Costa Rica Hotel Market
Costa Rica Hotel Market 2025: Real Data & Regional Insights
Costa Rica’s tourism industry continues to thrive in 2025, supported by record international arrivals, new flight routes, and increased investment in sustainable hospitality. Whether you’re comparing destinations for your next vacation or analyzing property performance, this report breaks down key hotel data by region — including ADR (Average Daily Rate), occupancy rates, and market share.
All figures are based on verified STR Global and ICT (Instituto Costarricense de Turismo) data from late 2024 through mid-2025, converted to USD for consistency.
National Overview: Costa Rica Hotel Market at a Glance (2025)
Costa Rica’s hotel sector is showing steady growth heading into 2026, driven largely by the North Pacific coast and Central Valley recovery in business and adventure travel.
1. Guanacaste (North Pacific Coast)
ADR: $282 USD
Occupancy: 74%
Market Share: 32% of national hotel revenue
With its luxury beachfront resorts and international airport in Liberia, Guanacaste remains Costa Rica’s highest-performing region. Year-round sunshine and international brands like Four Seasons, W Costa Rica, and Planet Hollywood anchor a market that continues to outperform in both pricing and demand.
Key Insights:
- ADR grew +7% YoY, driven by high-end all-inclusive and villa inventory.
- Eco-luxury resorts are trending, with strong U.S. and Canadian markets.
- Average length of stay increased to 4.3 nights in 2025.
Traveler Tip: For the best value, visit in May or early November, when occupancy dips but weather remains ideal for beaches like Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo.
👉View Hotels in Nosara, Guanacaste
2. Central Pacific (Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Herradura)
ADR: $196 USD
Occupancy: 72%
Market Share: 24%
The Central Pacific balances accessibility (only two hours from San José) with coastal appeal. In 2025, occupancy rebounded strongly thanks to mid-scale and boutique hotel performance, particularly around Manuel Antonio National Park.
Key Insights:
- ADR increased +5.5% YoY due to strong domestic tourism.
- Average booking window shortened from 24 to 18 days, reflecting last-minute travel.
- Growth in digital nomad bookings and extended-stay villas.
Traveler Tip: For consistent surf and lower prices, Jacó Beach and nearby Playa Hermosa continue to offer great mid-range accommodation options.
3. San José & Central Valley
ADR: $138 USD
Occupancy: 68%
Market Share: 21%
Costa Rica’s capital region remains the core of business travel and weekend getaways. As international events and corporate travel return, San José’s hotel pipeline is expanding — especially among branded mid-tier hotels like Hilton Garden Inn and AC Marriott.
Key Insights:
- Business travel up +12% YoY, conferences returning steadily.
- Domestic leisure travel now accounts for 38% of weekend occupancy.
- Boutique hotels and rooftop bars driving downtown revival.
Traveler Tip: Stay close to Barrio Escalante or Avenida Central for nightlife, dining, and proximity to the airport (SJO).
👉 View Hotels in San José area
4. Northern Zone (Arenal, La Fortuna, Monteverde)
ADR: $172 USD
Occupancy: 73%
Market Share: 18%
The Northern Zone — dominated by Arenal Volcano and Monteverde’s cloud forests — continues to be Costa Rica’s most balanced region between adventure and nature tourism.
Key Insights:
- ADR up +8% YoY, highest percentage gain nationally.
- Strong growth from European and U.S. adventure travelers.
- Occupancy spikes during dry season (Dec–April), but remains steady due to ecotourism demand.
Traveler Tip: Book eco-lodges early — La Fortuna’s boutique lodges fill quickly during peak months.
Trends to Watch in 2025
- Sustainability as a Differentiator: Hotels with verifiable CST (Certification for Sustainable Tourism) credentials saw 12% higher occupancy than uncertified peers.
- Digital Nomads Drive Off-Peak Stays: Remote work visas extended long-term occupancy across Pacific Coast regions.
- Airbnb Plateau: STR data shows slight market correction as hotels regain competitiveness through direct booking offers.
- Rising ADR Forecast: National ADR projected to reach $205 USD by Q4 2025.
Conclusion: Smart Travel and Smart Investment
Costa Rica’s 2025 property and hotel markets reflect stability, opportunity, and resilience. Guanacaste leads in profitability, while the Central Pacific grows in accessibility and lifestyle appeal. San José’s urban scene is rebounding, and the Northern Zone offers unmatched natural value.
Whether you’re planning your trip or exploring where to invest in Costa Rica’s hotel market, use this data to make decisions grounded in reality — not just reputation.
👉 Explore regional listings and book direct at Hotels.cr for verified stays across Costa Rica’s most in-demand destinations.
