Costa Rica is the most visited country in Central America, and it’s easy to see why. The country boasts some of the most incredible beaches, an expansive biodiversity from dense rainforest to forested mountains and, of course, year round delightful weather.
Not only that, but Costa Rica has some of the friendliest locals who love to share their culture with tourists. If you really want to immerse yourself in the culture of Costa Rica, staying in a plain old hotel room just doesn’t cut the mustard. I mean, with so much incredible nature, world-class beaches and quaint colonial towns, why stay in a hotel when a historic villa or beach house is available?
Airbnbs in Costa Rica are the best way to experience the true essence of the country. They are usually located in the best locations, allowing you access to the countries diverse landscape right from your doorstep.
You’ll find beach shacks, historic homes, treehouses, villas, eco-lodges, and so much more. In fact, there are so many options, that sifting through the variety is a long-winded and daunting task. No matter, because I’m here to help.
In this guide, I’ll be showing you 15 of the best Costa Rica Airbnbs, suitable for any type of traveler. Ready to get your feet wet? Let’s not waste any more time and take a look at the best Airbnbs in Costa Rica.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Costa Rica
Boho Chic Loft with magnificent views
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Gym
- > Swimming pool
Apartment near the airport
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Pool
- > Close to Everything
Villa close to the beach with pool
- > $$$$
- > 19 Guests
- > Concierge
- > Beach access
Industrial Loft in Jaco
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Near beach
- > Close to entertainment
Hut in a Quiet Location
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Private hot tub
- > Free parking
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What to Expect from Airbnbs in Costa Rica
Have you polished your surfboard and packed your diving gear yet? Well, before you do that, it’s a good idea to think about where to stay in Costa Rica. The country is massive and there’s so much to see and explore. From bathing in the hot springs below the Arenal Volcano to hiking in the dense rainforest of Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, or bathing on the serene beaches of Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, it’s all about location, location, location…
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
One thing I love about Costa Rica Airbnbs is that you can leave the urban jungle and be at one with nature, and still be close to the town. Airbnbs allows you the chance to be a few minutes’ walk from the beach and still be less than 20 minutes’ drive away from the town. Talk about having the best of both worlds!
However, I do recommend hiring a car to get from A to B. The best thing about vacation rentals in Costa Rica is they allow you to stay in more remote locations. The downside to staying in an Airbnb in Costa Rica is they can be in remote locations. A car will make your trip so much easier.
Once you’ve figured out where you want to stay in Costa Rica, and you have your car sorted, you’re ready to start thinking about the type of accommodation that suits you best. Here are the most common types…
We love a good deal!
We’ve included links to Booking.com as well throughout this post — as we have found many of the same properties available on Booking and they are usually at a cheaper price! We’ve included both button options where we can to give you the choice of where you book 🙂
Top 15 Airbnbs in Costa Rica
Now you know roughly what to expect from a Costa Rica Airbnb, let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful and most amazing Airbnbs in the country!
Boho Chic Loft near San Jose | Overall Best Value Airbnb in San Jose
This is definitely the perfect accommodation in San Jose for a couple or a group of four! This loft boasts an excellent location close to all the top things to do in San Jose. Restaurants, shopping malls, banks, parks, pubs, cafes, museums, and bus stations, name it and it’s all within your reach.
The building has shared amenities such as a gym, library, cinema (are you kidding!?), laundry facilities, and swimming pool, as well as fitness activities for guests such as sunset yoga.
This loft is every gastronome’s dream as it is only a few steps away from Barrio Escalante, a trendy neighborhood where you can have as much of the delicious local cuisine as you like. Comfortable and stylish, the loft is the ideal place to come home to after spending the day exploring San Jose and discovering what Costa Rica has to offer.
Apartment near the Airport | Best Budget Airbnb in Alajuela
Not only is this apartment easy on your pocket, but it also has an excellent location to boot! A restaurant is located just behind it where you can fill your tummy with the best Costa Rican meals at an affordable price. You can even have the food delivered right to your doorstep! How nice is that?
The airport is only about 10 minutes away by car and a plethora of shopping malls, restaurants, and bars are nearby too if you feel like painting the town red!
You can save money by taking public transportation to nearby areas as numerous buses run from a bus stop just 25 meters away. Perfect for getting to all the spots on your Costa Rica itinerary! You don’t even have to hire a private car. Your wallet will be thankful.
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View on Osprey View on REIBeach Villa with Pool | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Tamarindo
This opulent, elegant, and massive villa can comfortably accommodate 19 people, ideal for a group of friends or families. Perched on top of a hill where there’s plenty of breeze, it boasts seven bedrooms, three living rooms, and two dining areas (one inside and another outside) and an interior design that looks like it should be in magazines.
If you don’t like cooking, I mean, you are on holiday, don’t worry because this property comes with a cook to make you breakfast for free. If you don’t have the time to do the grocery shopping yourself, they can do it for you for an additional fee. Just let them know what you’d like, and your wish will be granted.
