If you were trying to decide between a getaway to the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea. In Costa Rica, you can have both! At the narrowest part of the country, there are only 75 miles between the two glistening bodies of water. The journey from one side to the other contains cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Costa Rica is a popular destination for family vacations and rightfully so. The country is safe, friendly, and easily accessible from the United States. There’s so much to see and do, every member of the family will be captivated by this Central American gem. There are active volcanoes, lush rainforests, impressive beaches, and a large selection of all inclusive family friendly resorts.
Bringing the family to Costa Rica for a little fun in the sun might just be what the doctor ordered. Who couldn’t use a dose of Vitamin D, tropical adventures, and warm weather?! Plus, there’s nothing quite like shaking up the routine, getting on a plane, and exploring a new country and culture.
In this Resort Insider article, we’re on a mission to help you find the best all inclusive family friendly resort in Costa Rica. Keep reading to discover the perfect one for your next family vacation.
The 9 Best All Inclusive Family Friendly Resorts in Costa Rica
If you’ve been looking for your next adventure, look no further than Costa Rica. Here’s our curated selection of the 9 best all inclusive family friendly resorts in Costa Rica.
Keep reading for a full breakdown with in-depth details on these Costa Rican resorts or discover them yourself by clicking the links below!
- Barceló Tambor
- Dreams Las Mareas
- Occidental Tamarindo
- Villas Playa Samara Beach Front Resort
- The Westin Reserva Conchal
- CC Beach Front Papagayo
- Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection
- Hotel Riu Palace
- Best Western Jaco Beach All-Inclusive Resort
Pack your suitcases, stock up on reef-safe sunscreen, and don’t forget your swimsuits. Let’s jump into the best family friendly all inclusive resorts in Costa Rica!
| Name | Phone Number | Number of Reviews | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barceló Tambor | +506 2683 0303 | 16702 | 4.7 / 5 |
| Dreams Las Mareas | +506 2690 2400 | 4133 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Occidental Tamarindo | +506 2690 9600 | 9868 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Villas Playa Samara Beach Front Resort | +506 2503 1905 | 735 | 3.8 / 5 |
| The Westin Reserva Conchal | +506 2654 3500 | 3561 | 4.5 / 5 |
| CC Beach Front Papagayo | +506 2586 7300 | 518 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection | +506 4703 1000 | 2224 | 4.2 / 5 |
| Hotel Riu Palace | +506 2681 2300 | 5506 | 4.3 / 5 |
| Best Western Jaco Beach All-Inclusive Resort | +506 2643 1000 | 4191 | 4.3 / 5 |
Provincia de Puntarenas, Tambor, Playa, 11500, Costa Rica
Do you dream of volcanic beaches with your toes in black sands while admiring the blue ocean ahead with lush tropical hills behind you?!
These vacation dreams are a reality at the 5-star Barceló Tambor. The resort’s idyllic natural surroundings are enhanced by premium amenities, professional staff, and plentiful activities.
If you’re looking for a beachfront family-friendly all inclusive resort with an array of outdoor activities, you’ll want to put Barceló Tambor at the top of your list. Come and discover a new kind of paradise!
Why We Love It:
Fall asleep to the waves gently rolling onto the Pacific Coast beach. Located on Tambor Beach, in the beautiful Ballena Bay, the 402 hotel rooms are equipped with air conditioning and picturesque views of Costa Rica from private terraces and balconies.
Relax in the hot tub after working out at the fitness center which offers aerobics, dance, and stretching classes. If the gym isn’t your thing, head over to the three tennis courts, a football pitch, a volleyball court, or any of the outdoor activities (yes, there’s water sports).
The resort is conveniently close to the area’s most famous spots for scuba diving, Isla Tortuga and Cabo Blanco. So, if you wish, you can spend your entire day outside having family fun in the Costa Rican sun.
Inside Scoop:
The Barceló Tambor is a coast lover’s dream surrounded by gardens and palm trees.
The daily excursion list is long and includes golfing, deep-sea fishing, and horseback riding. Once the sun sets, stroll over to the El Rancho Nightclub for nightly entertainment, live music, and handcrafted cocktails.
One of the best hotels for children in the area, there are fun activities around every turn from archery and a climbing wall to a trampoline and an adventure playground. It might be hard to peel them away from the resort! The designated children’s areas include a children’s pool with palm tree fountains, a giant chess game, a Teen’s House, a bungee trampoline, and a videogame room.
We know you’re wondering about the food! Guests can enjoy three daily buffet meals or make reservations at the a la carte restaurants. The gastronomic options span local and international cuisine accompanied by exotic drinks featuring domestic liquors.
The average room rate is about $200 a night per person.
The Green Side:
The beach at Barceló Tambor has an Ecological Blue Flag status that guarantees the maintenance and cleanliness of the beachfront.
The resort has been awarded the Tourism Sustainability Certificate and the Crystal Certificate for its sustainable and eco-friendly efforts around waste management, energy, and greenhouse gasses.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa Tambor, Nicoya, Paquera, Puntarenas.
The Tambor Airport (TMU) is a 2-minute drive.
The Cóbano Airport (ACO) is a 21-minute drive.
The Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is a 4-hour and 17-minute trip.
There is free self-parking at the resort.
Guanacaste Province, Providence, Barrio Los Pinos, 51001, Costa Rica
Breathe in the fresh sea air and pamper yourself at the Dreams Las Mareas. Tucked into the mountains, this luxury property has mesmerizing ocean views and private beach access.
There are three bars, seven restaurants, and a coffee shop for your gastronomic pleasures. Your cups will be filled with top-shelf drinks as your palate takes a gourmet journey.
Dreams Las Mareas is the ideal place to vacation if you’re in the mood for secluded beach vibes and luxurious swim out suites while surrounded by wildlife and nature.
Oh, and it’s pet-friendly here too! So everyone in the family can enjoy a beautiful vacation in Costa Rica!
Why We Love It:
This top-rated resort has activities for every age, interest, and passion. Embark upon a white water rafting adventure, go hiking in the rainforest, or rent bicycles to cruise around the town.
If you’re in the mood for relaxing, there’s plenty of room for that on the agenda as well. Grab a beach towel and your favorite book and head to one of the two swimming pools. When it’s time for a refreshing refill, walk to the poolside bar or swim up to the bar. The little ones can play all day at the designated children’s pool and the playground.
Inside Scoop:
Situated on the palm-studded beachfront of Playa El Jobo, the 447 soundproof rooms are equipped with 24-hour room service, premium bedding, air conditioning, and furnished balconies. If you’re feeling fancy then upgrade to a swim-out suite. Por que no?!
Enjoy a lazy afternoon in this slice of paradise while watching the monkeys swing in the Guanacaste trees. Find moments of zen at the full-service spa, the ten treatment rooms offer a wide range of services from a hydrotherapy circuit and sauna to deep-tissue massages and a Turkish bath.
The average room rate is around $800 a person per night.
The Green Side:
The resort is in sync with nature as lizards and monkeys are on the property. Dreams Las Mareas protects the surrounding wildlife on land and at sea; this includes five species of sea turtles.
The resort supports the areas community through locally owned ecotours, providing English classes, donating school supplies, and participating in beach cleanups.
The Dreams Las Mareas received the Preferred by Nature Mark and meets the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria due to its commitment to reducing its environmental impact through recycling, resource conservation, and no-straw policy.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa El Jobo, La Cruz, Guanacaste.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is a 97-minute drive.
The resort offers a 24-hour round-trip airport shuttle available for an additional charge at scheduled times. There is free on-site parking.
Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
The jungle meets the sea at this 5-star hotel. Situated in northwest Costa Rica the Occidental Tamarindo is the perfect holiday getaway for the family.
Calling all surfers and nature lovers! Surrounded by beauty on the shores of Langosta Tamarindo Beach, guests will experience the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and comfort. This is the spot for sun-soaked vacation bliss where every member of the family will be treated like gold.
Come and see what Pura Vida is all about.
Why We Love It:
This resort offers a brilliant mix of relaxation and fun. There are plenty of free perks including beach cabanas, beach towels, and beach loungers.
The 198 rooms were renovated in 2010. Unlimited dining and drinks can be enjoyed at the two bars and three restaurants.
The kids will feel right at home with a Kid’s Club, a designated children’s pool, and a playground. In case you want a few moments alone, use the available babysitting services.
Inside Scoop:
Entertain yourself however you desire! Go dancing in the nightclub, hit the tennis courts, or embark on an ecotour. There are plenty of adventures to be had from scuba diving to horseback riding.
After working up a sweat at the gym relax your muscles in the sauna, spa tub, or steam room. Treat yourself to therapeutic and beauty treatments at the full-service spa. Choose between outdoor treatment areas, thalassotherapy, facials, body wraps, hot stone massages, and more.
Kick your shoes off and stay awhile!
The average room rate is around $160 per person a night.
The Green Side:
In a continued effort to be an eco-conscious resort, Occidental Tamarindo reinvests at least 10% of its profits back into the community and sustainability efforts. It runs a comprehensive food waste policy and recycling program. A minimum of 80% of the lighting is from LEDs.
