Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel Review

Tucked away in the pristine rainforest near Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel is a boutique escape with upscale charm and total privacy. We stayed here for a single night as part of our road trip from La Fortuna to Nosara. It was absolutely magical. We can confidently say a minimum of two nights is ideal for fully savoring the experience.

From the luxurious, jungle-inspired rooms to the generous plates of delicious food, everything here felt like a reward after long hikes and winding drives. Below, we break down exactly what to expect from your stay and why this hotel quickly made our list of favorite places in Costa Rica.

Arrival

We left La Fortuna around 9AM after an early morning visit to Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, which we highly recommend visiting right at opening (we started at 7AM). The trail took us about two hours, and from there we drove straight to Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel.

The drive from La Fortuna took just under two hours and was smooth and scenic. The road is paved nearly the entire way, and the hotel is easy to find using Google Maps. It’s the kind of drive where the windows stay down and the playlist stays on.

We arrived a bit early for check-in, but the front desk welcomed us with warm smiles and invited us to have breakfast at the on-site restaurant. After hiking all morning, a big breakfast hit the spot. Everything from fresh tropical fruit, an egg station and Costa Rican coffee.

Just as we finished eating, we were told our room was ready early. A staff member guided us down a lush jungle path to our private bungalow. On the way, he pointed out a sloth hanging out in the treetops. A moment that immediately set the tone.

Right away, the energy of the place hit us: quiet, relaxing, and deeply connected to nature. All you could hear were birds, frogs, and the occasional splash from the pool.

If you’re searching for a true escape off-the-grid vibes with all the modern comforts, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel absolutely delivers.

Tip | If you’re coming from La Fortuna, stop by Mistico Hanging Bridges in the early morning before making your way to Rio Celeste. It’s the perfect combo for an adventurous travel day!

The Grounds

Surrounded by 80 acres of lush rainforest, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel blends wild nature with boutique luxury. The property sits within the Tapir Natural Reserve, which means wildlife sightings from toucans to sloths are practically guaranteed.

Private jungle trails wind through the grounds, leading to a secluded section of the Rio Celeste River where only hotel guests can swim. Add in tropical gardens, quiet pathways, and peaceful lounging areas, and you’ve got a true rainforest retreat.

Tip | Keep your eyes up — we spotted a sloth and a toucan just walking from the lobby to our casita.

Dining

We were honestly blown away by the food at Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel it was one of the highlights of our stay. The portions are generous (perfect after a long hike!) and the ingredients are fresh, local, and thoughtfully prepared.

Kantala Restaurant | is the main open-air dining area where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Breakfast is included with your stay and you’ll definitely want to carve out time for it. From tropical fruit to hearty gallo pinto, it’s the perfect way to start your day.

And the experience isn’t just about the food you’ll likely share your morning meal with coatis, agutis, and a variety of colorful tropical birds fluttering between the trees. It feels like a jungle brunch, in the best way.

The restaurant is open all day from 11AM to 10PM. We ordered the chicken quesadilla for lunch which was loaded and delicious. For dinner the Kantala beef tenderloin, which was perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

Tip | For the best wildlife viewing, ask for a table by the edge during breakfast and have your camera ready. It’s one of the most memorable meals of the entire trip.

Mandarina Restaurant | We didn’t get the chance to dine at Mandarina Restaurant, but it’s definitely on our list for next time. This refined dinner-only venue open 6PM – 10PM, offers a creative fusion of Asian cuisine and Costa Rican traditions. The setting is elevated but still immersed in the jungle. The menu is designed to be a little more adventurous perfect for those looking to mix things up.

Blue Moon Swim-Up Bar | For something more casual, we loved the Blue Moon Swim-Up Bar. It’s the perfect spot to relax with light bites and a cold drink between swims. We spent most of our downtime lounging by the pool and more than once, we had the entire place to ourselves.

Cooling off in the water with a chilled Imperial (Costa Rica’s national beer) or a fresh tropical smoothie in hand is the true definition of pura vida.

Cantina Delirio | For a cozy evening drink, Cantina Delirio is a must. With its vintage cantina-style interior and laid-back atmosphere, it’s great for a pre-dinner cocktail or a relaxed nightcap open from 12PM to 10PM

Café Romance | if you’re in the mood for something sweet or a quality cup of coffee, Café Romance is your go-to. Tucked into a modern indoor-outdoor space surrounded by rainforest, it’s the perfect spot to pause and indulge. Whether you’re craving a rich Cappuccino, a Mandarina Frappe, or a classic Tiramisu, you’ll find your moment of bliss here between the hours of 10AM and 6PM.

