Playa Cativo, Osa Peninsula

A thousand acres of rainforest and a glorious beach surround Playa Cativo. It’s luxurious, charming and rather exclusive – the only way to get here is by boat. Wildlife and the good life characterise this boutique beach eco-lodge with a relaxed ambience. 

Rooms, built from reclaimed hardwood and local tiles, take in both ocean and rainforest views, and are all luxurious and peaceful, apart from the sound of birds, howler monkeys and waves washing onshore. The freshwater pool is a lovely place to spend time after wildlife or seaside adventures, with a bar positioned to take in technicolour sunsets over the Golfo Dulce.

It makes a lovely prelude to gastronomic dinners at El Gavilán, the hotel’s highly regarded restaurant, specialising in ultra-fresh locally caught fish. If there’s a second to spare, the spa, set in the rainforest, offers expert treatments and an outdoor plunge pool.   

Activities on offer make the most of the resort's environment and include rainforest walks, bird spotting, sea kayaking and snorkelling,  Alternatively just relax around the resort and marvel at the resident wildlife.