxury and environmental responsibility. From cloud forest retreats to pristine beachfront properties, these resorts prove that you can have an unforgettable vacation while actively supporting conservation efforts.
🇨🇷 Why Costa Rica Leads in Eco-Tourism
Costa Rica generates over 98% of its electricity from renewable sources, has protected 25% of its land in national parks and reserves, and aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. The country's commitment to sustainability makes it the perfect destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Costa Rica1. Lapa Rios Lodge
Osa Peninsula, Puntarenas
Perched on a private nature reserve in the Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios Lodge offers an authentic rainforest experience with unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. This luxury eco-lodge has been protecting 1,000 acres of primary and secondary rainforest since 1993.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- 100% renewable energy from solar panels and micro-hydro systems
- Rainwater collection and greywater recycling systems
- Organic farm supplying 80% of restaurant ingredients
- Zero-waste policy with comprehensive recycling programs
- Wildlife conservation and research programs
- Local community employment and education initiatives
Unique Experiences: Guided wildlife tours, birdwatching expeditions, night walks to spot nocturnal animals, and visits to local indigenous communities. The lodge offers direct access to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
2. Pacuare Lodge
Turrialba, Cartago
Accessible only by whitewater rafting or helicopter, Pacuare Lodge offers an exclusive rainforest experience along the Pacuare River. This luxury eco-lodge combines adventure with sustainability, providing an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most pristine environments.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Solar-powered operations with battery backup systems
- River water filtration and treatment systems
- Local indigenous community partnerships
- Wildlife corridor protection and restoration
- Carbon-neutral transportation options
- Cultural preservation and education programs
Unique Experiences: Whitewater rafting adventures, canopy tours, indigenous cultural experiences, and wildlife photography workshops. The lodge offers exclusive access to pristine river ecosystems and ancient indigenous territories.
3. Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas
Located on a private beach with direct access to Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenas del Mar combines beachfront luxury with rainforest conservation. The resort has been recognized as one of the world's most sustainable hotels by National Geographic.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- LEED Gold certification for sustainable building design
- 100% renewable energy from solar and wind power
- Advanced water conservation and treatment systems
- Organic gardens and local food sourcing
- Wildlife habitat restoration and protection
- Community development and education programs
Unique Experiences: Guided nature walks in Manuel Antonio National Park, wildlife spotting tours, sustainable fishing experiences, and beach conservation activities. The resort offers direct access to some of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife.
4. Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Monteverde, Puntarenas
Nestled in the heart of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, this intimate lodge offers an authentic experience in one of Costa Rica's most famous ecosystems. The lodge has been a pioneer in sustainable tourism and cloud forest conservation for over 30 years.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Cloud forest conservation and research programs
- Renewable energy from solar and hydroelectric sources
- Water conservation and cloud forest protection
- Local organic food sourcing and sustainable agriculture
- Wildlife monitoring and conservation initiatives
- Environmental education and research programs
Unique Experiences: Cloud forest canopy tours, birdwatching expeditions, night walks to spot nocturnal wildlife, and visits to local coffee farms. The lodge offers exclusive access to one of the world's most biodiverse cloud forest ecosystems.
5. Tortuga Lodge & Gardens
Tortuguero, Limón
Located in the remote Tortuguero region, this lodge offers an authentic Caribbean experience with direct access to turtle nesting beaches and pristine waterways. The lodge has been protecting sea turtles and their nesting habitats for over 40 years.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Sea turtle conservation and research programs
- Solar-powered operations with minimal environmental impact
- Water conservation and treatment systems
- Local community employment and education
- Wildlife habitat protection and restoration
- Carbon-neutral transportation and activities
Unique Experiences: Sea turtle nesting tours, canal boat tours through pristine waterways, wildlife spotting expeditions, and visits to local indigenous communities. The lodge offers exclusive access to one of the world's most important sea turtle nesting sites.