Pools, Trails & Rio Celeste

After our morning adventure hiking through Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio (full blog post coming soon). We returned to Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel to explore the El Tapir Preserve Trails. Which consists of two short rainforest hikes that lead to a private swimming spot on the Río Celeste.

El Tapir Preserve Trails

The hotel sits on an 80-acre private reserve, most of which is wild, untouched rainforest. Two main trails give you direct access to the river: the Armadillo Trail (about 700 meters) and the slightly longer Tapir Trail (around 1.3 km). Both are fairly easy but do have a few steep and muddy sections.

Tip | Even though the walk to the river is short (less than 15 minutes), you’ll definitely want to wear closed-toe or hiking shoes. You can walk in your swimsuit, but the path can get slippery after rain.

Swimming in Río Celeste

This was one of the most magical parts of our stay. While you’re not allowed to swim in Río Celeste inside the national park, here at the hotel, you get exclusive access to a natural swimming hole and we had it all to ourselves.

The water is shallow, the current is gentle, and the turquoise color is just as surreal as you’d imagine. There’s a pebbled riverbed, smooth stones to sit on, and nothing but rainforest surrounding you. Honestly, it felt like our own private piece of paradise.

Guided Night Walk

That night, we joined the hotel’s complimentary guided night walk. Another highlight when staying at The Hideaway Hotel. Flashlight in hand, we ventured back into the jungle to see what creatures come alive after dark.

We spotted red-eyed tree frogs, glowing mushrooms, massive insects, and a few surprises we never expected (no spoilers!). It was a whole new way to experience the rainforest and something we absolutely recommend.

The Room

We stayed in a Garden View Casita with a king bed, and honestly, it was everything you want after a full day of hiking and exploring. The cabin-style design feels perfectly cozy yet surprisingly luxurious. Think high-end linens, soft lighting, and a peaceful rainforest soundtrack just outside your window.

Our casita had a spacious deck overlooking the lush gardens, where we could relax with a morning coffee or an evening cocktail. Inside, the modern bathroom featured an outdoor shower, blending comfort with nature in true Costa Rica style.

Every detail was carefully thought out. From the plush bedding to the natural wood accents making it an ideal spot for couples or anyone looking for a romantic, tranquil getaway. The privacy and quiet made it easy to unwind, and honestly, we wished we could have stayed longer than just one night.

Tip | If you can, book at least two nights here. The extra time lets you soak in more of the nature trails and gives you the chance to fully embrace the peaceful vibe of the Hideaway.

Amenities

At Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel, you get the perfect mix of nature and comfort. Beyond your private casita, the hotel offers plenty to keep you relaxed and entertained.

Riverside Yoga Platform | Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just starting out, the open-air yoga platform by the river provides a serene setting to center yourself and soak in the rainforest vibes.
Jungle Gym | Stay active without leaving the property. The modern gym is equipped with everything you need, all set against a stunning jungle backdrop that makes working out feel like a true escape.
Games Room | When you’re ready to unwind indoors, the elegant Games Room is the perfect spot. Challenge your travel companions to pool, foosball, or darts. Or enjoy a quiet night with a selection of board games all paired perfectly with a classic cocktail.

The Final Review Of Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel

Our stay at Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel was nothing short of magical. Nestled deep in the rainforest, this hotel strikes the perfect balance between off-the-grid tranquility and upscale comfort. From the moment we arrived, the peaceful sounds of nature and glimpses of wildlife set the tone for an unforgettable escape.

The private bungalows are spacious and beautifully designed, offering a luxurious retreat after days filled with hiking and exploring nearby natural wonders. The food was a highlight. With hearty, delicious, and perfectly suited to refuel after our adventures. Dining by the open-air Kantala Restaurant with colorful birds and curious coatis nearby truly felt like a special experience.

We loved having exclusive access to the El Tapir Trails and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Rio Celeste. A privilege you won’t find anywhere else. The mix of guided and self-led walks, plus the night tour, gave us a deep connection to this lush ecosystem.

Where to Stay Near Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio

Looking for the perfect base to explore Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano National Park?

Here are a few of our favorite places to stay in the area, ranging from boutique lodges to luxury eco-retreats all immersed in the beauty of the rainforest: