Four Seasons Costa Rica Review: Luxury Resort, Activities & Dining

 I recently spent a week at the Four Seasons Costa Rica, nestled on the breathtaking Peninsula Papagayo. It was an unforgettable blend of adventure and pure relaxation, perfect for anyone planning a high-end Costa Rican getaway focused on connecting with nature. Whether traveling as a family or with friends, this resort offers a unique experience. Read on for my detailed Four Seasons Costa Rica review and essential tips for visiting this remarkable property, a gem for Costa Rica luxury travel.

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What is the Closest Airport to Four Seasons Costa Rica?

When planning your trip and wondering about the closest airport to Four Seasons Costa Rica, you have two main options :

You can fly into either Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia (LIR) or Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose (SJO). San Jose (SJO) often has more international flight options, but it involves a 4-hour drive to reach the 4 seasons hotel in Costa Rica on the Papagayo Peninsula. We initially arrived in San Jose and rented a car. The drive uses excellent, easy roads, though some single-lane sections can cause delays. While not exceptionally scenic, the journey is pleasant.

For our departure, I flew out of Liberia Airport (LIR). This is undoubtedly the closest airport to Four Seasons Costa Rica, only about a 40-minute drive away. Using LIR was a significantly more efficient use of time for accessing this premier resort experience.

If you’ve booked a residence or villa at the Four Seasons featuring a full kitchen, you might want to stock up on groceries. There’s a Walmart near Liberia Airport, approximately one hour from the resort, making it convenient to stop on your way from LIR airport.

 

Checking in at the Four Seasons Costa Rica

Unfortunately, our check-in experience was a bit of a disaster. However, please don’t let this deter you from visiting the Four Seasons Costa Rica, as the remainder of our stay was fantastic! Feel free to skip to the next section if you wish to avoid my (rather lengthy) account of our check-in mishap.

The drive onto the Peninsula Papagayo is stunning, offering dramatic cliff views framed by palm trees at every turn. We were excited to spot a few coatis beside the road, an early glimpse into why this is considered one of the top nature resorts Costa Rica offers. For anyone asking “where is the Four Seasons in Costa Rica?”, the answer lies on this breathtaking peninsula.

We arrived around 11 a.m. and were informed that the previous occupants of our room had already checked out. We were told that our room would likely be ready around 12:00 p.m.

We requested that our groceries be stored in a refrigerator and decided to explore the resort.

At noon, I called reception, only to be told the room wasn’t ready yet. At 12:45 pm, I called again. This time, a different staff member informed me that our room wouldn’t be available for at least another 2 hours because the previous guests had *just* checked out minutes before. This caused confusion, as we’d received conflicting information earlier. Had we known about the potential 4-hour wait instead of one, we would have changed into swimwear to enjoy the pool. The receptionist responded rather curtly, stating that check-in was officially at 3 pm anyway and implied I must have misunderstood.

At 3 pm, we received a call confirming our room was ready. We were driven to a room in building 62. The bellboy mentioned he had already placed our groceries in the fridge.

Upon entering, I noticed my room key was for a different room, located in building 60. This led me to suspect our initially assigned room might have been given to someone else, potentially explaining the extended wait. Furthermore, our groceries were missing. They arrived about 20 minutes later, unfortunately warm, forcing us to discard some items. Overall, this check-in process fell short of the high standards typically expected from a Four Seasons hotel.

Our checkout also had a slight hiccup. While walking back to our room for a quick lunch before departure, I encountered a staff member leaving our room. Assuming we had already checked out, she had emptied the fridge. I found our groceries sitting on the kitchen counter, warming up again. While I’m confident these were isolated incidents, improved communication amongst staff could have prevented some frustration.

 

Review of the Resort Costa Rica

The Four Seasons resort is majestically positioned at the tip of the Peninsula Papagayo. It occupies a stunning piece of land enveloped in tropical rainforest. Staying here felt akin to residing within a national park; wildlife encounters were frequent, often just steps from our room. Coatis, monkeys, and iguanas were common sights, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for experiencing Costa Rica’s nature. You can learn more about the Peninsula Papagayo region and its commitment to conservation. This truly defines the experience when considering where to stay Peninsula Papagayo.

