best vegan resorts in Costa Rica

By Avantika Chaturvedi. This guide to Costa Rica’s vegan resorts contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica?

Then you’re in the right place!

Costa Rica has emerged as a haven for vegan travelers seeking a harmonious blend of stunning natural landscapes and plant-based cuisine.

With its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism, there has been a surge in vegan hotels in Costa Rica that cater specifically to those who embrace a plant-powered lifestyle.

From breathtaking rainforests to pristine beaches, the country offers diverse landscapes and with that, a diverse array of Costa Rica vegan resorts that not only provide luxurious accommodations but also prioritize wellness, health, and ethical dining experiences.

Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler or a passionate vegan enthusiast, these resorts allow you to fully surrender to the natural beauty of Costa Rica without having to worry about the impact that your food would have on the environment.

To help you with your travel planning, here are some of the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica that offer a unique blend of comfort, sustainability, and delectable plant-based cuisine.

Short on time? Our top picks for the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica include:

🌎 Mother Earth Vegan Hotel (Tamarindo). This beachfront all-inclusive is not only stunning, but it offers a delicious 100% plant-based menu and an array of activities from nature walks to wellness classes.

🥕 Lands in Love Vegan Experience Hotel & Resort (Colonia Palmareña). This Costa Rica vegan paradise, located just an hour from the famous Arenal Volcano, offers creative vegan dishes, an eco-friendly design, and activities like onsite hiking and playing with their rescue pets.

🌋 Essence Arenal (El Castillo). Offering epic views of the Arenal Volcano and the El Castillo Valley, this beautiful resort features a permaculture farm, spa, eco-friendly design, wellness classes, and a strictly vegetarian menu, though most of its dishes can be made vegan upon request.

🧘‍♀️ Prefer a retreat? Check out these top-rated vegan yoga retreats in Costa Rica!

tropical fruit bowl at one of the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica
Eating a plant-based diet is easy in Costa Rica. Photo via Jonathan Borba from Pexels.

Is Costa Rica Vegan Friendly?

Costa Rica is known to be a vegan-friendly paradise and a top plant-based destination. The country offers a wide range of all-inclusive vegan resorts in Costa Rica, particularly in popular tourist areas and larger cities like San José, Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio, and Santa Teresa.

Moreover, Costa Rica’s cuisine is heavily influenced by fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, beans, and rice, which are all staples of a vegan diet.

When it comes to vegan food in Costa Rica, traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a plate with rice, beans, plantains, and salad), and ceviche (made with vegetables or heart of palm) can be easily adapted to be vegan-friendly.

However, it’s always a good idea to communicate your dietary preferences and requirements clearly when dining out to ensure that your meal is prepared vegan-friendly.

Some smaller, more traditional restaurants may have limited vegan options; but overall, eating vegan in Costa Rica shouldn’t be too hard.

Best Vegan Resorts In Costa Rica

1. Mother Earth Vegan Hotel (Tamarindo)

Pool at the Mother Earth vegan hotel in Costa Rica
An idyllic setting for your vegan Costa Rica vacation. Image source: Expedia

Located on Tamarindo Beach, this one-of-a-kind vegan-friendly all-inclusive resort in Costa Rica offers a harmonious blend of sustainability, luxury, and compassion.

With its commitment to veganism, the hotel offers an entirely plant-based seasonal menu that not only nurtures your body but also allows for such a tantalizing experience for your taste buds that even meat lovers will love to eat here!

Every aspect of the hotel’s design and operations prioritizes sustainability – from solar panels powering the entire property to the use of locally sourced, organic produce in their restaurant.

The lush gardens brim with native plants, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and meditation.

To foster an even deeper connection with Mother Earth, you can also indulge in the hotel’s many wellness activities like yoga and meditation, eco-tours, guided nature walks, and immersive workshops on sustainable living for that perfect vegan Costa Rica vacation!

2. Lands in Love Vegan Experience Hotel & Resort (Colonia Palmareña)

lounge at the Lands in Love Vegan Experience Hotel & Resort in Costa Rica
Lands In Love offers a charming vegan getaway. Image via Expedia.

Nestled in a cloud forest about 30 kilometers from the city of San Ramon, the Lands in Love Vegan Experience Hotel and Resort offers a delightful blend of vegan cuisine, eco-friendly accommodations, and a plethora of adventure activities.

This vegan hotel in Costa Rica acts on a strong commitment to and love towards animals and nature.

You can see this through its exclusively plant-based restaurant serving mouthwatering dishes crafted from locally sourced organic ingredients as well as the many dogs and cats they have rescued and shelter on the premises.

The resort’s accommodations showcase an eco-conscious design, incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.

