Lapa Rios, located in the remote coastal rainforests of the Osa Peninsula, is Costa Rica’s original luxury eco lodge. This is the opposite of a Cancun-style beach resort -- guests come to the upscale Lapa Rios to enjoy the spectacular surroundings, learn about sustainable tourism, and re-connect with nature. The 17-bungalow lodge sits amid 1,000 acres of rainforest filled with wildlife, but it's far from a no-frills jungle camp. There are many comforts here, including a pool overlooking the ocean, a splendid restaurant serving sumptuous cuisine, and rustic-luxe rooms with private decks. This is a place to get in touch with nature without roughing it.

Hotel Parador Resort and Spa is an upper-middle-range resort located on the outskirts of Manuel Antonio National Park. While the resort’s 121 guest rooms come with plenty of appealing features such as furnished balconies and mini-fridges, the decor is bland. The resort’s green, 12-acre property offers ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife-viewing, plus there are several restaurants, three pools, and a spa; however, the facilities aren’t as luxe as guests might expect for a resort at this pearl level. Rates at nearby Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort are higher, but travelers looking for something fancy may find that it’s worth the upgrade.