Costa Rica has been a popular tourist destination for years, with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife attracting visitors from all over the world. What you may not know is that Costa Rica is also home to a growing gaming industry, with several top-rated casinos offering everything from slot machines to high-stakes poker games.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best casinos in Costa Rica. We’ve scoured the country, visiting casinos and talking to locals and tourists alike to bring you an insider’s perspective on where to find the most exciting gaming action. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for a fun night out, these casinos are sure to hit the jackpot.
Best Land-Based Casinos in Costa Rica
1. Casino Manuela – Alajuela
Casino Manuela is one of the largest and most well-known casinos in Costa Rica, located inside the Holiday Inn Aurola executive tables, slot machines, restaurant, bar, and more. It’s about a half-hour drive west of San Jose’s international airport. The casino offers a range of games including blackjack, roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. They also have a large selection of slot machines with denominations ranging from 50 cents to 100/200 colones. The atmosphere is upscale, but players don’t need to dress up too much. Men can get away with nice jeans and a collared shirt, while women can go business casual or even cocktail attire. If you’re hungry, the casino has a buffet and à la carte dining options as well as a bar. One thing to note is that the casino is open 24 hours, but the restaurants close around midnight. Overall, Casino Manuela is a great choice if you’re looking for a quality casino experience near the airport.
Contact Information:
Holiday Inn Aurola
Free Spins No Deposit UK Wider - Top No Deposit Bonus Casinos 2023Route 27 – Kilometer 9,50 metros Sur, Alajuela, Province of Alajuela, 20106, Costa Rica
Reservations: 833-257-3453 | Hotel Direct: 506-2437-6161
Group Reservations: 844-326-2527 Meeting Planning: 877-326-2542
Email: H1126@hgcr.com
Website: www.alajuelaholidayinn.com
¡Punto y Aparte! Estos son los 31 Casino Boat dentro de 100 millas de Fort LauderdaleCasino Manager Contact Info:
Edgar Mora – General Manager
Email: emora@hgcr.com Carlos Segura – Casino Manager
Email: csegura@hgcr.com
2. Grano de Oro Hotel, Casino, & Bar – San Jose
This casino is located inside the Grano de Oro Boutique Hotel, which is considered by many to be the best boutique hotel in Central America. You will find it in a historic mansion built in 1960 and renovated in 2019. This smaller casino in San José is designed after old London casinos and features antiques and artwork collected over 50 years by the owners.
The casino has been running for almost 25 years and offers table games such as blackjack, roulette, and Caribbean Stud Poker, as well as Texas Hold’em and seven-card stud poker. There is also a selection of slot machines. Dress code is smart casual; no flip flops or ball caps. A valid ID is required to enter the casino, and they serve alcohol so please drink responsibly.
Grano de Oro Casino is open every day from 5 pm until the last player leaves. Happy hour is from 5 pm to 7 pm with two-for-one drinks. The casino often hosts special events such as live music and themed parties. So whether you’re a local looking for a night out or a tourist looking for some casino action, Grano de Oro Casino is worth checking out.
Contact Information:
Address: Segundo Montes de Oca, 100 metros este del Banco Nacional, San José, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2222-7777
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Walter Espinoza – General Manager
waltere@granodeoro.com Wendell Cochez – Director de Operaciones
wendellc@granodeoro.com Juan Carlos Sáenz – Gerente de Casino
jcsaenz@granodeoro.com
Website: https://www.granodeoro.costarica.travel/casino/
3. El Silencio Hotel & Spa, Casino – Bajo Telero
Nestled in the lush cloud forest of Bajo Telero, just a short drive from La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, is the tranquil El Silencio Hotel & Spio, Casino. This eco-luxury resort offers breathtaking views of the volcano and surrounding forests. The casino is small but cozy, with a rustic decor that fits in well with the natural surroundings.
The casino is open from Thursday to Sunday from 5 pm until the early hours of the morning. It offers traditional casino games such as roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines are not available. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
If you’re looking for a unique casino experience surrounded by nature, El Silencio Casino is definitely worth a visit. And even if gambling isn’t your thing, El Silencio Hotel & Spo offers plenty of other activities such as nature walks, spa treatments, and gourmet dining.