 

 

 

The resort’s central hub revolves around the reception area. Here, you’ll find the four swimming pools, various restaurants offering diverse Four Seasons Costa Rica dining experiences, the spa, and access to two distinct beaches. One beach faces the tranquil Papagayo Bay, while the other opens onto the Pacific Ocean. Both offer beautiful settings and excellent swimming conditions. The Pacific-facing beach is particularly renowned for its stunning sunsets.

Accommodation options include standard hotel rooms as well as larger residences. These residences, ranging from two to four bedrooms, come equipped with kitchens and offer significantly more space, making them ideal for families looking for upscale Costa Rica luxury travel options. They represent some of the finest accommodation choices among luxury resorts Costa Rica features in this region.

Upon arrival, I initially felt slightly underwhelmed by the appearance of the pools and some buildings, which seemed a bit dated (reminiscent of the 80s), and the pools are relatively shallow. Additionally, the residences don’t universally offer the dramatic sea views or ‘wow’ factor found at some other Four Seasons properties. However, it took a couple of days for me to fully grasp and appreciate the unique spirit of the Four Seasons Costa Rica. This resort was intentionally designed to coexist with nature, prioritizing integration over ostentation. It’s a place built for genuine connection with the environment, not just for Instagram moments.

Review of the Pacific 3-Bedroom Residence at Four Seasons Costa Rica

The three-bedroom residences are an excellent choice for families or groups of friends traveling together, providing a superb option for where to stay in Peninsula Papagayo. These accommodations are near the main reception area, nestled amongst the canopy trees near the resort’s entrance. They offer ample space, ideal for both entertainment and relaxation.

The interior design draws inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty. The color palette complements the lush scenery outside. Room lighting is well-balanced, and the use of wooden furniture enhances the eco-friendly feel, creating a partial indoor-outdoor living experience. Importantly, all windows and doors are screened against mosquitos, allowing guests to sleep with windows open, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves if they choose.

 

Some residences offer captivating views of the Pacific Ocean directly from the windows. While my specific unit didn’t boast a significant sea view, the gentle sound of the waves was still audible. Initially, I found the obstructed view slightly frustrating – isn’t a beach holiday partly about seeing the sea? However, my perspective quickly shifted. The decision to preserve the trees and build in communion with nature is precisely what makes this luxury resort in Costa Rica so unique. Buildings are minimally visible from the beach, fostering an immersive feeling of being enveloped by nature.

 

TIP: If a sea view is crucial for your stay, specifically request a residence known for its ocean vistas when booking your Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo stay. Many views are partially obstructed by trees, but some units, particularly those on the third floor, offer better views. Note that residence buildings lack elevators, so guests with mobility concerns may prefer lower-level units.

Our residence featured three comfortable bedrooms, each with a large bathroom and dressing area. It was spacious for six people, making it ideal for luxury family travel. The sound insulation proved excellent, as we heard no noise from neighbors below throughout our week-long stay. We also enjoyed a semi-outdoor terrace with a coffee table and a large living room featuring a fully equipped kitchen.

 

TIP: The resort’s tap water is 100% potable. Furthermore, the refrigerator included an extra filter for purified cold water, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.

The residence is well-suited for entertaining, equipped with a Bose speaker for music. A convenient laundry room with a washing machine and dryer is also included, perfect for longer trips or drying swimwear after a day exploring the beaches and engaging in Four Seasons Costa Rica activities.

We stayed in building 60, the closest to the main reception area. This proximity offered easy access to the spa, gym, and pools. However, it also meant occasional noise disturbances. We could hear music from early morning gym classes, staff cleaning the gym facilities around 3 a.m., and music from a wedding reception one evening. Thankfully, all amplified music ceased by 10 p.m.

Top Four Seasons Costa Rica Activities

The Peninsula Papagayo provides an exceptional setting to reconnect with nature, and most Four Seasons Costa Rica activities reflect this focus. There’s an abundance of things to do, making our seven-night stay feel almost too brief. Ensure you allocate enough time to experience this remarkable destination fully.

