Tropical Colors for Your Home: Stunning Curb Appeal
Welcome to Costa Rica! This incredible destination with its rich and vibrant culture and its abundance of natural beauty and wildlife should truly be at the top of your list if you are looking for a nature-filled tropical escape. The country’s close proximity to the US makes it an ideal location for that peaceful tropical getaway. With the Pacific Ocean on one coast and the Caribbean Sea on the other, Costa Rica is one the most visited countries in Central America. It is known not only for being one of the safest and most politically and economically stable countries in the region but it is also the leader in eco-tourism and is known for its specialty wellness retreats.
Costa Rica is full of lush rainforests, breathtaking beaches, and it features the largest range of biodiversity in all of Latin America. Because of this, it is one of the most sought-after destinations in the Americas for those who want an immersive nature experience. Here you can find just what you are looking for whether it is a relaxing and romantic beach getaway, a remote jungle vacation filled with adventure, or a rejuvenating wellness experience for the mind and body. Many resorts are truly located in remote locations which allows guests to include the journey experience as a part of the adventure and then enjoy true peace and solitude upon arrival. Some resorts are all-inclusive and some are not. So come with us as we explore the best adults-only resorts in Costa Rica!
Oxygen Jungle Villas
The Oxygen Jungle Villas is a truly unique luxury boutique resort which offers only 12 beautifully appointed villas with a maximum of 24 guests in a remote mountain setting on the southwestern Pacific coast. This lush adults-only escape (18+) is perched high in the hills of a private nature reserve above the town of Uvita in the Costa Ballena region of the Puntarenas Province. It is a true journey to get to this amazing Balinese-style retreat but it is well worth it if you are looking for a rainforest environment and the peace and solitude that go with that. The resort is beautifully designed with Indonesian influences to help foster a sense of tranquility and intimacy. Oxygen Jungle Villas is not an all-inclusive resort. But they do offer a customized all-inclusive package that includes all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, and spa treatments. Guests can contact the resort when booking to get the most current information and pricing.
Important Note: If you are looking for an active social scene, nightlife, world-class shopping, or things like golf, you should consider choosing another resort. These are not available at Oxygen and they are not available nearby.
Photo Credit: Booking.com
Guests can truly relax as they are immersed in a true tropical paradise. Each villa features glass walls which allow for panoramic ocean and jungle views. A very careful use of bamboo screens, curtains, and the jungle itself provides complete privacy. The minimalist design style of each villa adds to the overall Zen-like atmosphere with simple yet luxurious furnishings and amenities including king-sized beds, rainfall showers, private terraces and organic toiletries. The spa villas offer outdoor soaking tubs. Peace and tranquility are further emphasized because even though there is free Wi-Fi available throughout the resort, there are no TVs or telephones in the rooms. There is also no room service. Also, as this is a true jungle location, be aware that some bugs and even a small lizard may find their way into your room.
Photo Credit: Booking.com
The O2 Restaurant uses organic local produce whenever possible. The chefs prepare simple yet excellent international and local dishes using the freshest ingredients for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At the O2 Bar, guests can enjoy everything from herbal teas to beer, wine and carefully crafted cocktails. Bar service is available at the pool.
Photo Credit: Booking.com
The resort features a small but very inviting infinity-edge pool which overlooks the jungle and is the perfect place to enjoy the sunsets. There is also a stone hiking path which allows for a 20 minute walk to a private waterfall. Many times, guests will encounter local wildlife including howler monkeys, toucans, and tree sloths along the way. Adventure activities such as horseback riding, ziplining, and bird watching can be booked through the resort as can various watersports including kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, surfing and whitewater rafting. Whale watching tours are also available. Guests with rental cars can travel down to the beach and can visit the town of Uvita on their own.
Oxygen Jungle Villas is also known for its absolutely magical spa setting. There is no dedicated spa facility but guests can enjoy full service spa treatments either in the privacy of their villa or at the resort’s River Spa which is an outdoor location literally at the river in the jungle. Everything from facials to various massage treatments are available in the most peaceful and therapeutic setting with the sounds of nature and flowing water in the background. Couples' treatments are also available.
