"The room was clean and the staff was friendly. The pool was great with the sunset ocean view. Very nice small bar next to the pool.
My overall stay was good. The only thing I notice is the everything is a little dated. Maybe in the future with a little love the hotel will be fabulous."
"The room was clean and the staff was friendly. The pool was great with the sunset ocean view. Very nice small bar next to the pool.
My overall stay was good. The only thing I notice is the everything is a little dated. Maybe in the future with a little love the hotel will be fabulous."
"What a beautiful property! Individual cabanas in a lush setting with lots of birds, squirrels, tropical plants. A really good restaurant and helpful staff! Treat yourself!"
"What a beautiful property! Individual cabanas in a lush setting with lots of birds, squirrels, tropical plants. A really good restaurant and helpful staff! Treat yourself!"
"National park was very close by! Tony checked us in and was very friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed talking to him, and he gave us recommendations for the area. The area was very safe. "
"National park was very close by! Tony checked us in and was very friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed talking to him, and he gave us recommendations for the area. The area was very safe. "
"The property was beautiful with landscaping, the pool was really nice and the restaurant was fantastic. The rooms are a bit small and for some reason I had a room with 3 twin beds in it and I was solo. All in all I give the room 2 stars and the rest of the property 4. The restaurant staff was helpful and nice."
"The property was beautiful with landscaping, the pool was really nice and the restaurant was fantastic. The rooms are a bit small and for some reason I had a room with 3 twin beds in it and I was solo. All in all I give the room 2 stars and the rest of the property 4. The restaurant staff was helpful and nice."
"The lodge has a beautiful setting in the forest and the facilities fine. Only the food was disappointing and made me feel the lodge is overpriced. Pity."
"The lodge has a beautiful setting in the forest and the facilities fine. Only the food was disappointing and made me feel the lodge is overpriced. Pity."
"We stayed in a king-size cabin right by the water and it was very comfortable. The mattress is great. The AC works well.
It has an attached bathroom, which is pretty basic, but it gets the job done. The location and the view and the access to the water to go for a swim is unbeatable.
This is not a luxury lodge, but it is very clean and well maintained.
Tomas the owner is super helpful. We did not stay for breakfast, but they do have breakfast on site. This is a great place to stay if you’re...
"We stayed in a king-size cabin right by the water and it was very comfortable. The mattress is great. The AC works well.
It has an attached bathroom, which is pretty basic, but it gets the job done. The location and the view and the access to the water to go for a swim is unbeatable.
This is not a luxury lodge, but it is very clean and well maintained.
Tomas the owner is super helpful. We did not stay for breakfast, but they do have breakfast on site. This is a great place to stay if you’re...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
This is an excelent option when you're planning to shop in Golfito. The hotel is near (10 min) of the free zone. The rooms are very clean, good security. They food services are excellent, with very good prices.
This is an excelent option when you're planning to shop in Golfito. The hotel is near (10 min) of the free zone. The rooms are very clean, good security. They food services are excellent, with very good prices.
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed September 29, 2014Reviewed September 29, 2014
Nice hotel, nice staff, comfortable bed.
I would defenetly recommend it. The pool area was very pretty and nicely kept.
We upgraded to a bigger room than the standard we first booked because it was a little small, and the upgrade was totally worth it.
Nice hotel, nice staff, comfortable bed.
I would defenetly recommend it. The pool area was very pretty and nicely kept.
We upgraded to a bigger room than the standard we first booked because it was a little small, and the upgrade was totally worth it.
Half of the building is over the bay, so walking up to the rail you're guaranteed to see unique birds and small fish...possibly a crocodile or a stingray. The layout is unique in that the guest rooms open right into the dining and bar area. I quickly got used to it and found it convenient. The bar shuts down at 10pm, so unwelcome noise also stops at 10pm. The food is good and the staff is friendly. If you're from the US, be aware that the service culture is different. If you are waiting for...
Half of the building is over the bay, so walking up to the rail you're guaranteed to see unique birds and small fish...possibly a crocodile or a stingray. The layout is unique in that the guest rooms open right into the dining and bar area. I quickly got used to it and found it convenient. The bar shuts down at 10pm, so unwelcome noise also stops at 10pm. The food is good and the staff is friendly. If you're from the US, be aware that the service culture is different. If you are waiting for...
Scott
Reviewed November 18, 2022Reviewed November 18, 2022
Amazing stay! Everything from the views, the rooms, the food, the service, to the activities - all expertly planned and executed. A must stay for your next trip to Costa Rica!
Amazing stay! Everything from the views, the rooms, the food, the service, to the activities - all expertly planned and executed. A must stay for your next trip to Costa Rica!