There is also a plethora of forest hikes accessible from the resort itself, and the Arenal Volcano National Park is an hour’s drive away, making it the perfect stay for vegans with a sense of adventure!

3. Selva Armonia Immersive Jungle Resort (Uvita)

pool at the Selva Armonia Immersive Jungle Resort in Costa Rica
Isn’t this a nature lover’s paradise? Image via Expedia.

This breathtaking oasis has it all: a view of the ocean, permaculture gardens, a tropical rainforest location, and an entirely plant-based restaurant that helps to make it one of the best vegan all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica.

Along with gourmet vegan dishes, their ocean-view yoga deck, massage therapy offerings, and naturally built accommodation structures are all solid reasons to spend a few nights here.

Additionally, the property offers a wide range of excursions in the wild – including to Marino Ballena National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Ventanas, and waterfalls like Cascada Verde, Nauyaca, and Eco Chontales,

Selva Armonia goes beyond providing comfortable lodging by also offering transformative experiences. Guided by experienced instructors, you can participate in yoga and meditation retreats, plant medicine ceremonies, and nature immersion workshops.

These activities allow you to deepen your connection with the earth and tap into your inner self.

4. Casa Geraldo (Quepos)

lush forest in Manuel Antonio National Park as seen from above
Enjoy the unmatched beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park. Image via Costa Rica Drone Tours from Pexels.

Nestled amidst a thriving rainforest and overlooking the enchanting coastline, this vegan Costa Rica resort blends harmoniously with its surroundings, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Casa Geraldo’s commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices are evident through its solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and focus on preserving the natural environment – as well as its delicious plant-based cafe.

Conveniently sandwiched between several Pacific Ocean beaches on one side and the lush jungle of Manuel Antonio National Park on the other, there are many notable places – like Playa Biesanz and Playa Espadilla – within a short distance of the property.

The architecture of Casa Geraldo embraces a fusion of contemporary design and traditional Costa Rican elements, creating a unique and inviting ambiance.

From exploring the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park to lounging by the infinity pool and soaking in scenic views of the ocean, your stay at this vegan resort in Costa Rica is sure to be memorable.

By the end, you’ll truly fall in love with this beautiful country and this vegan boutique hotel.

5. Waterfall Villas (Dominical)

Waterfall Villas Vegan Hotel in Costa Rica
These villas offer a true jungle paradise. Image via Expedia.

Nestled amidst dense rainforests, this eco-luxury vegan retreat in Costa Rica offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wellness, and tranquility.

The lush surroundings and soothing sound of cascading waterfalls are a treat to your senses, while opulent accommodations create a sanctuary to relax and rejuvenate.

Their emphasis on wellness and holistic healing is evident too.

First of all, the retreat offers delicious raw vegan dishes in their restaurant. Moreover, there are a variety of wellness programs and spa treatments, including yoga classes and meditation sessions. In fact, it’s the perfect place for a vegan yoga retreat!

Exploring the grounds of this vegan resort in Costa Rica reveals hidden trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls and secluded swimming holes, allowing you to connect with nature in a profound way.

The retreat’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its eco-friendly practices and organic, locally sourced cuisine.

6. Essence Arenal (El Castillo)

view from Essence Arenal Vegan Resort in Costa Rica
Imagine waking up to this view! Image via Expedia.

A 22-hectare (54-acre) hilltop property, Essence Arenal is a boutique resort with awe-inspiring views of the Arenal Volcano and the El Castillo Valley.

Their on-site restaurant is strictly vegetarian and can serve vegan versions of their vast menu of dishes on request, allowing for hassle-free vegan travel in Costa Rica.

Featuring a permaculture farm, spa, eco-residential community, and wellness retreat, this is the perfect place to soak in nature’s bounty while indulging in some self-care.

The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident through actions like using 90% solar energy, sourcing their water from a nearby natural spring, and growing restaurant produce on their own organic farm or getting it from local farmers.

As one of the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica, the property’s accommodations also blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.

They have a variety of rooms to choose from – ranging from glamping treehouses to traditional en suite private rooms.

Not only is Essence Arenal a haven for eco-conscious travelers, but also digital nomads thanks to its one-bedroom casitas featuring a kitchen and hall, and special monthly prices!

7. Posada El Quijote (San José)

pool with a view of the mountains at the Posada El Quijote Vegan Resort in Costa Rica
A peaceful getaway, far enough to escape the city crowds! Image via Expedia.

Perched atop a hill just 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the city center, Posada El Quijote offers the perfect combination of city convenience and astounding Central Valley views.

In fact, many popular local attractions – like the National Theatre of Costa Rica, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Pre-Colombian Gold Museum – are all accessible from this plant-based resort.