Photo Credit: Oxygen Jungle Villas
Click here for a Resort Preview
How to Get Here
There is only one way to get to this remote tropical paradise and that is to drive! Even though the journey from San Jose International Airport take approximately 4 hours, it is so worth it. Be sure your rental car is a 4X4 because it will be required for the final 10 minute ride on a very bumpy dirt road which leads to the resort. Also, be sure to exchange at least USD $5 into Costa Rican Colones so you can pay the highway tolls. These driving directions are as of December 2024:
- After arriving at San Jose International Airport (SJO), you will need to drive to Uvita in Puntarenas. To do this, take the main road CR1 from the airport and drive toward San Jose. The drive on CR1 will be for about 10 miles.
- In San Jose, stay on CR1 until it ends. This is the easiest way. As you come to the end of CR1, stay to the right and turn toward Escazu. Once you turn right, you will be on Toll Road 27.
- Continue on 27 for about 37 miles to get to Route 34. Take the Jaco exit and continue on Route 34 south for about 99 miles until you reach the town of Uvita. (Note: As you are driving to Uvita, you will pass by the town of Jaco which is about 22 miles south. This is a great town to stop and take a break for lunch if you should choose to do so.)
- After passing Jaco, you will also pass by the towns of Quepos and Dominical before reaching Uvita.
- Once you are in Uvita, look for the BCR (a bank with a supermarket next to it) and turn left just before the bank onto C.Uvita. Take this paved road and head towards the mountain.
- The paved road will become a dirt road after 700 feet (1/10th of a mile). Once the dirt road begins, engage the 4X4 on your car and begin the 10 minute drive. It is a bumpy but beautiful drive so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
- Follow this road until you see a small cemetery on your right. Pass the cemetery and take the first left to go up the mountain. You will see an “O2/Oxygen” sign pointing to the left.
- Drive past the “Catarata” which is a small restaurant/bar that borders the waterfall.
- Keep following the road as you cross a small bridge with a small stream. Stay to the left when you see a sign for “Rancho Pacifico” on the right.
- Take the next road on the right, you will see an “O2/Oxygen” sign.
- Follow this road as you cross another small concrete bridge and several houses. Continue on until you come to the white walled and gated entrance to Oxygen.
The resort highly recommends checking in well before dark (6pm). Guests are expected to inform the resort of any arrivals that will be after 6pm.
Contact Information
Local Phone: (506) 4055-7872
US Toll Free: + 1 (888) 341-4561
Email: reservations@oxygenjunglevillas.com
Website: Oxygen Jungle Villas
Rancho Pacifico
Located in the same vicinity as Oxygen Jungle Villas is another luxury resort, Rancho Pacifico. It too is a lush adults-only escape (18+) perched high in the hills above the town of Uvita. This resort is a step up from Oxygen in terms of how they assist with transportation to and from the resort and for the services they offer for days spent at the beach. Rancho Pacifico is an eco-resort with their focus being on sustainability. It offers true peace and solitude in a rainforest environment. At nearly 2,000 feet above sea level, this resort has wonderful cooling ocean breezes which are very refreshing after a day spent at the beach or visiting Uvita. Rancho Pacifico is not an all-inclusive resort. But they do offer an optional All-Inclusive Dining Package. This package includes full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Alcoholic beverages, the mini-bar, and carry-out meals are not included. Guests can contact the resort to get the most current information and pricing.
Important Note: If you are looking for an active social scene, nightlife, world-class shopping, or things like golf, you should consider choosing another resort. These are not available at Rancho Pacifico and they are not available nearby.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
Rancho Pacifico only has seven accommodations. The resort features two suites, two treehouses, and three villas. All are spacious and designed to be calming and airy spaces with private terraces.
Photo Credit: Rancho Pacifico
Each room is fully air conditioned except for the treehouses which have expansive window screens that allow the cooling ocean breeze to come in and be circulated by several fans.
