San Jose Costa Rica Casino Visitor Guide

San José hosts several land-based casinos that cater to both tourists and locals. Most properties sit inside major hotels and offer table games, slots, and sportsbooks under one roof.

Visitors must be at least 18 years old and present a valid passport. Dress codes are smart casual, and English is widely spoken on the gaming floor.

1. Choosing a Casino Hotel

Blend: combine practical steps with quick context.
Pros

The largest venues cluster near the

Trade-offs

city center and Escazú district. Compare room

The largest venues cluster near the city center and Escazú district. Compare room rates, distance to Juan Santamaría Airport, and shuttle services before booking.

2. Table Games and Limits

Pros

Blackjack, roulette, and poker run daily

Trade-offs

from 6 pm until 4 am. Minimum

Blackjack, roulette, and poker run daily from 6 pm until 4 am. Minimum bets start at $5, while VIP salons accept wagers up to $5,000 per hand.

3. Slot Machines

Pros

Floor machines accept both colones and

Trade-offs

US dollars. Progressive jackpots link across properties

Floor machines accept both colones and US dollars. Progressive jackpots link across properties and regularly exceed $500,000.

4. Sports Betting Lounges

Bet on football, basketball, and UFC
events while watching live on large screens.
4. Sports Betting Lounges

Bet on football, basketball, and UFC events while watching live on large screens. Cashiers handle both sports and casino transactions at the same window.

5. Tipping and Etiquette

Dealers appreciate small tips after a 5. Tipping and Etiquette

Dealers appreciate small tips after a win. Photography is restricted at tables, but selfies are allowed in designated areas.