Getting married in paradise
Getting married in paradise

With white sand beaches, lush rainforests and five-star resorts, it's no surprise that Costa Rica was ranked among the "Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations" by Brides Magazine and Signature Travel Network. Newlyweds deserve some time for rest and relaxation, and Costa Rica offers diverse landscapes and romantic accommodations. Imagine starting your marriage while staying at the foot of an active volcano or knocking on the door of the Pacific Ocean. As a tree frog, I tend to look for hotels that offer me an environment in the rainforest, but what’s great about Costa Rica is that there is always something for everyone. Whether you are a couple seeking adventure or just wanting to lie in the sun, you’ll say “I do” to honeymooning in my country. I’ve been all around Costa Rica, talking to world travelers and locals alike. I often run into honeymooners in my travels, and I’ve learned a lot about the honeymoon spots. Here are the top five best places to honeymoon in Costa Rica.

Wedding at Bahia del Sol, Potrero beach
Wedding at Bahia del Sol, Potrero beach

 

1. Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel

Have a tropical romance at the Bahia del Sol, a boutique hotel on the beach. Located off the Pacific in the sunny province of Guanacaste, this exclusive and romantic boutique hotel puts you just a few steps away from the tranquil waters on the shore at Potrero Beach. Feel good about your stay – this hotel is committed to sustainability! Amenities include a pool, Jacuzzi and spa; the property offers a tropical garden that is filled with exotic species. Make your honeymoon in Costa Rica luxury with a deluxe or king suite. Honeymooners can purchase packages that will make their stay a party that is all about them: a welcome cocktail, a bottle of wine, romantic private dinners on the beach. Breakfast is also included. Spa treatments are not included but can be added. A three- night package starts at $900.

Aguila de Osa Inn beautiful room
Aguila de Osa Inn beautiful room

Guanacaste Escape Adventure Tour
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $779 per person

2. Aguila de Osa

Our next honeymoon must-do takes us to the Osa Peninsula, where couples can get wild – literally! – this is one of the last truly wide places left in the country. Aguila de Osa is a rainforest and marine adventure lodge in Drake Bay. In this romantic setting, newlyweds can start their life together on the edge of a great adventure. From this hotel, couple can easily access Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Marine Reserve. They will also be able to book several other adventures, including sport fishing, scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, and more. This hotel surrounds its guests with lush green rainforests and clear blue ocean shores. Their honeymoon packages include a choice between a regular room or a suite. There are junior and master suites available. A honeymoon package at Aguila de Osa might include anywhere from three to five nights’ lodging, round trip transportation to tourist spots and guided tours in the national park and marine reserve. It also includes use of the hotel’s kayaks, and a sunset boat ride. The hotel is also ready to pamper newlyweds with a welcome cocktail, all meals (alcohol not included), custom flower arrangements, and appetizers. Flights are not included in Aguila de Osa’s honeymoon packages, so book your tickets to Costa Rica separately.

Aninga Lodge aerial view
Aninga Lodge aerial view

 

3. Aninga Lodge

If you’re a couple that loves nature and photography – or if you just appreciate being in exotic locations – Aninga Lodge is a great option for your honeymoon. Located in Tortuguero – known as the Little Amazon – which features a network of canals that add to the area's romance. This area is also popular for being a main region for sea turtle nesting and for having a variety of flora and fauna. A small location, with just 32 bungalows, this hotel feels like a private getaway. Don’t let the size fool you though – you’ll still get all the modern amenities that newlyweds need. The beds are comfortable, the bathrooms are not shared, and you can take a hot shower then cool off in your room with the ceiling fan. The available swimming pool is perfect for morning or evening swims. The hotel also offers a restaurant (with full bar service) as well as guided tours with multilingual guides. Couples can also sign up to get spa services with an incredible, romantic view. Hotel packages are offered in two-day or three-day adventures, and include a whole itinerary of activities.

Romantic massage at the pool
Romantic massage at the pool

4. Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows

Located in Playa Carrillo on the Guanacaste province, Nammbu hotel offers romantic beachfront bungalows that are just the right type of private and relaxing that newlyweds need. With perfect views, this beach paradise would help anyone leave their troubles behind – so it’s sure to be great place for honeymooners! Like many hotels in Costa Rica, Nammbu is committed to sustainability. The hotel is in the business of conservation; you can feel good about staying somewhere that is protecting the natural environment that you are enjoying. Preserving the ecosystem of Costa Rica and all of the biodiversity that it offers is important to Nammbu, and you might even learn something about the country’s history of sustainability while you are there!

Wedding at Hacienda AltaGracia
Wedding at Hacienda AltaGracia

 

5. Hacienda Alta Gracia

Hacienda Alta Gracia is ready to help newlyweds start their life together with a little bit of magic – from the views to the rooms to the staff. This hotel is pure Costa Rica, and offers the best of San José province with a country living experience. Here, couples will see rolling hills and mountain tops all around – pure, untouched Costa Rican nature. Hotel amenities here include a long list that newlyweds will love, including restaurants, room service, a pool, a game room, shopping, a spa, and private dining options. Lots of activities are included complimentary, including hiking, biking, meditation, and fruit tastings. The hotel also has a fitness center and outdoor ranch, and can built custom adventure packages so that each couple experiences the best time of their life. Private air and other transportation can also be arranged, for cost.

If you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to honeymooning in Costa Rica, consider staying at one of these hotels....And they lived happily ever after...

Costa Rica Beach Wedding
Costa Rica Beach Wedding