Photo Credit: Luxury Link
The resort features a guests-only restaurant where chefs prepare culinary delights featuring locally sourced seafood, meats, and fresh organic produce, most of which is grown in the resort's own garden. A unique four course prix fixe menu is designed each day and night using the freshest local ingredients which are available that day. Guests can also choose low carb and gluten free options.
Rancho Pacifico is known for its pineapple basil martinis and celery cilantro gimlets. They also offer a full line of top shelf spirits in addition to an extensive wine list which has an emphasis on wines from South America. They offer one of Costa Rica’s best selections of premium bourbons. For guests who prefer beer, they focus on a wide selection of Costa Rica’s national brands as well as craft beers that are brewed exclusively for the resort. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Photo Credit: Rancho Pacific
The Spa Tranquila is an excellent full service spa which provides a variety of massages and treatments. A wellness package is available. Contact the resort while booking your room if you would like this to be the focus of your stay.
There is a variety of water sports available including fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, waterfall rappelling, white water rafting, and whale watching. Onshore activities include hiking, horseback riding, ATV riding, and zip lining. There are also hiking trails and an awesome waterfall on the property. Many times, guests will encounter local wildlife including howler monkeys, toucans, and tree sloths along the way.
For days at the beach, the resort can help to ensure that guests have an awesome experience. They provide guests with beach chairs, a sun umbrella, and beach towels. They will even pack a cooler with lunch and cold drinks. The closest beaches are only a short drive away and the resort can guide you to the best ones.
Click here for a Resort Preview
How to Get Here
While the directions to Rancho Pacific are identical to those needed to get to Oxygen Jungle Villas except for the right turn needed at the sign which points you up the hill to Rancho Pacifico, this resort does not recommend guests driving themselves to the resort. This is due to a 4X4 being absolutely required to get up the steep 1.5 mile long gravel road to this resort. So most guests let the resort send a private driver for them. This is the easiest and most reliable option. However, if guests choose to drive themselves, they certainly can do that. The resort strongly recommends that guests allow the resort to book the car rental so guests are sure to get the correct type of car. They can also get the best rates.
To get to Rancho Pacifico, the resort suggests the following options:
If you are driving yourself:
- Follow the directions shown above for Oxygen Jungle Villas. You can also use Waze or Google Maps to find the resort. Typing in “Rancho Pacifico” gives excellent directions. As noted above for Oxygen, when you are on the bumpy dirt road and have driven past the “Catarata” (the small restaurant/bar that borders the waterfall), keep following the road as you cross a small bridge with a small stream. Stay to the right when you see a sign for “Rancho Pacifico” and turn right to go up the hill until you reach the resort.
If you are coming via a regional flight:
- Guests can take a scenic 20-minute flight on Sansa or Costa Rica Green Airways from San Jose International Airport to Quepos/Manuel Antonio Airport.
- Luggage weight is limited to 30 pounds per person not including a carry-on. Extra charges apply above 30 pounds.
- A 2-hour window from the time of arrival in San Jose is required. After exiting customs and the main terminal, the regional terminal is a short walk. Guests must be at the regional terminal at least 45 minutes before the flight.
- From Quepos/Manuel Antonio regional airport, the resort can arrange private ground transportation to Rancho Pacifico for $120 each way for up to 4 guests.
- Please keep in mind that regional flights can be affected by weather delays and schedule changes that would not affect ground transportation.
If you are using private ground transportation:
- This is the resort’s preferred option for speed, convenience, and reliability.
- The driver will meet you outside the airport (there is only one exit from the airport after baggage claim) and they will have an “RP” sign with your name on it.
- After meeting your driver, you will ride in a private air conditioned vehicle to Rancho Pacifico.
- Best of all, the resort can arrange for a rental car to be delivered to the resort for your use during your stay. Please note that the resort needs at least 48 hours to schedule this transportation and they will need your international flight itinerary. At the time of this writing, the price is $230 each way for up to 4 guests. Additional VIP ground transportation options such as in-vehicle food and beverages are available. Contact the resort prior to arriving for the most current information and pricing.