Run by a Colombian-Norwegian couple since 2013, the actual building of Posada El Quijote dates back to the ’60s and is characterized by its exclusive wooden construction and furnishings of the post-coffee-growing era of Escazú.

Apart from their strictly vegetarian menu, several small but thoughtful practices go a long way in making Posada El Quijote a sustainable property. This includes their dedication to maintaining a native flower garden to enable a thriving population of bees.

8. Río Chirripó Yoga Retreat (San José)

entrance of the Río Chirripó Yoga Retreat
A charming location for a transformative experience. Image via Expedia

Located at the base of the mystical Cerro Chirripó mountain, by the banks of the Chirripó River, this idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of nature, yoga, and rejuvenation for those seeking a peaceful and transformative experience.

“Chirripó” is an indigenous word meaning “land of eternal waters.” The location of this retreat truly allows for its healing properties to shine.

That, coupled with its vegetarian-only restaurant (except sometimes serving free-roaming, locally raised chicken and freshly caught fish), helps make this a Costa Rican wellness retreat like no other.

Looking for a yoga adventure? In addition to therapies at Spa Río and yoga and meditation classes led by experienced instructors, you also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and engage in a plethora of outdoor activities.

These include hiking through the Chirripó Valley’s Cloudbridge Reserve, exploring Finca Talari (the retreat’s private reserve), birdwatching at the Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary, and soaking in natural hot springs.

The retreat also offers wellness treatments and workshops focused on holistic healing and self-discovery, making for one of the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica.

9. Yoga Salt Life Lodge (Samara)

woman doing yoga on the beach at sunset
Yoga on the beach + vegan food? Yes, please! Image via Pxfuel.

Nestled in the beach town of Samara, this Costa Rica vegan retreat offers a serene escape from the demands of everyday life by blending coastal paradise, relaxation, and yoga.

As you step into the Yoga Salt Life Lodge, you’re immediately struck by the tranquil atmosphere and soothing sounds of the ocean waves.

The lodge’s open-air yoga shala provides an idyllic space for practicing yoga while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding tropical landscape.

They offer vegetarian and ayurvedic meals, with the easy option of requesting vegan versions.

Each day begins with invigorating yoga sessions guided by experienced instructors who help deepen your practice, cultivate mindfulness, and have a spiritual retreat.

Here, you can explore pristine beaches, practice reiki and Odaka Yoga (which is inspired by the ocean), indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or simply lounge by the pool while soaking in the sun and gentle sea breeze.

10. Farm of Life (Finca de Vida) (San Isidro)

woman taking in panoramic views from the pool at Farm of Life Vegan Resort in Costa Rica
One highlight of the property: the spectacular views! Photo via Farm of Life.

Nestled within breathtaking mountains and lush rainforests, this tranquil oasis offers an ideal environment for guests to reconnect with nature and nurture their well-being.

At Finca de Vida, the focus is on holistic wellness – with a range of programs that promote physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation.

They have a vegetarian-only communal kitchen and an on-site permaculture farm. Plus, the accommodation provides you with a serene sanctuary amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

There is also a lot to do. Along with yoga and meditation classes, you can chill at the 16-meter-long Peace Pool or invigorate yourself with the spring-fed cold plunge Vitality Pool.

Moreover, you can enjoy spa therapies, attend sacred plant ceremonies, and learn energy medicine. And if you love yoga and hiking retreats, you can attend a yoga class before exploring stunning local hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas.

Looking for an all-inclusive vegan resort in Costa Rica? They have packages for that too!

11. AmaSer (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca)

AmaSer is a conscious yoga retreat that is inspired by the practices of yoga and Ayurveda, which trickles down into the food they serve as well.

Their prime focus is on yoga education, community building, and holistic well-being inspired by nature – an ideal combination for the perfect vegan resort in Costa Rica.

Surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest overlooking the ocean, the location for AmaSer is paradisical, to say the least.

Avani is the yoga guru here who not only offers daily classes but also hosts yoga teacher courses to help you take your practice to the next level.

The vegan and gluten-free eatery at AmaSer promotes a positive relationship with food, which is inspired by yogic principles and the medicinal approach of Ayurveda.

What is even better is that their farm-to-table method ensures the best sustainability practices when it comes to their cuisine!

12. DiVina Vida (San Gerardo)

women harvesting cacao in the jungle
Organic cacao farming for the soul! Image via Antonio Martinez, USAID from PIXNIO

DiVina Vida Costa Rica is a certified organic permaculture farm nestled in the hills above Parrita – not too far from the shores of the Costa Rican Central Pacific.