We loved our stay at Cabinas Tropicales! We had a big room with private bathroom that easily housed us and our two medium sized dogs. JeanCarlos the manager was super friendly and helpful, and we also chatted with the nice cleaner who had a great dog named Fiona who wore a helmet and goggles to come to work in the morning. The shared kitchen was well-stocked and the fridge available for our food. The property is gated so the dogs could wander around.
The location of Cabinas Tropicales is...
We loved our stay at Cabinas Tropicales! We had a big room with private bathroom that easily housed us and our two medium sized dogs. JeanCarlos the manager was super friendly and helpful, and we also chatted with the nice cleaner who had a great dog named Fiona who wore a helmet and goggles to come to work in the morning. The shared kitchen was well-stocked and the fridge available for our food. The property is gated so the dogs could wander around.
The location of Cabinas Tropicales is...
Allyson
Reviewed September 4, 2026Reviewed September 4, 2026
I really enjoyed staying at Cabinas Golfito. I had a flight early in the morning, so I just walked to the airport which took less than 10 minutes. Host was extremely nice and helpful. I would definitely stay again!
I really enjoyed staying at Cabinas Golfito. I had a flight early in the morning, so I just walked to the airport which took less than 10 minutes. Host was extremely nice and helpful. I would definitely stay again!
Keti
Reviewed October 17, 2025Reviewed October 17, 2025
What a beautiful property! Individual cabanas in a lush setting with lots of birds, squirrels, tropical plants. A really good restaurant and helpful staff! Treat yourself!
What a beautiful property! Individual cabanas in a lush setting with lots of birds, squirrels, tropical plants. A really good restaurant and helpful staff! Treat yourself!
Donna
Reviewed September 29, 2026Reviewed September 29, 2026
My favorite place in Costa Rica! Rustic and so charming. Fantastic for lazy birdwatching and nature study right on site: and close to the beautiful Dulce Gulf and Corcovado National Park, as well. The entire staff is warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable. There is no place on Earth quite like this. I can hardly wait to go back. :)
My favorite place in Costa Rica! Rustic and so charming. Fantastic for lazy birdwatching and nature study right on site: and close to the beautiful Dulce Gulf and Corcovado National Park, as well. The entire staff is warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable. There is no place on Earth quite like this. I can hardly wait to go back. :)
Outdoor Adventures: Rio Claro is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking and wildlife watching amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, ideal for both adventure seekers and sun lovers.
Guided Tours: Take advantage of guided tours that highlight the area's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of cozy hotels and lodges that cater to different preferences and budgets.
Serene Atmosphere: Experience a tranquil environment that blends relaxation with adventure, making it perfect for a memorable vacation.
Find great hotels near Rio Claro
Discover a variety of lodging options in Rio Claro, where adventure meets relaxation. From cozy hotels to charming lodges, you'll find accommodations tailored for beach lovers, business travelers, and vacationers seeking unique experiences. Explore top-rated hotels, read guest reviews, and enjoy attentive staff dedicated to making your stay unforgettable in this beautiful part of Puntarenas Province.
Hotel Casa Roland Golfito Resort: Nestled 13km from Rio Claro, Hotel Casa Roland Golfito Resort is a charming 3.5-star hotel that combines comfort with a pet-friendly environment, making it ideal for travelers who wish to bring their furry companions along. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this property caters to both leisure and business travelers. The hotel offers various amenities, including a pet policy that allows dogs, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for those traveling with pets. Enjoy the serene surroundings and unwind after a day of exploration.
Amaka Ocean Living Lodge: Located 13km from Rio Claro, the Amaka Ocean Living Lodge is a stunning 3.5-star accommodation with a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This lodge is perfect for those seeking a beach and nature-themed escape. Guests can relish direct access to the beach, creating a seamless blend of relaxation and natural beauty. The property emphasizes wellness, featuring outdoor amenities like an entertainment area and a terrace, where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Costa Rica's lush surroundings.
Banana Bay Marina: Situated 11km from Rio Claro, Banana Bay Marina offers a 3-star experience with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, appealing to adventure seekers. This property provides a range of exciting recreation activities, including snorkeling and kayaking onsite or nearby, ensuring that thrill-seekers have plenty to engage in. Whether you wish to fish, surf, or hike, the hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring the area's adventurous offerings while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Where to stay in Rio Claro
Rio Claro offers an unforgettable vacation experience for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Nestled in the breathtaking Puntarenas Province, this charming village is perfectly situated for exploring nearby luxurious towns and beautiful beaches. Travelers can indulge in the serene atmosphere while enjoying stunning scenery and rich local culture. Don't miss the chance to discover the hidden gems of Rio Claro and its surrounding regions, where relaxation and adventure await at every turn.