If you are traveling by private charter plane or by helicopter:
- The resort can help you to book a private plane or helicopter. Although these options can be the fastest way to get to the resort, please keep in mind that they are expensive and can be subject to weather delays that wouldn’t affect ground transportation. Contact the resort for the most current information and pricing.
Contact Information
Local Phone: (506) 8715-7397
U.S. Toll-Free: 1-800-460-2383
Email: Reservations@RanchoPacifico.com
Website: Rancho Pacifico
Secrets Papagayo All-Inclusive Resort
Secrets Papagayo is located on Arenillas Beach on the Gulf of Papagayo in the upper northwestern part of the country on the Pacific Coast. This wonderfully relaxing adults-only (18+) tropical hideaway is in a secluded location that is immersed in nature and offers stunning ocean and sunset views. It is a part of the Secrets Resorts & Spas brand which is owned by The World Of Hyatt. The resort is approximately a 20 minute drive from Liberia airport and once you arrive, the attentive staff will welcome you with a cocktail and a cool towel. Secrets Papagayo is all-inclusive.
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.com
This resort features 202 spacious guest rooms and suites, all of which are nonsmoking. Each has a private balcony or terrace and a minibar with 24-hour room service. The Preferred Club allows for guests to enjoy an enhanced level of luxury with its own 65 ocean view suites which feature additional privileges such as access to a private lounge, concierge service, upgraded bath amenities and even a pillow menu.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
The resort features seven restaurants and five bars, all of which will immerse guests in a relaxing coastal atmosphere. Dining options do not require reservations and include everything from an excellent casual buffet, a café, and a poolside grill to more formal and upscale choices for Pan Asian specialties and Italian classics. Romantic dining on the beach is also available. With 5 bars available, guests will never be far from refreshing beverages and cocktails of their choice. The swim-up and beach bars are very casual while the lobby bar allows guests to enjoy cocktails in a dressier and chic social setting. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Photo Credit: Secrets Papagayo
An excellent full service spa is available which features indoor and outdoor massages for single guests and for couples, a sauna and steam room, hydrotherapy, and revitalizing skin treatments. A full-service salon offers hair styling, manicures, and pedicures. The resort also features a complete onsite gym with yoga. Spa services are available at additional costs.
Activities include a variety of tours and excursions such as riding ATVs in the local mountains, rainforest and canopy tours, rum tastings, wine tastings, and cooking classes. There is a variety of non-motorized water sports available including paddle boarding and kayaking. Snorkeling, diving and fishing are available but are not always on a regular schedule. Be sure to call the resort when booking your trip to ask if these will be available during your stay. Also, due to the remote location of the resort, there are no places to visit that are within walking distance of the property. If you want to explore the local area, we suggest having a rental car. The nearby town of Coco is about 20 minutes away and features many shops, restaurants, and scenic spots to visit.
Photo Credit: Secrets Papagayo
Click here for a Resort Preview
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How to Get Here
Prior to traveling, contact the resort to book your shuttle service from the airport to the resort. After arriving at Liberia International Airport (LIR), the ride to the resort is approximately 25 minutes.
Contact Information
Phone:1.866.467.3273
Email: info.sepcr@secretsresorts.com
Website: Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica
Jardin del Eden Resort
The Jardin del Eden is a family-owned resort located on the northwestern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica in the town of Tamarindo in the Guanacaste region. This peaceful, beachside adults-only (18+) retreat sits in a beautiful garden setting which is only a short walk from the beach. A large variety of bars, restaurants, and shops are close to the resort property which makes this tropical retreat a wonderful place for guests who are looking for a truly personalized level of hospitality, much needed relaxation, and easy access to Tamarindo’s vibrant beach life. Jardin del Eden is partially inclusive as breakfast, dinner and certain wellness activities are included in the daily rate. Other meals and alcohol are not included.