Contact Information:
El Silencio Lodge & Spa, KM 13.50 Route 142 Bajo Telero Guatuso, Costa Rica
reservations.costarica@elsilenciolodge.com - Phone: +(506) 2476-8866 / 2476-8824
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Jairo Menedez – Resort Manager
Video Poker Games to Play Online for Real Moneyjmenedez@elsilenciolodge.com Juan Carlos Sánchez – Casino Manager
jcsaenz@granodeoro.com
4. Majestic Fallas Casino – San Jose
The Majestic Fallas Hotel & Casino is centrally located in downtown San Jose, making it a convenient option for travelers. The hotel has recently undergone renovations and now boasts modern amenities. The casino is open 24 hours and offers a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines start at 50₡. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
The casino also has a sports bar showing major sporting events. The hotel has a rooftop pool and fitness center. Restaurants and bars include the Riviera Buffet, Las Palmas Restaurant, and Tin Jo Bar & Grill. Room service is available 24 hours. Services include currency exchange, tour desk, and free parking. WiFi is available for a fee. The Majestic Fallas Hotel & Casino is a good choice for both gamblers and those simply looking for a place to stay in central San Jose.
Contact Information:
Av. 1fall, San José, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2232-3232
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Rodrigo Marchena – General Manager
rmarchéna@majesticcr.com Edgardo Fonseca – Director de Operações
efonseca@majesticcr.com Daniel Chavarría – Gerente de Casino
dchavarria@majesticcr.com
Website: http://www.majesticfallascr.com/hotel/index.php?option=com_hikashop&view=productdetails&category_slug=en&lang=en&product=19&cc=16&Itemid=66
5. Safari Suites Hotel, Casino – Escazú
Safari Suites Hotel, Casino is located in the western suburb of Escazú, about a 20-minute drive from San Jose. The hotel has a safari theme with each room decorated like an African animal. The casino is open 24 hours and offers traditional casino games as well as poker. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
The hotel also has a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Room service is available. There is a gift shop on site, and free parking is available. WiFi is available for a fee. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Costa Rica with a casino on site, Safari Suites Hotel may be worth checking out.
Poker Sites That Accept Gambling Funds (2023)Contact Information:
San Jose - Escazu Road KM 17.5, Santa Ana, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2289-5151
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Humberto Guevara – Gerente Administrativo Gerente
hguevara@safarisuitescr.com Douglas Torres – Gerente de Operaciones
dtorres@safarisuitescr.com Walter Guzmán – Gerente de Casino
wguzman@safarisuitescr.com
Website: https://www.safarisuitescr.com/
6. Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Casino – Guacimo
The Westin Golf Resort & Spa is located in the Pacific coastal region of Guacimo, approximately a one-hour drive south of San Jose. The resort features an 18-hole golf course, spa, and fitness center. The casino is open 24 hours and offers a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines start at 50₡. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
The resort has several dining options, including an Italian restaurant, steakhouse, and beachfront grill. Bars include a lobby bar and ocean view bar. Room service is available 24 hours. Additional amenities include a kids’ club, tennis courts, and three outdoor pools. The Westin Golf Resort & Spa is a good choice if you want to combine your casino trip with a beach vacation.
Contact Information:
Urb. Mar bello, Guacimo, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2777-1000
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Juan Carlos Rojas – General Manager
jcrojas@west ingucr.com Álvaro Ruiz – Director de Operações
aruiz@west ingucr.com Rodney Wilson – Gerente de Casino
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Website: https://www.west Ingucr.com/
7. Rio Celeste Hideaway, Casino – Tenorio Volcano National Park
Tucked away in the lush tropical rainforest of the Tenorio Volcano National Park, surrounded by waterfalls and hot springs, is the eco-friendly Rio Celeste Hideaway, Casino. This intimate boutique hotel is a bit off the beaten path, requiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle or guided tour to access. But the effort is worth it for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
The casino is small but cozy, with a woodsy decor that complements the natural surroundings. It is open every day from 5 pm until the early morning hours. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter. Drinking is strictly regulated due to the hotel’s commitment to responsible tourism. The casino offers traditional casino games such as roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em.