The Four Seasons Costa Rica boasts a fantastic program of complimentary activities – one of the most impressive I’ve encountered at any hotel. Be sure to take full advantage of these offerings.

TIP: Book your desired activities promptly upon arrival, as popular events often reach full capacity quickly. We found ourselves unable to participate in activities for the first day and a half because everything was fully booked. However, we successfully scheduled all preferred activities for the remainder of the week.

Even if an activity shows as full, it’s often worth checking at the scheduled time. Throughout the week, we observed that many registered guests failed to attend. Frequently, we were the sole participants in activities originally booked for 8 or 10 people. Please, if your plans change and you cannot attend a booked activity, cancel your reservation so other guests can enjoy the opportunity.

Review of Golfing at Papagayo Peninsula and the Trail of the Giants Tour

The golf course here is truly spectacular, attracting many visitors who are specifically interested in golfing at the Four Seasons Costa Rica. It’s a signature element of the resort experience on the peninsula.

For non-golfers, the “Trail of the Giants” tour offers an excellent alternative to explore the scenic golf course and encounter local wildlife.

We were provided with golf carts and guided through the most picturesque parts of the domain, enjoying panoramic views.

 

Lasting approximately 90 minutes, this tour served as an excellent introduction to the Peninsula’s natural beauty. Our guide shared insights into the local fauna and flora, and we spotted coatis, monkeys, and numerous bird species. This is a highly recommended activity, particularly enjoyable for families with children.

 

Birdwatching at the Four Seasons Costa Rica

The bird-watching tour involves a leisurely walk through a beautiful forest setting. Our guide for the day came equipped with binoculars and possessed an incredible talent for spotting birds. We observed countless species, ranging from tiny hummingbirds (Colibrí) to large eagles. We also witnessed a family of monkeys playfully navigating the trees and observed active beehives.

 

 

The tour concluded with a visit to the nature center, where the manager shared fascinating facts. Did you know that some birds utilize spider webs to construct their nests? Similar to the Trail of the Giants tour, the nature center visit is another excellent and educational Four Seasons Costa Rica activity for children.

 

Mangrove Tour at the Four Seasons Papagayo

We took a short car ride to Nacascolo Beach and then embarked on a 90-minute walk into the mangroves behind it. Our guide provided excellent explanations about the area’s geography, plant life, and animal behaviors. It was fascinating to see the numerous crabs cautiously observing us in the mangrove. This tour is highly recommended; the walk is flat and relatively easy, showcasing why this property is considered one of the best nature resorts Costa Rica has.

TIP: Apply mosquito repellent before this tour. While mosquitoes were virtually absent within the main Four Seasons resort area, the mangrove environment had a noticeable population.

 

Review of the Kayak Tours at the Four Seasons Costa Rica

Kayaking offers a fantastic perspective on the Peninsula and allows you to discover its hidden surrounding beaches. We participated in the kayak tour heading towards Nacascolo beach. This is the longest available kayak tour and provides a substantial workout, involving approximately 40 minutes of paddling each way, totaling over 5 kilometers! My arms certainly felt the effort afterward. Nacascolo itself is a beautiful beach teeming with wildlife. Despite sore arms the next day, this Four Seasons Costa Rica activity was worthwhile.

TIP: For a shorter kayaking experience, consider the Jicaro beach tour. It visits the beach just before Nacascolo, covering roughly half the distance.

 

Snorkeling Expedition at the Four Seasons Papagayo

I had initially booked the snorkeling excursion for a Monday, but the group tour was canceled due to schedule changes (which can vary week to week). Demonstrating the fantastic service characteristic of the Four Seasons Costa Rica, the concierge assured me they would arrange a private snorkeling tour instead. I was thoroughly impressed. We snorkeled directly off Playa Blanca, exploring the small rock formations to the right side of the beach. The underwater life was abundant, featuring plenty of fish, a nurse shark encountered at about 2 meters depth, and even a scorpionfish. Quite impressive for a 60-minute snorkel session right off the resort beach!

