Costa Rica Villas & Luxury Vacation Rentals

Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the EU don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You'll need a valid passport for the length of your stay and proof of onward travel. No special vaccinations are required. Your Concierge can help confirm the latest entry details before you go.

Costa Rica has two major international airports. San José (SJO) is best for Arenal, Manuel Antonio, and the central regions. Liberia (LIR) serves Guanacaste, Papagayo, Tamarindo, and the northern coast. Your Concierge can arrange private transfers to meet you on arrival, or you can rent a car right at the airport.

The dry season (December to April) brings endless sunshine and zero rain, perfect for beach days and hiking. The green season (May to November) delivers afternoon showers that keep everything lush, plus fewer crowds and better rates. The Pacific coast stays hot and dry during peak season, while the Caribbean side sees more rainfall year-round. For surfing, the green season brings bigger swells. Wildlife viewing peaks during the green season when animals gather around water sources.

Most international flights land at San José International Airport (SJO), though Liberia International Airport (LIR) serves northern destinations better. Rental cars give you maximum flexibility to explore on your own schedule, essential for reaching hidden beaches and remote trails. Your Concierge can arrange rental cars or private drivers who handle all logistics.

Guanacaste province is famous for its miles upon miles of Pacific coastline. Papagayo offers crystalline waters ideal for diving and fishing. Tamarindo serves up legendary surf breaks and leatherback turtle nesting sites. Playa Guiones delivers consistent waves for every skill level. Manuel Antonio claims Costa Rica's most famous beach, with palm-lined perfection enclosed by jungle hills. Jaco hosts international surf competitions with world-class waves.

Costa Rican cuisine blends Caribbean influences on the east coast with traditional Pacific flavors on the west. The Caribbean side delivers jerk chicken, rice and beans, and curried spices. The Pacific coast showcases authentic dishes like casado, Picadillo, and Vuelve a la Vida. Don't miss sodas—traditional local restaurants where authentic Costa Rican culture and food come alive. Your Concierge can also arrange private chef service so you can experience personalized Costa Rican cuisine in the comfort of your villa.

Ginger in Guanacaste fuses traditional and pan-Asian tapas in the province's most talked-about dining room. Kapi Kapi in Manuel Antonio splurges on Costa Rican-Asian fusion worth the premium. Makoko in Playa Panamá transforms Costa Rican ingredients into international creations. For authentic local flavor, find a soda for true Costa Rican dining.

Manuel Antonio serves active travelers with national park rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs. Papagayo is ideal for families and groups thanks to its calm waters. Tamarindo delivers world-class surfing, diving, and fishing. Santa Teresa attracts wellness seekers and surfers. Guanacaste province offers diverse beach experiences across its long stretch of coastline. Costa Rica luxury villas in these areas provide the perfect base for exploring.

Rental cars are highly recommended for maximum flexibility and access to remote beaches and trails that public transport doesn't reach. However, many luxury villa rentals include optional private driver services. If you're staying in one area and planning organized tours, a car isn't essential. For multi-destination trips, a rental car or private driver makes the experience significantly better.

Costa Rica is one of the safest places to visit in Central America, with a strong focus on tourism and conservation. Standard travel awareness applies (e.g., don't leave valuables unattended, and avoid driving rural roads at night). Wildlife protections and park systems also make outdoor activities well-regulated and easy to enjoy.

Tap water is safe in most populated areas, including San José and parts of Guanacaste. In remote beach towns like Santa Teresa or Nosara, bottled water is recommended. Most villas supply filtered water for guests.

Yes, but conditions vary by region. Papagayo and much of Guanacaste offer calm, swimmable bays. Surf towns like Tamarindo, Jaco, and Santa Teresa have stronger waves and riptides, so follow local guidance. Many beaches have flag systems to indicate safe swimming.

The Costa Rican Colón is the official currency, though US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Credit cards work widely in tourist areas. ATMs are readily available in major towns and cities.

Restaurants automatically add 10% gratuity to bills as standard practice. Add extra for exceptional service. Tour guides and drivers appreciate 10-15% for great experiences, though it's never mandatory. Hotel staff and villa service teams also appreciate tips for outstanding service.

Costa Rica combines adventure with safety and accessibility. Papagayo's calm waters create perfect beaches for children. Manuel Antonio offers easy wildlife viewing and manageable hikes. The country's compact size means shorter travel times between destinations. Many Costa Rica family villas feature multiple bedrooms, private pools, and dedicated staff to make family travel effortless.

Absolutely. Twenty-seven percent of the country is protected parkland. Tortuguero showcases nesting sea turtles, manatees, crocodiles, monkeys, and sloths. Manuel Antonio National Park delivers easy wildlife encounters. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers incredible biodiversity. Arenal region provides opportunities to spot diverse bird species, reptiles, and mammals in their natural habitat.

Zip-lining through jungle canopies, surfing world-class breaks, white-water rafting, scuba diving at Caño Island, hiking active volcano regions, waterfall rappelling, deep-sea fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling with sea turtles, canopy tours, and exploring cave systems. Costa Rica is built for adventure at every skill level, and your Concierge can help arrange these and other activities.

Costa Rica private villas are ideal for groups. Many properties feature 4-8 bedrooms with expansive common areas, multiple pools, and outdoor entertainment spaces. Private chefs, concierge services, and dedicated staff make group coordination effortless. The villa setting provides privacy while keeping everyone together, perfect for milestone celebrations, family reunions, or friend getaways.

Pura Vida translates to "pure life" and represents Costa Rica's national philosophy—embracing life's simple pleasures, staying positive, and appreciating nature. You'll hear it as a greeting, farewell, and general expression of contentment. The lifestyle emphasizes sustainability, wellness, and living in harmony with the environment.