There are numerous reasons to stay in Costa Rica on your family vacation, including stunning rainforests, friendly locals, almost 30 national parks, and delicious cuisine. Known as the “happiest country on Earth,” Costa Rica is the perfect destination for the whole family. If you’re looking for a slower pace and simple pleasures, you’ll enjoy the “Pura Vida” (pure life) of Costa Rica.
There are all-inclusive family resorts for all types of vacationers, whether you’re looking for a thrill-seeking adventure, low-key family fun, or pure relaxation. So, if your thrill-seeking family wants to go ziplining across the rainforest to see sloths, toucans, and monkeys or prefers a more relaxing vacation swimming and playing at one of the many beautiful beaches, Costa Rica has it all.
Keep reading for our recommendations of the best all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica.
TL;DR
Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Costa Rica
1. Best Western Jacó Beach All-Inclusive Resort
Address: Pastor Diaz Ave, Puntarenas Province, Jaco, 61101, Costa Rica
The Best Western Jacó Beach All-Inclusive Resort is perfect for your next family vacation, with unlimited food and drinks, daily activities, volleyball courts, and outdoor swimming pools. The resort also includes spacious guest rooms, a game room, supervised children’s activities, and access to Jacó Beach.
Its central location on Pastor Diaz Avenue gives you the flexibility to explore the shopping and dining in Jacó. And if you’re looking for adventure, there are endless options, from an ATV adventure through the rainforest to a canopy and ziplining tour at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific.
However, you can also spend your entire vacation on the 100-room property and enjoy the beachfront views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can sit poolside, drink tropical cocktails, read, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool.
The Best Western Jacó Beach Resort is easily one of the more popular all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica!
Pros:
- Pricepoint is more affordable than other all-inclusive resorts
- Close to shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures
Cons:
- There is a daily children’s fee for kids aged 4 to 11
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in San Jose, Costa Rica
2. JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Address: Hacienda Pinilla, Provincia de Guanacaste, Guanacaste, 50309, Costa Rica
This gorgeous oceanfront Marriott property is perfect for families who want a more upscale feel in the middle of the lush beauty of Costa Rica. Located in Guanacaste province, the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort is close to Tamarindo, providing additional activities outside of the resort.
This hacienda-style luxury resort has onsite activities for the whole family, including beach bonfires, bicycle rentals, cooking classes, and nature walks. The resort also provides access to four beaches, including Playa Mansita, which is the closest.
Adults will appreciate the gorgeous architecture, delectable dining options, and elegant spa. In addition, you can relax in one of the outdoor jacuzzis, exercise at the fitness center, or enjoy an offsite adventure while your kids enjoy the JW Adventure Kids Club!
While you could spend your entire vacation at the resort, there are endless adventures to explore outside the resort! Enjoy a sunset and snorkel catamaran cruise in the gorgeous waters of the Pacific Ocean, go zip lining and horseback riding at Buena Vista Lodge and Adventure Center, or hike through the Tenorio Volcano National Park and see the stunning Llanos de Cortez waterfalls!
If you’re looking for an upscale family vacation that’s all-inclusive, the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort should easily be on your Costa Rica shortlist!
Pros:
- Access to four beaches
- Kids’ club available
Cons:
- The immediate beach is rocky
3. Fiesta Resort All Inclusive Central Pacific
Address: El Roble, 23, Provincia de Puntarenas, Chacarita, 5400, Costa Rica
Fiesta Resort All Inclusive Central Pacific is the perfect resort for families wanting a comfortable and fun stay in Costa Rica. Located in El Roble and roughly an hour from the airport, this resort has four onsite restaurants, multiple swimming pools, and a wellness spa.
Guests can enjoy the resort’s amenities, such as the outdoor pools, tennis courts, fitness center, restaurants, and bars. In addition, children will love the kids’ and teens’ clubs, nightly entertainment, and fun daily activities. While the kids are entertained by hotel staff in the clubs, adults can relax at the Heliconia Spa, which has several treatment bungalows and a revitalizing hydro-massage tub.