Golfito: Located about 11km from Rio Claro, Golfito is a vibrant city that offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. While it experiences a steady influx of travelers throughout the year, peak times occur in September and from December to January. Visitors flock here for activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby national parks. The area is home to beautiful beaches and recreational areas, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Guaycará: As the city where Rio Claro is situated, Guaycará is rich in natural beauty and outdoor experiences. Travel to Guaycará is moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers from December to February. This city attracts those looking for adventure and scenic views, as it is surrounded by national parks and pristine beaches. Whether you’re hiking through lush landscapes or relaxing on the shore, Guaycará offers a delightful escape into Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Golfito National Wildlife Refuge: Just 6km from Rio Claro, this refuge is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The area sees moderate seasonal visitor traffic, peaking from December to February. Known for its breathtaking scenery, the refuge features lush lagoons, vibrant marine life, and serene water features. Travelers come here for an immersive nature experience, enjoying the tranquility of the marina and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
Things to do in Rio Claro
Shopping
In Rio Claro, you can explore local shops offering handcrafted souvenirs and unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Puntarenas Plaza, where you’ll find a variety of stores, including clothing and artisan crafts, perfect for finding that special memento.
Recreation
In Rio Claro, the Eco Wellness Retreat offers rejuvenating yoga sessions surrounded by lush nature, complemented by holistic treatments using local ingredients. Experience guided nature walks at the nearby rainforest, immersing yourself in the serene beauty and vibrant wildlife of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems.
Adventure
In Rio Claro, explore the thrilling white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, renowned for its stunning scenery and exciting rapids. For a different adventure, hike through nearby rainforests, where you can encounter diverse wildlife and breathtaking waterfalls, creating unforgettable memories in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Casona in Rio Claro, where you can enjoy live music and tasty local dishes. For a laid-back atmosphere, visit El Barcito for refreshing cocktails and friendly conversations. Don't miss the chance to mingle with locals and soak in the lively ambiance.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Find the best attractions near Rio Claro
Rio Claro in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, explore marinas, and discover local landmarks. The area caters to those seeking thrilling outdoor experiences, making it an ideal vacation spot for sun lovers and adventure seekers alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful scenery and engage in various activities that Rio Claro has to offer.
Playa Cacao: Located 18km from Rio Claro, Playa Cacao offers a serene beach vibe, perfect for relaxing under the sun or taking leisurely strolls along the shore. The soft sands and gentle waves create an inviting atmosphere for beachgoers.
Golfito Marina: Just 13km away, Golfito Marina is an adventure hub where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to embark on fishing excursions or simply soak in the vibrant marina life, this spot embodies the spirit of adventure and coastal charm.
Rio Coto Mangroves: Situated 18km from Rio Claro, the Rio Coto Mangroves provide a unique ecosystem to explore. Kayaking or taking guided tours through the mangroves offers a chance to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the tranquil waters.
Best time to go to Rio Claro
The best time to visit Rio Claro is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. November and December are its coolest month on average. At the time of December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
75.2°F (24.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
February
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
March
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
April
77.4°F (25.2°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
May
76.6°F (24.8°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
June
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
July
75.9°F (24.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
August
75.7°F (24.3°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
September
75.6°F (24.2°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
October
75.0°F (23.9°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
74.7°F (23.7°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
December
74.7°F (23.7°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rio Claro
Traveling to Rio Claro, Costa Rica, is convenient with several nearby airports. Quepos (XQP), 145km away, offers hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea and 4.5-star Shana by the Beach, both providing 24-hour airport shuttle services. Limón Intl. Airport (LIO), 143km away, features options such as Hotel Playa Bonita and Hotel Playa Westfalia, both within a few miles and offering shuttle services. The closest option is Puerto Jiménez (PJM), just 31km away, where you can stay at the 4-star Botanika Osa Peninsula Resort, which is 161m from the airport, providing convenient access and transportation services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best vacation rentals in Rio Claro?
Casa Amor:A Beautiful Accommodation Near the Ocean: Visitors like this Rio Claro vacation home rental. It is located near the airport and has an outdoor pool, a patio, and a barbecue grill to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a fridge, a stovetop, and a microwave. You and your friends and family can relax into your vacation with amenities like a garden. See all vacation rentals in Rio Claro.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Rio Claro, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Rio Claro.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Rio Claro?
To find more details about updating your trip to Rio Claro or cancelling it, click here.
What is the best accommodation for staying close to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)?
Visitors to Rio Claro are sure to find plenty to explore and enjoy. There are 146 hotels and other accommodations in the surrounding area. Find out more about Rio Claro.
The hottest months are usually March and February with an average temp of 76°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 75°F. The rainiest months in Rio Claro are October, August, November, and July, with each month seeing an average of 34 inches of rainfall.