Nayara Resort
costa rica, costa rica · ★★★★★
The Verdict
Worth it for your honeymoon?
Nayara Resort is the accessible sibling to the legendary Nayara Springs, offering the same breathtaking Arenal volcano backdrop and private hot spring plunge pools at a more approachable price point. With 50 bungalows set in lush tropical gardens and dedicated adults-only areas within the resort, it delivers an exceptional honeymoon experience with slightly more flexibility for couples who want world-class luxury without the ultra-exclusive price tag of Springs.
- ✓Trust couples-verified reviews
- ✓Prioritise spa & wellness
- →Need a strictly adults-only resort
- →Want a direct beachfront
- →Prefer boutique & intimate properties
Score Breakdown
88/100
At a Glance
Room Recommendation
Which room to book
The Superior Bungalow with private hot spring pool is the sweet spot — you get your own plunge pool fed by volcanic waters, a king bed with volcano views, and an open-air shower surrounded by jungle foliage. The Premium Bungalows add more interior space and a deeper soaking tub. Both are genuinely romantic and worth the upgrade over standard rooms.
No Surprises
True cost breakdown — 7 nights for two
Based on mid-range rooms, premium-economy flights from Europe, full dining and signature experiences. Adjust for your actual travel profile.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Room (7 nights avg $900/nt) | $6,300 |
| Flights (2 pax, economy/premium) | $1,800 |
| Airport transfers / seaplane | $200 |
| Dining & drinks (beyond room) | $9,450 |
| Excursions & experiences | $700 |
| Spa / signature treatments | $600 |
| Tips & service (8%) | $1,260 |
| Total estimated | $20,310 |
Book Your Stay
Check availability
We compare Nayara Resort across partners and redirect to the cheapest option.
Day by Day
Your 7-night honeymoon itinerary
Arrival & Volcano Welcome
Arrive via private transfer from San José or Liberia and check into your bungalow. Your private hot spring plunge pool will be warm and waiting. Order from room service for a private dinner on the deck and spend the evening watching Arenal's silhouette against the darkening sky.
Nayara Spa & Gardens
Begin with the Nayara spa's signature volcanic mud treatment — the therapists use mineral-rich Arenal earth sourced meters from the resort. Spend the afternoon exploring the resort's lush tropical gardens, where hummingbirds and morpho butterflies are constant companions, and use the adults-only pool area in the afternoon.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Take the short transfer into Arenal Volcano National Park for a guided hike through solidified 1968 lava fields. The park trail provides extraordinary close-up views of the volcano's flanks. Return to the resort for a sunset soak in your private spring.
La Fortuna Waterfall
The 70-meter La Fortuna Waterfall is a 20-minute drive and short hike from the resort. The cold plunge pool at the base is stunning — a perfect counterpoint to your hot spring evenings. Afternoon back at the resort; the Nayara Bar makes excellent craft cocktails with local guaro and tropical fruits.
Lake Arenal Boat Tour
A morning guided boat tour on Lake Arenal with a naturalist guide offers superb birdwatching — look for kingfishers, herons, and the spectacular jabiru stork. The lake's calm morning surface perfectly mirrors the volcano on clear days. Reserve the Amor Loco restaurant for dinner for fine Costa Rican cuisine.
White Water Rafting or Zip-lining
For adventurous couples, Class III-IV white water rafting on the Sarapiquí River is outstanding. Alternatively, the Arenal area has some of Costa Rica's best zip-line canopy tours with over a kilometer of cables through old-growth forest. Both are half-day adventures leaving plenty of time for a relaxing evening.
Final Soak & Departure
Spend your last morning with a long breakfast on your bungalow deck and a final soak in your volcanic plunge pool before checkout. The Nayara team will arrange your transfer with the same warmth and care that has characterized the entire stay.
Honest Assessment
What to know before you book
Nayara Resort is not fully adults-only — families with children are welcome. Couples seeking an entirely adults-only environment should consider upgrading to Nayara Springs next door.
The volcano is often cloud-covered, especially in the afternoon rainy season. Morning sightings are most reliable; plan active excursions early and save poolside time for afternoons.
The road from San José is a winding 3.5-hour drive through mountain passes. Consider arriving by domestic flight to La Fortuna to avoid potential car sickness on winding roads.
Pre-Arrival
Email to send the hotel
Subject: Honeymoon inquiry — Nayara Resort Dear Nayara Resort team, We are planning our honeymoon [DATE]-[DATE] and interested in a Superior or Premium Bungalow with private hot spring pool. Please advise on availability, current honeymoon packages, and whether complimentary upgrades or romantic amenities can be arranged for our arrival. Thank you, [Your names]
Send 2 weeks before arrival. Fill in names, dates, and preferences. Hotels respond to personalised requests.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Nayara Resort good for honeymooners?
Yes — it is one of the finest honeymoon hotels in Costa Rica at a slightly more accessible price than its sibling Nayara Springs. The private hot spring plunge pools, volcano views, and exceptional service make it a genuinely special experience for couples. The resort also has adults-only areas to give couples their own space.
What is the best time to visit Nayara Resort?
December through April (dry season) is the most reliable for volcano views and outdoor activities. May through November brings the green season with lusher rainforest, fewer crowds, and significantly lower rates. The resort operates beautifully year-round as rain typically comes in afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours.
How far in advance should you book?
Book 4–6 months ahead for holiday periods and 2–3 months for other dates. Nayara Resort has 50 bungalows — more availability than Springs — but it remains popular year-round and sells out during peak travel windows.
Is Nayara Resort adults-only?
No, Nayara Resort welcomes families and children. However, dedicated adults-only areas exist within the property for couples who want quieter space. For a fully adults-only experience, the neighboring Nayara Springs (same ownership, slightly higher price) is the better choice.
What is the best room type at Nayara Resort?
The Superior or Premium Bungalow with private hot spring pool is essential. The private volcanic plunge pool is what sets Nayara apart from any other hotel in the region — do not book a standard room without one, as it changes the experience entirely.
How do you get to Nayara Resort?
Fly into San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR). San José is approximately 3.5 hours by road; Liberia is about 2.5 hours. Domestic flights to La Fortuna (FON) are available and dramatically shorten travel time. The hotel arranges private transfers from all three options.
Same Vibe, Different Destination
