Panama travel specialist Matt Labunski visited Cayuga’s most recent contribution to the eco-luxury scene, Isla Palenque Private Island Resort, back in July. We sat down with him to get the scoop on this up-and-coming private island destination, which blends beach, nature, culinary distinction, and adventure into a vacation product not previously offered in Panama. And from what Matt describes, it’s pretty perfect.

Arriving is an Adventure of Its Own

The journey to Isla Palenque began for Matt with a flight from Panama City to David.

“After flying into David it was an hour drive to a boat dock in Boca Chica, then a short boat trip to the island.”

You’ll feel like you’ve made it off the beaten path as you approach the private dock and arrival pavilion, where you’ll complete the check-in process with a cocktail in hand. This exclusive arrival sets an adventurous tone for your stay. After check-in, you’ll be driven across the island to your beachfront casita.

Beachfront bungalow casita

“The casitas are the star of the show. They are really well designed with lots of outdoor space,” Matt raves.

The luxurious oceanfront units were fashioned to create a space that blends the indoor areas seamlessly with outdoors. This integrative design encourages guests to connect to the unspoiled nature around them without compromising comfort and style.

Coastal Dining as It Should Be

Once you’ve settled in, head to the beachfront restaurant for a sunset dinner and drinks. Hopefully, Benny is around. He’s known to give out great recommendations and mix up an unforgettable cocktail.

“The food was incredible” reports Matt, who managed to sample most of the menu during his brief stay on Palenque.

“The seafood was the main highlight, but everything I ate was amazing.”

More specifically, he suggests the fresh clams with garlic (“OMG”), Rondon soup with Red Snapper, and seared tuna with a carrot-cabbage salad and peanut dressing. Though seafood is recommended at any beachfront hotel, selective eaters can also enjoy jerk chicken, flank steak with carrot leaf pesto, chicken tamales, and chayote ceviche. One of Matt’s unexpected favorites? The beet carpaccio.

These unique dishes feature as many locally-sourced ingredients as possible, creating amazing flavors unique to the area and earth-friendly dining experiences you won’t soon forget.

Sustainable Tourism is Nothing New for Cayuga Hotels

Isla Palenque garden

This is business as usual for Cayuga, which has been a pioneer in sustainable eco-luxury tourism in Central America. Stay at any one of Cayuga’s properties in Costa Rica and you might notice their organic on-site gardens, educational sustainability tours, and eco-minded touches throughout each hotel. Isla Palenque maintains these standards with solar-heated water, locally-sourced bathroom amenities, and the renunciation of single-use plastics. Even the hotel’s furniture is made on-site or locally.

Commitment to these practices is not only responsible, but it also creates an authentic connection to Panama you won’t get at a large brand name resort or skyscraper hotel.

Bringing More to The Table

Isla Palenque Beach Hike

Matt’s schedule only allowed for two nights as Isla Palenque, but he made the most of it with a guided hike around the island. Monkeys, tropical birds, lizards, leoparundi, crabs, and bats were just some of the creatures he spotted while learning about the island’s history.

It was a whale-watching tour in the Chiriqui Gulf that left the biggest impression on Matt, though.

“Life-affirming-tears-in-my-eyes-amazing, but keep in mind that I am obsessed with whales.”

Travelers craving a bit more action can also book fishing excursions, kayaking, guided hikes, stand-up paddleboarding, and day trips to nearby islands.

But, as Matt explains, you might want to build in some time to simply decompress.

“There are plenty of activities to keep people busy, but the property is also great for relaxing. They have a nice beachfront pool area, and all of the casitas have hammocks and big couch-swings.”

A four-night stay is customary, but Palenque can be ideal for longer stays of seven to eight nights, too. It all comes down to your personal travel style.

“I really like that the property can work for different types of people. For example, the air-conditioned casitas are a nice feature for heat-sensitive guests, but you can also keep the doors open (with screens) to make it feel more eco-lodgey.”

The Verdict

“The whole experience is very unique so there isn’t really anything like it. It is also in a very non-touristy area of the country,” Matt explains.

If nothing else, it is clear Isla Palenque strives to create a space for authenticity within luxury travel. Be sure to check it out while it’s still under the radar.

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El Silenco Lodge and Spa – Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica

Pure relaxation in the cloud forest at El Silencio Lodge

Located in the mountains about 1 and ½ hours outside of San Jose, this small luxury is one of our favorite locations in Costa Rica. El Silencio Lodge and Spa is surrounded by a private cloud forest nature reserve with well-maintained hiking trails leading to secluded waterfalls. The nearby town of Bajos del Toro offers a glimpse into traditional Costa Rican life and culture. Gourmet cuisine and perfect wine pairings are presented in a casual setting.

