While adventures and beaches are amazing, sometimes the best vacation moments happen during pure RELAXATION time!
Costa Rica is a wellness destination in its own right, and Guanacaste offers some incredible spa and self-care experiences:
Resort Spa Highlights:
RIU Palace Costa Rica Renova Spa My personal favorite for traditional treatments:
- Signature treatment: Volcanic mud wrap with pineapple scrub
- Must try: Bamboo massage (deeper than deep tissue!)
- Facility highlights: Hydrotherapy circuit, beachfront massage cabanas
- Price range: $80-180 for treatments
- Tip: Book the “Tico Touch” package with local coffee scrub
Westin Reserve Conchal The most luxurious option in the area:
- Signature treatment: Guanacaste Journey (includes local botanicals)
- Must try: Four-hands massage (two therapists, pure bliss!)
- Facility highlights: Open-air treatment rooms, rainforest showers
- Price range: $120-250 for treatments
- Tip: Their sunset massage package includes champagne
Planet Hollywood Spa For those who love a bit of glamour:
- Signature treatment: Hollywood Star package
- Must try: Their anti-jet lag treatment is amazing after travel
- Facility highlights: Couples’ suites, PEVONIA products
- Price range: $90-200 for treatments
- Tip: Ask about their massage instruction for couples
Beyond-the-Resort Wellness Experiences:
Vandara Hot Springs & Spa A natural thermal experience:
- Why go: Natural volcanic hot springs in a jungle setting
- Top experience: Volcanic mud painting and mineral pools
- Includes: Lunch, transportation, multiple pools
- Cost: Around $120 for full day
- Tip: The waterslide is surprisingly fun – don’t skip it!
Rio Perdido Thermal River For a more natural, off-the-beaten-path experience:
- Why go: Swim in naturally heated river with medicinal properties
- Top experience: The “Floating Massage” in the thermal waters
- Includes: Access to hiking trails, thermal pools, canyon
- Cost: $85 for day pass, treatments additional
- Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the river before day visitors
Coco Beach Yoga For the mind-body connection:
- Why go: Beachfront yoga classes for all levels
- Top experience: Sunset flow classes with ocean soundtrack
- Schedule: Morning and evening classes daily
- Cost: $15-25 per class, private sessions available
- Tip: Their full moon beach yoga events are magical
Wellness Experiences to Consider:
Forest Bathing More than just a nature walk:
- Guided mindfulness experience in protected forests
- Scientific benefits for stress reduction and immunity
- 2-3 hour gentle experiences
- Around $60-80 per person
- Often combined with picnic lunches
Indigenous Sweat Lodge (Temascal) For the culturally curious:
- Traditional healing ceremony led by local guides
- Herbal steam bath in stone “house”
- Includes purification rituals and teachings
- $70-90 per person
- Profound spiritual experience for many
Floating Therapy For deep relaxation:
- Sensory deprivation float tanks with Epsom salts
- Excellent for jet lag recovery
- 60-90 minute sessions
- $70-85 per session
- Located at Blue Zone Center in Tamarindo
Booking Tips:
- Resort spas get booked quickly in high season – reserve at least a week in advance
- Most spas offer better rates for morning appointments (before 11am)
- Couples/group bookings often receive discounts
- Many treatments can be done in your room for an additional fee
- Gratuities (10-15%) are appreciated and not always included
Pura Vida, JaQuay
P.S. Many resort spas offer excellent packages combining multiple treatments at better value than booking individually.