To be better to the staff, guests, and environment, the resort uses eco-friendly cleaning products. In an effort to reduce single-use plastics, the use of water dispensers is encouraged.
Meatless Mondays are possible because you’ll find plenty of vegan and vegetarian dining options. Reduce your emissions with an electric car rental; there’s an on-site electric car charging station!
The resort uses locally owned ecotour companies to highlight and support the local culture while offering ecosystem education.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa Langosta, Tamarindo, Guanacaste, 1150.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is an 88-minute drive.
There is an airport shuttle (surcharge) and free onsite parking.
Provincia de Guanacaste, Sámara, Costa Rica
Are you looking for a private villa surrounded by nature? If so, you’ll want to head this way.
Villas Playa Samara is the perfect place to recharge your batteries and return home refreshed inside and out. This smaller resort provides a tranquil and serene all inclusive family vacation experience with extra attention to the details and service that larger resorts often don’t provide.
This beachfront resort has deluxe rooms with stylish decor, great views, modern amenities, and top-rated hospitality.
Why We Love It:
Does the idea of a large resort with 1000s of people intimidate you? We get it. Villas Playa Samara is a smaller resort with only 63 rooms and two restaurants and bars. There’s still plenty to see and do just with less people around!
Get outside with various water sports, fishing, surfing, or golfing lessons. Play a game of pool, enjoy a yoga class, or hop on a free bicycle and see the sights.
When it comes to fun activities, the kids won’t be left behind! Let the children splash around in the kid’s pool and make friends in the game room. Babysitting services are also available (for an additional charge).
Inside Scoop:
The resort partners with local tour companies, Samara Explorers and Monkey Tours Samara, for exciting experiences: jungle adrenaline tours, ATV tours, horseback riding, and waterfall adventures.
If tours aren’t your thing, you can get around the area on your own with a segway or moped rental. Catch some waves, improve your tennis game, or just relax oceanside with a book in hand.
It’s your vacation! If you want your biggest physical effort to be swimming up to the bar, that’s okay!
Average room rates are around $220 a person per night.
The Green Side:
The Villas Playa Samara Beach Front Resort is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices and uses energy-efficient lighting and environmentally friendly cleaning products.
The resort works with local communities and employs local ecotour companies. The environment is cared for with sea turtle conservation efforts and beach clean-ups.
There is an onsite electric car charging station.
Travel Time:
Address: Samara-Guanacaste, Sámara, Guanacaste.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is a 2-hour and 30-minute drive.
It’s 30 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO).
The resort offers an airport pick-up shuttle for a surcharge. There is free onsite parking.
Guanacaste Province, Santa Cruz, 50308, Costa Rica
How does a soothing escape surrounded by pristine beaches and 2,400 acres of exotic greenery sound?!
It sounds pretty good to us! But what could make this scenario even better? How about an eco-friendly resort that’s home to one of the largest pools in Central America?!
Guests will find all this and more at The Westin Reserva Conchal. Go ahead and make your stay extra special with an upgraded room, a romantic dinner, or local adventures.
If you’ve been searching for an all inclusive family friendly resort with a conscious ecofootprint, it’s here!
Why We Love It:
Come and create unforgettable memories. Nestled on a gorgeous beachfront property, this 5-star hotel has 406 rooms boasting top-notch amenities, housekeeping, and free WiFi.
Unwind in style to exclusive treatments at the spa while the children tire themselves out in the Costa Rican sunshine! Live your best vacation life in lounge chairs shaded by umbrellas near the lagoon-style pool and whirlpool.
Walk to the ocean with the direct beach surrounded by lush forests. These are all the ingredients for a perfect vacation day.
Inside Scoop:
Energize your mornings with the free buffet breakfast! Afterward, do whatever you’d like: head to a yoga class, snorkel in the Pacific Ocean, or rent a bike and cruise around town. Get to know the beauty of Costa Rica any way you’d like!
Sports lovers will thrive here with exercise classes, a fitness studio, and tennis courts. Golf fans can tee up at the 18-hole golf course, take golf lessons, and shop in the pro golf shop.
Post adventures relax your sore muscles in the sauna, the steam room, and the hydrotherapy jacuzzi pool. Indulge in unlimited drinks and dining at nine restaurants and several bars as your tastebuds enjoy a gastronomic journey from Mexico and Asia to Northern Italy.
Average room rates are around $450 a night per person.
The Green Side:
The Westin Reserva Conchal is an eco-friendly resort with a food waste system, a recycling program, and energy conservation efforts. It uses at least 80% LED lighting.
