6 all-inclusive Costa Rican resorts with jaw-dropping pools

A hotspot for adventure travelers, wellness seekers, culinary explorers, and cultural globetrotters, Costa Rica is known for its pura vida—a “pure and simple life.” And there’s perhaps no better way to indulge in pura vida than relaxing poolside with no agenda whatsoever. Perfect for families and couples alike, Costa Rican all-inclusives have a dizzying array of epic pools, from infinity edge beauts to lagoon pools.

Get ready to focus on the good times in the water (instead of your day-to-day budget) and read on for some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for every kind of water baby.

Set along the white sand beaches of Conchal Beach on the northern Pacific coast, the Westin Costa Rica Resort & Spa is a high-end, all-inclusive resort with a lagoon-style pool, a whirlpool, and a kids pool to keep everyone entertained. For those who enjoy pool time with a refreshing beverage in hand, the main pool in the adults area has a swim-up bar. This family-friendly destination’s 2,400-acre property also has both forests and beaches, a beach club, a spa, and a championship golf course.

The resort's all-inclusive package is well-rounded, and includes meals at the property’s 13 bars and restaurants, select alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, an in-room minibar (stocked daily), 24-hour room service, a kids club, water sports, tennis courts, and nightly entertainment. Plus, the hotel is committed to environmental protection and was certified by the Costa Rican Tourism Board with a Level 5 (highest available) CST (Certificate of Sustainable Tourism). When you’re not in the water, take a morning walk and spot howler monkeys, iguanas, coatis, and tropical birds moving among the trees and green areas.

For a pool with a view, stay at Paloma Lodge, where the freshwater plunge pool is perched over the Pacific Ocean. One of the most stylish properties in Costa Rica—think polished hardwoods and hammocks, floor-to-ceiling windows, rainforest gardens—Paloma Lodge is the perfect place for nature lovers looking for adventure, couples escaping on a romantic getaway, or families looking to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Located atop a cliff that’s backed by the lush tropical jungle, there are 14 acres to wander on the grounds here, and guests can walk to the cool waters of Agujitas River or Drake Bay’s black-sand beaches. Modestly sized by design, the property has seven bungalows and four rooms to choose from, all of which are equipped with air-conditioning and balconies that are great for spying monkeys and scarlet macaws. When you’re not relaxing poolside with a good book, explore Corcovado National Park or snorkel in the clear waters of Caño Island.

If a private plunge pool is what you’re after, five of the 21 suites at Andaz Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo feature the amenity. Plus, the property has an additional family-friendly swimming pool and one adults-only swimming pool. A family-friendly Hyatt concept, this Guanacaste luxury resort also has three beaches, world-class golf, an extensive activity program, and distinctive dining experiences within a pristine 1,400-acre private peninsula.

In addition to a 24-hour fitness center, the Andaz also has complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkel gear, and there are walking trails and an electric bike-share program. For those looking to relax and recharge, the resort’s Onda Spa and Wellness Sanctuary features treatments that embrace the area’s indigenous traditions. For families, Andaz has CAMBI Kids Club (ages 4–12) and teen excursions with Camp Jaguar—and it’s pet-friendly so you can bring Fido, too.

Craving an on-site water park? Hotel RIU Palace's Splash Water World, complete with several waterslides, is for you. For regular swimming, the Travelers' Choice Best of the Best winner has four pools (one with a swim-up bar) just waiting for you to jump in and log laps. If you can pry yourself out of the water, don’t miss the adults-only, poolside RiuParty dance parties featuring DJs and colorful performances.

While at this all-inclusive resort on the edge of Matapalo Beach, you can also partake in beach volleyball, snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, and working out at the deluxe gym. This hotel’s all-inclusive package includes dining at the buffet or the resort's four themed restaurants, and relaxing treatments can be found at the Renova Spa. Plus, Hotel RIU’s concierge can help you book excursions like scuba diving, golf and day trips to nearby national parks for a fee.

Nestled in the jungle with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Los Altos De Eros is an award-winning, boutique property just 10 miles inland from the buzzy surf town of Tamarindo. Sure, you could be at the beach, but the infinity pool at this adults-only resort will have you thinking otherwise.

At the spa, you’ll find more H2O action. There’s a hydrotherapy pool and a Balinese soaking tub, great for spending time in before or after a treatment in one of five outdoor treatment rooms. At Los Altos De Eros, you’ll also find a fitness center, hiking trails, yoga, and cooking classes to keep you blissfully occupied. On the gastronomy front, the resort takes a personal chef approach. Expect fresh, organic produce and seafood delivered directly from the dock.

For a supersized, all-inclusive experience, book your stay at the Planet Hollywood Costa Rica. This Autograph Collection property boasts nearly 300 suites, two pools, five bars, eight restaurants, a fitness center, the PH Spa & Beauty Bar, and a Splash Kids Zone. Speaking of those pools, one of the two is an entertainment center, where you can enjoy a DJ spinning tunes, aqua Zumba classes, a foam party, champagne in a private cabana, and more.

Plus, you can level up your experience at Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by opting for the STAR Class upgrade, which includes access to private areas, premium food and drinks, a personal concierge, and more. And kiddos get the celebrity treatment, too. The Star Kids Club offers acting classes, a karaoke machine, a green screen studio, a wardrobe room, movie nights, and scavenger hunts.