If gambling is not your thing, Rio Celeste Hideaway has plenty of other activities to offer, including hiking, birdwatching, hot springs, and waterfalls. On-site dining options include a restaurant serving Costa Rican and international cuisine and a bar with live music. The rooms feature balconies with forest views, and some have private hot springs. Overall, Rio Celeste Hideaway provides a unique combination of luxury, nature, and (optional) gambling in a breathtaking setting.
Contact Information:
Tenorio Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2479-0120
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Ángel Leiva – Gerente de Operación
aleiva@riocelestecr.com Jaime Rivera – Gerente de Casino
jrivera@riocelestecr.com
Website: https://riocelestecr.com/
8. Silver Creek Casino & Resort, Palmira Beach – Esterón
Silver Creek Casino & Resort is located in the coastal town of Esterón, about a two-hour drive west of San Jose. The resort features a private beach area and two outdoor pools. Dining options include a seafood restaurant, steakhouse, and sushi bar. Bars include a swim-up bar and sports bar. The casino is open 24 hours and offers a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines start at 50₡. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter. Room service is available 24 hours. Additional amenities include a spa, fitness center, and kids’ club. If you’re looking for a beachfront gambling destination, Silver Creek Casino & Resort might be worth considering.
Contact Information:
Palmira Beach, Esterón, Costa Rica
Must-Play Hollywood Casino Mahoning Valley Golf Course AlternativesPhone: (+506) 2555-3131
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Oscar González – Gerente Administrativo Gerente
ogonzalez@silvercreekcr.com Víctor Navarro – Director de Operaçoes
vnavarro@silvercreekcr.com Javier Rojas – Gerente de Casino
jrojas@silvercreekcr.com
Website: https://www.silvercreekcr.com/
9. Zephyr Palace Casino – San Jose
Zephyr Palace Casino is located inside the Zephyr Palace Hotel in San Jose, about a 15-minute drive from the international airport. The casino is open 24 hours and offers slots, video poker, blackjack, roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. There is also a sports book.
The hotel has a Mediterranean theme with marble floors and domed ceilings. Accommodations range from standard rooms to suites with kitchenettes and Jacuzzis. All rooms have cable TV, air conditioning, and private baths. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, and fitness center. There is also a beauty salon and gift shop. Additional services include currency exchange, tour desk, and laundry. WiFi is available for a fee. If you want to stay at a hotel with a casino on site, Zephyr Palace could be a convenient choice.
Contact Information:
Autopista Belén Sur KM 9,500 metros sur, San José, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2201-0101
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Luis Diego Viquez – Gerente de Casino
ldiego@zephyrpalacehotel.com
10. El Manguito Casino – San Ramón
El Manguito Casino is located in the central mountain town of San Ramón, about an hour and a half west of San Jose. The casino is open Monday through Saturday from 3 pm until the late night hours. Games offered include blackjack, roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines start at 50₡. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
The casino is part of the Hotel El Manguito complex, which includes a hotel, event center, and sports fields. The hotel has standard rooms and bungalows with kitchenettes and cable TV. There is also a restaurant, bar, and pool. Other amenities include a mini market, souvenir shop, and tour desk. WiFi is available for a fee. If you’re looking for a casino outside of San Jose, El Manguito Casino in San Ramón could be a good option.
Social Casinos That Really Know How to Listen - Editor's PickContact Information:
200 metros norte y 30 metros este de la Iglesia, San Ramón, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2436-0019
Casino Manager Contact Info:
Gabriel Castro – Gerente de Casino
gcastro@elmanguitohotel.com
Website: https://www.elmanguitohotel.com/english/
Notable Mention:
Casinó Diamante Imperial, Pérez Zeledón
Casinó Diamante Imperial is located in the southern Pacific province of Pérez Zeledón, about a three-hour drive from Corcosur Airport (CPS). The casino is open daily from 4 pm until the early morning hours. Games offered include roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Texas Hold’em. Slot machines start at 50₡. The dress code is smart casual, and guests must be 18 years or older to enter.
The casino is part of the Hotel Diamante Imperial complex, which also has rooms, apartments, a restaurant, bar, pool, and spa. Activities in the area include surfing, whale watching, national parks, and beaches. The reception is open 24 hours, and there is WiFi in common areas for a fee.
Contact Information:
Puntarenas, Provincia Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica
Phone: (+506) 2776-0110
rival casino no rules bonusCasino Manager Contact Info:
Mario Rodriguez – Gerente de Casino
mrodriguez@diamanteimperial.com
Website: https://diamanteimperial.com/eng/
Online Gambling in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for its progressive stance on technology and entrepreneurship, which has led to the development of a thriving online gaming industry. Unlike many other countries that heavily regulate or ban online gambling, Costa Rica has taken a laissez-faire approach since the 1990s, earning it the nickname “Manhattan of the Tropics.”
There are currently hundreds of online casino and sportsbook operators that hold a license from the government of Costa Rica. However, it’s important to note that obtaining a license from Costa Rica does not necessarily mean a high level of regulation or player protection. Costa Rican gambling licenses primarily serve as a legal framework for operating a business within the country and paying taxes, rather than ensuring fair games, responsible gambling, and player funds safety.
As a result, it’s crucial for players to exercise caution when choosing an online casino or sportsbook based in Costa Rica. Here are some tips to help you gamble safely:
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Look for external audits: Legitimate online casinos should provide proof of fair game outcomes through independent audits conducted by reputable third-party organizations such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs.
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Check for gaming certificates: Certificates from recognized industry bodies such as eCOGRA’s ‘Seal of Approval’ or iTech Labs’ Game Reports indicate that the games have been independently tested for fairness.
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Read terms and conditions: Pay attention to details such as wagering requirements, minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts, and processing times. Unfavorable terms can make it difficult to withdraw your winnings.
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Contact customer support: Test the responsiveness and professionalism of the casino’s customer support team before depositing money. This will give you an idea of what to expect if you encounter any issues.
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Use trusted payment methods: Stick to well-established payment providers such as Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill, Trustly, and Paysafecard to minimize the risk of dealing with unregulated intermediaries.
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Play responsibly: Set limits on your deposits, bets, and time spent playing, and seek help if you feel you are losing control. Denial is a common trait among problem gamblers, so trust your instincts if something feels off.
By following these precautions, you can increase your chances of enjoying a safe and entertaining gambling experience at an online casino in Costa Rica. Remember, knowledge is power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gambling in Costa Rica
Here are some commonly asked questions about gambling in Costa Rica:
Is gambling legal in Costa Rica?
Yes, both land-based and online gambling are legal in Costa Rica. The country has a liberal regulatory regime and does not impose many restrictions on gambling activities.
What types of gambling are available in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica offers various forms of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, horse racing, bingo, and poker. Some casinos also have live entertainment, shows, and restaurants.
Do I need to pay taxes on my gambling winnings in Costa Rica?
Both residents and non-residents are exempt from paying income tax on gambling wins in Costa Rica, whether from local or foreign sources. However, operators are required to withhold a 10% fees on wagers, betting pools, and cash outs to contribute to public education, culture, and sports development.
What is the legal gambling age in Costa Rica?
The minimum gambling age in Costa Rica is 18 years old. However, some establishments may have a stricter policy and require ID verification.
Can I use cryptocurrency to gamble in Costa Rica?
Yes, many online gambling sites in Costa Rica accept cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin for deposits and withdrawals. In fact, cryptos are a popular payment method due to their decentralized nature and anonymous transactions.
Are offshore gambling sites based in Costa Rica safe to use?
While Costa Rica issues gambling licenses, their primary purpose is to facilitate business operations and tax payments within the country. Offshore operators may have varying levels of regulation and player protection. It’s essential to verify their credibility through external audits, gaming certificates, and reviews.
What should I look for in an online casino to ensure a safe gambling experience in Costa Rica?
DraftKings Casino Not Working Fixes - Virtual Private NetworkTo mitigate risks associated with offshore gambling sites, consider factors like external audits, gaming certificates, terms and conditions, customer support reliability, and payment method reputation. Also, practice responsible gambling habits.