There’s a rooftop garden and the restaurants offer vegan and vegetarian dishes. The coffee stirrers are biodegradable and there’s no styrofoam packaging on-site.
The resort has electric car charging stations.
The ecotours are locally owned and operated.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa Conchal S/N, Cabo Velas, Guanacaste, 232-5150.
It’s a 72-minute drive from the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).
Free self and valet parking included.
A roundtrip airport shuttle is available for an additional charge.
Provincia de Guanacaste, Playa Panama, 50503, Costa Rica
Tucked onto Panama Beach in Papagayo Bay, surrounded by 22 acres of forest, the CC Beach Front Papagayo is a stylish resort engulfed in the beauty of nature.
This upscale all inclusive boutique hotel sits on black sand beaches. Self-care can slide to the top of the list because balancing time outdoors with exclusive treatments is easy peasy. After a morning swim in the ocean, treat yourself to a body scrub or an in-room massage.
CC Beach Front Papagayo blends remote luxury retreat vibes with action-packed itineraries because you can have it both ways! This place provides the ultimate family friendly all inclusive vacation experience in Costa Rica!
Adventures are all around: zip-line forest canopies, explore underwater worlds, and horseback ride on the beach. Whatever you decide to do, it’ll be done surrounded by unlimited beauty.
Why We Love It:
This smaller boutique hotel has 50 spacious rooms spread across five separate buildings. The rooms boast dark wood ceilings, tile flooring, private patios, air conditioning, rainfall showers, and laptop-friendly workspaces.
The little ones will live their best lives with toys, games, a Kid’s Pool, and a playground. The adults will enjoy the two poolside bars, golf lessons, a casino shuttle, and a full-service spa.
Bring the dog too because this pet-friendly resort welcomes all the members of the family!
Inside Scoop:
Here, adventure seekers are in the right place with helicopter tours, boat tours, sailing, and scuba diving. Head out on your own mission, there’s paddleboarding, surfing, hiking, and biking to choose from.
Savor local gastronomy and international flavors at the Gulf Views Restaurant. Take the family on a private picnic or hop in the area shuttle to explore the town.
Average room rates are around $420 a person per night.
The Green Side:
CC Beach Front Papagayo was constructed in 2004 with eco-friendly building practices.
Vegan and vegetarian dishes are on the menu. The ecotours are locally owned and operated.
Travel Time:
Address: Papagayo Gulf, Panama Beach, Sardinal, Guanacaste, 50503.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is a 23-minute drive.
There’s free onsite parking and a 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (for a surcharge).
Guanacaste Province, Culebra, Costa Rica
Vacation like a superstar at this beachfront property. Situated at the base of the Papagayo Gulf in Guanacaste, vacationers will have a blockbuster experience in Costa Rica.
Close to some of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions, guests can easily access Guanacaste surf sites, tropical rainforests, and volcanoes.
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica knows how to show guests a good time. This all inclusive resort is ready to roll out the red carpet for every member of your family while boasting a convenient location, quality entertainment, and tasty international cuisine.
Discover what the Pura Vida way of life is all about, Planet Hollywood style!
Why We Love It:
If you’re looking to eat healthy, you’ve landed in the right place! The seven restaurants offer smoothies, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Sip on signature cocktails being served at five bars – we love the PH Purple Haze.
Mix things up with various dining options, have Mexican for lunch, sushi for dinner, and Italian in between. Por que no?!
When the food coma strikes the private poolside cabanas are great for midday naps. Burn those excess carbs dancing in the disco or at the fully equipped fitness center.
The kids will feel like stars surrounded by Hollywood memorabilia, on the playground, in the Splash zone, and at the pool.
Inside Scoop:
Located near the famous Playas del Coco and Playa Tamarindo beaches, they’ll be no shortage of fun in the sun. Enjoy water sports by day and entertainment by night.
Make the most of your vacation with 292 suites, a beach bar, a coffee shop, and a poolside bar. Shop until you drop in designer stores and treat yourself to room service at any hour because you’re officially off the clock.
Average room rates are around $350 a person per night.
The Green Side:
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica uses energy-efficient lighting and solar energy. It reduces paper consumption, has a recycling program, and uses biodegradable cleaning supplies.
This is a plastic straw and plastic water bottle-free zone (use the water refill stations). The electronic bracelets provide a keyless room entry.
The resort participates in beach clean-ups and eco-focused experiences.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa Manzanillo Bahia Culebra, Nacascolo.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is a 30-minute drive.
Free valet and self-parking onsite.
Free roundtrip airport transfers are available.
Guanacaste Province, Sardinal, Costa Rica
Tucked onto the edge of Matapalo, Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica is a stylish all inclusive family friendly resort in Guanacaste, a less tropical and drier area of Costa Rica.
