For many travelers, the first hotel they experience in Costa Rica sets the tone for the entire journey. That was certainly the case for our stay at Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela, a charming mountain-view hotel that combines comfort, warm hospitality, and spectacular scenery just minutes from San José International Airport.
This hotel was both the first and last stop on our 12-day vacation to Costa Rica from Freeport, Texas, and it could not have been a better choice. Our entire vacation was carefully designed and planned day by day by Nina Cabezas Creed, widely known as “The Costa Rica Expert” and a trusted vacation planner for Costa Rica. Thanks to her thoughtful planning, Hotel Buena Vista became a welcoming home base that framed our adventure perfectly.
Convenient Arrival and a Warm Welcome
We arrived in Costa Rica on April 6 and were immediately greeted by the hotel’s free airport shuttle, which picked us up at the San José International Airport. In less than 12 minutes, we were already ascending into cooler mountain air and arriving at the peaceful setting of Hotel Buena Vista.
The convenience of being so close to the airport—yet far enough away to feel removed from the city’s hustle—is one of the hotel’s greatest strengths. After a long flight, it was a relief to be settled quickly into such a serene environment.
Location: Elevated Views of the Central Valley
Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela is perched at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level, offering some of the most impressive views in the Central Valley. From this vantage point, guests enjoy sweeping panoramas of San José, Alajuela, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
At night, the view is simply magical. The city lights sparkle below, creating a 180-degree panorama that feels almost cinematic. These views are especially breathtaking from the hotel’s back garden and second-floor balconies.
Our Room: Comfort with a View
Our room was located on the second floor, featuring a private balcony overlooking Alajuela and San José. From this spot, we enjoyed unforgettable sunsets and dazzling nighttime cityscapes.
The room was comfortable, clean, and well-appointed—ideal for both relaxing after travel and recharging before the next adventure. The peaceful mountain setting ensured quiet nights and restful sleep.
Room Tip:
Second-floor rooms with balconies facing the Central Valley offer the best views. We stayed in Room No. 5, which we highly recommend.
Outstanding Hospitality and Exceptional Staff
What truly sets Hotel Buena Vista apart is its exceptional staff. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed—not as guests, but as family.
Xinia, the hotel manager, is truly one of a kind. Her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail create an atmosphere that makes guests feel cared for and valued. The owner, Lee Pratt, is fortunate to have such a dedicated and kind team supporting the hotel’s operations.
Every interaction—from the front desk to housekeeping to restaurant staff—reflected genuine Costa Rican hospitality.
A Memorable Guided Tour Experience
During our stay, we took advantage of one of the hotel’s guided tours, traveling in a hotel van to Poás Volcano and the breathtaking La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Nature Park.
The driver provided an ongoing narrated tour of the countryside throughout the journey, sharing insights into Costa Rican culture, agriculture, and daily life. This added depth and understanding to the excursion, transforming it from a simple sightseeing trip into an educational experience.
Returning to Hotel Buena Vista afterward felt like coming home.
A Return Visit That Confirmed Our Choice
After exploring other regions of Costa Rica, we returned to Hotel Buena Vista on April 9th and 10th. The consistency of service, cleanliness, and friendliness reaffirmed our initial impression.
The hotel staff once again exceeded expectations, and the quality of the accommodations allowed us to fully relax and reflect on our incredible journey through Costa Rica.
Hotel Amenities and Layout
Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela offers a boutique-style experience with:
- 25 comfortable guest rooms
- 5 private villas
- A cozy restaurant
- Lush gardens and open spaces
The villas are scattered among coffee plants, banana trees, and tropical flowering vegetation, giving guests a true sense of being immersed in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. These villas are ideal for families or travelers seeking extra privacy.
Dining at Hotel Buena Vista
The hotel restaurant is warm and inviting, offering a wide menu of Costa Rican favorites along with international options. Meals are prepared with care and highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Breakfasts are particularly enjoyable, often accompanied by cool mountain breezes and views of the Central Valley. Dining here feels relaxed and personal—another reflection of the hotel’s commitment to guest satisfaction.
Why Hotel Buena Vista Is an Ideal Choice
Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela is perfectly suited for:
- Travelers arriving late or departing early
- Those wanting to recover from long flights
- Couples seeking scenic views and tranquility
- Visitors interested in nearby attractions like Poás Volcano
- Travelers who appreciate personalized service
Its proximity to the airport, combined with its elevated location and peaceful atmosphere, makes it an excellent first or last stop on any Costa Rica itinerary.
Nearby Attractions
Staying at Hotel Buena Vista also places guests close to several notable attractions:
- Poás Volcano National Park
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens
- Coffee plantations
- Alajuela city center
- Local markets and cultural sites
The hotel’s staff and tour services make it easy to plan excursions without stress.
A Strong Recommendation
We wholeheartedly recommend Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela Costa Rica to anyone visiting the country. The hotel offers a rare combination of convenience, comfort, breathtaking views, and heartfelt hospitality.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Nina Cabezas Creed, our travel planner, for selecting such a perfect hotel for both the beginning and end of our Costa Rican adventure. Her expertise ensured that every detail of our trip was thoughtfully arranged.
Final Thoughts
Hotel Buena Vista Alajuela is more than just a place to stay—it is an experience that captures the essence of Costa Rica. From its panoramic views and tranquil gardens to its exceptional staff and cozy accommodations, the hotel leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Whether you are arriving in Costa Rica for the first time or preparing to say goodbye, Hotel Buena Vista offers the perfect setting to begin or conclude your journey—with beauty, comfort, and unforgettable hospitality.