Heather H.
Dreaming of monkeys, surf, and stunning jungle sunsets without draining your savings? Costa Rica is a favorite TMS destination and offers a slice of paradise that’s surprisingly accessible when you use points and miles. There are some incredible hotels across Costa Rica where your rewards can go a long way. Here are ten great hotel stays on points in Costa Rica. Let’s dive into where you can stay in pura vida style.

Alex’s family at the Andaz Papagayo.
It’s no secret that Andaz Papagayo is a top pick with the Squad, and for good reason. Perched on Costa Rica’s exclusive Papagayo Peninsula, this eco-luxury resort offers stunning bay views, lush rainforest surroundings, and a stylish vibe. Guests consistently rave about the attentive service, thoughtful touches like complimentary mini-bar snacks, and the wide range of on-site activities that are offered.
With two private beaches, one only accessible by boat to the laid-back Andaz Beach House, and multiple infinity pools, relaxing is effortless. While the littles are off enjoying the kids’ club, the adults can indulge in cliffside treatments at the Onda Spa. After a day of family fun at the beach or pool, you can refuel at one of the resort’s three diverse restaurants, each offering something to satisfy everyone.
Cash rates at this property often exceed $600-$1,000 per night, making this property a high-value redemption, especially if you’re able to reserve during peak season! Rooms can be booked from 40K points per night for a king room for weeknights and 45K points per night on Fridays and Saturdays.

Want to read about Alex’s family trip to the Andaz? Check out our post: Multi-generational trip to Costa Rica on Points. And read about Pam’s experience at Andaz Papagayo in our blog post: Points and Miles to Costa Rica.

Pam’s first view of Secrets Papagayo.
Secrets Papagayo is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort that is located above Playa Arenilla on Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula. The property has over 200 bungalow-style suites, each with a furnished terrace or private balcony.
There are seven restaurants to choose from, offering both buffet style and à la carte options. Best of all? No reservations and none of those annoying all-inclusive wrist bands you see at other resorts. And since you don’t have to worry about that wristband tan-line, there are two pools to relax at or a calm water beach that’s perfect for lounging and snorkeling.
Rooms are available from 30K Hyatt points per night for a Bungalow Suite King or 39K to 60K for a King Suite with club access. Read about Pam’s experience at Secrets Papagayo in our blog post: Points and Miles to Costa Rica.

Kurà is an ultra-luxury, adults-only boutique resort located high in the Uvita rainforest overlooking Ballena National Park. There are only eight suites at this property, which offer both privacy and incredible views. Some suites include private infinity pools, oversized balconies, and luxury spa baths. This resort crafts all your meals to order and can accommodate any special dietary needs.
If you’re looking for a forest-immersed stay that’s both quiet, restorative, and has sweeping jungle-to-ocean views, this property could be for you. I found rooms starting from 86K points per night for a Junior Suite.


Photo from Westin Reserva Conchal Resort.
The Westin Reserva Conchal is a 2,400-acre beachfront all-inclusive property just 45 minutes from Liberia Airport. Known for having one of the largest resort pools in Central America, the lagoon-style pool winds through gardens and features a kids’ area and a swim-up bar. Guests staying in Club Rooms will have access to the adults-only pool, complete with Bali beds.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones II. With numerous dining options throughout the property, making reservations after check-in is highly recommended. Given the size of the resort, you’ll definitely get your steps in, though golf carts and resort shuttles are available when it’s time to give your feet a break. Depending on the time of year, you can get rooms starting at 124,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Screenshot from Marriott.

Photo from W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal Resort.
The W Costa Rica offers a high-energy experience, featuring eclectic art and bold architecture. From the beehive-inspired lobby to living art installations, this property will provide you with an Instagram-worthy environment.
There are two pools onsite, including a lively adults-only Wet Deck with a sunken bar and hot tubs, as well as a more relaxed family-friendly pool. With five on-site restaurants and bars, there’s no shortage of dining and cocktail options, though having a rental car is a great idea if you want to explore nearby towns and sample authentic local cuisine. This resort is set within a preserved mangrove forest, providing opportunities to see howler monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds without leaving the property.
I was able to find rooms starting at 73,000 points per night, though rates do vary by season. Suite Night Awards or points + cash may be a smart way to upgrade to an Ocean View Suite.


Photo from Marriott site.
This property is set within a lush rainforest and is about 90 minutes from San José International Airport. The resort offers accommodations with ocean and forest-view balconies, a large pool, an onsite casino, and an 18-hole championship golf course.
There are six on-property restaurants, including a convenient grab-and-go spot for early beach days. There is also a kids’ club for the littles and daily poolside activities including yoga, cooking, and Spanish lessons. You’ll get direct access to Playa Hermosa beach and many forest trails. Rooms start at 50,000 points per night but vary by season.

Photo from Marriott.

Photo from Marriott.
Botánika Osa is a sophisticated eco-resort tucked deep within Costa Rica’s remote Osa Peninsula. Accommodations range from stylish studios to spacious multi-bedroom suites featuring full kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and oversized terraces that invite the outdoors in. A lagoon-style pool winds through tropical gardens, complete with cabanas perfect for unwinding in nature.
One of the resort’s standout features is the onsite Botánika Science & Nature Center, which offers guided wildlife tours, sea turtle conservation programs, and a museum showcasing over 6,000 different insect species. Dining options range from elevated farm-to-table Costa Rican cuisine to relaxed, casual fare. For those seeking a serene, slow-paced escape immersed in nature, Botánika is an unforgettable retreat. Rates start at 80,000 points per night.

Photo from the Hilton site.

Pam and Alex at Tabacon.
Another TMS favorite, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a lush oasis tucked into the rainforest foothills at the base of the Arenal Volcano. A naturally flowing thermal river winds through the property, feeding over a dozen mineral-rich hot springs that offer one of the most rejuvenating thermal experiences in all of Costa Rica.
The resort’s spa takes relaxation to the next level, with treatments offered in open-air bungalows surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Accommodations range from your traditional standard rooms to spacious suites with stunning views of the volcano. While this resort is especially popular with couples and wellness-focused travelers, Tabacón is also a fantastic option for families seeking a unique retreat. Rooms starting at 80,000 points per night. Check out Pam’s review of this property!


Photo from Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica, Punta Cacique Resort.
The Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica, Punta Cacique, brings a new level of luxury to the Guanacaste coastline—and we really mean new because it only opened in Spring 2025. Perched high on volcanic cliffs overlooking Playa Penca and the Pacific Ocean, the resort is just a 25-minute drive from Liberia Airport. The property features beautifully designed guest rooms and suites, many offering private plunge pools and panoramic ocean or jungle views.
You’ll have your pick of six dining venues, including elevated Costa Rican fare, fresh seafood, a casual bakery and café, a poolside grill, and a stylish bar with sunset views. Wellness is also front and center here, as the resort features a 17,000-square-foot spa inspired by the natural cenotes of the region. It offers a range of treatments using local ingredients, plus a yoga deck, movement studio, and outdoor thermal pools.
Despite its adults-will-love-it vibe, the resort also caters to families with a kids’ and teens’ club, making sure everyone has their own space to explore and unwind. Rooms at this property start at 120,000 points per night.

Photo from the Hilton site.

Photo from Hllton.
Tucked away in the remote canyons of Guanacaste, Rio Perdido is one of those hidden gems that makes it feel like you’ve truly escaped. This boutique eco-resort, part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, is built around a naturally heated river that winds through a private 1,500-acre reserve. The accommodations here are minimalist in the best way. Modern bungalows are raised above the forest floor, each with floor-to-ceiling windows, breezy decks, and outdoor showers. You’re surrounded by nature, but you’re not roughing it.
The thermal river is the heart of the experience. Wander down stone paths to soak in warm mineral-rich waters or slather on volcanic mud for a natural spa treatment. The property also features geothermal pools, including one with a swim-up bar. For adventurers, you can go ziplining across the canyon, tube down the river, or hit the 20+ miles of mountain biking trails.
Dining is casual with a strong Costa Rican influence. What makes Rio Perdido special is its balance. It’s adventurous but peaceful, rustic but refined. It’s the kind of place where you can zipline in the morning and sip wine in a hot spring by afternoon. Rooms start at 90,000 points per night.
Make sure to read our blog post, Review of Rio Perdido, to see what Jess thought of this property!

Craving cocktails in an infinity pool? Monkey sightings from your balcony? A soak in steamy volcanic hot springs? Yeah, we thought so. The best part? These hotels let you live the pura vida life all on points. From lush jungle retreats to beachfront escapes, Costa Rica makes it easy to have a dream getaway.
Have a favorite Costa Rica hotel you’ve booked with points? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to add it to my list!
Friday Family Vacation to Costa Rica
Podcast #65: How Points Made Costa Rica Affordable for a Family of Seven
Podcast #129: Costa Rica Spring Break


Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities. American Express is a Travel Mom Squad advertiser, but we always show the best public offer even when we don’t earn a commission. Terms Apply.
Advertiser Disclosure: Travel Mom Squad has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Travel Mom Squad and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. This compensation may impact how or where products appear on this site. Travel Mom Squad has not reviewed all available credit card offers on this site.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
be the first to comment
Responses are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.