While there is plenty to do at Fiesta Resort, many guests prefer to escape to some of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. For example, you can take a safari boat tour on the Tempisque River along Palo Verde National Park, or spend an entire day visiting Rincon de La Vieja and Palo Verde National Park with a farm-to-table lunch and homemade ice cream.
So, whether you plan to spend your vacation being pampered in the spa or exploring all that Costa Rica has to offer, the Fiesta Resort All Inclusive Central Pacific is the perfect family getaway!
Pros:
- Nightly shows and activities for families
- Kids’ and Teens’ Clubs
Cons:
See Related: Best Islands to Visit Around the World
4. Hotel Riu Guanacaste
Address: Playa Matapalo, RIU Guanacaste Route, Guanacaste Province, 60602, Costa Rica
Located just 45 minutes from the Liberia International Airport on Matapalo Beach, Hotel Riu Guanacaste is a fantastic family destination. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle, this all-inclusive resort is for you!
Kids and adults will love the daily entertainment and activities, the variety of dining options, the water park, and the numerous water activities at the beach. You can also play beach volleyball, tennis, and ping pong, or go snorkeling and windsurfing. Finally, you can end (or begin!) your days with a deep-tissue massage at the resort’s spa for maximum relaxation while your kids enjoy the RiuLand Kids Club.
However, if you’d like to explore Guanacaste outside of the resort, head to one of Costa Rica’s natural wonders at the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. This premium Rincón de la Vieja Volcano tour includes a volcanic mud bath, ziplining, horseback riding, a delicious lunch, and Guaitil crafts. Or, take a day trip to Nicaragua, where you can see an active volcano at Masaya Volcano National Park, visit Monkey Island (there really are monkeys there!) on Lake Nicaragua, and shop at a local crafts market.
There are many family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, but Hotel Riu Guanacaste should be on your shortlist, with its broad range of activities, dining options, and nightlife.
Pros:
- A short drive from Liberia International Airport
- Plenty to do onsite, but also many activities available offsite
Cons:
5. Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica
Address: Playa El Jobo, La Cruz de Guanacaste, 51001, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for a family-friendly all-inclusive resort, check out Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica. This beautiful resort in Playa El Jobo in Guanacaste offers gorgeous ocean views among the country’s lush mountains and rainforest.
Guests will enjoy the highly-rated accommodations, unlimited drinks and food, and endless activities. Not only that, but the all-inclusive resort provides a private beach where you can relax and two outdoor pools for even more fun. For a soothing touch at the end of the day (or an excellent start to the beginning!), sign up for a facial or deep-tissue massage at the resort’s spa.
While you could happily spend your entire family vacation at Dreams Las Mareas without leaving the property, there are plenty of things to see nearby such as this amazing small-group ATV tour, which lets you explore the gorgeous beaches in the El Jobo area and do a little shopping and dining. Or, you can take a horseback riding tour if you want a different experience!
There is so much to see and do in Costa Rica, and the all-inclusive resort Dreams Las Mareas allows you to enjoy everything the country offers. Also, its proximity to Nicaragua allows you to explore another culture during your family vacation!
Pros:
- Kids’ Club available
- Proximity to Nicaragua allows for day trips
Cons:
- Far from many of Costa Rica’s attractions
See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
6. The Westin Reserva Conchal
Address: Playa Conchal Guanacaste, Guanacaste Province, 50308, Costa Rica
If you are looking for a high-end all-inclusive resort that’s family-friendly and near local attractions, consider The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa. This luxury resort is located on the North Pacific Riviera on the stunning Playa Conchal.
The property is exquisite, and guests will enjoy the delectable food, craft cocktails, lagoon-style swimming pools, tennis courts, and activities. Younger kids (up to age 14) will love the Westin Kids Club while the parents relax at the spa, play golf, or enjoy 24-hour room service.
While you could spend your entire vacation enjoying the onsite accommodations and amenities, there is plenty to see and do nearby! Take a tour from nearby Tamarindo Beach and kayak to Capitan Island in Las Baulas National Marine Park. While there, explore the tidepools, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy the scenery. Or, try your luck surfing on Tamarindo Beach with small-group surfing lessons!
