5 BEST Gay Hotels in Costa Rica for Gay-Friendly Vacations
Updated: 10.05.2024
Costa Rica is a true paradise for gay travelers looking for both exotic nature and a vibrant gay community. We went in search of the 5 best gay hotels in Costa Rica.
With its impressive variety of landscapes, from dense rainforests to stunning beaches, this eco-conscious nation ensures that there will be no shortage of delightful settings for your stay. In cities like San José and on the Pacific coast, you’ll find a thriving scene that welcomes you with open arms.
Our selection of gay hotels in Costa Rica
The selection of the top 5 gay hotels is based on careful research: I have included all accommodation explicitly designated as “gay hotels”, as well as those located in popular gay neighborhoods, run by members of the gay community or particularly popular with them. The aim is to give you an authentic and comprehensive look at the country’s hospitable scene so that your visit to Costa Rica is not just a trip, but an experience.
The 5 best gay hotels in Costa Rica
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1st place | Colours Oasis Resort – San José
3 stars from $52
Colours Oasis Resort, located in the vibrant city of San José, is a charming hideaway specially designed to offer a warm welcome to all guests, especially the LGBTQ+ community. With its cheerful, colorful design and relaxed, open atmosphere, you immediately feel like you’re among friends here. The rooms are comfortable and stylishly furnished, and offer everything you need after an exciting day in the city.
In addition to an inviting pool area, which is perfect for meeting new people or simply relaxing, there is a jacuzzi where you can wind down in the evening. The hotel also offers a variety of specific services for gay travelers, including gay-friendly tours and event information, making it easy to find your way around and explore San José’s gay scene.
Gay bars, clubs and cafés nearby
- La Avispa (approx. 10 minutes’ drive) – La Avispa has been an integral part of the LGBT scene in San José for decades and is known for its spectacular drag shows and lively dance floor.
- Club Bochinche (approx. 10 minutes’ drive) – Another hotspot for the local gay community, known for its friendly atmosphere and regular theme parties.
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2nd place | Hotel Banana Azul – Puerto Viejo
3 stars from $95
The Hotel Banana Azul in Puerto Viejo is the perfect getaway for gay travelers who want to experience the Caribbean flair of Costa Rica. The boutique hotel combines charming rustic elements with a touch of modern comfort, making it an irresistible mix. The rooms are airy and stylishly furnished, many with breathtaking views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea. For those who like to be in harmony with nature, the hotel offers direct access to beautiful beaches and tropical gardens that invite you to linger. Imagine: A gentle sea breeze blowing through your window while you relax in your cozy bed – totally dreamy! Not forgetting the pool area, which invites you to sunbathe and chill out.
The attentive and friendly staff know how to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that is particularly popular with the LGBT community. So if you’re looking for a gay-friendly spot in Costa Rica, Hotel Banana Azul is just the place for you.
Gay bars, clubs and cafés nearby
- Puerto Viejo: it may be small, but it’s big when it comes to the gay scene. Try the bar “La Salsa Brava”, which is only a 10-minute walk away. It is known for its lively atmosphere and fantastic sea views.
- Coco Loco: Even closer is the café “Coco Loco”, just 5 minutes away, a wonderful place for a delicious coffee in the morning or a few cocktails at dusk.
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3rd place | Hotel Makanda – Manuel Antonio
5 stars from $295
Luxury and exclusivity come together at the Hotel Makanda by The Sea, a true tropical oasis in Manuel Antonio. This stylish 5-star hotel not only offers a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, but also scores with its modern design and adults-only policy, which guarantees a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Ideal for couples or friends looking for a little more peace and quiet while relaxing in an undisturbed ambience. The stylish villas and studios are perfectly equipped and offer maximum privacy – ideal for getting away from it all.
The pool area is a real hotspot for sunbathing or enjoying the sunset with a fresh cocktail in your hand. Not forgetting the hotel restaurant, which offers an excellent selection of local and international dishes and where you can dine in a sophisticated setting. By the way, the service here is really top-notch, attentive and always with a smile – you feel like you’re with friends.
Gay bars, clubs and cafés nearby
- Rainbow Cafe: “La Cantina LGBT Bar & Club” and the “Rainbow Café” are just a few minutes’ drive away.
- La Cantina is known for its lively atmosphere and great drag shows, while the Rainbow Café is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon with coffee and cake in a colorful ambience.
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4th place | Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
5 stars from $315
If you’re looking for the ultimate escape with a pinch of luxury, then darling, pack your bags for the Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa in La Fortuna. This 5-star sanctuary is the ideal retreat for those who long for tropical nature, exquisite design and high-end service that you don’t experience every day. The highlight? The natural thermal springs, which are simply perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring or just relaxing surrounded by lush green rainforest.
The modern and elegant rooms not only offer top comfort, but also a fantastic view of nature that radiates pure joie de vivre as soon as you wake up. Ideal for the de-stress phase after an exciting gay night! Plus, the yoga program and the spa – Tabacon definitely takes wellness to the next level.
Gay bars, clubs and cafés nearby
- Le Club: Just a short drive from La Fortuna, this stylish gay club is the perfect place to meet local and international gays. Approximately 15 minutes drive.
- Café Rainbow: A cozy café that is perfect for a morning coffee or a quick snack. Only 10 minutes by car from the resort.
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5th place | El Silencio Lodge
4 stars from 750$
El Silencio Lodge is a true paradise for anyone looking for luxury and a pinch of adventure in the midst of nature. Hidden in the cloud forests of Costa Rica, this eco-resort not only offers impressive landscapes and first-class service, but also a peaceful atmosphere that is particularly popular with the LGBTQ+ community. The stylish suites and villas, equipped with every imaginable comfort, offer retreats that are both private and incredibly romantic. For gay travelers, El Silencio Lodge is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature in peace and quiet while experiencing a cosmopolitan and friendly environment.
Nearby gay bars, cafés & clubs
- La Avispa (approx. 90 minutes’ drive): One of the oldest and best-known gay bars in San José. Known for its lively dance nights and drag shows, La Avispa is a hotspot for the local LGBTQ+ scene, especially at weekends.
- Club Teatro (approx. 90 minutes’ drive): This club in San José is famous for its extravagant party series and spectacular live performances. Club Teatro attracts a diverse crowd, from local party animals to international tourists.
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Our conclusion on the best gay hotels in Costa Rica
Thank you for taking the time to find out about the top 5 gay hotels in Costa Rica. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing gay vacation or want to explore the vibrant scene in San José’s gay district, we hope our selection will help you find the perfect gay resort in Costa Rica. Enjoy your stay in an environment that is diverse, open and welcoming. Discover the hospitable culture and breathtaking landscapes of this beautiful country. Safe travels and incessant discovery!
