Why Costa Rica is perfect for a luxury family vacation

If you’re in the market for an unforgettable family vacation that delivers experiences in nature, but don’t want to shirk on comfort, read on to discover why Costa Rica is perfect for a luxury family vacation. With accommodation ranging from ocean-view private villas and luxury eco-lodges, to beachfront boutique resorts and upscale all-inclusives, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to living your best “pura vida”. As a result, taking a Costa Rica family vacation is hard to beat for a balance of adventure, nature and luxury. Read on for inspirational detail — your Costa Rica luxury family vacation start right here!

Why Costa Rica is perfect for a luxury family vacation

Offering a rare balance of comfort, adventure, and natural wonder in a safe and welcoming environment, Costa Rica is an exceptional destination for a luxury family vacation.

In terms of luxury facilities, you can take your pick from world-class eco-lodges, boutique beachfront resorts, and rainforest retreats that offer high-end amenities, without sacrificing authenticity, with upscale accommodation options offering infinity pools, kid-friendly menus, spa services, and on-site guided nature walks.

If that wasn’t enough, what really sets Costa Rica apart is its potential to combine luxury with meaningful immersive experiences. 

For example, families can go from blissing out on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica, to zip-lining through rainforest canopies and spotting incredible Costa Rica wildlife on a private wildlife safari, all in the same trip. 

High-end tour operators ensure personalized, stress-free adventures, with private guides, safe transportation, and customized Costa Rica itineraries for all ages.

At the same time, Costa Rica’s strong focus on sustainability and education adds depth to luxury travel, enabling children to learn about ecosystems, conservation, and culture in a fun, engaging way. 

Lastly, with excellent healthcare, reliable infrastructure, and warm hospitality, Costa Rica offers peace of mind for traveling families, so you can experience luxury and adventure in inviting, safe style.

Best time to visit Costa Rica

Whatever kind of Costa Rica vacation you’re seeking, choosing the best time to visit Costa Rica is key. 

Read on for an overview of what to expect in different seasons in relation to the weather and costs.

Dry season (Dec–Apr): best for beach and wildlife

The dry season, also known as “verano”, is Costa Rica’s peak season for tourism. During these months (December to April), you can expect sunny skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures, especially along the Pacific coast. 

As such, this is the perfect time for beach holidays, with excellent conditions for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and sailing.

It's also a prime time to enjoy the best hikes in Costa Rica — trails are dry and more accessible.

Given that this period presents Costa Rica at its most vibrant and accessible, it’ll come as no surprise that is also the busiest — and priciest — time of year, so book early.

Green season (May–Aug): best for small crowds, lush scenery and luxury deals

If you’re looking for luxury, but still have an eye on costs and how to travel to Costa Rica on a budget, consider visiting during the May to August wet season.

While this brings occasional tropical showers — usually in the afternoon or evening — mornings are often sunny and fresh, and landscapes are lusher, especially in the rainforest and cloud forest regions. 

This season also sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for families seeking peace, space, and more value. Many luxury resorts and eco-lodges offer discounted rates and seasonal promotions, making upscale travel more accessible. 

Top luxury family-friendly destinations in Costa Rica 

Not sure which of the best places to visit in Costa Rica to visit for an upscale vacation? Read on for inspiring overview of the top luxury family-friendly destinations in Costa Rica.

Papagayo Peninsula: for private resorts and calm beaches

Located in the north-western province of Guanacaste, the Papagayo Peninsula is one of Costa Rica’s most exclusive destinations.

It's also just 40 minutes from Liberia International Airport, making it especially convenient for families seeking a seamless, high-comfort getaway in Costa Rica.

Home to high-end resorts like the Four Seasons Costa Rica, Andaz Costa Rica, and Casa Chameleon, you can expect to enjoy world-class service, spacious villas, kids’ clubs, family-friendly dining, and access to the best Guanacaste tours.

Also home to some of the best beaches in Guanacaste, the peninsula boasts calm, crescent-shaped beaches that are ideal for young swimmers, paddle-boarding lessons and private sailing trips. 