You could spend a week at The Westin Reserva Conchal and still have restaurants to explore, excursions to book and amenities to enjoy!
Pros:
- Perfect for golf lovers
- A short 45 minute drive from Guanacaste Airport
Cons:
- Large resort, so lobby can be far from your room
7. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica
Address: Playa Manzanillo, Bahia Culebra, 00011 Culebra, Costa Rica
Located a short drive from Liberia International Airport, the highly-rated Planet Hollywood Costa Rica is a fantastic choice for an all-inclusive family vacation! The resort’s surrounding natural beauty is unmatched at the base of Papagayo Gulf and the Culebra Bay.
With seven different dining options, 24-hour room service, a fitness center, two gorgeous pools, a private beach, and a spa, there’s something here for the entire family. And with a kids’ club on site, parents can enjoy a deep-tissue massage, the pool bar, or a nap!
While you could spend your entire vacation enjoying the onsite amenities, the Guanacaste location allows plenty of offsite fun. For example, put on your hiking shoes and explore Tenorio Volcano National Park, see the turquoise water of Rio Celeste, view sloths in their native habitat, and then head to the famous Llanos de Cortez Waterfall! This full-day guided tour will transport you directly from the resort, highlighting the best parts of Costa Rica.
If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica with kids, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica is easily one of the most popular resorts in the area.
Pros:
- Daily activities and nightlife
- Newer property
Cons:
- Resort is located in steep hills; can be difficult to get around on foot
See Related: Best Things to Do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
8. Croc’s Resort & Casino
Address: Av. Pastor Díaz, Puntarenas Region Jaco, 61101, Costa Rica
Located in Jacó on Pastor Diaz Avenue, the central location of Croc’s Resort & Casino gives you the ability to explore the town. However, this all-inclusive family resort has plenty of onsite amenities to keep you happy as well.
With four restaurants, two bars, a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, a casino, and access to Jacó Beach, this all-inclusive resort is perfect for the whole family! If you’re looking for an offsite adventure, explore the rainforest on an ATV or see the lush mountains and Pacific Ocean from a zipline at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific.
Croc’s Resort & Casino is perfect if you want an all-inclusive family resort with plenty of amenities, while still being in close proximity to local attractions.
Pros:
- Easy walk to the beach
- Daily entertainment by the pool
Cons:
- No kids’ club, but there are daily activities
9. Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Address: Playa Flamingo, Provincia de Guanacaste, Santa Cruz, 50308, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort with a bit of nightlife, you’ll want to put the Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo on your shortlist! This tropical paradise offers you the best pure life spirit (Pura Vida) with an oversized pool, views of the Pacific Ocean, a gorgeous beach, and beautiful gardens.
The onsite amenities keep the whole family entertained, with daily pool and beach activities, a swim-up bar, a wellness spa, and a large pool. Kids will also love the ping pong tables, board games, movie nights, billiards tables, and the playground at Margaritaville Beach Resort.
However, there are plenty of excursions and tours if you want to explore more of Costa Rica. For example, just outside the Margaritaville Beach Resort, you can take an unforgettable catamaran tour, where you’ll see tropical marine life, have dinner, and enjoy various water activities. Or, head to nearby Tamarindo for a group ATV ride on the beach!
The Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo is highly rated for many reasons, so if you’re planning a family vacation to Costa Rica, it’s worth checking out!
Pros:
- Large family rooms available with bunk beds
- Playa Flamingo is beautiful
Cons:
See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
10. Occidental Tamarindo
Address: Playa Langosta, Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive family resort in Costa Rica with options for day trips and excursions, the Occidental Tamarindo resort is for you. Located next to Las Baulas National Park on Playa Langosta, Occidental Tamarindo is perfect for everyone from younger children to adventure-seeking adults.
The resort has fantastic amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurants, bars, a fitness center, a spa, and a salon. You can also try your hand at tennis or beach volleyball!
Playa Langosta (Langosta Beach) is steps away from Occidental Tamarindo and is known for its excellent surfing waves at the mouth of the estuary. If watching the surfers at Langosta Beach gives you the surfing itch, take a private surfing lesson from a local! Or, explore Las Baulas National Park on a boat safari, where you can see howler monkeys (yep, they can be loud!), green parrots, and crocodiles.
