Wellness

Over the last several years, the wellness industry in Costa Rica has grown immensely. For this reason, tourists visiting Costa Rica can find a wide variety of yoga, meditation, spa, and retreat experiences throughout the country. From bathing in thermal hot springs to practicing yoga in the jungle, Costa Rica’s incredible natural environments create the ideal atmosphere to relax, rejuvenate, and recharge. 

Yoga & Meditation

Costa Rica is a top destination for yoga enthusiasts. Yoga classes are readily available throughout the country- even in small towns and the countryside. Tourists interested in a more immersive experience can also stay at yoga retreats, which offer a wide variety of packages. Retreats often take place among natural surroundings, with stunning views and open air studios. 

Where to go

Pacific Coast

The town of Tamarindo in Guanacaste is one of the most popular yoga destinations in the country. Visitors can choose from a wide range of classes, retreats, and teacher training. In fact, yogis nearly outnumber surfers in this coastal town. Ser Om Shanti yoga studio is one of the most popular studios, and comes highly recommended by locals. 

Known as the yoga capital of Costa Rica, Nosara is a small fishing village located in the Nicoya Peninsula. Established in 1994, The Nosara Yoga Institute is one of the oldest yoga retreats in the country. The institute offers community classes, retreats, and acclaimed teacher training. After class, head to the beach for some rest and relaxation. 

For tourists seeking an eco-friendly yoga experience, the Osa Peninsula is a great option. This secluded Peninsula is famous for its vast biodiversity and two of Costa Rica’s best national parks. For an all inclusive experience, head to the Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa, which is steps from the beach and offers guest organic farm-to-table meals.

Central Valley & Northern Plains 

Overlooking Arenal Lake and Volcano, Mystica Lodge and Retreats offers a mix of relaxation and adventure for its guests. Guests at the lodge are able to participate in yoga classes, walking meditation, or relax at the spa. The proximity to Arenal Volcano National Park, means that guests can hike or swim in the thermal pools in their spare time. 

Finca Rosa Blanca is a four star resort located outside of San Jose and named one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodge of the World. This art filled resort is located on a coffee plantation, which offers free coffee tours, a latin fusion restaurant, library, and refined bar. Although Finca Rosa Blanca is not strictly a yoga retreat, the resort does offer classes as part of their wellness menu.

Caribbean Coast

Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful part of the country. This coast is also home to a variety of internationally renowned wellness retreats and yoga experiences. 

Set in 100 acre nature reserve, the Samasati Nature Retreat is an ideal accommodation for guests seeking to connect with nature. Located near Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, guests can enjoy twice daily yoga classes, art workshops, and paddle boarding. Samasati also has a wonderful spa, which focuses on natural remedies and international techniques. Private bungalows, a delicious restaurant, and shuttles to Puerto Viejo top off the Samsati experience.

Nestled next to the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, the Punta Mona educational centre and retreat offers a variety of courses in sustainability. The centre’s philosophy focuses on a holistic approach to environmental, personal, and physical health. Along with permaculture and herbal medicine classes, Punta Mona also holds yoga teacher training.

 Day Spas & Retreats

With a focus on natural ingredients and innovative techniques, Costa Rica is quickly becoming a worldwide leader in the development of spas and wellness retreats. The country’s focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship is demonstrated in the popularity of organic products and a wide array of holistic offerings. Whether bathing in natural hot springs or receiving a massage next to the ocean, Costa Rica’s spas offer relaxation and rejuvenation for everyone. 

Where to go

Pacific Coast

Nestled in the forest canopy, the 11,000 square foot Onda Spa is home to 9 indoor treatment rooms and three outdoor treatment rooms. Overlooking the sea and jungle, guests can choose from an extensive list of spa services that harness the power of various indigenous ingredients. A hot coconut oil scalp massage, purple corn body scrub, and a volcanic hot stone massage are some of the unique offerings of this luxurious spa. 

Kura Design Villas is a five star adults only resort located among the tropical rainforest. Close to the town of Uvita, Kura’s panoramic views overlook the magnificent Marino Ballena National Park. Due to the hotel’s proximity to natural environments, Kura entire resort- from dining to wellness- is designed with sustainability in mind. A perfect location for eco-conscious travelers. The Sha Spa is an open air sanctuary offering a wide range of treatments, including body wraps, massages, scrubs, and facials. 

Central Valley & Northern Plains 

Featuring views of the Central Valley and Talamanca Mountains, this upscale Hacienda AltaGracia resort offers guests a unique experience with private haciendas among Costa Rica’s rugged terrain. Home to the largest spa in Central America, Hacienda AltaGracia includes six indoor treatment rooms, four outdoor treatment rooms, 2 steam rooms, 2 saunas, and a panoramic pool. The spa is set in a two story atrium with 180 degree views of the mountains. 

The Springs Thermal Resort & Spa at Arenal Volcano is an incredible example of ecological and architectural harmony. The resort has 18 hot springs that offer guests an incredible ambiance. The hot springs range from tropical waterfalls to lazy rivers, all set among the Costa Rican jungle.  Inside the resort, guests can also enjoy a variety of spa services including massages, body wraps, and facials.

Caribbean Coast

Located in the heart of Puerto Viejo, Pure Jungle Spa is a great option for travellers seeking a budget friendly spa experience. Pure Jungle Spa sources all of its organic ingredients locally, and hand mixes each treatment prior to the appointment. Chocolate and cocoa ingredients are purchased from local indigenous farmers in Limon province. The globally trained staff offer a variety of massages, scrubs, facials, and food treatments all in an immersive rainforest atmosphere.