Costa Rica6. Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn
Heredia, Central Valley
This working organic coffee plantation offers a unique agrotourism experience in the Central Valley. The inn combines luxury accommodations with authentic coffee culture and sustainable agriculture practices.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Organic coffee production and sustainable agriculture
- Renewable energy from solar and hydroelectric sources
- Water conservation and organic farming practices
- Local community employment and fair trade practices
- Wildlife habitat protection and biodiversity conservation
- Cultural preservation and education programs
Unique Experiences: Coffee plantation tours, coffee tasting sessions, sustainable agriculture workshops, and visits to local artisan communities. The inn offers an authentic experience of Costa Rican coffee culture and sustainable farming practices.
7. Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge
Golfito, Puntarenas
Accessible only by boat, this remote lodge offers an exclusive experience in the pristine Golfo Dulce region. The lodge has been protecting marine and terrestrial ecosystems while providing luxury accommodations in one of Costa Rica's most remote locations.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Marine conservation and research programs
- Solar-powered operations with minimal environmental impact
- Water conservation and treatment systems
- Local community partnerships and employment
- Wildlife habitat protection and restoration
- Carbon-neutral transportation and activities
Unique Experiences: Marine wildlife tours, dolphin and whale watching, fishing expeditions, and visits to local fishing communities. The lodge offers exclusive access to one of Costa Rica's most pristine marine ecosystems.
8. Hotel Belmar
Monteverde, Puntarenas
This family-owned hotel has been a pioneer in sustainable tourism in Monteverde for over 30 years. The hotel combines luxury accommodations with cloud forest conservation and community development initiatives.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Cloud forest conservation and research programs
- Renewable energy from solar and hydroelectric sources
- Water conservation and cloud forest protection
- Local organic food sourcing and sustainable agriculture
- Wildlife monitoring and conservation initiatives
- Community development and education programs
Unique Experiences: Cloud forest canopy tours, birdwatching expeditions, wildlife photography workshops, and visits to local conservation projects. The hotel offers exclusive access to one of the world's most biodiverse cloud forest ecosystems.
9. Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge
Osa Peninsula, Puntarenas
Located on the edge of Corcovado National Park, this intimate lodge offers an authentic rainforest experience with direct access to one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems. The lodge has been protecting wildlife and supporting local communities for over 20 years.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Wildlife conservation and research programs
- Solar-powered operations with minimal environmental impact
- Water conservation and treatment systems
- Local community employment and education
- Wildlife habitat protection and restoration
- Carbon-neutral transportation and activities
Unique Experiences: Wildlife spotting tours, birdwatching expeditions, night walks to spot nocturnal animals, and visits to local indigenous communities. The lodge offers exclusive access to one of the world's most biodiverse national parks.
10. Hotel Punta Islita
Punta Islita, Guanacaste
This beachfront resort combines luxury accommodations with community development and conservation initiatives. The hotel has been recognized for its commitment to sustainable tourism and local community engagement.
🌿 Sustainability Features:
- Community development and education programs
- Renewable energy from solar and wind power
- Water conservation and treatment systems
- Local community employment and fair trade practices
- Wildlife habitat protection and restoration
- Cultural preservation and education programs
Unique Experiences: Beach conservation activities, local community visits, artisan workshops, and cultural experiences. The hotel offers an authentic experience of Costa Rican culture and community development.
🌍 Planning Your Costa Rica Eco-Adventure
When choosing an eco-resort in Costa Rica, consider the type of experience you're seeking:
- Rainforest Adventures: Lapa Rios, Pacuare Lodge, Casa Corcovado
- Beachfront Luxury: Arenas del Mar, Playa Nicuesa, Hotel Punta Islita
- Cloud Forest Experiences: Monteverde Lodge, Hotel Belmar
- Cultural Immersion: Finca Rosa Blanca, Tortuga Lodge
Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica's dry season (December to April) offers the best weather, while the green season (May to November) provides lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Many eco-resorts offer special rates during the green season.
What to Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing; waterproof gear for rainforest excursions; binoculars for wildlife viewing; and a reusable water bottle. Most eco-resorts provide filtered water and discourage single-use plastics.
Getting There: Many eco-resorts are located in remote areas and may require domestic flights, boat transfers, or 4WD vehicles. Plan your transportation in advance and consider the environmental impact of your travel choices.