Why I LOVE it:

• Lesser known cloud forest with off the beaten track vibe
• Private Jacuzzi on your balcony for relaxing after hiking the trails
• Unique private dining experiences on their riverside deck
• Authentic cultural interactions and experiences
• Organic garden and onsite trout farm provides the kitchen with fresh produce and fish
• Easy access from the San Jose International Airport

E Silencio Culinary Highlights:

Beet and Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Los Bajos Sweet Plantain Rolls

Local trout with grilled watermelon

Isla Chiquita Glamping Resort – Gulf of Nicoya, Costa Rica

Not at all camping!

Access the magical little island of Isla Chiquita off the Nicoya Peninsula by private yacht from Puntarenas on the Central Pacific Coast. “Safari-style” tents with king beds, private bathrooms, and spacious outdoor terraces will keep you cozy and comfortable. Glamping is NOT camping! Meals are simple but refined and always delicious. A laid-back, barefoot atmosphere compliments a wide variety of unique touring options to keep you stimulated. Explore secluded beaches by boat, kayak around the island in perfectly calm waters, visit Curu Biological Reserve to look for monkeys and wildlife or just relax in a hammock for the whole day.

My tent decorated for my birthday!

Why I LOVE it:

• Feels like a family beach house on a secluded private island and not a typical tourist destination
• Opportunity to explore the local fishing culture and catch your own fish for dinner
• Bio-luminescence adventure offered on dark nights is an incredible natural phenomenon
• Personal service by a loving staff makes you part of the family
• Genuine concern about caring for the environment and surrounding wildlife
• Private massage area with Jacuzzi and panoramic views

Isla Chiquita Culinary Highlights:

This ceviche was a standout accented with soy sauce and sesame oil which takes it to another level

Freshly caught fish with patacones

Olive octopus

Rancho Pacifico Luxury Rainforest Resort – Uvita, Costa Rica

A 20 minute 4×4 ride off the main road and up the mountain brings you to Rancho Pacifico Hotel on the South Pacific Coast.  The stunning setting 2000 feet above the ocean offers some of the most incredible views anywhere in Costa Rica!  Stay in an upscale treehouse or private villa with plunge pool.  If you have a larger party, 2 and 3 bedroom villas are available.  Your rainforest hiking adventure begins steps away from the lobby, take your pick from a selection of trails ranging from easy to difficult.  The area of Uvita and nearby Ojochal are top foodie destinations with many incredible restaurant options.

Breakfast at Rancho Pacifico with the best view!

Why I LOVE it:

• Friendly and professional staff looks after every detail
• Cool ocean breezes offer natural air conditioning
• Four course themed dinners available every night
• Excellent wine list with reasonable pricing
• Variety of tour options including a day visit to the Osa Peninsula for Corcovado National Park
• Adults only!
• Stay in your own exclusive Treehouse
• Hiking the whales tail sandbar in Marino Ballena National Park is not to be missed

Rancho Pacifico Hotel Highlights:

Private Plunge Pool at Rancho Pacifico

Sushi from the Asian themed night

Treehouse at Rancho Pacifico

Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort – Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Endless views at Arenas del Mar Beach & Nature Resort

Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort is one of the best luxury resorts in Costa Rica with one of the best locations. Not only is Arenas del Mar located in a private rainforest reserve with direct beach access, it is also within walking distance of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Views of the ocean and national park are incredible! Suites offer large terraces with Jacuzzis, king size beds with fine linens, and all of the amenities you expect at a five-star resort. The resort has 2 restaurants – one serving gourmet breakfast and dinner and the other offering casual lunch on the beach.

One of the most beautiful beaches

Why I LOVE it:

• Lively fun atmosphere
• Direct beach access with chairs and service on the beach
• Top notch guides on site to take you on hiking and natures tours
• On property wildlife opportunities – especially love the bird watching and night walks
• Tico Minibar stocked with complimentary snacks and beverages (love the local Kombucha)
• Tortilla making class is fun and interactive
• Attention to environment and sustainability is a focus… no plastic straws!
• Thoughtful culinary options such as afternoon tea and in-room antipasto and cheese plates

Wildlife Spotted on the Morning Birdwatching Hike:

Sloth spotted on the birdwatching hike

Getting up at 5:00 am to see wildlife is almost always worth it!

Visit these destinations on our Costa Rica Vacation Celebration itinerary:

Let us handle all of the details so you can just enjoy your special occasion with your family and/or friends. This itinerary is great for a honeymoon, anniversary, best friend getaway, significant birthday party or a family trip with adult children. If you are traveling with children under 18 contact us for a customized version.

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My adventure began at Rancho Pacifico Hotel, South Pacific Coast.

LOOK AT THAT VIEW.

I started my trip in the South Pacific region of Uvita. Getting to Rancho Pacifico Hotel from San Jose International Airport took about 4 1/2 hours with a stop to grab some food and visit the Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge, where a large population of crocodiles can be observed from the bridge. When I arrived at Rancho Pacifico, I settled in and toured their beautiful treehouses and villas – each with views of Playa Ballena and the rainforest. Rancho Pacifico is surrounded by lush, tropical forest with wildlife like sloths, monkeys, frogs, lizards, and birds. After settling in, I had an incredible dining experience –  with a great drink selection! The property has culinary themes each night. For me, it was a barbeque and Italian meal…. delicioso!