Photo Credit: Jardin del Eden
The resort features 46 spacious rooms which are decorated with a focus on details that create a relaxing contemporary look. This includes the usage of a soothing color palette and modern artwork.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
The rooms are bright, open and airy with most having spectacular views and terraces. Each has a flat screen TV. Some rooms also have an outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace.
Photo Credit: Costaricaexperts.com
The Plumeria Restaurant is the resort’s only restaurant and it is known for serving excellent dishes. A daily breakfast buffet is included as is a wonderful three course gourmet dinner. The menu changes daily and is created using seasonal ingredients which focus on organic local produce, fresh local seafood, and traditional favorites which are a wonderful fusion of Latin and Mediterranean flavors.
Photo Credit: Jardin del Eden
The resort features a private garden with day beds and a plunge pool which is separate from the main pool area. There is also a spa which offers a variety of massages and treatments for additional costs. There is no onsite fitness center.
A wide variety of activities can be scheduled including watersports such as surfing, sport fishing, sailing, and scuba diving. There are also mangrove tours and tubing. Onshore activities include golf, horseback riding, canopy tours, zip lining, and ATV riding. Visits to the Arenal Volcano can also be arranged. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Click here for a Resort Preview
How to Get Here
The resort offers transportation from both Liberia International Airport (LIR) and from San Jose International Airport (SJO). Contact the resort prior to departure to arrange transportation as needed. Guests arriving at Liberia International Airport will have a 45 minute ride to the resort while those arriving at San Jose International Airport, which is 125 miles away from the resort, will have a 4 hour ride.
Contact Information
Hotel Phone: (506) 4070-0303
Reservations Phone: (506) 4032-0032
Email: reservations@jardindeleden.com
Website: Jardin del Eden
Nayara Springs Villas
Nayara Springs is an exclusive collection of private, luxury, rainforest villas located in the northern highlands of the country, inland between both coastlines. The resort is only ten minutes away from the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos which is in Arenal Volcano National Park, Alajuela Province. La Fortuna is known for its beautiful park and gardens. This resort is also only 30 minutes from most of the eco-excursions and adventures which are available for guests. Nayara Springs is truly an incredibly beautiful adults-only (18+) tropical escape. It is a part of Relais & Châteaux which is an international association of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants. Nayara Springs is not an all-inclusive resort.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
The resort features 35 beautifully appointed villas, each with an oversized plunge pool. These are individually fed by mineral hot springs which flow directly from the Arenal Volcano and allow for guests to enjoy the benefits of natural thermal waters in the privacy of their villa. The spacious rooms are decorated in a blend of modern and eclectic styles and feature king size beds, large windows which bring nature indoors, balconies which each having a hammock, and amazing private outdoor gardens with outdoor showers.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
For dining, the resort features a Michelin-star quality restaurant and a more casual lively Mediterranean bistro, both of which feature exquisite menus. Chefs expertly use seasonal produce and local ingredients to create flavorful sophisticated dishes. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of beverages and premium cocktails including beers, wines, and a large selection of coffees at either the swim-up bar, the wine bar, or the coffee bar.
Photo Credit: Nayara Springs
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
Guests can also enjoy excellent spa services which include a wide variety of massages, detoxifying treatments, and wellness experiences for couples. For activities, the resort has a staff of private guides available who take guests on nature walks, bird watching tours and visits to the hanging bridge. There are also zip lining excursions, white water rafting, mountain biking, rainforest canopy tours, waterfall rappelling, and hiking the Arenal Volcano. There is also an onsite fitness center.
Click here for a Resort Preview
How to Get Here
Guests can arrive at either Liberia International Airport (LIR) or San Jose International Airport (SJO). Contact the resort prior to arriving to schedule transportation. Drivers will greet you upon arrival. Both airports are approximately a 3 hours away and many visitors have commented on how beautiful the drive is from either airport. The drive from Liberia International Airport usually is faster because there is less traffic.
