Last updated on June 12th, 2025 at 11:59 am
Planning a trip to Costa Rica means more than choosing where to stay—it’s about defining the kind of experience you want to have. Do you blend into the crowds at a 5-star hotel in a busy city like San José, or do you escape to a secluded villa where luxury meets pure life and every detail is tailored to you? With options ranging from vacation packages at popular resorts to private villas surrounded by rainforest, beaches, or mountains, travelers have endless opportunities to craft the kind of getaway that truly suits their style.
Picture waking up to the sounds of wildlife and the distant surf, then sipping a tropical drink beside your private infinity pool as your personal chef prepares breakfast inspired by Costa Rican flavors. Whether you’re looking to explore the wonders of Arenal Volcano National Park, kayak along the coast, or simply relax at a spa after a long hike through cloud forests and hanging bridges, this beautiful country offers something for everyone. From adventure seekers and nature lovers to couples, families, and adults in search of an elevated escape, this is your moment to choose the path that feels most like pura vida.
Vacation Rental vs Hotel and a Resort: Which Is the Best Place to Stay in Costa Rica for Your Group Trip?
Amid Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and golden coastlines, your private villa becomes more than just a place to sleep—it’s your group’s personal retreat. A devoted team of housekeepers ensures your sanctuary remains pristine each day, while fresh linens and clean laundry are handled seamlessly, just as you requested. As you sip a tropical drink under swaying palms, your personal concierge is already curating unforgettable moments—from exhilarating zip lining excursions and spa treatments overlooking the lush rainforest, to guided hikes through Manuel Antonio National Park or a day admiring a beautiful waterfall.
While vacation packages at all inclusive resorts or 4-star hotels may seem appealing, only a private villa offers this rare balance of indulgence, privacy, and flexibility. For nature lovers, families, or groups seeking a more elevated kind of Costa Rica vacation, this is the perfect destination to experience pura vida your way.
Resorts in Costa Rica: Is an All-Inclusive Experience Right for You?
For travelers seeking convenience and a more structured pace, all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica can provide a seamless vacation experience. These properties typically offer organized activities, on-site dining options, water sports, and access to fitness centers, golf courses, and sports facilities—all bundled into a single booking. From swimming pools to entertainment areas and guided group excursions to popular tourist attractions, hotels offer a curated approach to travel. But for those who value personalized service, private amenities, and the ability to prepare meals or design their own excursions, a resort may feel more like a collection of standardized services than a memorable experience crafted just for you.
Resorts Come With All the Amenities—But Often Shared
From expansive swimming pools to poolside bars and lush gardens, resorts feature all the amenities you’d expect from a 4- or 5-star hotel. But unlike a private villa, the experience is shared with other guests, often in urban areas or high-traffic zones near major attractions. You’ll find organized group activities, large dining areas, and resort-wide events—but personal space is limited. Hotel rooms tend to be compact, offering little in the way of spacious living areas, kitchen facilities, or outdoor spaces where you can relax in privacy.
A Good Fit for Smaller Groups and Romantic Getaways
For smaller groups, couples, or honeymooners craving a romantic escape, a resort can be a great option—especially when access to organized activities, concierge services, and varied dining options is a priority. The structure of a resort caters well to guests with different preferences, offering basic lodging with access to fitness centers, spas, and shared facilities. However, it’s important to note that most hotel rooms lack the home-like amenities that villas offer—like fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private lounging areas—making it less ideal for a family or large group vacations.
Less Privacy, More People, and Limited Personalization
While some resorts include private pools or hot tubs, the overall experience tends to emphasize social interaction and shared spaces. For travelers who prefer enhanced privacy, personalized amenities, or the ability to cook their own meals, this can feel limiting. The exclusivity extends only so far before it becomes a shared experience. Hotels offer consistency, but often at the cost of flexibility. Unlike villas, which cater to your vacation desires with personalized service like in-villa massages, private yoga sessions, or private excursions, resorts follow a model built for the average guest—not your personal preferences.
Are Hotels in Costa Rica the Right Fit for Group Travel?
For travelers considering where to stay on their next getaway, hotels in Costa Rica may initially seem like a practical choice. With easy access to major tourist attractions, proximity to urban areas like San José, and the promise of daily housekeeping and front desk service, hotels cater well to those looking for standardized services and efficiency. But while they offer basic amenities and services, the experience often lacks the enhanced privacy, spacious accommodations, and personalized service that make a group vacation truly memorable. Whether planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or traveling with larger groups, your decision will come down to what type of vacation experience you want—and how much personal space you’re willing to give up.
A Practical Option for Short Stays or Solo Travelers
If you’re planning a quick trip or traveling solo, a hotel room can be a convenient and cost-effective base for your Costa Rica adventure. Many of the most popular hotels offer organized activities, simple dining options, and access to shared amenities like fitness centers, pools, and entertainment areas. They’re often located near airports, restaurants, and shops, making them an efficient choice for shorter stays. But for travelers seeking a deeper connection to local culture or a more curated experience, the standard offerings of a hotel can feel limiting.
Compact Living Spaces and Fewer Amenities and Services
Unlike villas, which offer fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and outdoor spaces for dining or relaxing, hotel rooms tend to provide only the essentials. Guests stay in smaller spaces, often with shared facilities and few opportunities to enjoy private amenities. With no option to prepare meals, limited kitchen facilities, and a more structured atmosphere, the experience leans heavily on routine. While hotels do offer convenience, they fall short on delivering the spacious living areas, gourmet meals, or personalized amenities that elevate a true luxurious experience.
Hotels May Not Be Ideal for Families or Groups
When it comes to group activities or family vacations, hotel stays often require booking multiple rooms, leading to separation, less cohesion, and fewer shared spaces. There’s little room to gather for meals, unwind after a day of adventure activities, or enjoy the comfort of your own space. Compared to a private villa, where villas cater to large groups with multiple bedrooms, hot tubs, and expansive outdoor areas, a hotel offers far less flexibility. For families or groups with varied interests and vacation desires, hotels can make it harder to create the kind of memorable experience you came to Costa Rica for.
Villa vs Hotel: Why Booking a Vacation in Costa Rica at Private Villa Beats a Luxury Resort Stay
Are you still considering a luxury hotel or resort in Costa Rica? Think again, sure you can enjoy all this at the most lavish exclusive resorts, the only problem is, you’ll be around other vacationers from all parts of the world. There will be various-sized groups of all ages staying in this resort, and if you’re not staying in an adults-only facility, there’ll be many kids running around. Ah, yes, we’re all familiar with how that story ends.
The difference between staying in a private villa and a luxury resort isn’t just about location—it’s about experience. Villas are designed for travelers seeking a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere with access to private amenities, spacious accommodations, and freedom from shared facilities or standardized services. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, villas cater to your vacation desires with a level of flexibility and comfort that even the best star hotel can’t match. From hot tubs and gourmet meals to private excursions and curated experiences, villas offer a richer, more intimate way to experience Costa Rica.
Now imagine having all these magnificent luxury services and amenities ALL TO YOURSELF AND THE GROUP YOU ARE VACATIONING WITH…. Welcome to Vista Hermosa Estate, a stunning four-story estate in Costa Rica with incredible panoramic ocean views where the entire top floor is dedicated to a phenomenal entertaining area, located in an impeccably centralized location of the beautiful beach town of Manuel Antonio Costa Rica, the most incredible beach vacation spot for a group of couples.
Private Villas Offer Full Privacy for Families & Friends
Unlike hotel rooms, which often place guests near other tourists in shared spaces, villas provide a true private setting—your own sanctuary in a tropical paradise. With outdoor areas, entertainment spaces, and multiple bedrooms under one roof, villas give large groups, families, and couples the personal space they need to connect, unwind, and create unforgettable memories together. The enhanced privacy lets you enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica without navigating crowds, communal pools, or unwanted noise. For those who value exclusivity, villas are the preferred choice.
You’ll Have a Personal Chef, Kitchen, and Concierge
With a villa stay, you’re not bound to preset menus or buffet lines. Instead, enjoy gourmet meals prepared by your personal chef using local ingredients, all tailored to your tastes. The fully equipped kitchens give you the freedom to prepare meals as you wish, or let your chef handle everything while you relax. Concierge services are available to arrange private yoga sessions, in-villa massages, or even a rental car for day trips to Corcovado National Park, Arenal Volcano, or Lake Arenal. Unlike hotels, where amenities and services are shared, villas deliver personalized service that enhances every moment of your stay.
Perfect for Large Groups, Multiple Families, and Special Occasions
Planning a large group getaway, a milestone birthday, or multi-family escape? Villas offer the spacious living areas, outdoor spaces, and multiple bedrooms needed to comfortably host your entire group in one cohesive, private environment. Whether you’re hosting group activities, lounging by the private pool, or enjoying dinner on a terrace overlooking the surrounding mountains, the setting is both intimate and luxurious. Villas support a wide range of vacation experiences, from adventure and wellness to relaxation and celebration—making them ideal for different preferences and travel styles. For those who want more than just a place to stay, a villa offers the chance to live Costa Rica, not just visit it.
Villa vs Resort vs Hotel in Costa Rica: What’s Right for You?
When planning your next getaway to Costa Rica, the accommodations you choose shape not only where you sleep—but how you live, relax, and connect. Hotels offer structure and simplicity. Resorts provide all-inclusive ease with shared amenities and organized activities. But private villas go a step further—blending home-like amenities, enhanced privacy, and personalized service into one unforgettable stay. The choice ultimately depends on your vacation desires, group size, and the kind of vacation experience you’re dreaming of. To find the preferred choice for your group, ask yourself the following…
Ask Yourself: How Many People Are You Traveling With?
If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, a hotel or resort may offer just enough—especially for shorter trips near urban areas like San José or Liberia. But when you’re planning a family vacation, group retreat, or traveling with multiple couples, you’ll likely need more space. Hotels require multiple rooms, which can lead to separation and higher costs. Resorts often lack the spacious living areas needed for real connection. In contrast, private villas offer multiple bedrooms, private pools, and shared entertainment areas, making them a natural fit for large groups looking to stay together without sacrificing comfort or privacy.
What Kind of Experience Do You Want?
If your ideal Costa Rica trip includes gourmet meals, private excursions, and the freedom to move at your own pace, a private villa offers a more flexible, tailored approach. You’ll have access to fully equipped kitchens, in-villa massages, and even private yoga sessions—designed entirely around your group. Resorts are great for travelers who want all the amenities bundled together, but they come with standardized services and preset itineraries. Hotels, while efficient, often deliver a more basic, transactional stay. For a deeper connection with local culture, nature, and your own group, villas cater to those wanting an authentic and luxurious experience.
Do You Want to Share Amenities With Other Guests?
At hotels and resorts, the answer is built in: yes. You’ll share swimming pools, fitness centers, dining spaces, and outdoor areas with dozens—sometimes hundreds—of other guests. If that fits your comfort level, these can be a great option. But if you value personal space, private amenities, and an exclusivity that extends throughout your stay, a private villa gives you exactly that. Whether it’s sipping cocktails beside your own hot tub, enjoying breakfast in your robe on a private terrace, or having your concierge arrange excursions without ever leaving the property, villas allow you to create a vacation that matches your personal preferences, free of crowds and shared schedules.
Looking for the Best Private Villa in Costa Rica? Vista Hermosa Estate Stands Out
Stunning ocean views, five-star dining, and world-class services should be at the top of the list when choosing a luxury Costa Rica resort. With Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty, extensive coastlines, and luxury amenities, it’s no wonder this country is a top destination for luxury travelers.
Most luxury resort tourists are unaware that there is an alternative to the typical 5 star luxury resort experience that offers even more privacy, customization, and luxury: renting a private luxury villa in Costa Rica.
Luxury villas offer visitors a more intimate and exclusive Costa Rica vacation, with all the luxury amenities of a five-star resort but without the crowds. Vista Hermosa is a tropical, private beach exclusive beach villa with a chic tropical modern design that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, luxurious accommodations, and world-class services to quench your tropical fantasy.
Located in the wonderful beach town of Manuel Antonio that home to one of Costa Rica’s most famous national parks, Vista Hermosa Estate with its all-inclusive private chef and spa services provides an all-in-one package for luxury vacationers looking for the ultimate Costa Rica experience. How does Vista Hermosa stack up against luxury resorts in Costa Rica? Let’s take a look.
Top 5 Features of Vista Hermosa Estate that Costa Rica Luxury Resorts Can't Match
When you book a vacation to Costa Rica, it’s easy to be tempted by a 4- or 5-star hotel promising endless amenities and activities. But even the most popular hotels and inclusive vacation packages can’t match the privacy, space, and personalized experience offered by Vista Hermosa Estate. While Costa Rica vacations at high-end resorts may offer organized tours, buffet-style dining, or shared swimming pools, Vista Hermosa delivers something more rare: a truly customized stay that reflects your personal preferences, travel pace, and reason for visiting.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic getaway, or group adventure filled with zip lining, hiking, or snorkeling, this is where natural beauty, exclusivity, and comfort come together. Below are five features that make this villa the preferred choice for those looking to explore Costa Rica beyond the limits of a traditional hotel stay.
Unparalleled Privacy and Exclusive Use of Facilities
Guests of luxury resorts must share amenities with other vacationers, but luxury villa renters have exclusive use of all facilities and services. Nothing can compare to having a slice of tropical paradise all to yourself!
You’ll have exclusive access to Vista Hermosa’s luxury three-sided infinity edge swimming pool, outdoor bar and grill, and fresh-air living areas where you can enjoy the company of your closest family and friends. This exclusive luxury experience is simply unattainable at Costa Rica luxury resorts.
Privacy is a major attraction at Vista Hermosa, providing guests with a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their Costa Rica vacation. As you soak in the tranquility of your tropical oasis luxury villa, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is which part of your dream vacation to enjoy next.
Captivating Million-Dollar Ocean Views
Is there a better to wake up in Costa Rica than to the sound of waves crashing on the beach, with a stunning ocean view right outside your window?
Some luxury resorts in Costa Rica boast ocean views, but they can’t compare to the jaw-dropping, million-dollar views luxury villa renters enjoy at Vista Hermosa. The luxury villa’s perch atop a jungle cliff provides guests with an unobstructed panorama of the Pacific Ocean’s blue waters.
Don’t forget Vista Hermosa Estate is situated in a jungle setting. As you admire the great views of the Pacific Ocean overlooking the rainforest, you’ll be amused by the sounds of howler monkeys, toucans, and other wildlife creatures. You’ll also get a chance to encounter sloths in their natural habitat.
Soak up the sun on one of Vista Hermosa’s chaise lounges while you enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and incredible views. Put a glass of perfectly brewed coffee in your hand and you may never want to leave your own private reserve!
Luxury resorts in Costa Rica are often located in crowded areas, which means that other buildings may obstruct your ocean views. Vista Hermosa offers you front-row seats to some of the most incredible sunrises and sunsets Costa Rica offers. Experience the magic for yourself and discover why Vista Hermosa Estate is a truly unforgettable destination.
Top Floor Entertainment Zone
Indulge in the ultimate luxury vacation rental in Costa Rica with the breathtaking TOP FLOOR OASIS at Vista Hermosa Estate. Unparalleled in Costa Rica, the entire floor is dedicated to a phenomenal entertaining area with a private terrace on each end boasting mesmerizing 180-degree views of the Pacific overlooking the lush green rain forest. While most exclusive resorts and the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica offer nice areas to relax with family and friends, Vista Hermosa Estate takes it to a whole new level. Everything a large group would ever need to enjoy each others’ company all day and night. It includes a chefs kitchen, large living room
Even the best luxury hotels and luxury resorts in Costa Rica can’t come close to our ultimate gathering spot with our spacious Great Room with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that offer stunning outdoor ambiance, that includes a chefs’ kitchen, large living room and a dinning area. Adjacent to the Great Room is our phenomenal three-sided infinity pool and a large covered open area with two restrooms, a bar, outdoor kitchen, barbecue grill, two refrigerators to hold your ice cold drinks, a stand alone ice maker and a high-end sound system. For weddings, this top floor is also the quintessential wedding venue that can host up to 40 guests.
Mesmerizing Visual Effect View From our Infinity Pool
Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking panoramic views from the 3-sided infinity pool at Vista Hermosa Estate where the stunning panoramic ocean view will leave you in awe, and the water in the pool appears to merge seamlessly with the horizon, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that you’ll never find at luxury hotels or even exclusive resorts. It’s a breathtaking encounter that even the best luxury hotels can’t match. The scene is so surreal that you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a dream. Click here to see for yourself!
Imagine lounging on the edge of the world, gazing out at the expansive horizon where the sea meets the sky. Take a dip and feel the warm sun on your skin as you immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, taking in the mesmerizing visual effect that surrounds you. The stunning vista will leave you awestruck, as you witness the beauty of Costa Rica unfold before your very eyes.
Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip in the pool or simply lounging on the edge, the stunning vista will leave you feeling entranced. It’s the epitome of luxury travel, and at Vista Hermosa Estate, you’ll discover a level of exclusivity and beauty that is unrivaled in Costa Rica.
What Sets Vista Hermosa Estate's Pool from Exclusive Resorts and The Best Luxury Hotels
Indulge in an infinity pool experience not found at any high end resort of 5-star hotel in Costa Rica. Our infinity pool offers a range of features that cater to every guest, including parents of toddlers. The 9″ deep play area is the perfect spot for your little ones to splash around and have fun while you lounge on the in-water chairs, soaking up the Costa Rican sun. And of course, you will be rest assured that your child will not be disturbed by kids from other families in the pool.
Take a moment to relax on the large built-in reclined pool seat and let the world melt away as you gaze out at the spectacular ocean views. While other exclusive resorts may offer private plunge pools or even up to four pools, they can’t match the level of panoramic oasis at Vista Hermosa Estate’s infinity pool. Come and be exposed to the ultimate escape where every detail has been considered, from the pristine waters of the infinity pool to the magnificent ocean views. Vista Hermosa Estate is not only a better choice than a resort; it’s a luxurious sanctuary that offers an unparalleled experience.
Luxurious Accommodations
Vista Hermosa’s lavish architectural details and modern furnishings provide travelers with supreme comfort and style. The luxury villa features eight ocean-view spacious bedrooms, each with its private balcony, so you soak up those incredible views even when you’re inside.
The luxury accommodations also come complete with top-of-the-line amenities, including ceiling fans, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, large TVs with smart TV features, and high-end sound systems.
It doesn’t end there! Other top-notch luxury amenities at Vista Hermosa that luxury resorts in Costa Rica can’t match include:
🐒 Three-Sided Infinity Edge Pool: This million-dollar infinity pool located on the top floor is the perfect place to relax and enjoy Costa Rica’s incredible views. Its large, 9-inch-deep shallow section provides parents with toddlers their own play area. This ledge is also the perfect area to cool off and enjoy the pool’s comfy lounge chairs and great views.
🐒 Private Beach Trail: Our beach trail boasts wood-framed steps carved into the jungle, leading guests on a short walk down to Playa Espadilla beach and the secluded Playitas Beach, two of the most popular of all beaches in Manuel Antonio. This gorgeous family-friendly sandy beach is ideal for swimming – children and adults alike, sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying an incredible Costa Rica sunset.
