Playa Cativo Lodge

Once you disembark at Playa Cativo, you'll find an eco-lodge set on a 1,000-acre private reserve, which itself is surrounded by the 35,000-acre Piedras Blancas National Park. It sits on a mile of pristine beach, with no other hotel or home insight.

Nature is right outside your window—and the hotel provides binoculars so you can see it without leaving your room. Hear the call of the howler monkeys and the sounds of birds, then see if you can spot them!

There's a high chance of spotting other wildlife, especially on the property’s hiking trails, which are connected to the park. An on-site biologist can answer any questions you may have about the local flora and fauna.

Just because you're in the jungle doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy luxury and comfort. The staff is waiting for you to make the stay the best from the start. Even upon arrival at the property’s dock, a smile and a cold drink welcome you to the Playa Cativo Lodge.

The spacious guest rooms and open-air designs feel like you have the place to yourself. All 12 rooms feature ocean views and large windows that let the breeze in. They are elegant, cozy, and inviting. So sit back and enjoy the peace of nature and the ocean's proximity.

There are plenty of ways to relax at Playa Cativo. Lounge poolside, curl up with a book in the library, take a yoga class surrounded by the sounds of the jungle, book a massage at the spa, or check out the on-site organic farm, where most of the hotel’s food comes from.

The El Gavilan Restaurant features a gourmet, organic, farm-to-table dining ambiance. Each meal is made with care, presenting a fresh, unique, and delicious experience.

The hotel’s owner is a wine lover, so the cellar holds a great collection of imported labels to choose from. In addition, the restaurant’s mixologist uses local fruits and organic herbs from the garden to create excellent mixtures. Enjoy a cocktail during the afternoon at the bar and social area, taking in the beauty of the whole place.

Explore the tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce with the complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUP), and snorkeling gear. There are also self-guided hiking trails and one selected on-site guided tour. In addition, you can upgrade the experience with a nature walk with an expert guide along the property’s trails. This will awaken your sense of wonder as you experience the rich diversity in the area.

Playa Cativo also borders one of the least visited (but most beautiful) national parks in Costa Rica, Piedras Blancas. This park is home to the same type of wildlife and vegetation that the more famous Corcovado National Park across the gulf has. But with fewer visitors and noise.

The Golfo Dulce is also great for animal spotting, depending on the season. Ensure not to miss the whale watching tour if the time is right. This area is a humpback breeding zone. Admire impressive sea creatures as whales and dolphins swim, jump, and play. Seabirds and turtles are also easy to spot in one of the most biodiverse areas of Costa Rica.