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica offers guests a well rounded vacation experience with a little something special for everyone in the family. Come see a different side of Costa Rica while being treated like royalty.
Fill your days with windsurfing, kayaking, or beach volleyball. At night, head to the RiuParty Nightclub for dancing, DJs, live performances, and unlimited drinks.
The helpful staff can assist in curating the vacation of your dreams alongside four outdoor swimming pools, a swim-up bar, a jacuzzi, and a wellness center.
Why We Love It:
Directly on Matapalo Beach, this is an ideal spot for diving and fishing in the Pacific Ocean waters. The ecotours bring guests up close and personal with nature on volcano excursions, sailing experiences, and snorkeling adventures.
Close to the National Park Rincon de la Vieja, experience a different side of the country where the vegetation resembles the African savanna with plains and dry forests.
The waterpark is a perfect place for the little ones to slide into their best lives. There are babysitting services, a kid’s pool, and a playground.
Inside Scoop:
Sweat it out at the 24-hour gym or on the tennis court and recover at the spa, sauna, and steam room. Explore the town in a limo and or town car.
Make the most of the unlimited dining and drinks at the four restaurants, bar, coffee shop, poolside bar, and swim-up bar.
Once you arrive, everything you need for a great vacation is here!
The 538 rooms boast premier amenities including 24-hour room service, laptop-compatible safes, free WiFi, housekeeping, and air conditioning.
Average room rates are around $450 a person per night.
The Green Side:
Hotel Riu Palace has a GOLD certification for the Travelife Sustainability System. It uses 100% renewable energy and at least 80% lighting from LEDs.
There is a comprehensive food waste policy, no plastic coffee stirrers, and no plastic straws. The bathrooms are stocked with eco-friendly toiletries.
Enjoy locally-owned and organized tours and activities that support the local culture while getting education about the ecosystem.
Vegan and vegetarian dining options are on the menu.
Travel Time:
Address: Playa Matapalo- Sardinal, Carrillo, Sardinal, Guanacaste.
It’s a 45-minute drive to the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).
Free onsite parking.
Provincia de Puntarenas, Jacó, 61101, Costa Rica
In the mood for zip lining, crocodile watching, or surf lessons?! The central location of the Best Western Jaco Beach Resort places guests close to all of Costa Rica’s best. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with a side of fun and adventure, you’ll want to check in here.
Close to the Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park, the jungle calls! At the resort, you’ll find something for every family member from a children’s pool and beach volleyball to fitness and cooking classes.
Soak up the Costa Rican sun and return to air-conditioned rooms with personal safes, free WiFi, and wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean.
Why We Love It:
Located in the Central Pacific region, the resort is just an hour and a half from downtown San Jose. There’s plenty to do in the surrounding areas but guests could be fully entertained without ever leaving the resort.
There are two outdoor pools, volleyball courts, a free water park, shopping, and a pool table.
Refuel at the restaurant, El Puerto, serving international dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Inside Scoop:
Close to popular activities, guests can experience it all from treetop zip line tours and crocodile watching on the Tarcoles River to bird watching in Carara National Park and hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park.
Head to the famous Jaco Beach, catch some waves, and go for a snorkel! The bike rentals allow guests to easily explore the area.
There’s a garden, a beach front snack bar, and beach toys for the kids.
Average room rates are around $100 a person per night.
The Green Side:
The Best Western Jaco Beach Resort adheres to the country’s sustainable efforts with beach cleanups and actions to protect the environment.
The ecotours are locally owned and operated.
Travel Time:
Address: Pastor Diaz Ave, Jaco, Puntarenas, 61101.
It’s a 96-minute drive to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO).
Free onsite parking is included. There is a 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (for an extra surcharge).
Thanks for Checking Out Our Guide to the 9 Best All Inclusive Family Friendly Resorts in Costa Rica
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide to the 9 best all inclusive family friendly resorts in Costa Rica. We hope this guide inspires and motivates you to start planning your family trip to Costa Rica!
These 9 resorts offer a little something special for every kind of traveler from lagoon pools and surf lessons to gastronomic adventures.
No matter if you’re adventure seekers, nature lovers, and luxury resort queens, it can all be yours in Costa Rica. So, if you’re looking to escape from cold winter days, busy work schedules, or change up the daily routine, an escape to Costa Rica is a good idea! There’s a resort experience waiting for you.
No matter where you decide to vacation, we’re wishing you tropical adventures, breathtaking beaches, and core memories!
We love traveling as much as you do so be sure to check out our other guides because we cover all inclusive resorts all around the world!
