Special Stay: Hideaway Rio Celeste, Costa Rica

Last updated on April 16, 2026

Hideaway Rio Celeste was our first stay in Costa Rica, and one of the most luxurious of trip – it almost felt a bit ‘White Lotus’, albeit more down-to-earth.

This special stay is ideal if you’d like a slice of luxury, but also want something that feels more authentic than the big brand resorts. Plus, it’s a fraction of the cost of some of those big brand names.

The secluded luxury eco-lodge is set on its own 80-acre rainforest reserve, nestled in the foothills of Tenorio Volcano in one of the most biodiverse areas of Costa Rica. It even has private access to swimming areas of Rio Celeste and its own 1.5-mile trail through the onsite tapir reserve.

Here’s our full review of Hideaway Rio Celeste and why it’s such a special place to stay in Costa Rica.

Highlights

• Gorgeous grounds, including picturesque pools surrounded by tropical gardens.
• Just a 5-minute drive to Tenorio Volcano National Park and the trail to Rio Celeste Waterfall.
• Family-friendly nature trails right on the property, including a free night walk included in your stay.
• Exclusive access to swim in the Rio Celeste.

Best bits for kids

• Easy wildlife spotting opportunities on site. Our kids loved the coatis by day and frogs by night.
• Shallow pools for splashing in.
• Games room with table football and board games.

Best bits for grown-ups

• Peaceful surroundings with beautiful spots for relaxation and reading.
• Intimate, boutique resort feel with personalised attention.
• Rainforest yoga sessions and a jungle-view gym.
• Rejuvenating treatments at the studio spa, including massages and mineral baths.

Good to know

• It’s a remote location, so dining is primarily at the hotel. Plan accordingly, as there aren’t many nearby options. The hotel food is excellent though.

Style and vibe

Wooden casitas, lush tropical surroundings, and tasteful decor create a serene retreat vibe at Hideaway Rio Celeste. The whole place has a luxurious yet friendly feel, and the style is 100% nature-forward, with incredible jungle-filled grounds and walking trails. After all, it is on its own rainforest reserve. With hammocks, shaded patios, and quiet nooks throughout, it’s the perfect setting for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

Location

It’s perfectly positioned just a short 5-minute drive from the Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you can hike an easy 30-minute trail to the incredible Rio Celeste Waterfall. It’s also only a 1.5-hour drive from Liberia airport, making it an ideal first stop on your Costa Rican itinerary. It’s another 1.5 hours to Arenal volcano.

Rooms

Each private casita feels like its own rainforest hideaway, complete with a furnished outdoor patio and luxury linens. We stayed in a Garden View Casita with two queen-size beds, which was ideal for our family. It overlooked the tropical gardens and was a peaceful retreat after days exploring.

Forest View Casitas offer spectacular views of the tropical rainforest, and king-bed options are available in both categories. All casitas come with generously sized bathrooms featuring both indoor and outdoor showers – one of our favourite touches. The wooden finishes and natural light give the rooms a cozy yet elegant feel.

Facilities

The aesthetic pool area is set in a lush tropical landscape, complete with three heated jacuzzis and a swim-up bar serving tropical cocktails. There are hammocks and sun loungers throughout the grounds, perfect for downtime.

Kids will enjoy the games room, which includes football, darts, and a selection of board games. And adults can unwind at the serene Studio Spa or keep active at the jungle gym with panoramic rainforest views. Daily yoga classes take place in a beautiful open-air pavilion by the river.

Food and drink

Dining is a highlight at Hideaway Rio Celeste. There are three onsite options: Kantala Restaurant, an open-air space surrounded by gardens; Cantina Delirio, a sophisticated lounge for cocktails and conversation; and Cafe Romance for coffee and sweet treats.

Our favourite moments were the breakfasts – a huge buffet of fresh fruit, homemade granola and yoghurt, green juices, and hearty mains like gallo pinto and omelettes. Breakfast is included, and mornings often included visits from agoutis and coatis.

Things to do nearby

Staying here is an incredibly easy way to experience Costa Rica’s nature without even leaving the grounds – though you’ll definitely want to, as you’re less than five minutes from a trail to one of the country’s most gorgeous waterfalls!

Guided hikes in Tenorio Volcano National Park are available, but we went by ourselves so we could go at our own pace. You can also enjoy horseback riding, chocolate tours, and birdwatching excursions nearby. Don’t miss the night walk included in your stay – it’s a fantastic introduction to the rainforest after dark.

Do we recommend it?

We almost didn’t go to Rio Celeste during our Costa Rica trip, but it ended up being one of my favourite places, and that was largely due to our stay at Hideaway. The combination of exclusive access to the Rio Celeste, elegant casitas, and lush tropical grounds makes it ideal for families and couples seeking nature immersion with a touch of luxury.

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