Many of the accommodations outside of the cities are geared to the ecotourist, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're rustic.
Accommodations range from safari-style tent camps to nature lodges in the forest to tropical beach resorts that provide sportfishing and other marine activities. Many of these are small-scale operations with fewer than 40 units near parks and refuges. They're more compatible with the local environment than large-scale resorts and provide a more intimate and meaningful experience for travelers.
We recommend using tour operators and hotels that actively support conservation efforts: Look for the CST icon, which indicates the Certificate of Sustainable Tourism. This will help protect the local ecology and promote sensible development.
Costa Ricans are justifiably proud of their efforts to protect the environment for future generations and to promote sustainable tourism. The Institute of Costa Rica Tourism (ICT) awards hotels up to five "leaves" (certificates) to recognize how successful they are in supporting the concept of sustainable tourism. Competition for these awards is very intense, and hotel staffers point with pride to the leaves that their hotel has earned.
There are also a number of first-class tourist facilities and all-inclusive beachfront resorts, and those numbers are on the rise. There is a boom in luxury hotels and resorts, especially throughout Guanacaste province, Quepos and the Arenal volcano area.
Costa Rica also boasts a bevy of fine spas and yoga retreats plus dedicated sportfishing lodges. Besides dozens of nature lodges, Costa Rica's other strong suit is its selection of charming upscale boutique-hotels for the connoisseur of fine decor and dining.
At budget properties, rooms of different quality may be offered at the same price. Before checking in, ask to see the room (some of the cheaper places can get pretty bad) and don't be shy about asking for a better one. Bed-and-breakfasts are becoming more prevalent, as are long-stay condominiums, with many found in the San Jose and Escazu areas. Accommodations can be difficult to get December-March, especially at Christmas and Easter, so book well in advance.
