Restaurants, Sodas and Bars
Though a 10% gratuity is included at every restaurant or soda in Costa Rica and you are not expected to leave a tip, many foreigners still do. Ticos, generally, may not. If you felt your server was good or went above and beyond your expectations, adding another 5-10% would be very appreciated by your server. If ordering drinks at a bar, another $1.00 (500CRC) per drink is a good tip for your bartender.
Hotels
At high-end hotels, it is customary to leave a tip for the maid and the bellhop when he/she delivers your bags. The tip for maids can be $2 (1000CRC) and up. And $1 (500CRC) per bag for the bellhop would be appreciated.
Tour Guides
Tour guides should be tipped accordingly. More of a tip for longer tours and less for short tours. In general between $5 (2500CRC) and $15 (7,500) is acceptable.
Other Services
For services at the spa, transportation, and others, the tips can vary. A taxi ride on a short trip, rounding up to the nearest dollar will be fine. For a longer trip, $1-$5 (500CRC – 2500CRC) will be sufficient.
If you booked a spa service at your hotel and, depending on the length of the service, another 15% on top of the cost of the massage would be greatly appreciated.