 

Rum and Chocolate Tasting and Mixology

The Four Seasons Costa Rica dining and beverage program includes engaging daily tasting classes. Guests can choose from options like:

• Rum and Chocolate Pairing
• Mixology Workshop
• Infused Rum Tasting

These classes provide entertaining diversions, distinctly different from the nature-focused Four Seasons Costa Rica activities.

The Mixology class is outstanding for learning cocktail preparation in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. We crafted a Mojito and a mango margarita, and it proved an excellent opportunity to socialize with other guests.

The Rum and Chocolate tasting was presented more seriously, offering plenty of information about the history of rum production. Naturally, the session included tasting four distinct rums thoughtfully paired with different chocolates.

 

Exercising at the Gym and Yoga

Yoga provides an excellent start to the day at the resort. I participated in the gentle yoga class and thoroughly enjoyed it. My only minor critique is that the yoga room was located indoors, lacking a view, and felt a bit too cold for my preference. The instructor led a gentle, flowing practice. With only two participants, the session was very relaxing. The Four Seasons offers a robust yoga and exercise schedule, featuring 3 to 4 classes daily (note: a fee of approximately 25 USD per class applied during my visit).

A well-equipped gym is also available for fitness enthusiasts who maintain their routines while on vacation. Judging by its frequent occupancy during my trip, many guests take advantage of this facility.

 

Relaxing at the Spa

Spas at Four Seasons properties are typically fantastic, and the Four Seasons Papagayo Costa Rica upheld this reputation. I indulged in a rainforest massage, which was incredibly soothing. Softness truly defined the experience. My therapist possessed exceptionally gentle hands, and the bathrobe and massage table linens felt like pure silk. If you enjoy pampering, don’t miss this experience, a highlight among relaxing activities.

TIP: The spa features beachfront hot and cold plunge pools, along with a steam room, accessible to guests even without a scheduled treatment. I found this area so relaxing that I visited almost daily.

 

 

 

Diving from the Four Seasons Papagayo

The waters surrounding the Peninsula Papagayo teem with marine life. Certified divers should not miss the chance to dive in this region. The diving opportunities are incredible, with potential sightings of manta rays, bull sharks, whitetip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and abundant nudibranchs. Diving and water sports activities are typically facilitated by reputable third-party operators. We booked directly with Rock Divers Costa Rica and had an exceptional day out on the water. You can read the full review of our diving adventure here. They picked us up straight from the Four Seasons beach so it was very convenient.

 

Sustainability at this Luxury Costa Rica Resort

The Four Seasons Costa Rica demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability initiatives, solidifying its status as a leading eco-conscious choice among high-end resorts in the country. Visible efforts in the room include:

• Exclusive use of glass bottles for water.
• Absence of plastic straws throughout the property.

Beyond guest-facing practices, the Four Seasons implements significant behind-the-scenes measures:

• A robust solid waste management program.
• Efficient electricity management strategies.
• Comprehensive training for all employees on sustainable practices.

Furthermore, the broader Peninsula Papagayo development has pledged to preserve 70 percent of its land as untouched natural habitat, actively protecting biodiversity through dedicated animal and tree conservation programs. This commitment ensures the region remains a pristine example of the beautiful nature resorts Costa Rica is known for.

 

Best Time to Visit Four Seasons Costa Rica on Peninsula Papagayo?

The Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo is situated in the Guanacaste province, a region somewhat sheltered by volcanoes. This geography contributes to a microclimate characterized by less rainfall and lower hurricane risk than Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

Our visit occurred in mid-August, technically during the rainy season (often referred to by hotels as the “green” season). We found the rainy season had minimal impact on our trip. Rain occurred primarily at night, and we only experienced approximately 3 to 4 hours of daytime rain accumulated over the entire week. This makes planning your trip feasible even during the green season.

 

Final Thoughts: Four Seasons Costa Rica Review Summary

The Four Seasons Costa Rica stands out as arguably one of Costa Rica’s finest hotels and a top-tier luxury destination. With its long-standing reputation for excellent service, guests enjoy a sophisticated ambiance, comfortable accommodations (including family-friendly residences), diverse Four Seasons Costa Rica dining options, a superb spa, engaging nature-based Four Seasons Costa Rica activities, and stunning beaches.