Want more adventure? It’s also easy to access well-manicured trails, adventure parks and zip-line tours from the Papagayo Peninsula, adding up to a worry-free, pampering experience in a stunning coastal setting. 

Arenal and La Fortuna: for volcano views and hot springs

Manuel Antonio: for beach bliss and wildlife with boutique stays

For example, places like Parador Resort and Spa and Arenas del Mar provide spacious suites, kids’ activities, private beach access, and stunning ocean views. 

In addition, many private properties feature family villas and infinity pools, with wildlife viewing and gourmet dining  on-site. 

All of which means you and your little ones can spend your days enjoying the best beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park, or spotting monkeys, capuchins, iguanas and sloths on the best Manuel Antonio National Park tours before relaxing in luxury at the end of the day.

Monteverde: for cloud forests, canopy walks and luxury ecolodges

Offering a cooler experience in Costa Rica’s cloud forest region, Monteverde invites families to combine exploring mystical misty forests on hanging bridges with staying in some very special luxury eco-lodges located in said forest.

While younger kids will love visiting the likes of butterfly gardens and interactive insect museums, older kids can learn about conservation at local sustainability centers, and enjoy adventure activities. 

Say hello to zip-lining over the canopy and enjoying night safaris before going to sleep in stunning surroundings!

Osa Peninsula: for off-the-beaten-path luxury and wildlife

Remote and wild, the Osa Peninsula is a paradise for families seeking luxury with adventure and ecological depth.

Home to Corcovado National Park, the Osa Peninsula is accessible by small plane or an adventurous road trip. As such, it's ideal for families who want to disconnect from modern life while connecting with one of the most pristine natural settings on Earth, and all without compromising comfort. 

The Osa Peninsula has a number of notable luxury eco-lodges — think treehouse-style bungalows with ocean views, gourmet meals, spa services and private wildlife tours that enable families to spot monkeys, scarlet macaws and tapirs right from their lodge grounds. 

Additional activities include guided rainforest hikes, kayaking through mangroves, and educational wildlife walks with naturalists. 

Best things to do on a luxury family vacation in Costa Rica 

Here we share some of the best things to do on a luxury family vacation in Costa Rica, with more ideas in our guide to visiting Costa Rica with kids.

Guided wildlife safaris in national parks (private tours)

Going on private wildlife safaris in Costa Rica’s national parks is a must-do for luxury family travelers. 

Opting for private naturalist guides enhances the experience, offering tailored pacing, expert insights, and access to hidden wildlife spots. 

In Manuel Antonio National Park, for example, families can spot sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and colorful birds on easy forest trails.

Meanwhile, older kids and teens will enjoy private boat and hiking trips to see tapirs, howler monkeys, and rare species in Corcovado National Park, while the best Tortuguero National Park tours offer canal safaris that afford close-up views of caimans and turtles.

Wherever you go, private guides bring binoculars and can customize tours based on children’s interests, turning them into fun, interactive nature lessons.

Soaking in family-friendly hot springs resorts

Visiting the best hot springs in Arenal Volcano National Park really is a luxurious experience for all ages, with resorts like Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa combining stunning natural surroundings with beautifully designed, family-friendly facilities.

The thermal pools here are fed by the volcano’s heat, and surrounded by lush jungle, which means you and your little ones will be immersed in a magical rainforest setting. 

Tabacón also features spa treatments, swim-up bars for adults, and dedicated kids’ areas, making it a complete family retreat, with private cabanas, premium dining, and on-site child-friendly services providing extra comfort. 

Meanwhile, other options like Baldi Hot Springs and The Springs Resort offer water slides and adventure clubs alongside their natural thermal areas. 

Zip-lining and hanging bridges in Monteverde

Monteverde’s cloud forest is one of the most exhilarating places for families to enjoy the likes of zip-lining and canopy bridge walks, with private and small-group adventure tours available at eco-parks like Selvatura Park and Sky Adventures Monteverde. 

Zip-lining here means flying through misty treetops above a sea of clouds, with platforms offering panoramic views of the forest below. 

