Top Places Like Costa Rica But Cheaper: 11 Alternatives

Costa Rica is a beautiful country that offers excitement and tranquility with an array of picturesque landscapes, from its coastlines to rainforests.

So if you have already been there, you’d love to travel to places like Costa Rica but cheaper.

This doesn’t mean you’ll find an exact match. Each destination has unique charms, but you’ll find the perfect place for your next vacation.

Places Like Costa Rica: 10 Alternatives

I’ve chosen these places similar to Costa Rica based on various factors. So, if you like Costa Rica, you’ll also love these alternative destinations for lazy beach vacations to exploring new horizons

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1/ Belize

Belize is a small Caribbean country in Central America, and it’s known for its stunningly beautiful beaches and rainforests. It’s also home to various animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and crocodiles.

Jungles and rainforests comprise about 60% of the country, so there’s no shortage of opportunities for adventure. All these things make it one of the top countries like Costa Rica.

These are the top places to visit in Belize:

Ambergris Caye – Paradise for Scuba divers
Belize City – The largest city in Belize
Placencia – known for its beaches

Cayo District – Home to the Belize Zoo and many Maya ruins
San Pedro – Destination for fishing and windsurfing

If you’re longing for an escapade, Belize is the perfect vacation destination for quenching your thirst for exploration. It’s also one of the top places like Nantucket, but cheaper.

These are the best hotels to stay in Belize:

Victoria House – A luxurious and eco-friendly resort
Belizean Dreams – An intimate and secluded resort

Cayo Espanto – A private island resort

While there are similarities between Costa Rica and Belize, the two countries offer very different experiences. Before making any hasty decisions, compare your options and find the perfect destination.

2/ Nicaragua

Nicaragua is located in Central America, just north of Costa Rica. The country is renowned for its incredible natural beauty, including volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches.

Nicaragua is also a great place to surf, with many world-class waves along its coastline. It’s a perfect destination for being outdoors and staying active.

These are some of the great places to visit in Nicaragua:

Granada – A colonial city with a lively atmosphere

San Juan del Sur – A popular surf destination
Ometepe Island – An island with two volcanoes
León – The country’s colonial capital

Rincón de la Vieja – A national park with volcanic landscapes

Without a doubt, Nicaragua is a country with much to offer travelers.

These are the best-rated hotels to stay in Nicaragua:

Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge – A luxury eco-lodge
Jicaro Island Ecolodge – A secluded and intimate resort
Pelican Eyes Resort – A beautiful resort with stunning views

While Costa Rica and Nicaragua are Central American countries, they offer similar and different experiences.

3/ Panama

Panama is located in Central America, just south of Costa Rica. It’s home to the world-famous Panama Canal that stretches across 48 miles and links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The country is a nature lover’s paradise, making it one of the top places similar to Costa Rica.

It offers numerous activities for travelers, from hiking and bird watching to snorkeling and surfing. It’s an excellent choice for a vacation for excitement and diversity.

These are the best places to visit in Panama:

Panama City.

Bocas del Toro – An archipelago with white-sand beaches
Isla Coiba – A national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Boquete – A mountainous town with a cool climate

El Valle de Antón – A picturesque valley with hiking trails

There’s no doubt that Panama is a country with something for everyone. You’ll find it here whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure.

These are the top hotels to stay in Panama:

The Westin Playa Bonita Panama.
The Santa Maria – A Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort
La Casa de la Empanada – A quaint and cozy bed and breakfast

As you can see, there are many similarities between Costa Rica and Panama. But Panama offers a more diverse range of activities and attractions.

4/ Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is yet another Caribbean island located east of the Dominican Republic. The island is famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes.

If you need a sunny and serene vacation, look no further than Puerto Rico. It’s also a great place to eat, with diverse culinary influences.

These are the best places to visit in Puerto Rico:

San Juan – The capital of Puerto Rico.
El Yunque National Forest – A lush rainforest with hiking trails

Isla Culebra – An island with stunning beaches
Ponce – A colonial city with a lively atmosphere

There’s no doubt that Puerto Rico is a beautiful and unique destination.

These are the best hotels to stay in Puerto Rico:

The St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort.
Casa del Mar – A quaint and cozy bed and breakfast

Villa Parguera – A beautiful villa with stunning views

5/ El Salvador

El Salvador is a small country in Central America, just north of Nicaragua. It’s known for its sandy beaches, surfing, and lush landscapes.