🐒 Top Floor Social Event Area: A huge open area with spectacular views of Costa Rica’s skyline is perfect for travelers who want to host an intimate gathering or special event. For events such as weddings and receptions, it can accommodate up to 40 people and comes with luxury furnishings for your guests’ enjoyment.
🐒 8 Bedrooms with optional 9th bedroom – Sleeps 24: Our luxurious beach rental includes two primary suites with king beds with one jungle-facing balcony and one ocean-facing balcony in each. Also, we have four bedroom suites with two queen beds in each and a balcony. One 1-bedroom apartment with a full kitchen, and another studio apartment with a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and a balcony. All bedrooms include a dual sink vanity and rain showers.
All-Inclusive Private Chef
Imagine waking up or returning to your beach rental after a long day of exploring Costa Rica and being greeted by the mouth-watering aromas of a gourmet meal the private chef is preparing just for you. That’s exactly what luxury travelers can expect when they stay at Vista Hermosa, thanks to the villa’s all-inclusive private chef service.
Our top-of-the-line private chef personalized service offers two expertly prepared meals including daily breakfast and dinner using the finest and freshest ingredients each day of your stay. The chef caters to all dietary needs and requests, so you can rest assured that everyone in your group will enjoy international flavors as well as Costa Rica’s incredible cuisine, a 5-star dining experience like no other.
Best of all, after exploring Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches and jungles, nobody from your group will be tasked with sourcing the ingredients, cleaning, or cooking, freeing you up to enjoy all that Costa Rica has to offer!
Even with a private chef at your beck and call, you definitely will want to hit the town and encounter some of Manuel Antonio’s best restaurants. This beach town is renowned for its culinary scene, and for good reason. From freshly caught seafood to mouth-watering fusion cuisine, there’s something for every palate.
Unparalleled Concierge Services
At Vista Hermosa Estate, our dedicated concierge team elevates every moment of your Costa Rica vacation with curated, personalized service from pre-arrival planning to your final day in paradise. Whether you’re booking adventure activities like zip lining, snorkeling, or waterfall hikes, or organizing private yoga sessions in the jungle, our concierge team is here to connect you with local experts and craft an itinerary tailored to your group’s unique interests.
Prefer to relax? Let us arrange in-villa massages, spa treatments, or luxury facials in your private massage suite. We’ll also handle your transportation, restaurant reservations, live entertainment, and anything else you need—so you can fully enjoy the natural beauty, wildlife, and endless opportunities Costa Rica has to offer.
Paradise Awaits at Vista Hermosa Private Beach Villa in Costa Rica
We at Vista Hermosa pride ourselves on providing luxury vacationing surpassing even the most exclusive all inclusive resorts and most expensive 5 star hotels Costa Rica. From our lush accommodations and first-class amenities to our all-inclusive private chef and spa services, we have everything luxury vacationers need for the getaway of their dreams and encounter the true meaning of Pura Vida.
Think of it as a luxury beach hotel on steroids, the perfect blend of 5-star luxury resorts and luxury beach hotel Costa Rica, combined into one unparalleled vacation sanctuary, the epitome of luxury vacations in Costa Rica. Our estate is unparalleled to other hotels and resorts in Manuel Antonio and Costa Rica beach resorts, offering a level of luxury and exclusivity that can only be found at Vista Hermosa Estate.
Those looking to add some luxury to your next Costa Rica vacation are invited to come and experience Vista Hermosa for themselves. Find out more by contacting us today and check availability to start planning your luxury beach vacation in Costa Rica!
To learn more about our estate, the Costa Rica vacation packages we offer, and to check availability, contact us today and take the first step towards the vacation of your dreams. Don’t settle for the overpriced exclusive resorts or the most expensive hotels in Costa Rica; choose Vista Hermosa Estate for the ultimate luxury vacation experience.