An unexpected surprise from my room

Rancho Pacific is an especially good option for independent travelers looking for privacy and adventure. They have independent hiking trails accessible from the property like the waterfall loop trail that leads to a secret waterfall or trails up the mountain for incredible views overlooking Ballena Beach.

… the secret waterfall!

Rancho Pacifico will also soon be adding a new pool and yoga observation deck!

Stop 2: Kura Design Villas, South Pacific Coast

Imagine pulling up on a winding jungle road to a sleek private hotel in the middle of the forest. That’s exactly how I came upon Kura Design Villas. This ultra-modern adults-only hotel is perfect for couples with a romantic atmosphere and amazing views overlooking the rainforest and famous whale’s tail on the South Pacific Coast. There are only eight villas – two of which are the brand new master suites with outdoor infinity plunge pools overlooking the whale’s tail! Check out this video about the Kura experience:

Admittedly, this isn’t my video, but it illustrates the Kura Design Villas experience perfectly!

Stop 3: El Castillo Hotel, South Pacific Coast

Jungle vibes from El Castillo gardens

I next visited El Castillo Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel overlooking the South Pacific Coast reminiscent of a European villa. With just six hotel rooms located within close proximity, the hotel cultivates a sense of community among guests.

My pretty afternoon pick-me-up at El Castillo

The culinary experience at El Castillo is exceptional. They have a young talented chef who will bring you into town to the markets to buy ingredients for meals and snacks and explain each dish to you as you dine.

Snook with seasonal vegetables, greens, jelly, and puree dots

El Castillo offers a Chef’s Table experience with local, seasonal ingredients crafted into inspired dishes, explained and presented by their chef!

Rose mousse with rose syrup, mandarin oranges, and chocolate crumble

Another highlight of the El Castillo experience is its immediate access to Garza Island, a private island where guests can spend the afternoon with a picnic lunch from the restaurant. And my favorite unexpected surprise? The resident iguana who hangs around the property sunbathing by the pool.

Stop 4: Hacienda AltaGracia, Southern Mountains

AltaGracia has so many beautiful horses in their stable. You can’t miss a horseback riding excursion through the trails!

Hacienda AltaGracia, an Auberge Resort, is a large sprawling hacienda offering a customizable luxury experience. The hacienda once was a fully functioning hacienda with over 28 indoor stables for horses and the largest riding ring in Central America. It has since been converted to the luxury hotel that it is today. The equestrian stable still stands and offers a variety of equestrian tours or you can simply tour the stable and pet the horses if you aren’t up to taking a ride. AltaGracia has a multitude of complimentary tours, many of which are exclusive to them. They have exclusive access to waterfalls, nature preserves, and coffee plantations around the area.

I’d highly recommend checking out the “relaxation room” at Hacienda AltaGracia’s spa, a large dark soundproof room with individual chaise lounges and reading lamps with curtains to separate your space from other peoples’. Despite AltaGracia’s off the beaten path location, they offer a kind of connected comfort with the option to log in to your Netflix and Hulu account from the room’s Apple TV for those of us that aren’t quite ready to throw out the WiFi password or our favorite shows.

Stop 5:  Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Osa Peninsula

The drive to the Osa Peninsula is so worth it! Here’s a view of the Golfo Dulce on the ride to Lapa Rios Ecolodge.

When I checked into Lapa Rios Ecolodge on the Osa Peninsula, I was given the rundown on the multitude of different tours offered daily which were included in my stay. I signed up for a hike with one of their on-site naturalist guides during which I was able to see all four monkey species native to Costa Rica: squirrel, white-faced capuchin, howler, and spider monkey.

While we saw all four Costa Rican monkey species, it was difficult to get a picture! Seen here is a curious squirrel monkey.

The hiking trails were not the only place to see wildlife from Lapa Rios Lodge. There are animals all over the property. You may have monkeys come up close on the walk back to your room. There are frogs at the pool and crabs and lizards are all over the paths! The lodge even has an observation deck with views overlooking the forest for wildlife viewing. You’re bound to see animals even walking down to the beach, a quiet untouched stretch of sand where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Bungalows, hammocks, and views… what’s not to like?

I was also impressed by the rigorous sustainability practices the lodge upholds. They are always looking for new ways to minimize their carbon footprint and were the first hotel in Costa Rica to attain all five leaves in sustainability, a measurement of sustainable hospitality and resource management put in place by the Costa Rican Tourism Board. They even educate guests on their environmental practices and urge them to get involved during their stay.

Stop 6: Starbucks’ Hacienda Alsacia, Alajuela

Hacienda Alsacia has coffee fields for days (and a little waterfall) and helps educate local farms.

The highlands in Alajuela grow some of the world’s best coffee. So it’s not surprising that Starbucks has chosen the fertile patch of land now known as Hacienda Alascia for their new coffee plantation. At Hacienda Alascia, Starbucks is brewing up their own exclusive variety of coffee and offering coffee plantation guests a quick tour with a coffee flight at the end of the tour. They are also doing great things for the farmers in the area! They have an education center focused on teaching local coffee growers eco-friendly and sustainable practices as well as sharing which varieties are best to grow in the area.

Last stop: Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation, Central Valley

I think Finca Rosa Blanca has the prettiest doors in all of Costa Rica! They have some of the yummiest coffee too…

I ended my adventure at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort, Located in the Central Valley, Finca Rosa Blanca is a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of San Jose and a fantastic way to take in more of Costa Rican culture. While I thought my stay would mostly revolve around coffee, I was pleasantly surprised by the authentic, beautiful art in every nook and cranny of the hotel. The villas on the coffee plantation were warm, welcoming, and inviting! And a coffee tour during your stay is definitely a must! I don’t have a coffee problem, I swear…

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First Stop: San Jose, Costa Rica

Landing in San Jose, Costa Rica

Landing in the capital city of San Jose, I welcomed the balmy night air and a nice chat with my driver, who did his best to point out buildings and parks to me through the darkness. I arrived at Hotel Grano de Oro, which looks like a mansion right out of the New Orleans Garden District. Warm reception and sweet little peek-a-boo gardens located within the hotel made me feel like I had stepped into the Central American version of southern hospitality.

The difference between San Jose at night and San Jose during the day is, well, night and day. In the morning, the city is bustling and full of people. The buildings are vibrant colors and the parks are shining in the sun. But I couldn’t stay and revel in the energy of the city, my destination lay in the central highlands.

Second Stop: La Paz Waterfall Gardens

There is no shortage of natural power and beauty at La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

The La Paz Waterfall Gardens are a fun getaway not far from the action in San Jose. My tour of the gardens was spent holding toucans who were way more curious to look at my face instead of the camera, trying to coerce morpho butterflies to land on me, and marveling at the beautiful big cats. I even got a nice little snack of house made cheese and warm sugar cane juice to get my energy up before moving on to the waterfall hike portion of the gardens. La Paz boasts 5 beautiful waterfalls and the preservation of the nature and forest around the falls is wonderful. Ducking under vines, feeling the mist from the falls, and watching water trickle down the stony walls gives you the distinct feeling you’re on a jungle trek.

Third Stop: Santa Juana

The smooth & oh so scenic Nature Air flight to Quepos! On to the next portion of my Costa Rica adventure…

The next morning I said goodbye to San Jose and hello to the airport again. To get to Santa Juana, I first took a domestic flight to Quepos/Manuel Antonio which was easily the most interesting and incredibly scenic flight I’ve ever taken in my life. The ride only lasted for about 20 minutes but I won’t soon forget the lush hills and mountains and sparkling rivers I stared down at.

The hospitality at Santa Juana Lodge was out of this world! There is such a sense of community in this village & Roxanne’s food makes you feel right at home.

Before heading to Manuel Antonio, I stopped in the village of Santa Juana to check out Santa Juana Lodge. The moment I got there, it truly hit me that I was in Costa Rica. It was picturesque; there was a slight mist hanging over the mountains that surrounded the hill I stood atop, there were toucans, tall palms, farms, little houses, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, and it was silent- save the cawing of birds. Here I learned about the conservation and rehabilitation efforts that are taking place to repopulate Costa Rica with the famous Red Macaw. I also learned to fish for tilapia with a stick and string, basically making me a professional fisherman. Now if I could just get Nat Geo to give me my own show.

Fourth Stop: Manuel Antonio National Park 

I could tell Manuel Antonio was full of wildlife even before I got to the Manuel Antonio National Park, considering when I stepped out onto my balcony at Hotel Si Como No that morning, I witnessed a group of 5 howler monkeys running across the roof of the adjacent building as though they had just been up to trouble.

Balcony view at Hotel Si Como No

It was in the national park that I began to understand Costa Rica’s relationship with nature. The environment, the land, the animals are all something that the locals are proud of and they certainly take pleasure in showing them off to travelers. Many of the animals I saw were carrying babies (quite a few pairs of mom and baby sloths!) much to every visitors’ and guides’ joy alike. In another tender moment, I witnessed a hummingbird “school of love” where a mature hummingbird teaches the young males to sing properly. While I was running through nature like a kid on a playground I nearly forgot that this was the only opportunity I had on my trip for a dip in the ocean so I made sure to take advantage of it at one of the park’s 4 beaches.

Fifth Stop: Monteverde Cloud Forest

The sunset in the mystical magic cloud forest of Monteverde.

The next stop in my busy itinerary was Monteverde Cloud Forest. Monteverde was a pleasant surprise. I had heard of Costa Rica’s most famous cloud forest before and expected all manner of fog and rain. Instead I found dreamy misty mornings and warm sunshine in the afternoon.

Who likes organic Costa Rican coffee?!  What a great afternoon pick me up.

I must admit to being quite excited about the Don Juan Coffee tour. Costa Rican’s drink a lot of coffee, and after tasting the difference between theirs and the coffee I sipped in the Miami Airport, I was ready to immerse myself in the caffeine culture fully. The Don Juan Coffee Plantation offers a fun, interactive look at the production of coffee, sugar cane, and chocolate, all of which were delicious and I would happily consume again. It also served as a lesson in Tico culture; we, a group of strangers, were encouraged to work together, communicate, laugh, and become friendly as we raced to pick coffee, shared opinions on the bitter notes of 90% cocoa candy, and juiced sugar cane for each other’s drinks.

The true star in Monteverde, in my opinion, is the the town of Santa Elena, a walkable distance from some of the area hotels. It reminded me of a cute little college town with its small shops and cafes everywhere. Tourists and locals blended perfectly in the streets and I felt at ease and embraced as a foreigner.

Last Stop: Arenal Volcano

The final stop on my journey was Arenal, the epitome of vacation. No bit of this town is boring. I found myself present in every moment I spent at Arenal, unwilling to miss anything it offered me.

I found paradise and you can’t make me leave! Hot springs at Tabacon Thermal Resort.  

The Tabacon Thermal Resort served as my mecca. Every day I spent in Arenal, I also spent in the Tabacon hot springs in my free time. The location of the springs feels like a long lost tropical labyrinth of decadence and peaceful seclusion. There are bridges to cross, gardens to admire, waterfalls to discover, and pools to wade in. I let that sweet heat embrace me and all of the intense adventuring I did during the day melt right off.

Speaking of intense adventuring, the Costa Rica Sky Zip Line is something special. I’ve done plenty of ziplines and they’ve all seemed the same so I felt prepared for the ride in the sky that I was about to embark on. That is, until I heard how high up the lines are- 650 ft. For perspective, that is 200 ft taller than the tallest roller coaster in the U.S.! Bring. It. On. Gliding hundreds of feet in the air may sound intimidating but the views are very worth it. I was so focused on the lovely vista that I forgot all about the height and everything else around me.

Airport Reflections

Me loving every minute of the chocolate and coffee culture.

With Arenal in the distance, my journey came to a close. Waiting for my flight on the morning of my departure allowed me some time for Airport Reflections. If I could give anyone traveling to Costa Rica advice it would be:

1. Agree to everything offered to you, you won’t be disappointed.
2. Watch and listen, something amazing could be right beside you.
3. And if you take one souvenir from Costa Rica, let it be coffee.

Note: We do not normally recommend visiting 6 destinations in 10 days. Our Costa Rica Experts travel to experience as much of the country as possible so we can make first-hand recommendations.

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Oh, and if you’re loving these photos as much as I am, photo credit goes to our talented wedding photographer, Toh Gouttenier of BiDrop Images.

The spacious new Aracari suites are perfect for group travel.

Aerial view of the Three Bedroom Premier Suite. My handsome new husband is in the tux.

Built for entertaining, the Aracari building maintains The Springs lux lodge style, but with more space. The new units include Vista Grand Guest Rooms, Vista Grand Honeymoon Suites, Aracari Junior Suites, and Three Bedroom Premier Suites. We used the Three Bedroom Premier Suite for cocktails and photos before our I Do’s, but it’s also an ideal layout for families and groups who want to be together on vacation. The living room and connecting kitchenette with bar were the perfect gathering place for our lively bunch. The living room opens onto a massive covered lanai with plenty of seating and a Jacuzzi that puts on a light show. Okay… cool. Additionally, three bedrooms and three bathrooms gave everyone plenty of space for getting ready. Bonus points for morning views of Arenal Volcano from the master bedroom.

Want a better breakdown of each Aracari suite? The Springs latest blog post here gives a full account.

Let’s not forget the Falcon’s Nest Villa.

Okay, so The Falcon’s Nest is not technically part of the Aracari building, but it’s close. It’s also the newest addition to The Springs collection of private villas. Appropriately named, the Falcon’s Nest is situated on the highest point of the resort. So as you might expect, the view of Arenal Volcano is stunning. The Falcon’s Nest has five bedrooms (and the capacity to sleep 14), a full kitchen, living room, and expansive balcony with a private plunge pool.

Read more about the luxurious Falcon’s Nest on The Springs’ blog here.

Convenience remains paramount.

An aerial view of The Springs lobby looking out over the thermal pools

Now let’s talk logistics. That’s normally an ugly word on vacation (thanks goodness for trip planners like Costa Rica Experts, am I right?) However, it’s nice to know that The Springs Resort has them figured out. After all, who wants to spend their whole vacation walking to and from their villa when they should be at the pool? A covered walking trail conveniently connects the Aracari building and the Falcon’s Nest to the main lobby of the resort. For non walkers, the Falcon’s Nest comes with 2 golf carts. At the Aracari building, you can call for them. And if that sounds like too much effort, rumor has it that The Springs plans to build a second lobby specifically for the new building complete with its own set of recreational amenities and thermal pools.

Oh, and the view…

View of Arenal Volcano from the Aracari building

Well I think that speaks for itself.

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Rio Perdido Hotel and Suspension Bridge

A major benefit to staying here is easy access to all the amenities including pools, restaurant, hiking trails (expect to see monkeys), natural hot springs river and onsite adventures. No need to drive an hour or more for canopy zipline… there is one right below the restaurant! Also the Rio Perido Thermal Springs River is a great alternative to some of the more touristy hot spring options at Arenal Volcano.

The Rio Perdido Canyon Adventure Tour

Me on the suspension bridge

The Rio Perdido Canyon adventure tour is one of the most unique I have experienced in Costa Rica. It is a scenic adventure with 5 zip lines connected by hiking trails, suspension bridges, up and down rappelling and a Tarzan swing over a waterfall.

Me on the Canyon Adventure Zipline

Nice touches were cold water stations along the way and a professional photographer to take the pictures while you enjoy the tour. Other activities scheduled daily include whitewater tubing, guided hiking and mountain biking.

Stylish Bungalows

The rooms are comfortable and stylish with all the modern amenities you could want. For me the highlights were a perfect bed and great shower with excellent water pressure. Costa Rica Expert Elsa, from our San Jose office, loved the natural setting with the sounds of the river just below and early morning birdwatching from her terrace.

Top Notch Dining & Service

Local trout from Rio Perdido

Rio Perdido offers a top notch dining experience. A memorable dinner included starters of shrimp cocktail, fresh veggie spring rolls and a natural carrot soup. The best main course was local trout paired with Chilean wine. For dessert we enjoyed decadent brownie bites with vanilla ice cream.

Rio Perdido pool

The staff was professional, friendly and always available. An unexpected feature was a full service spa and private yoga classes available on request. Next to the pools (you have 3 to choose from- open 24 hours) is a bar and casual restaurant with a huge snack menu. We enjoyed the fried cheese with passion fruit and yucca nachos.

Expert Recommendation:

Rio Perdido Hot Springs

I recommend a two or three night stay to take advantage of all of the activities. The focus is adventure in a completely organic setting.

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Nourished in Nosara

My journey started in the air, where I went from San Jose’s Central Valley to Nosara. It turned out to be one of the most gorgeous flights I’ve taken. Gliding across the Gulf of Nicoya was like an interactive 3D painting. The mountains were such a vibrant green that they didn’t seem real against the electric blue waters below. A typically nervous flyer, I was swept away by the scenery of the rugged coast. I didn’t want it to end.

Harmony Hotel

Less than an hour later I was poolside at Harmony Hotel, a place about which I had heard wonderful things about but could never get a feel for in pictures. When I arrived I realized it was the wonderful kind of place which, at the mercy of a photo, doesn’t seem extraordinary. It must be experienced first-hand.

Fresh Eats

Path leading to the Harmony juice bar

It was time for lunch and I certainly ordered well. A perfectly-seared tuna steak was my introduction to Nicoya cuisine. The food at Harmony was perfectly indicative of the area: simple but creative dishes of the freshest seafood, nourishing greens and vegetables, and sweet tropical fruit. You can find these things in most of Costa Rica, but here the flavors were elevated to a whole new level of freshness. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from some of the country’s best beaches – of course everything tasted fresh! I wouldn’t be surprised if the chef caught the fish himself and walked it out of the water just an hour earlier. Harmony’s juice bar is a fun retreat where the staff serves up nutrient-rich smoothies and juices made from carefully selected ingredients.

Happy Beaches

Playa Guiones

With a full stomach, I headed to Playa Guiones, one of the happiest beaches I’ve ever seen. There were couples in love, sun-kissed families with happy babies playing in the sand, dogs and their owners playing fetch, and no shortage of boards in the lineup. I could have spent the entire day people-watching, but I grabbed a boogie board and became part of the scenery instead. A low-flying Cessna dropped over the water to show off in front of all the beach goers, making even the most veteran surfers stop in their tracks and admire the brazen acrobatics. This place is fun.

Local Exploration

Playa Pelada

If that morning was all I saw of Harmony Hotel and Nosara I would still be in love. Luckily I got to explore the charming Playa Pelada, with its fishing boats bobbing gently after a day on the water. I enjoyed lunch at beachfront La Luna Restaurant and after, I walked the gravel roads to see what else I could learn. I found pilates and yoga classes, surf shops, backpacker hostels, and quaint houses. I refueled with guacamole at a local bar while watching a soccer match with a young fan.

La Luna Restaurant

Later I chatted with Harmony’s bartender during an evening storm. He listed all of the celebrities who enjoyed the simplicity of this low-profile corner of the world. He’d met Susan Surandon and Tim Robbins, Diane Lane, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, seen impromptu Sublime concerts, and served drinks to screenwriter Shawn Christenson as he worked on the movie “Abduction.” Then he said “Actually, Matt Damon is in Santa Teresa right now.” Perfect. That’s where I was headed next.

Revitalized in Santa Teresa

Another stunning flight linked me to Santa Teresa/Mal Pais on the southern edge of the Peninsula. Places like Mal Pais and Montezuma have become notorious as surfer-backpacker meccas.  I flew into Tambor, which felt like a dramatic entrance to Jurassic Park minus the John Williams score. After hugging the coast the plane descended quickly over the water and I wondered if we were even going to make it to land. Finally, right at the edge of the water, I saw the Tambor airstrip. We touched down. Whew.

I headed for Pranamar Villas, a 45 minute drive from Tambor on unpaved roads. With many of the peninsula’s roads still gravel, it is not uncommon to see more motorbikes and ATVs than cars. I needed some emergency items at the pharmacy and a local man was kind enough to squire me there on the back of his bike. I loved how casually everyone went about their daily tasks, and I appreciated their generosity.

Costa Rica Yoga Country

Despite all of the motor action, Pranamar Villas was appropriately serene. I was now in the thick of Costa Rica yoga country. Their selection of daily classes was more than enough to fit the needs of anyone interested in practicing. Between the villas and the beach was a whimsical playground of hammocks tied to random trees, just begging for someone to nap in them. I opted for one of the beach chairs closer to the water, where I watched the sun set while tired surfers trekked back home with their boards. I noticed the same laid-back, happy kind of people that I’d seen in Nosara. Maybe living in one of the world’s 5 Blue Zones really does lead to longer, happier life.

Friendly Locals

Santa Teresa has more than enough of what you need, including a pharmacy, ice cream shop, restaurants, and more. If you like meeting the locals, take a stroll through town and you’ll have no problem striking up a conversation, even at 8 am. A man stood on the side of the road drinking hot coffee out of a juice pitcher, and I wasn’t the least bit surprised when he reached out and invited me to join him. I was also not surprised by the old, long-haired surfers who told tales of dancing by the moon all night and riding waves all day.

Welcome Simplicity

Next I headed to Latitude 10, just down the road in Santa Teresa. This small hotel doesn’t even have a sign – just a symbol. Here I was at another ocean-front hotel with fresh food and gorgeous rooms, and refreshing simplicity.

Latitude 10 Resort

Now back to Matt Damon. Remember when a little bartender birdie told us Matt would be in Santa Teresa around this time? He was right. Confirmed by Tico sources on the scene. I wondered if a walk along the beach would put me in his general vicinity. Maybe we’d become friends and he’d invite me to family barbeques. Maybe he’d see my star power give me my big break. Maybe he’d ignore me and beg for his privacy. Beach-combing for celebrities; what have I become?

Tropical Tranquility

Playa Santa Teresa

I walked up and down the long stretch of sand, stopping along the way for photos of tropical plants and angry rocks jutting out of the sea. The sun crossed the sky as I took my time skimming the coast before eventually stopping to rest. As my lucid body sank lower into the sand I felt the euphoria of total relaxation. I had no idea what time it was because I was too busy enjoying the beauty around me to care. At that moment, all that mattered was nothing. You got lucky, Matt Damon.

A Santa Teresa Beach sunset

Why did I ever think I had to conquer the Nicoya Peninsula? It is rough and rugged but also very gentle and beautiful. Over three days I realized that there is nothing to conquer here, but everything to love.

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The Cloud Forest Reserve

The Cloud Forest Reserve Hike as seen in our Classic Costa Rica standard vacation

Walk into an enveloping cool mist over mossy trails through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This is a must. Cross hanging bridges and discover the interconnected web of the forest and wildlife. The reserve is also a wonderland for birding. The rare Resplendent Quetzal can be found in these forests. We saw three! The vegetation in the cloud forest is especially captivating because so much of it can only be found in this cool, tropical climate.

A Cool Escape

If you love the tropics but could do without the overwhelming heat – this one’s for you. Think tropical plants, light jackets, fewer bugs, and cool evenings. That’s Monteverde. If you confidently proclaim autumn as your favorite season or love a sweet dewy spring morning, Monteverde is for you. Whether it’s your main destination or a stopover on the way to the stifling coast, Monteverde is a welcome retreat.

There’s a Scene

Okay I know touristy has become a bad word, but there’s a piece of me that secretly loves a town with eclectic tourist shops, funky restaurants, curious travelers, and friendly locals. This lively scene has become a part of Monteverde’s culture. And in this case, touristy does not equal lack of authenticity. Quite the opposite. Despite its popularity, Monteverde has managed to maintain its charm and it’s cool.

A Cultural Melting Pot

Our Monteverde cowboy coffee break

There is, surprisingly, a lot of depth in this little town. The emerald oasis attracts groves of scientists and naturalists further contributing an affinity for all things eco to an already green destination. Located next to the dry tropical plains of Guanacaste, Monteverde has also cultivated a cowboy culture. Take a horseback ride through the countryside and you’ll know what I’m talking about. Another surprising fact? In 1951, Quakers from the United States came to Costa Rica to escape the military draft. They settled in Monteverde, building a rich life for their community. Their cultural presence is still evident throughout the region.

Monteverde Coffee and Chocolate

Speaking of melting, let’s talk chocolate and coffee. My vices. Coffee is native to tropical highlands making Monteverde an ideal destination for java fiends. In fact, the coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane tour we took at Don Juan coffee plantation is ideal for any foodie. We began with a walk through the coffee plantation before we made our own chocolate, sugar cane juice, and tested different coffee roasts. Yumm!

Off The Beaten Path

Surprisingly, Monteverde remains relatively off the beaten path. Why? The rugged terrain up the mountain keeps most tour buses away. Plus, there’s no beach. This alone cuts out at least half of all Costa Rica vacation-goers. But between you and me, it’s totally worth it.

Ready to cross Monteverde off your bucket list? Contact us! Or browse our Monteverde tours & activities.

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The Gulfo Dulce from our Nature Air flight into Puerto Jimenez

Hotel Highlights

Playa Cativo is a class act with a very well trained staff executing extremely personal and friendly service that rivals any luxury hotel. When traveling to a remote rain forest lodge many of our clients think they need air conditioning, but this is a perfect example of a location where you don’t need or want it! It was amazing to sleep with the sounds of nature that surrounded you. Another thing to mention is Playa Cativo runs on 100% clean energy with hydro-electric power and solar panels, they take sustainability very seriously.

Welcome to the jungle! – Playa Cativo beach

Playa Cativo Hotel Activities

Our experienced guide, Gerardo, took us early morning bird watching and was a pro at taking photos through his telescope (on one short hike we saw over 40 species). He also guided us to Playa Cativo’s organic farm with tons of wildlife spotted including very active howler monkeys, took us kayaking, hiking to a beautiful waterfall and artisanal line fishing. We could have used a few more days to do some yoga, visit the wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden and try the stand-up paddle boards.

Toucan through the telescope with our guide, Gerardo

Cuisine

Chef Victor was incredible. The exquisite culinary creations (inspired from all regions of Costa Rica) were presented in a heartfelt way with daily recommendations and special treats. His ceviche is out of this world. The diversity of culinary options are quickly expanding in Costa Rica with many top chefs being imported from all over the world. Stay tuned to our travel blog for more information and profiles of some of our favorite chefs including Victor from Playa Cativo!

Playa Cativo ceviche

We can’t wait to go back, but with only 7 rooms it may soon be difficult to get in as more people discover this hidden treasure.

More photos from our trip I can’t help but share:

Ocean view on the hike to the organic farm

Me after a great afternoon hike at Playa Cativo

Playa Cativo’s fun, tropical lobby

Gulfo Dulce sunset – the perfect end to our stay!

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This is one of my favorite spots in the whole country this time of year. Don’t get me wrong, Manuel Antonio is fantastic at any time, but September-October is special. Since there are very few tourists, the locals take advantage of the open beaches and shops. The handful of tourists that are in the area are usually very adventurous and ready to mingle. It is a great time – there is a real feeling of harmony and community. At night the local workers clear out all of the merchandise from the shops and replace it with music and dancing. There are bonfires on the public beaches across the street, and everyone is laughing, drinking, and enjoying themselves, even the taxi drivers!

I woke up on a Thursday and I could feel the energy of the ocean pulling me toward the coast, so I called my old friend Marlena. She lives in Quepos (the town next to Manuel Antonio) and is always so gracious when I come to visit, letting me stay in her home and helping me out with anything I need! She really embodies the idea of Costa Rican generosity and pura vida! I hopped in my car made my way out of the valley an on toward the coast. Usually, the trip takes about 3 hours, but because there were less people around it only took me two – another great reason to travel between September and October.

I arrived in Manuel Antonio early and asked Marlena if there were any special events going on in the area. Her face lit up, and all she said was “whales!” She explained that they come to Manuel Antonio every year to mate and give birth, and the sight is incredibly humbling. She told me that her friend operates whale-watching tours in the area, and before I knew it I was sitting in a boat with my new buddy Miguel, waiting to spot some whale tails! Luckily for me, it didn’t take long. About 10 minutes into our trip Miguel pointed out something in the distance. It took me a while to find it amidst the choppy waves, but once my eyes focused I could see at least one whale, swimming along the surface of the water. How excited I was! I didn’t even realize that I was in store for much more – we spent 2 hours in the boat and at one point we were close enough to reach out and touch one of these massive creatures. I couldn’t believe it.

Just two hours sparked a new sense of intrigue within me. How can something so immense be so full of peace and grace? How can something so amazing happen so consistently? This is just nature doing its own work, and to watch it all from a tiny boat in middle of the endless ocean really puts it all into perspective. I am already planning my next whale adventure. I hope to head down the Marino Ballena near Uvita for a real whale watching excursion. It is a HUGE whale hot spot, and the coastal land has even formed its own “whale’s tail” shape! What could be better? Have you ever been to Playa Uvita or Dominical to watch whales? If so, we would love to hear about it!

Ready for your own whale watching adventure? Browse our Nature Vacations for trip ideas!

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