However, the country has much more to offer travelers than its natural beauty. And that makes it one of the best places similar to Costa Rica, without a doubt.

El Salvador also has a rich culture and history. It’s a great destination to explore and immerse themselves in a new culture.

These are the best places to visit in El Salvador:

San Salvador – The capital of El Salvador.

La Libertad – A surfing hotspot with beautiful beaches.
Suchitoto – A colonial city with a lively atmosphere.
El Tunco – A beach town with a laid-back vibe.

San Miguel – A city with a rich colonial history.

The country uniquely blends culture, history, and natural beauty.

These are some of the top-rated hotels to stay in El Salvador:

Hotel El Convento – Luxury hotel located in San Miguel
Casa Howard – A quaint and cozy bed and breakfast
Villa Florencia – Beautiful villa with stunning views

El Salvador is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience something different. Compared to Costa Rica, El Salvador is less crowded and more affordable.

6/ Spain

Spain is a large country located in southern Europe, offering many places like Costa Rica. The country is renowned for its striking scenery, mild climate, and vibrant culture.

It’s an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, good food, and lively nightlife.

These are the best places to visit in Spain:

Madrid – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Barcelona – Vibrant city with stunning architecture

Valencia – Beautiful city with a mild climate
Granada – A city with a rich Moorish history
Catalonia – A region with stunning scenery

Spain is a diverse and exciting country with something to offer everyone.

These are the best hotels to stay in Spain:

The Westin Palace, Madrid – Luxury hotel in the heart of Madrid

Barcelona Princess Hotel – A modern and stylish
Helios Mallorca Hotel & Apartments – Beautiful hotel with stunning views

Spain is one of the best alternatives to Costa Rica for travelers who want to experience European culture without leaving the Americas.

7/ Guatemala

Guatemala is a Central American country known for its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and friendly people. It’s the ideal destination for an authentic and culturally rich experience.

These are the best places to visit in Guatemala:

Antigua – A colonial city with a lively atmosphere

Lake Atitlan – A stunning lake surrounded by volcanoes
Chichicastenango – A market town with a vibrant atmosphere
Tikal – An ancient Mayan city hidden in the jungle

Antigua Guatemala – The capital of Guatemala

And while you’re in Guatemala, you’d love to stay in these hotels:

Tierra Maya – A luxury hotel located in Antigua

Hotel San Jorge – A comfortable and affordable hotel
Hotel Atitlan – A beautiful hotel overlooking Lake Atitlan

Guatemala is an excellent alternative to Costa Rica for travelers who want to explore ancient ruins and experience traditional culture.

8/ Honduras

Honduras is one of the best countries to visit in Central America. Many travelers flock to the country for its beaches, friendly locals, and general atmosphere of relaxation.

And just like Costa Rica, Honduras is famous for rich natural resources and greenery.

These are the best places to visit in Honduras:

Roatan – An island with stunning beaches
Utila – An island for its diving and snorkeling
Copan Ruinas – A Maya archaeological site

La Ceiba – A city with a lively nightlife
Guanaja – An island with a relaxed atmosphere

Honduras is one of the best places, like Costa Rica, but cheaper. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination.

These are the best hotels to stay in Honduras:

Maya Beach Hotel – On the island of Roatan.
Casa Mariposa – On the island of Utila.

Hotel Macaw Bank – On the island of Guanaja.

9/ Mexico

Mexico is an excellent, underrated destination for travelers who want new experiences. When choosing a destination, Mexico offers more food and cultural experience than Costa Rica.

These are the best places to visit in Mexico:

Mexico City – The capital of Mexico
Cancun – A resort town with beautiful beaches
Chichen Itza – An ancient Maya city

Cozumel – An island with excellent diving and snorkeling
Tulum – A beautiful beach town

Mexico is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience a different culture without spending much money.

These are the best hotels to stay in Mexico:

Hotel Maria Cristina – A luxury hotel located in Mexico City
Paradisus Cancun – An all-inclusive resort located in Cancun

Hotel Zone Tulum – A beautiful hotel

You can also enjoy the many great bars in Cancun for the ultimate party experience. Overall, Mexico is a great alternative to Costa Rica for travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds.

10/ Dominican Repulic

The Dominican Republic is in the Caribbean, just east of Puerto Rico. Many travelers choose the city as their vacation destination because it is known to be inexpensive and full of activities.

All these outdoor and water activities make the Dominican Republic one of the best places similar to Costa Rica.