If you’re not the type who enjoys planning bus rides, booking hotels in different cities and finding the best tours and excursions, an all-inclusive resort may be the way to go, especially if you’re just looking to relax for a a week or so. Besides, why not let someone else do all the work for once? Known for adventure travel, protected rain forests and idyllic beaches, Costa Rica is Central America’s most popular tourist destination, so it makes sense that this tiny, peaceful country boasts a number of impressive all-inclusive resorts. So sit back, dial a few numbers and prepare to let yourself be pampered and catered to an one of Costa Rica’s luxury all-inclusive resorts.

Barcelo Playa Langosta: Situated in Tamarindo on Costa Rica’s popular northern Pacific Coast, the Barcelo Playa Langosta is a 4-star, eco-friendly resort offering guests amenities such as a full-service spa, jacuzzi, fitness room, business center, entertainment theater, conference rooms, boutique jewelry shop, casino and pool. The Barcelo offers children’s shows and babysitting as well as large suites, so it’s a good option for families with young children. (www.barcelolangostabeach.com; (506) 2291-1027 Ext. 283 / 284 / 274 / 729; vacacionesbarcelo@barcelocr.com)

The Barcelo Playa Langosta

Paradisus Playa Conchal: An all-suite luxury resort also located on Costa Rica’s Pacific northwest, the Paradisus Playa Conchal is a good lodging option for couples looking for a romantic, upscale vacation getaway. The resort is conveniently located close to beautiful beaches and pristine rain forests, and offers guests amenities such as lagoon-style pool, fitness center, nightly entertainment, 18-hole golf course, full-service spa. cooking classes, wine-tastings, bird watching excursions and other jungle/adventure excursions. (www.paradisus-playa-conchal.com; 1-888 741-5600)

The Lagoon pool at the Paradisus Playa Conchal.

Hilton Papagayo: Another good family option, the Hilton offers standard guestrooms, suites and bungalows and is situated in the Guanacaste region on Playa Arenilla. Guest amenities and services include children’s activities, business center, fitness center, beach access, pool, water sport activities, excursions and conference rooms. The Hilton Papagayo is located near Tamarindo Beach, Arenal Valcano, dozens of beaches and Santa Rosa National Park among other attractions, making it a fun family lodging option.  (www.hilton.com/en/hi/promotions/hi_papagayoresort/index.jhtml; 506-2-672-0000)

Around the Papagayo Resort.

Turtle Beach Lodge: A jungle resort situated just five minutes outside the town of Tortuguero, the Turtle Beach Lodge also offers access to a secluded beach and is best for travelers looking for an all-inclusive travel adventure rather than travelers looking for an uber upscale getaway. Activities include jungle tours, canopy tours, bird-watching, turtle-watching excursions and more.  The Turtle Beach Lodge’s cabins are rustic  but airy and comfortable and can house 2-4 people each. Hotel amenities include a turtle-shaped pool, gardens, restaurant and bar. (http://www.turtlebeachlodge.com)

A cabin at the Turtle Beach Lodge.

Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort: Also situated in the Guanacaste region, the Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort offers affordable rates and standard guestrooms, one, two and three bedroom villas. Guest amenities include full-service spa, water sport activities, jungle tours and excursions, souvenir shop, fitness center and convenience store. The Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort offers rock bottom rates as low as $70 per person during low season, and is a good lodging option for both couples and families with young children. (www.villassol.com; (506) 2257 0607)

For more information on the beauty of Costa Rica, check out its best beaches.

View from the Villas Hotel and Beach Resort.