You can have a few laps in the pool that’s kitted out with floaties or work on your tan on the loungers. The villa has a basketball court, just in case you need more fun after time in the pool.
The balcony is the place to be for awesome views of Tamarindo, but when it’s time to get out and about, you’re only a 10-minute walk from town.
Industrial Loft in Jaco | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travelers
Located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Jaco, this loft has stunning industrial décor and is the perfect home for those who want to escape from the city but not be too far away from hustle and bustle.
Ideal for surfing, the beach is only a mere five minutes away on foot and Jaco is famous for its great surf throughout the year.
The outdoor space has a shared swimming pool, loungers, and a place where you can enjoy a meal al fresco. Plus, laundry facilities are available in the premises for a minimal fee. The fully-equipped kitchen is ready and waiting for guests to prepare sumptuous meals in but if you’d rather not worry about what to eat in Jaco.
Hut in a Quiet Location | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Santa Cruz for Digital Nomads
A private accommodation with a hot tub for your exclusive use at an affordable price? What’s not to like about this hut in Santa Cruz? It’s not only close to the beaches but everything you need for a comfortable stay, such as banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, and recreation areas. Within walking distance are a variety of restaurants where you can gorge on local cuisines.
Don’t feel like leaving this unique but quiet abode for the day after doing work on your laptop? There’s plenty for you to do aside from lounging in the hot tub. The grounds are beautiful and there’s a relaxing hammock out back where you can read a book or take a nap while listening to the monkeys in the trees. They might also pay your balcony a visit too.
Oh, and did I mention there’s a pool with loungers? Send me to heaven, oh wait, it’s here.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Costa Rica
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Costa Rica!
Jungle Villa with Lush Pool | Most Unique Airbnb in Limon
If you have been wanting to get out of the city and into nature’s embrace, this is the place to be. This jungle villa is surrounded by lush greenery and you’ll love nature’s beautiful sounds lulling you to sleep each night. Both bedrooms come with air-conditioning but other areas such as the kitchen, living, and dining rooms are all open air.
Be sure to make good use of the deck and the hammock and swing your worries away. Don’t forget to give the outdoor shower a try too because that’s a real treat!
There’s a river only five minutes away and a few minutes’ drive away is a grocery store and the beach. The property is approximately five hours away from San Jose in a secluded place, so a car is necessary. Don’t worry though, there’s free parking on the premises.
Stunning Tropical Villa in Potrero | Best Short-Term Rental Airbnb
This gorgeous Instagrammable two-story home in Potrero is spacious enough for four people, and looks even better in person. Located nearby are a plethora of restaurants and cafes, so if you don’t feel like cooking, you can just walk for a few minutes and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the most delicious food.
The lovely villa is only a few minutes away from Flamingo, Danta, and other beaches, perfect for beach bums and surfing enthusiasts.
You can soak or cool off in your private pool after your sojourn at the beach and just relax on the outdoor deck, a great place to have your meals. Oh, there’s a gas grill too if you’re up for a barbecue. In-house massages and chef services are available at an extra fee.
Home with Ocean Views | Best Airbnb in Playa Hermosa for a Group of Friends
This luxurious beach home in Costa Rica is an excellent choice for you and your friends if you want to spend time in Playa Hermosa. The home is highly rated for its excellent location, as you are within walking distance of a beautiful white sand beach.
You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, so you have endless choices when it comes to food and drinks. If you prefer to cook, the kitchen or large gas grill in the gazebo make for the perfect cooking grounds.
The outdoor space is perfect for getting together, making plans, getting a tan, relaxing, and spending a day at the pool while feasting your eyes on amazing views of Golfo de Papagayo. There’s never a dull moment here.
Aside from the pool table and the swimming pool in the property, you can try scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding nearby too.
Modern Home in Coco | Best Villa in Guanacaste for Families
This beautiful villa is located in the paradise beach town of Playas del Coco and is a fantastic accommodation for families with young kids.
The property is on the main road and only 25 minutes away from the international airport in Liberia. You get the best of both worlds when it comes to location, far enough from all the noise but close enough to walk to town, the beach, and all the best places to visit in Costa Rica.
There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained such as the pool, the bikes, and the trampoline. The well-stocked library has plenty of books waiting to be discovered. The well-equipped kitchen has all the modern appliances you need to prepare a feast for your family and opens up to a terrace where everyone can enjoy the food al fresco.
A-Frame B&B near close Avellanas | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners
I know this is a private room that’s a part of a bed and breakfast but I just had to include this on the list because look at how gorgeous it is! Just a few minutes from Tamarindo, this is perfect for couples who are into or want to try surfing, as it’s only a few minutes from Avellanas, a popular surf beach.
This independent bungalow is the love shack you’ve been looking for where you can enjoy a fresh homemade breakfast in the morning before you hit the beach or spend some more time snuggling on the comfy king bed with your partner.
