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Perched in the southern shores of the Guanacaste Province, the beaches of Punta Islita and Nosara are one of Costa Rica’s top playgrounds for couples and families with older children, enjoying their vacation or getaway. Punta Islita is known for the renowned and award winning Hotel Punta Islita, a wonderful beachfront hotel that perfectly blends international luxury standards with Costa Rican design and charm. While the suites and casitas are ideal for couples, the two and three bedroom villas along with the residences are amazing options for families or small groups of friends traveling together.
Further north, the Samara – Nosara beach corridor offers unique hotels like Harmony and L’Aqua Viva. While neither is directly on the beach, both are close enough for guests to enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze and spend quality time on the golden sands. This Guanacaste beach area is better suited for those families or couples that are looking for an “off the beaten path” type of family vacation in Costa Rica, and enjoy surfing, yoga, spa and isolated beaches. Although the towns of Nosara and Samara do attract an important number of local visitors, in general the crowds are nowhere near the numbers reached in Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio or Jaco.
Accessing the Nosara / Samara / Punta Islita region can be challenging, especially during the green season. The preferred method of transportation is by air, on regularly scheduled flights by Nature Air and Sansa. For those families that prefer land travel, your plans should include an SUV for off road driving. Expect to cross some creeks on the drive to Punta Islita.
Romance and Adventure seekers should strongly consider one of the hotels and resorts in this isolated beach region. Families and couples that crave nightlife and a variety of restaurants near the hotel, should consider another beach town in Costa Rica. If your vacation plans include small children, this is probably not the right part of the country for you, but if your children are older, they will love the beaches and activities in the region.
While in Punta Islita (Optional activities not included):
- Islita Surf School: heed the call of the waves! Experienced instructors will teach you basic techniques or guide you to the area’s best surfing spots. All levels welcome. Schedule varies according to the tide chart.
- Sea Turtle Watching (Offered July through November). An unforgettable adventure for all ages! The nighttime expedition gives you an opportunity to witness the fascinating egg-laying ritual of endangered sea turtles. Made possible by Hotel Punta Islita’s Camaronal Foundation in partnership with the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment.
- Fishing: sport fishing options are not run by Hotel Punta Islita but we will gladly help you coordinate your expedition with local operators.
- Regional Tour: discover the picturesque rural landscapes and secluded beaches that surround Hotel Punta Islita. Enjoy a little shopping for fun local crafts and sample flavorful regional dishes. Available on request. Early morning departure is highly recommended.
- Monkey Quest: the raucous howler monkey is among the largest monkey species in the Americas. Its whooping growl can be heard over considerable distances, securing its status as the loudest land animal. Available on request. Best monkey-watching times are either early morning or after 2pm.
- Bird Watching Hike: birding enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to observe and photograph up to 35 species in their natural habitat. Departs at 6:00am.
- River Kayaking (Offered May through December). Paddle through a pristine swath of exciting tropical jungle over the gentle Ora River as you enjoy exotic plant and animal species. You will even catch a glimpse of El Carmen, a tiny local community big on charm. Perfect for all ages! Schedule varies according to the tide chart.
- Mangrove Kayaking (Offered December through April). Islita’s mangrove offers an exciting network of pristine coastline vegetation dotted with brilliant bird species and other wildlife. Suitable for the entire family. Schedule varies according to the tide chart.
- Ultimate Horseback Adventure: seasoned riding enthusiasts will enjoy an exhilarating trek through river crossings and rugged mountain trails with spectacular ocean cove views. Departs at 9:00am.
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