Contact Information
Local Phone: (506) 2479 1600
US Phone: +1 888 332 2961
Email: reservations@nayararesorts.com
Website: Nayara Springs
Final Thoughts on Costa Rica Adults-Only Resorts
Now that we have reviewed these 5 amazing tropical escapes, we strongly encourage our readers to ask themselves a few questions prior to booking vacations in Costa Rica because here, the resort environments and activity levels can vary greatly. Actually, you should really ask yourself these questions when it comes to booking trips to any tropical destination in the world.
When it comes to Costa Rica, these questions are especially important because as you have just seen, not every resort is just steps from the beach with lots of nearby places for you to enjoy. Some are remote and detached which is not something that everyone wants. So if you really want to experience the vacation that you have been dreaming of and don’t want to end up being disappointed after spending your hard-earned time and money, take a few minutes to consider the following:
Why do you want to go to Costa Rica? What experiences are you really looking for?
- Costa Rica offers many different ways to relax and to experience its natural wonders. People come from all over the world for romance, adventure, and for wellness. All of the resorts featured here offer those but in completely different environments. As mentioned above, all of these resorts have a wide variety of land activities and watersports available which is enough for many people. But not all of these resorts are located in areas that offer nightlife and party atmospheres and things like shopping and golf. So give some thought to what else you might want to do both at the resort and when you are out exploring nearby.
Many people dream of experiencing rainforests and jungles. But what exactly does that involve?
- When staying at places like Oxygen Jungle Villas and Rancho Pacifico, luxurious settings and amenities await. There is no question about that. But nature itself is awaiting too and it might just interrupt your expectations.
- Howler monkeys are early risers and will try to wake you before the sun is up.
- When it rains, things can get really wet and muddy.
- You will see many kinds of insects, both big and small along with small reptiles outdoors. But sometimes, they find their way indoors too. Some people might really have an issue with that.
- Remote resorts often have safe yet very bumpy access roads. Very slow, bone-jarring rides are not for everyone.
- These are all parts of the rainforest and jungle experience, no matter how luxurious and 5-star the resort might be. You need to decide if you really are OK with these scenarios or if you need to stay in a more developed and easily accessible location.
What amenities do you require?
- When people travel to luxury tropical resorts, many of them want to escape from the daily reminders and noises of life. That means having no TVs or telephones in their rooms. But for others, those things are a part of the vacation. This doesn’t just apply to Costa Rica, it applies no matter where you go. Also, some resorts do not have air conditioning. That can be an issue for some people but not for others. The higher you are in elevation does mean that air temperatures are generally cooler which for some resorts works out really well. But for some guests, having actual AC is a must. Again, these are things to consider prior to booking anything.
What weather conditions do you prefer?
- This is something we have encountered so many times: People traveling to different parts of the world and not doing their homework first about rainy seasons, dry seasons, cold weather, hot weather, etc. And then they end up having a miserable time! We have witnessed it firsthand and it is so preventable. While there is no guarantee that the weather will be just the way you want it every single day, no matter where you go. Just know that when visiting the tropics, there are almost always two distinct seasons, rainy and dry. There really is a difference between the two so it is very important to research your preferred location before setting foot on a plane.
- Regarding Costa Rica, December through April offers the most sunny days with only occasional rain. However, May through November tends to have partly sunny mornings and then many rainy afternoons, sometimes with noticeable thunderstorms. For those staying at beach resorts, rainy days are typically not what you want. But if you are staying at a rainforest retreat, the rain and thunder only add to the overall experience and many guests love that.
So we hope that this brief Q&A offered here in addition to the resort information we have provided will help you to decide if Costa Rica is the place for you. Again, these questions should be carefully considered for any country you are planning to visit because they will only help to ensure that you have the best possible vacation. Costa Rica is truly an awesome place to visit and it is so well worth it to go out an explore where possible. With a bit of research beforehand and knowing what you want, this beautiful country, which is so very close to the US, is the perfect place for that tropical escape!