The private terrace with its cocoon chairs and hammock, as well as the zen-style pool are spots that beckon you to just leave your worries behind and enjoy the moment.
Eco-Lodge in Santa Teresa Beach | Best Eco Airbnb in Costa Rica
Surrounded by lush greenery, this Bohemian bungalow is an excellent choice for couples who want to reignite the romance in their relationship and reconnect with nature at the same time. You’ll wake up in the morning to the sounds of birds and other wildlife and have a wonderful breakfast with magnificent views on the ocean deck. An excellent way to start the day, don’t you think?
Stretch your limbs in an on-site yoga class or have a walk through the organic garden which leads to nature trails.
If you and your partner are the adventurous type, you’ll be hyped to know that various sporting activities are nearby such as surf lessons, and the hosts are more than happy to connect you with the right person. To cap off the day, take a relaxing dip in the pool with your favorite cocktails in hand.
Villa in the Middle of the Jungle | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Uvita
This secluded and breathtaking hideaway deep in the jungles of Costa Rica has spectacular views of the ocean and the country’s native whales.
Situated in a yoga retreat community, this stylish villa has all the amenities you will ever need for a comfortable stay. You’ll need to rent a car to get around easily and comfortably though but there is a quaint town nearby with plenty of restaurants and shops that have everything you need.
Guests have access to the lake close by, and the infinity pool and hot tub are perfect for relaxing in. You’re guaranteed to feel rejuvenated after your stay here.
The kitchen, living areas, and dining areas open up to the pool, surrounding you with picturesque sights as you relish your meals or enjoy your drinks. The rental includes a full staff that cleans the house and provides services as and when guests need them.
Studio Close to Bars | Best Airbnb in San Jose Near Nightlife
If you’re in San Jose for a weekend but want to check out the city’s nightlife, this beautiful studio is the place to call home. Just a couple of blocks away from the city, you are close to shopping malls, restaurants, and local attractions.
Get ready to paint the town red at night with the many bars and clubs located nearby, just a few minutes of walking and you’re there!
The condo has 24-hour security and is easily accessible on foot or by car, so you need not worry when returning home in the wee hours of the morning after all partying. Crash on the comfortable queen bed when you get home and jolt your senses when you wake up in the morning with a fresh cup of coffee.
Don’t forget to check out the gym and the outdoor heated pool too, it’s perfect for relaxing.
Rustic Jungle Villa with Saltwater Pool | Best Airbnb Plus in Santa Teresa
Tired of the urban jungle and just want to disconnect and go somewhere you’ll not be disturbed? I have just the place for you, a rustic jungle villa in Santa Teresa!
With spacious enough for six people, it is close enough to town for you to walk to and be in the thick of things again, but I guarantee you, you won’t grow tired of the peace and calm of the beautiful villa. You won’t even notice time passing by when you lounge in the incredible outdoor area.
After you’re done taking a dip in the saltwater pool, you can rinse off in the partially outdoors shower. The patio is an excellent place to hang out and the sound of the surrounding nature such as the birds, kitties, and monkeys is music to the ears.
You’ll even hear the sound of the waves crashing from the comfort of the hammock while you’re enjoying meals al fresco in one of the many outdoor seating areas.
Villa with Views of the Arenal Volcano | Best Airbnb with a View
Aptly called Mystic View, this villa in El Castillo boasts magnificent views of the country’s rainforest and Arenal volcano. With an elevation of more than 2,000 feet, you get the unique opportunity to marvel at the beauty of mother nature from your private terrace as the volcano rises through the mist while the sounds of the monkeys, toucans, and parrots play in the background. This is the perfect base for those who want to enjoy Costa Rica’s top hiking trails!
All rooms in the villa have views from picture windows so everywhere you look, you will see nothing but beauty. The property comes with its very own waterfall, as well as a swimming hole at the edge of the river.
If you’re up for some action, various beautiful walking trails abound near the river and you can opt to go boating, fishing, or indulge in other water sports. Renting a four-wheel drive vehicle is highly suggested to make your stay more convenient as the road to the villa is uphill and rocky.
What To Pack For Costa Rica
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Costa Rica Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Costa Rica Airbnbs
There you go, folks! I have just given you some of the most amazing, functional, stylish, and coolest Airbnbs in Costa Rica that have the best locations too.
In addition, I found a few interesting activities worth trying that are surely going to give you sweet, sweet memories. Costa Rica may be popular for surfing, but there are other fun things you can do aside from water sports, so keep an open mind.
I hope that I helped make things easier for your getaway. But before you hop on your flight, take out travel insurance! It’s an essential that is going to give you peace of mind while you have a grand time in Costa Rica.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our Backpacking Costa Rica guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Check out where to stay in Costa Rica for some dope accommodation
- • Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Costa Rica too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Costa Rica.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