Kids as young as five can often participate in tandem rides with guides, while older children and teens can go solo. 

For families preferring a slower pace, hanging bridge experiences enable visitors to walk safely among the forest canopy, and many tours include private naturalist guides, who enrich the experience with insights about the flora and fauna. 

Private catamaran cruise with dolphin spotting

A private catamaran cruise is one of the most relaxing and luxurious ways to experience Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. 

From locations like Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo and Manuel Antonio, families can book private half- or full-day sailings.

These cruises include snorkeling stops at hidden bays, dolphin-watching, and even seasonal whale sightings, especially between August and October.

The calm waters make it suitable for kids, with onboard amenities like shaded lounging areas, snacks, fruit platters and drinks for parents.

Some charters include stand-up paddleboards and sea kayaks for added fun. Sunset cruises are especially magical.

Hands-on chocolate and coffee farm tours 

Chocolate and coffee tours in Costa Rica are engaging, sensory-rich experiences that combine learning with indulgence. As such, they’re the ideal activity to include in luxury Costa Rica family vacations.

As for where to enjoy them, eco-farms in regions like La Fortuna, Monteverde and the Central Valley offer private or small-group tours that enable visitors to see the bean-to-bar process. 

Through the experience, kids can crush cacao beans by hand and make their own chocolate, while parents get to enjoy tastings of rich, artisanal dark chocolate or fresh-roasted coffee. 

Sample 7–10-day luxury Costa Rica itinerary

Wondering how many days you need in Costa Rica for your luxury family vacation? While you can have a wonderful time following a 5 days in Costa Rica itinerary, working to a 7 days in Costa Rica itinerary means you and your little ones will feel less rushed. All the better for enjoying said luxury around all your adventure experiences.

Better still, though, if you can enjoy a 10 days in Costa Rica itinerary, such as the option outlined below. It covers some key destinations at a relaxed pace, and offers plenty of luxury experiences.

Day 1: Arrive in San José, private transfer to Arenal

After arriving in Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose, meet your private driver for a scenic 3-hour transfer to your luxury hotel near Arenal volcano. 

After settling in with welcome drinks, enjoy jungle views from your terrace, and relax with a family dinner.

Day 2: Private guided safari and visit to Arenal’s hanging bridges

Start the day with a private wildlife safari float on the Peñas Blancas River, where you’ll get to see monkeys, sloths and stacks of tropical birds. 

In the afternoon, explore the Mistico Hanging Bridges on a private guided walk through the rainforest canopy.

Day 3: Hot springs and family spa day

On day three, enjoy a relaxed morning at Tabacón Hot Springs. 

Here kids can splash in the thermal pools while parents enjoy the luxury of a private cabana or on-site spa treatments.

Day 4: Chocolate tour and private horseback ride

Visit a local chocolate farm for a hands-on bean-to-bar workshop before enjoying a private horseback ride through Arenal’s lush countryside.

Picnic stops serve spectacular volcano views, and older kids could enjoy optional zip-lining adventures.

Day 5: Transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest

Check out and enjoy a private scenic transfer from Arenal to Monteverde. By which we mean, take a boat trip across Lake Arenal, followed by a road trip in a private 4x4 vehicle.

After arriving in a luxury eco-lodge like Monteverde Lodge & Gardens or Senda Monteverde, relax with a nature walk on the lodge grounds.

Day 6: Cloud Forest zip-lining and Hanging Bridges adventures

On day 6, head to Sky Adventures for a luxury adventure package that includes zip-lining, aerial tram ride, and a private canopy bridge tour. 

Come the afternoon, take time out to relax ahead of going on a private night walk to spot frogs and glowing fungi.

Day 7: Culture and wildlife experiences

On day 7, take a private coffee and sugarcane farm tour, complete with kid-friendly tastings and activities. 

That afternoon, visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden or Bat Jungle for interactive exhibits before enjoying a chef-led family dinner at your eco-lodge.

Day 8: Transfer to Papagayo Peninsula 

Take a private transfer (3.5–4 hours) to the Papagayo Peninsula. 