While those seeking bustling nightlife might look elsewhere, nature enthusiasts will find this Four Seasons property a dream destination. Its seamless integration with the incredible natural environment of the Peninsula Papagayo, combined with renowned Four Seasons service, creates an unforgettable vacation experience and a highlight for any Costa Rica luxury travel. You can explore more of our Costa Rica travel guides here.

Happy Holidays

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Pros and Cons of Staying at Four Seasons Costa Rica

Pros:

• Unbeatable Natural Setting: Located on the stunning and wildlife-rich Peninsula Papagayo.
• Exceptional Activities: Extensive program of complimentary nature tours, water sports, and guided experiences (like birdwatching, kayaking).
• Luxury Accommodation: Spacious rooms and residences, ideal for families and groups seeking comfort.
• Beautiful Beaches: Access to two distinct and lovely beaches (Pacific and Bay side) suitable for swimming and relaxing.
• Renowned Service: Generally high Four Seasons service standards and attentive, friendly staff throughout the resort.
• Excellent Spa: High-quality treatments and relaxing facilities including complimentary access to plunge pools and steam room.
• Sustainability Focus: Strong commitment to eco-friendly practices and conservation efforts.
• Convenient Airport Access: Relatively close (approx. 40-45 mins drive) to Liberia International Airport (LIR).

Cons:

• Booking Activities Needed: Popular complimentary activities require prompt booking upon arrival as they can fill up fast.
• Dated Aesthetics in Some Areas: Some guests might find certain elements like the pool design slightly dated compared to newer resorts.
• Variable Views from Residences: Sea views are not guaranteed and often obstructed by trees; specific requests are recommended.
• Potential for Noise: Rooms located very close to central facilities (like the gym/spa) might experience some ambient noise.
• Limited Nightlife: The resort prioritizes tranquility and nature over evening entertainment or nightlife options.
• Extra Fees for Some Activities: While many activities are complimentary, some fitness classes (like yoga) incurred an additional fee during the stay.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Four Seasons Costa Rica

Where is the Four Seasons in Costa Rica located?

The Four Seasons Costa Rica is located on the exclusive Peninsula Papagayo in the Guanacaste province, on the northwestern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. This stunning location is known for its dramatic coastline, lush tropical dry forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a prime destination among the best nature resorts Costa Rica offers.

What is the closest airport to Four Seasons Costa Rica?

The closest airport to the Four Seasons Costa Rica is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia (LIR). The drive from LIR to the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it significantly more convenient than flying into San Jose (SJO), which is about a 4-hour drive away.

What kind of activities are available at Four Seasons Costa Rica?

The resort offers a wide array of Four Seasons Costa Rica activities, heavily focused on nature and wellness. Guests can enjoy complimentary guided nature walks (like birdwatching and mangrove tours), kayaking, snorkeling, and the “Trail of the Giants” tour on the golf course. Paid activities include spa treatments, yoga and fitness classes, mixology and tasting sessions, championship golf, and off-site excursions like diving and surfing. Many activities are family-friendly.

Is the Four Seasons Costa Rica good for families?

Yes, the Four Seasons Costa Rica is exceptionally family-friendly and a top choice for Costa Rica luxury travel with children. The resort offers spacious multi-bedroom residences with kitchens, multiple swimming pools, gentle beaches suitable for swimming, and numerous activities designed for all ages, including the nature center, wildlife spotting tours, and complimentary kids’ club (Kids For All Seasons). The focus on nature provides unique educational and engaging experiences for families.

What are the dining options like at the Four Seasons Costa Rica?

Four Seasons Costa Rica dining offers several distinct options. While this review focused more on activities, the resort typically features multiple restaurants ranging from casual poolside grills to more upscale dining experiences, often showcasing local Costa Rican flavors and fresh seafood. In-residence dining is also available, particularly convenient for those staying in villas or residences with kitchens.