This sanctuary offers transformative wellness retreats for those seeking rejuvenation, healing, and a deeper connection with themselves and nature.

Their farm grows healing herbs with high vibrations – including cacao, turmeric, coconut, acerola cherries, ginger, hibiscus flowers, cinnamon, tulsi, passionflower, mango, and much more.

They infuse these natural ingredients into their teas, tinctures, capsules, and even chocolates.

In terms of accommodation, they offer two guesthouses with functional kitchens, a chemical-free pool, a yoga deck, and a spa.

Another reason this is one of the best vegan resorts in Costa Rica is that the food offered is fully plant-based – and delicious!

When not treating yourself to the bounties of this finca, you can explore the stunning hikes and waterfalls of the nearby La Cangreja National Park, or even participate in a Cacao Ceremony.

13. Finca Rio Perla (Siquirres)

green river in the Costa Rican jungle
Relax by the river at Finca Rio Perla. Image via Jastoycagando from Pixabay.

This picturesque farm is located in the breathtaking region of Pérez Zeledón. Surrounded by pristine forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers, Finca Río Perla provides a serene and sustainable retreat.

The farm embraces sustainable practices and permaculture principles, showcasing a harmonious balance between human habitation and the natural environment.

Accommodations at Finca Río Perla range from cozy cabins to rustic camping sites, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.

The ingredients used in the food come almost exclusively from their farm. You’ll find a mix of vegan and vegetarian options, from organic eggs to fresh produce to homemade tortillas to fresh juices. The only non-plant-based food is the tilapia from their pond.

They also offer various activities and outdoor adventures such as hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, organic farming workshops, and opportunities to swim in a crystal river.

14. Posada Natura (Puntarenas)

traveler seeing a sloth dangling from a tree on a vegan vacation in Costa Rica in the rainforest
Have a vegan vacation in Costa Rica in the rainforest. Image via Harry Collins from Getty Images via Canva Pro.

Nestled amidst 7,500 acres of rainforest by the banks of the Naranjo River, Posada Natura is a holistic well-being retreat helping you connect with your inner self and rejuvenate.

It’s also one of the best vegan retreats in Costa Rica. In fact, apart from eggs sourced from their free-roaming chickens, the retreat serves delectable seasonal vegan meals three times a day – so if you’re looking for a vegan all-inclusive in Costa Rica, this is a great pick.

Additionally, all produce is sourced from local organic farms – and some herbs, roots, and fruits come directly from their own kitchen garden!

They offer a wide range of programs for various needs. These include plant medicine retreats, addiction recovery, transformative yoga, breathwork, bodywork, and a lot more.

You can also participate in outdoor excursions deeper into the rainforest such as waterfall hikes, horseback riding, and even river rafting!

15. The Imiloa Institute (Escazú)

Savegre River surrounded by jungle
A true sanctuary by the Savegre River! Image via Rodtico21 from Wikimedia Commons.

The Imiloa Institute is a 5-star transformative wellness retreat and educational center nestled in the ancient rainforests of the Savegre Mountains.

Their goal is to provide a serene sanctuary for individuals seeking personal growth, well-being, and conscious living.

In fact, they offer a range of immersive programs, workshops, and retreats that focus on various aspects of holistic wellness – including yoga, meditation, mindfulness, intuitive dance, plant medicine, sustainable living practices, and a lot more.

In regards to accommodation, there are many lodging types to choose from, including Balinese suites, open-air jungle bungalows, and riverside geodesic domes.

When it comes to food, Imiloa offers nutritious and organic vegan meals that not only taste incredible but feel good in your body. They’re also plated artistically for the complete gourmet experience!

And if you’re looking for the best vegan all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, meals here are included in the program pricing.

Bonus Costa Rica Travel Resources:

How To Visit An Indigenous Community In Costa Rica

How To Shop Sustainably In Playas del Coco, Costa Rica

How One Art Gallery Is Promoting Indigenous Culture In Costa Rica

How The Sloth Sanctuary Is Educating Visitors To Costa Rica

What best vegan resorts in Costa Rica would you add to this list?

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Avantika Chaturvedi is a travel blogger and freelance writer based out of New Delhi, India. She focuses on slow, solo, and sustainable travel and likes to explore places in India that are often off the tourist radar. Her work has appeared in publications like Vice, Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, Condé Nast Traveller, National Geographic Traveller India, and more.

Avantika Chaturvedi

Avantika Chaturvedi is a travel blogger and freelance writer based out of New Delhi, India. She focuses on slow, solo, and sustainable travel and likes to explore places in India that are often off the tourist radar. Her work has appeared in publications like Vice, Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, Condé Nast Traveller, National Geographic Traveller India, and more.

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