After checking into a luxury beachfront resort like Four Seasons Costa Rica or Andaz Papagayo, spend the afternoon unwinding on a private beach, followed by sunset cocktails and beachside dining.

Day 9: Private catamaran cruise 

Enjoy a half-day private catamaran tour, complete with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and dolphin watching. 

You’ll get to stop at a quiet cove for swimming and a beach picnic. 

Day 10: Beach morning before departure

Spend your final morning enjoying the beach or kayaking after enjoying a final family breakfast before taking a private transfer to Liberia International Airport.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

The tone for your Costa Rica luxury family vacation will largely be set by where you choose to stay.

So, here are some accommodation types to consider, with options for different tastes and amenity must-haves.

Private villas with ocean views and full-service staff

For total privacy and personalized service, ocean-view villas offer the ultimate family escape. 

These spacious homes often feature multiple bedrooms, infinity pools, private chefs, housekeepers and concierge services. 

Ideal for multigenerational travel, villas provide a home-away-from-home with resort-level amenities. 

Many are located on the Papagayo Peninsula, Santa Teresa and Dominical, and provide sweeping Pacific vistas. 

Luxury eco-lodges blending nature with high-end comfort

Combining sustainability with sophistication, luxury eco-lodges offer immersive nature experiences alongside high-end amenities. 

Such properties often include private bungalows, open-air bathrooms, wildlife-rich settings, and fine organic dining. 

As such, they make the perfect base for families seeking a meaningful escape — think guided nature activities, cultural tours, and personalized service. 

Leading examples include Lapa Rios Lodge on the Osa Peninsula, where kids can spot monkeys from their deck.

Boutique beachfront resorts with spa and concierge services

Boutique beachfront resorts offer intimate luxury, excellent service, and a strong sense of place, often balancing tranquillity with activity, making them perfect for families who want to feel pampered in private.

In places like Manuel Antonio, you’ll usually get to enjoy direct beach access, personalized service, curated excursions, and family-friendly suites or villas. 

Upscale all-inclusive resorts with premium family amenities

For stress-free luxury, upscale all-inclusive resorts provide convenience, comfort, and entertainment for all ages, especially in Guanacaste.

Such properties usually feature multiple restaurants, kids’ clubs, pools, water sports, and family suites or villas, all within a secure, family-friendly environment. 

As a result, parents can relax while kids enjoy supervised programs and fun-filled adventure options nearby.

Travel tips for a luxury vacation in Costa Rica

How to get around 

Our tip is to go down the private transfer route — these are comfortable, safe and stress-free, and offer a door-to-door service. 

Conversely, you might want to avoid relying on public buses — they’re inexpensive but slow and crowded.

To secure private transfers, note that many high-end lodges and resorts offer chauffeured transport — ideal for families with young kids. 

Want more flexibility? Renting an SUV with GPS or a driver means you can explore at your own pace. 

What to pack 

Costa Rica’s climate varies, so pack layers, and include light, breathable clothing, long pants and sleeves for jungle walks, and a waterproof jacket for any afternoon showers. 

Don’t forget swimsuits, sandals, sturdy shoes, and sun hats, long with reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first-aid kit with kids’ meds. 

You might also want to bring your own dry bags, reusable water bottles and snorkel gear for active days. 

Lastly, bring dressier outfits for upscale resort dining, and don’t forget travel adapters, charging cords, and material to keep kids entertained on travel days.

At the same time, bear in mind that upscale accommodation options usually provide toiletries and have a laundry service, so you could pack light. 

Staying safe and healthy 

Food in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its fresh, lightly flavorsome food. and even the most upscale hotels, lodges and resorts will serve child-pleasing local staples like rice and beans, grilled chicken, fried plantains and tropical fruit. 

Resorts often include kids’ menus, and some lodges also offer cooking classes.

Beyond your accommodation, upscale restaurants offer farm-to-table menus, international cuisine, and custom options for dietary needs. 

Just be aware that if you’re heading off the beaten track, away from your resort, lodge or hotel, there’ll be less choice. That said, if you’re on a private tour, you can check meal options ahead of the excursion.