Why Costa Rica Is the Go-To Destination for Celebrities 

If it feels like everyone is vacationing in Costa Rica lately… you’re not wrong. 

With over 1.5 million tourists flying in during just the first half of 2024 and a 14.5% spike compared to last year, Costa Rica is also enjoying its moment in 2025. And it’s not just everyday travelers hopping between hot springs and surf spots. We’re talking about A-listers. Think Gisele Bündchen on the beaches of Santa Teresa. Shawn Mendes waving at monkeys in Nosara. Even Anant Ambani is soaking up sunsets in Papagayo. 

So, why are so many celebrities vacationing in Costa Rica right now? And what does that mean for you, who might be eyeing your next vacation or wondering what makes this country of Central America so magnetic?  

It’s simple: Costa Rica offers exactly what the rich and famous want—total privacy, luxury villas, beach towns that still feel raw and local, and wellness spots that are more soul-soothing than scene-stealing. Places like Playa Guiones and Nosara are buzzing not with clubs or paparazzi but with yoga mats, smoothies, and sunset surf sessions. 

And here’s the ripple effect: when celebrities show up, tourists follow. From real estate booms in Blue Zone regions to spikes in adventure bookings and wellness retreats, Costa Rica’s celebrity effect is real, and it’s changing how the world travels. 

In this article, we’re diving into: 

• Famous people from Costa Rica call it home 
• Who’s building vacation homes in paradise 
• The secret spots celebrities love most 
• And how their presence is driving up tourism, transforming beach towns, and putting Costa Rica in the global spotlight 

Let’s explore the celebrity side of Costa Rica—the wild, the luxurious, the beautifully laid-back. 

Why Is Costa Rica Famous Among Celebrities? 

There’s a reason so many celebrities in Costa Rica keep returning or staying for good. It’s not just the beaches. It’s the vibe. The privacy. The culture. The feeling that once you’re here, the outside world just… slows down. 

Whether you’re wondering where celebrities stay in Costa Rica or what draws famous people from around the world to this small Central American gem, here’s a look at why Costa Rica continues to be one of the most beloved destinations for the rich, the famous, and everyone in between. 

A Country Where Nature Feels Like Luxury 

Costa Rica isn’t just beautiful—it’s wild, raw, and alive. Home to 5% of the planet’s biodiversity, it offers everything from rainforest canopy walks to cloud forests, waterfalls, and protected national parks. For celebrities used to curating experiences, Costa Rica is the rare place where luxury and nature meet in perfect balance. 

Many famous people in Costa Rica come here simply to be anonymous in nature. Surfing in Playa Guiones, hiking volcanoes, watching monkeys from their balconies—this isn’t a staged vacation. It’s real. And refreshing. 

The Pura Vida Lifestyle 

Pura Vida isn’t just a slogan—it’s how people live in Costa Rica. It means slow mornings, casual conversations, sunset dinners, and zero pressure to “perform.” This slower pace is a big reason celebrities vacation in Costa Rica and often return to buy property here. 

Whether it’s actors, athletes, or musicians, many say the real draw is how this place makes them feel—like they can breathe again. 

Wellness, Retreats, and Recharging 

Costa Rica is a global capital for wellness travel, especially in places like the Nicoya Peninsula, a Blue Zone in Costa Rica known for longevity and holistic health. Think yoga sanctuaries tucked into jungle hills, organic food made fresh daily, and massages after a long surf session. 

It’s no wonder that celebrity vacations in Costa Rica often include wellness retreats, juice cleanses, and digital detoxes. It’s healing—but with style. 

Culture, Food, and That Underrated Warmth 

Yes, the beaches are stunning—but the real charm is in the people. Costa Ricans (or Ticos) are famously kind, welcoming, and laid-back. Celebrities often talk about how easy it is to blend in here, shop at the local market, or enjoy live music without being mobbed. It’s cultural vibrancy without chaos. 

And the food? Underrated. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, locally roasted coffee—it’s a daily delight. 

Eco-Friendly Living Meets High-End Comfort 

Costa Rica leads the charge in sustainable tourism, which appeals to a growing number of eco-conscious celebrities. Private and secure villas here often have solar panels, composting systems, rainwater collection, and jungle gardens. 

It’s not unusual for celebrities living in Costa Rica to speak openly about falling in love with the country’s green values and renewable energy focus. 

Safety, Privacy, and Total Discretion 

Let’s be honest—celebs love Costa Rica because they can disappear. Whether they’re staying in secluded luxury villas, arriving by helicopter, or renting beachfront homes in places like Nosara, Santa Teresa, or Papagayo, they know they’ll be left alone. 

And for those asking where do celebrities live in Costa Rica, the answer is: usually wherever there’s ocean, privacy, and the option to zipline after breakfast. 

Real Estate Booms and Tourism Trends 

With increased celebrity sightings in Costa Rica, tourism has followed. Areas like Nosara have seen real estate values soar, and wellness-focused properties are getting snapped up by travelers looking to live the lifestyle long after vacation ends. 

Celebrities influence travel trends—and Costa Rica is benefiting in real-time. 

Celebrities Born in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica has given the world some incredible talent—individuals who were born here and went on to shine across sports, science, music, and Hollywood. From celebrated actors like Harry Shum Jr. to football legends like Keylor Navas, these famous people from Costa Rica have proudly put their country on the global map.  

If you’re searching for celebrities born in Costa Rica, here’s who you should know. 

Celebrity	Birthdate	Profession/Notable Achievements
Harry Shum Jr.	April 28, 1982	Actor, Dancer, Choreographer
Giannina Facio	September 10, 1955	Actress and Producer
Daniel Zovatto	June 28, 1991	Actor and Producer
Keylor Navas	December 15, 1986	Professional Footballer (Goalkeeper)
Maribel Guardia	May 29, 1959	Actress
Debi Nova	August 6, 1980	Singer-Songwriter
Franklin Chang-Díaz	April 5, 1950	Former NASA Astronaut
Claudia Poll Ahrens	1972	Olympic Gold-Medalist Swimmer
Paulo Wanchope	Unspecified	Former Professional Footballer
Andrey Amador	Unspecified	Professional Road Bicycle Racer

Celebrities Who Own a Home in Costa Rica 

Owning a home in Costa Rica isn’t just about real estate—it’s a lifestyle choice. For many celebrities, it’s the perfect mix of privacy, nature, and luxury. From Mel Gibson’s jungle estate to Mark Zuckerberg’s coastal sanctuary, these celebrity homes in Costa Rica reflect a growing trend: when the world feels loud, Costa Rica whispers calm.  

Curious about what celebrities live in Costa Rica or where their secret hideaways are? This list tells it all. 

Celebrity	Location of Property	Notable Property Features/Value (if available)
Mel Gibson	Mal Pais	500 acres, multiple villas, private beach, pool (approx. $24 million)
Mark Zuckerberg	Playa Hermosa (Santa Teresa)	750 acres, focus on sustainability (approx. $100 million investment)
Lady Gaga	Near Arenal Volcano	$25 million home, main house, guest houses, pool, recording studio, hot springs
Michelle Rodriguez	Unspecified	20 acres, main house, guest rooms, waterfall (approx. $8 million)
Tom Cruise	Near San Jose	Approx. $30 million
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie	Near Puntarenas	Private island (approx. $40 million)
Chuck Norris	Near Alajuela	Approx. $10 million
Danny DeVito	Near Limon	Approx. $3 million
Norman Reedus	Nosara	Unspecified
Gisele Bündchen	Santa Teresa	Unspecified

Celebrities Who Lived in Costa Rica 

Some celebrities fall so deeply in love with Costa Rica that they don’t just visit—they live here. Whether Lady Gaga escapes to the Arenal region or Steven Seagal becomes a Costa Rican citizen, these stars have made Costa Rica more than a holiday—it’s part of their lifestyle.  

If you’re wondering who has lived in Costa Rica or which celebrities made it their base, this table has the answers. 

Celebrity	Details of Residence/Reasons for Living There
Mel Gibson	Attracted by rainforests and beaches
Mark Zuckerberg	Moved after honeymoon, focus on sustainability
Tom Brady	Frequent visits to relax, enjoys “Pura Vida”
Lady Gaga	Owns a home, likely spends significant time there
Michelle Rodriguez	Uses estate as a regular escape
Norman Reedus	Bought a home in Nosara
Gisele Bündchen	Spends as much time as possible in Santa Teresa
Keylor Navas	Native of Costa Rica, likely resides there when not playing abroad
Claudia Poll	Native of Costa Rica, national icon
Steven Seagal	Became a Costa Rican citizen

Celebrity Vacationers in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica has become a celebrity vacation hotspot, from luxury retreats in Papagayo to surfing in Nosara. Stars like Gal Gadot, Gisele Bündchen, and Tom Cruise are frequently spotted enjoying the sun, nature, and freedom the country offers. Whether it’s a low-key wellness retreat or a paparazzi-free beach getaway, this is where celebrities vacation in Costa Rica—and why they keep coming back. 

Celebrity	Location(s) Visited	Approximate Date(s) of Visit
Gal Gadot	Nosara	Dec 19–31, 2024
Shawn Mendes	Guiones Beach (Nosara)	Around New Year 2024
Gisele Bündchen	Santa Teresa	December 2024
Anant Ambani	Papagayo Peninsula (Casa Los Olas)	August 2024
Beyoncé	Papagayo Peninsula	Unspecified
Kim Kardashian	Papagayo Peninsula	Unspecified
Justin Bieber	Papagayo Peninsula	Unspecified
Lady Gaga	Papagayo Peninsula	Unspecified
Reese Witherspoon	Hacienda AltaGracia (Rainforests)	Unspecified
Adam Scott	Unspecified	Unspecified
Megan Fox	Alajuela Province	Unspecified
Matt Damon	Unspecified	Unspecified
Christian Bale	Unspecified	Around Christmas 2019
Tony Hawk	Jacó Beach	Around New Year 2019
Tom Cruise	Unspecified	2022 (twice)
Prince Harry & Meghan Markle	Guanacaste	Around January 2024

Famous Celebrities in Costa Rica 

Some names are woven into the cultural and political fabric of Costa Rica itself. These aren’t just celebrities in Costa Rica—they’re icons. From Nobel Peace Prize winner Oscar Arias Sánchez to Olympic gold medalist Claudia Poll, these individuals are respected, celebrated, and forever linked with the nation’s identity.  

If you’re looking for famous people in Costa Rican history or simply wondering who is the most famous person from Costa Rica, this list highlights the most impactful. 

Celebrity	Area of Fame	Key Achievements/Reasons for Fame
Oscar Arias Sánchez	Politics	Nobel Peace Prize winner, former President
Laura Chinchilla	Politics	First female President of Costa Rica
Franklin Chang Díaz	Science/Space Exploration	NASA Astronaut, record for most spaceflights
Claudia Poll	Sports (Swimming)	Olympic Gold Medalist
Keylor Navas	Sports (Football)	Renowned Goalkeeper, multiple UEFA Champions League titles
Juan Santamaría	National Hero	Heroism in the Second Battle of Rivas
Carmen Lyra	Literature	Iconic Costa Rican writer

Enjoy Celebrity-Like Treatment in Costa Rica at Villa Firenze  

In Costa Rica, the worlds of local icons and international celebrities meet effortlessly—each drawn by the country’s stunning landscapes, laid-back lifestyle, and authentic charm. 

Tucked into this tropical haven is Villa Firenze—a luxury villa in Costa Rica that mirrors the experience many famous people in Costa Rica seek. Located along the Pacific Coast, it offers the kind of seclusion, style, and personal service that turns a stay into something unforgettable. 

With high-end luxury amenities, tailored guest experiences, and a deep respect for privacy and security, Villa Firenze is more than just a villa—it’s a sanctuary. Designed to host up to 8 guests in total comfort, it’s the kind of place perfect for a celebrity-style family vacation or a quiet escape from the spotlight. In short, Villa Firenze is the perfect hideaway for celebrities in Costa Rica.  

So, whether you’re surfing in Nosara, dining in Santa Teresa, or simply unwinding under the palms, every moment in Costa Rica—especially at Villa Firenze—is an invitation to live the good life, the Pura Vida way.   

FAQs   

1. Where do celebrities stay in Costa Rica? 

Celebrities often stay in luxury villas and private estates across areas like Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Papagayo Peninsula. These secluded spots offer the privacy and serenity that stars seek, alongside breathtaking views and exclusive amenities. 

2. What celebrities live in Costa Rica? 

Several well-known celebrities have made Costa Rica their home, including Mel Gibson, Mark Zuckerberg, and Lady Gaga. They enjoy the country’s focus on privacy, eco-luxury living, and natural beauty. 

3. Why is Costa Rica famous among celebrities? 

Costa Rica is famous for its incredible biodiversity, stunning beaches, and a Pura Vida lifestyle. It’s a favorite among celebrities due to its mix of luxury living, privacy, and the country’s commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism. 

4. Who are the famous people from Costa Rica? 

Costa Rica is home to notable figures like Keylor Navas, Claudia Poll, and Franklin Chang-Díaz. These famous Costa Rican people have achieved international acclaim in sports, space exploration, and politics. 

5. Where do celebrities go in Costa Rica? 

Celebrities typically flock to serene, luxurious destinations such as Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Papagayo Peninsula. These areas are perfect for surfing, wellness retreats, and secluded getaways that offer both adventure and relaxation. 

6. What celebrities have homes in Costa Rica? 

Many celebrities have established homes in Costa Rica, including Mel Gibson, Mark Zuckerberg, and Gisele Bündchen. These homes are often located in secluded areas, offering total privacy and incredible views. 

7. What celebrities own property in Costa Rica? 

Celebrities like Lady Gaga, Tom Cruise, and Brad Pitt own property in Costa Rica. These properties are nestled in lush landscapes and are often private estates or eco-friendly villas that align with the country’s sustainable living practices. 

8. Which celebrities are from Costa Rica? 

Costa Rica is the birthplace of some renowned stars such as Keylor Navas, Debi Nova, and Giannina Facio. These Costa Rican celebrities have made a name for themselves in sports, music, and film. 

9. What celebrities are in Costa Rica right now? 

Some celebrities spotted in Costa Rica include Gal Gadot, Michael Jordan, Shawn Mendes, Jessica Chastain, and Ivanka Trump. They enjoy the country’s privacy, beautiful landscapes, and eco-conscious lifestyle.