Whether you’re seeking planning advice for your luxury family vacation in Costa Rica or simply seeking out some of the best Costa Rica beach vacation rentals for summer travel, we have tips, destinations, villa suggestions, and more to fuel both your research and your dreams.
So, why wait any longer? Let’s get into it!
Where to Go This Summer: 7 Destinations for a Luxury Family Vacation in Costa Rica
When it comes to idyllic summer destinations, Costa Rica tops the list with our breathtaking landscapes, warm tropical climate, and vibrant culture.
Our tiny nation – at 19,700 square miles, it’s smaller than West Virginia! – houses a world of diverse landscapes, traveling from cool mountains to temperate beaches, into humid rainforests and misty cloud forests, from roaring rivers into rare tropical dry forest. And all this creates an enchanting variety of outdoor experiences and unforgettable opportunities to make memories during your luxury family vacation in Costa Rica.
When it comes to specific destinations, there is no single right answer: It comes down to you and your bucket list, whether it includes specific experiences, certain landscapes, or any other criteria that are important to you. That said, of course, we have a few recommendations!
Playa Flamingo
Playa Flamingo is a stunning beach destination located on the north Pacific coast, in the province of Guanacaste. Known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, Playa Flamingo offers a mix of relaxation, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, making it a sought-after destination for soaking up the sun, enjoying water sports, or simply unwind in a stunning tropical setting.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, situated on the Pacific coast, is famous for its picturesque beaches and abundant wildlife. Manuel Antonio National Park offers a unique combination of rainforest and coastline, allowing visitors to enjoy both nature hikes and beach relaxation. Explore the park’s trails to encounter monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds, and then head to the beautiful beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo is a popular beach town renowned for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surf breaks. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with a range of restaurants, bars, and shops. Tamarindo is a great place for surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing. You can also enjoy sunset catamaran tours, sportfishing excursions, and turtle nesting tours in nearby Playa Grande and Ostional.
Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica is a remote and pristine region located on the country’s southwestern Pacific coast. Often referred to as “one of the most biologically intense” places on Earth, the Osa Peninsula is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, remote location, dense rainforests, and untouched natural beauty. If you choose the Osa, you’ll most likely stay near Drake Bay or Puerto Jimenez, the peninsula’s two largest (and the term “largest” is verrrry subjective!) towns.
Nosara
Nosara is a laid-back and bohemian beach town that attracts surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The area boasts beautiful beaches, such as Playa Guiones, known for its consistent surf breaks and stunning sunsets. You can take surf lessons, practice yoga, explore nearby wildlife reserves, and enjoy a wellness-focused lifestyle in this tranquil coastal community.
Arenal
Arenal, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, is dominated by the majestic Arenal Volcano. The region offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. You can hike through Arenal Volcano National Park to witness the volcano’s impressive lava fields, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy thrilling activities like ziplining and white-water rafting. Don’t miss the chance to visit La Fortuna Waterfall, a breathtaking cascade surrounded by lush rainforest.
Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal is a breathtaking beach famous for its pristine white sands composed of tiny crushed seashells. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Nearby, you can also visit the Brasilito fishing village and enjoy delicious seafood.
4 Tips for Your Summer Vacation in Costa Rica
Lose yourself to nature. Maybe even swim beneath a waterfall!
A summer vacation in Costa Rica promises a kaleidoscope of natural wonders, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you seek thrilling outdoor activities, serene beaches, or encounters with wildlife, this tropical paradise has it all. With its commitment to sustainability and the famous pura vida spirit, Costa Rica offers a vacation experience that will leave you rejuvenated, inspired, and longing to return.
Tip #1: Embrace Nature’s Wonders
Costa Rica is a renowned and unabashed nature lover’s haven, boasting an astonishing array of flora and fauna. And here, Guanacaste boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, each offering a unique experience.
Playa Tamarindo’s golden sands and excellent surf breaks make for a favorite among surfers and beach lovers alike. Explore the adrenaline-soaked Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and its surrounding national park, where you can hike through lava fields, relax in hot springs, and witness awe-inspiring volcanic activity. Playa Conchal, known for its shimmering seashells that form the shoreline, is a tranquil spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. And don’t miss the opportunity to spot exotic wildlife on the Nicoya Peninsula, home to sea turtles, monkeys, and vibrant bird species.
Tip #2: Adventure in National Parks
Costa Rica is known for its impressive network of national parks, which protect and showcase our nation’s exceptional biodiversity and natural beauty. While you won’t have time to explore them all (that could take a lifetime, done right!), you can enjoy a select few during your stay.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park, named after the majestic Rincon de la Vieja volcano, offers hiking trails that lead to mesmerizing waterfalls, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs. Palo Verde National Park, a sanctuary for migratory birds, provides an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and boat tours along the Tempisque River. Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the smallest but most popular parks in Costa Rica, is renowned for its stunning combination of rainforest, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. And don’t miss the chance to explore Santa Rosa National Park, known for its historical significance and dry-forest biodiversity!
Tip #3: Dive into Ecotourism
Costa Rica is recognized worldwide for our national commitment to sustainable tourism. Dive right in and immerse yourself in the joys of ecotourism, which combines the glories of nature with a commitment to sustainable principles, including climate action, regenerative practices, bolstering the local economy, and reduced inequalities.
In practical terms for travelers, ecotourism means supporting locally owned and run businesses that employ area residents. It can be taking a guided tour to learn about the incredible biodiversity and conservation efforts in our protected areas. Or, you can dedicate your tourism dollars to programs that work towards preserving, protecting, and regenerating the country’s natural treasures, such as sea turtle conservation projects or reforestation initiatives.
Tip #4: Experience the Pura Vida
While we get a lot of press for our biodiversity and green policies, there can be no doubt that the essence of Costa Rica boils down to our people and the “pura vida” lifestyle.
This simple yet profound phrase – pura vida, or “pure life” – embodies the country’s philosophy of living a pure and joyful life. Of letting go of the things we cannot control and learning to roll with the ocean’s tide. So, while you’re here, engage with Costa Ricans, explore bustling markets, savor traditional cuisine like gallo pinto (a mix of rice and beans), and indulge in freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee. Attend a cultural festival to experience vibrant music, dance, and colorful traditions.
Where to Stay: 4 Costa Rica Beach Vacation Rentals
At Luxury Villas in Costa Rica, our lucky forte is upscale vacation homes along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. With that in mind, here are four recommendations that we often recommend for a luxury family vacation in Costa Rica in summer:
Flamingo Blu
Playa Flamingo | 5 Beds | 6 Baths | 10 Guests
A unique and spectacular beachfront property, Flamingo Blu rises as one of our top choices families and travelers seeking luxury: Dedicated to every detail yet deliciously relaxed, almost over-the-top yet wonderfully unpretentious, Flamingo Blu is an ocean-view home that climbs down to the sands of beautiful Flamingo Beach.
Here, on your own hilltop perch, you’ll revel in this mesmerizing panorama of ocean, sky, and mountains. You’ll take deep breaths of ocean air and cool breezes – the perfect eco-friendly design to eliminate the need for air-conditioning. You’ll lounge in the ocean-view infinity pool and accompanying pool terrace. You’ll wave to howler monkeys and snap photos of exotic birds. You’ll serve your meals outdoors and will create unforgettable memories, as you admire the view.
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Casa Breeze
Playa Conchal | 5 Beds | 5 Baths | 12 Guests
Secreted into the prestigious surrounds of Reserva Conchal – and just a 2-minute golf-cart ride to the beach! – Casa Breeze is a stunning 5-bedroom villa, home to an array of striking amenities, including a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and spacious living areas.
But first, its location: Within Reserva Conchal, a spectacular and established community, your rental grants you access to an onsite championship golf course, spa and Fitness Center, tennis courts, restaurants, hiking and biking trails, a wildlife refuge, and the Reserva Conchal Beach Club, with a beachfront infinity-edge pool, international restaurant, bar, beach gear, and onsite activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.
Of course, you’re here for more than your surrounds and in that, Casa Breeze delivers with luxurious amenities, including fairway views, outdoor living areas with an infinity pool and waterslide, a top-floor honeymoon-suite-style master bedroom with balcony, and our Elite Service (including daily housekeeping). Welcome to paradise!
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Villa Estrella Azul
Tamarindo | 8 Beds | 6 Baths | 18 Guests
When you want the privacy and exclusivity of luxury villa with the amenities of a private boutique hotel, Villa Estrella Azul answers with an eight-bedroom, expansive villa just a two-minute walk to the beach. And not just any beach, but Tamarindo’s most stunning stretch of pristine sands and lapping surf…
This incredible home welcomes you to total pampered luxury – to an oasis of white-and-blue décor that immediately puts you in a beach state of mind. To open design, indoor-outdoor living, and entertainment spaces that welcome gathering and celebration. To a gourmet, chef’s-ready kitchen, gas grill, and a brick pizza oven by the pool.
To an abundance of windows blend indoors and out, inviting you to wander out to the custom infinity pool and then in, to the spectacular dining table, out to the open-air yoga pavilion and terrace and then, in (and up) to the rooftop terrace and sun porch. And then, there are the breezy balconies with sleeping pergolas, designed for evenings under the stars… Because here, at the “Blue Star” Villa, not even the sky’s the limit.
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Casa Howler
Tamarindo | 4 Beds | 4 Baths | 8 Guests
Brand new and spectacularly dressed to impress, Casa Howler is a luxury vacation home located within Tamarindo Park, a stunning new community located in the hills surrounding downtown Tamarindo.
Here, where natural wonders reside outside your front door and every detail exudes the modern tropical lifestyle, Casa Howler is just a 10-minute walk to everywhere you want to be – from Playa Tamarindo itself to the town’s vast variety of restaurants, nightlife, tours, attractions, and more.
Inside, Casa Howler welcomes you with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto forest views from every angle of the home, beckoning you outdoors and into Costa Rica’s exotic flora. Or, spend your sunny afternoons lounging by a private pool, whipping up delicacies in your chef’s kitchen, or lounging in the home’s spacious king-sized bedrooms. It’s everything you seek, and then some, for your luxury family vacation in Costa Rica.
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Discuss Your Luxury Family Vacation in Costa Rica with Your Concierge
When you reserve one of our luxury villas in Costa Rica, you’re booking more than just a spectacular home; your reservation also includes full travel concierge services.
So, what does that mean? Well, when you make your reservation, our skilled in-house concierge will get in touch. She is an expert in all things Costa Rica and her job is to get to know you that well, too. Share your desires and preferences, peruse our recommendations, and start building your must-haves, can’t-miss lists.
Our concierge will tailor your vacation to your specific needs and interests. From the little details – airport pickup and a private chef – to all your activities and transportation, our concierge services are absolutely and always free for our guests. You dream, we take care of the details.
Please get in touch for more information about our Costa Rica luxury vacation villas and our concierge services.
