Costa Rica
Almost all of Costa Rica's all-inclusive hotels are in Guanacaste, where the sun shines most and Liberia airport is close. These are the four we would consider, and what sets them apart.
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In short: where should you stay all inclusive in Costa Rica?
All inclusive in Costa Rica effectively means Guanacaste, in the north-west. Our first choice is Westin Reserva Conchal on Playa Conchal, rated 9.2 from more than a thousand reviews. Travelling without children? Secrets Papagayo is adults only. The Riu hotels on Playa Matapalo are the largest and often the cheapest.
Our first choice: The Westin Reserva Conchal on Playa Conchal. Check availability and prices
Picolo has been to Guanacaste, and the selection below is our own.
Four all-inclusive resorts in Guanacaste
The Westin Reserva Conchal
Westin sits on Playa Conchal, the beach of crushed shells, within a large estate with a golf course and spa. More than a thousand guests rate it 9.2, and many especially praise the beach. Best for families and couples who want golf and a beach worth the trip.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
Reserva Conchal
The pool at Westin winds between the trees, a short walk from Playa Conchal.
Secrets Papagayo
Secrets is adults only and sits on Playa Panamá in Papagayo Bay, a short drive from Liberia airport. Every room has a balcony or terrace, and nearly 600 guests rate it 8.8, praising the staff. Best for couples who want calm without children around the pool.
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Hotel Riu Guanacaste
Riu Guanacaste sits right on Playa Matapalo, with large pool areas running down to the sea. More than a thousand guests rate it 8.4, and they are especially happy with the beach. Best for families who want plenty to do at a lower price.
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Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
Its sister hotel, Riu Palace, stands on the hill above the same beach, with a balcony on every room. More than 1,500 guests have reviewed it, and the beach gets the most praise. Choose it if you want a slightly higher standard than its neighbour.
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How to choose the right resort
Beach first: Playa Conchal is the prettiest, Playa Matapalo the longest and Playa Panamá the calmest.
With or without children: Secrets is adults only. The other three welcome families.
Price: the Riu hotels are often the cheapest and have plenty of space.
Tips before you book
Day trips: from Guanacaste it is around three hours each way to Arenal. To see more of the country, combine a few all-inclusive nights with a round trip. See our Costa Rica itinerary.
Season: Guanacaste is driest from December to April, when prices are highest.
Fly into Liberia: all four resorts are much closer to Liberia than to San José.
Frequently asked questions about all inclusive in Costa Rica
Where are the all-inclusive hotels in Costa Rica?
Most are in Guanacaste in the north-west, close to Liberia airport.
What is the best all-inclusive hotel in Costa Rica?
Westin Reserva Conchal has the highest guest rating of the four, 9.2 from more than a thousand reviews.
Are there adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica?
Yes. Secrets Papagayo is adults only and rated 8.8.
Is all inclusive a good idea in Costa Rica?
It suits a relaxing beach holiday. To see volcanoes and rainforest, combine it with a few nights travelling around the country.
When is the best time for an all-inclusive holiday in Costa Rica?
The dry season from December to April brings the most sunshine in Guanacaste. Read more in our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica.