Discover Costa Elena: Costa Rica's Ultimate Barefoot Luxury Destination

Advisor - Grant Hathaway Olsen
Curated By

Grant Hathaway Olsen

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  • Nature Escapes

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Beaches

  • Adventure Travel

  • Costa Rica

  • Coast

  • Spa

  • Relaxation

  • National Park

A waterfall from a mountain into a lake.
Curator’s statement

Uncover the hidden Paradise of Costa Elena, a breathtaking travel destination where peace, tranquility and nature reign free. Surrounded by National Parks and a UNESCO world heritage site, Costa Elena offers travelers one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in Costa Rica. Nature enthusiasts will revel at the captivating and untouched coastline abound with nature and breathtaking scenery. Adventure enthusiasts will find themselves face to face with one of the most world-renowned kite surfing destinations in the world. And anyone looking for peace and tranquility will find just that with the mesmerizing sunsets, sound of salty Pacific Ocean waves lapping upon the shoreline and the sound of hummingbirds, howler monkeys and white-faced capuchin filling the air. I invite you connect and unwind in some of the last untouched regions of Central America where paradise and unparalleled comfort await.

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Insider knowledge

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Where to stay

Casa Veranera

Experience the beauty of Costa Rica at Casa Veranera, a tropical oasis nestled in lush surroundings, offering serene accommodations and a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

All-inclusive jungle resort along El Jobo Beach with luxe rooms offering ocean views.

Costa Elena Resort Community

Experience the ultimate in resort living at Costa Elena, where meticulously designed communities blend harmoniously with the natural beauty of Costa Rica, offering a paradise-like setting for residents and visitors to indulge in luxury, relaxation, and outdoor adventures.

Advisor - Grant Hathaway Olsen

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Day 1: Beach exploration and cocktails at the club

Aerial view of beach.

Private transportation will be waiting for you upon arrival to Liberia Airport in Guanacaste. While it is only a short drive to Costa Elena, this will help take the stress away from navigating a new area so you can go straight into vacation mode. Your rental car will be waiting for you at your villa upon arrival. As this is a remote destination a rental car will be necessary to navigate through the pristine nature reserve and help you make the most of this little slice of heaven on earth.

Once you check into your private villa nestled upon verdant rolling hills and overlooking the Pacific Ocean I suggest exploring some of the local beaches or heading directly to the newly inaugurated Costa Elena beach Club to unwind. The Costa Elena Beach Club is the perfect place to sink your feet into the sand and get your vacation started off right. Enjoy some well-deserved sunset cocktails and a bite to eat in a modern tropical ambiance right on the shore of playa Jobo.

Day 2: Maritime and terrestrial adventure

A waterfall in the rainforest in Costa Rica.

Explore the Coastal Region of Costa Elena

The next morning, a local guide will lead you from the door of your villa into the vast nature preserve that encompasses Costa Elena. Our local expert will take you on a nature walk where you will be introduced to the rich botanical diversity and wildlife of Costa Elena. After the tour you are going to head out to explore the Guanacaste coastline by boat while enjoying some of the best snorkeling on some of the most exclusive beaches on the Guanacaste coast. Our local experts will prepare everything for you from fresh Costa Rican fruit, snacks and cocktails that you can enjoy at your own leisure as you cruise along the shoreline. They will also organize a nice picnic on a remote beach that can only be reached by boat.

Authentic local cuisine at The Naked Indian for dinner you will jet off to one of my top recommendations at "El Indio Desnudo" otherwise known as the Naked Indian. Tucked away in a beautiful tropical ambience, you may mistake the sign for a dive bar but don’t be fooled! The garlic lobster is my absolute favorite and the BBQ ribs & chifrijo (a typical Costa Rican dish consisting of beans and pork marinated in a lemon garlic sauce) a big hit as well. If you happen to be visiting on a Friday this is the spot to enjoy live music starting at 7pm and an ambience that is authentically Costa Rican.

Day 3: Horseback riding and ATV exploration at Hacienda El Cenizaro

Beach with blue sky, clear water and sand.

Day 3 is all about bringing out your inner "Tico." Buckle up and get ready for a day of adventure as you are transported to a beautiful Costa Rican ranch a short 20 minutes from the shores of Costa Elena. Your horses will be saddled up and waiting for your arrival (or oif you prefer ATV this option is available as well). Enjoy the thrill of galloping through avocado fields, the scent of mango groves and the stunning views overlooking the entire Guanacaste coast.

After a morning of adventure, we can arrange for an in villa massage after a long day of riding or if you prefer to explore some of the pristine beaches dotting the coastline this is another great option. Just keep in mind that these are protected nature reserves. Depending on the season there may be turtles nesting on the shore, so umbrellas and chairs are strongly discouraged to help protect this natural paradise.

Sunset cocktails at Punta Descartes followed by dinner at Casa Del Viento with some of the best views in Costa Elena this is the absolute best location to enjoy a few appetizers and sunset cocktails before dinner. Dinner will be at Casa del Viento. Casa del Viento is a great location for authentic cultural immersion and recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. Enjoy items a la carte or indulge in an authentic 6 course meal for a truly Costa Rican experience.

Barefoot luxury at it's finest, the Guanacaste region offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. From ziplining through lush forests to discovering the natural wonders of Bijagua and immersing yourself in the therapeutic thermal rivers of the rainforest, there is something for every traveler. Embark on a unique journey by exploring Rincon de la Vieja and Tenorio National Park, where cascading waterfalls and exhilarating activities like kayaking and tubing await you. If you're yearning for a weekend getaway filled with barefoot luxury and an eco-friendly, sustainable nature escape, I encourage you to reach out to me. Together, we can plan an unforgettable trip that caters to your interests and ensures a memorable experience. Contact me now to begin crafting your dream adventure in the breathtaking Guanacaste region.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide Mexico City: Land of Luxury, Art & Design.

Advisor - Grant Hathaway Olsen

Travel Advisor

Grant Hathaway Olsen

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.