Occidental Tamarindo is a great all-inclusive family resort with plenty of onsite activities and many excursions and tours nearby.
Pros:
- Great location near Tamarindo and Langosta beaches; only a short walk to town
- Daily activities and nightlife
Cons:
11. El Mangroove, Autograph Collection
Address: Gulf Of Papagayo, Guanacaste, 50503, Costa Rica
If you’re looking to stay at an all-inclusive resort where the amenities are aplenty, but there are also various nearby attractions, El Mangroove, Autograph Collection should be on your list! Located on the Gulf of Papagayo, the resort is just a 20-minute drive from the airport.
Onsite amenities include yoga classes, kayaking, a fitness center, and plenty of water activities! You can also rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding area.
While you could spend your entire vacation on the property, there is much to see and do nearby! For example, spend the day learning how to scuba dive in the Gulf of Papagayo; this six-hour scuba diving excursion is perfect for beginners and lets you see coral reefs, rays, and turtles. Or, if you’d rather have a more relaxing experience, this private boat tour of the Gulf of Papagayo is fun and fully customizable!
Whether you plan to spend your vacation on the resort property or enjoy more of what Costa Rica offers, El Mangroove is an excellent choice for all ages!
Pros:
- Convenient location to other beaches and national parks
Cons:
- Swimming pool is gorgeous but narrow
- No kids’ club
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Liberia, Costa Rica
12. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
Address: Playa Matapalo, RIU Palace, Guanacaste Province, 60602, Costa Rica
Located next door to the Riu Guanacaste, the Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is an all-inclusive five-star resort with next-level food, accommodations, and service. The hotel is a short walk from Matapalo Beach, but Playa Blanca and Playa Matapalito are nearby for extra beach fun.
If you’re looking for a top-notch and highly-rated all-inclusive resort for families, you’ll find that Riu Palace Costa Rica has everything you need. The resort has a playground, water park, and kids’ club for the children, and adults will appreciate the fitness center, hot tub, nightclub, five swimming pools, and various restaurants.
However, you can also spend your days exploring the area; for example, the Guanacaste coast buggy tour, where you can travel off-road in some of Costa Rica’s most rugged and beautiful terrain (with a stop in the middle for swimming at the beach!) If you’re feeling even more adventurous, you can book a 5-in-1 tour of Rincon de la Vieja Park, where you can go horseback riding, ziplining, and tubing, followed by a mud bath and a soak in the thermal waters!
Whether your vacation goal is to stay entirely on the resort’s premises or explore all that you can in the area, the Riu Palace is one of the best all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica!
Pros:
- Stunning property
- Nightly entertainment is a guest favorite
Cons:
- Some of the rooms are older and dated
13. Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Address: Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste Province, 50104, Costa Rica
Located in the jungle of Costa Rica, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is known for its stunning views, gorgeous rooms, and numerous amenities. The highly-rated luxury resort is perfect for families, with various water sports such as swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking. More adventurous kids can zipline between the trees and canopies!
There’s something here for everyone: three restaurants, a fitness center, a luxury spa, a tennis court, and three beaches, only steps away. Adults will appreciate the room service, mini bar, adults-only infinity pool, and comfy slippers.
You can spend your entire vacation on the beautiful property, but if you want to head anywhere on the peninsula, the resort offers a shuttle service every half hour. Or, if you want to explore beyond the peninsula, there are some fantastic options! For example, take a two-hour cruise down the Tempisque River in Palo Verde National Forest and enjoy the wildlife. If you have binoculars, make sure to bring them!
Or, for more adventurous families, there is the fantastic zipline tour through the Monteverde Cloud Forest (and walking across hanging bridges!), where you can see the wildlife of Costa Rica.
The Andaz Costa Rica Resort is easily one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, with seemingly endless amenities, delectable dining options, and impeccable service.
Pros:
- Exceptional five-star service
- Gorgeous property with mountain views
Cons:
- Higher price point than many other resorts in Costa Rica
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