In Spanish, "Costa Rica" means "rich coast," and this small country tucked between Panama and Nicaragua boasts some of the most pristine, unsullied shorelines in the world. With its infusion of indigenous, Italian, Spanish and Polynesian cultures, in addition to its tropical climate and biodiverse environment, it is an attractive and stimulating vacation destination.
On the south Caribbean Coast, less than 200 feet from the beach at Playa Chiquita, the eco-friendly Hotel Shawandha puts guests right in the heart of the rain forest, with pools, waterfalls and a tropical garden to enjoy. The design is neo-primitive without being too primitive -- using local woods and bamboo, and employing sustainable development in the plans for its 14 bungalows. The hotel offers several activities, including a zip line tour, snorkeling and hiking, scuba and kayaking. A restaurant and bar are on site, or guests can drive the short 5-mile journey to downtown Puerto Viejo for food and recreation.
Located on Playa Cocles beach -- a surfing hotspot -- Cariblue is nestled in the dense canopy of the Talamaca rain forest and is a thoroughly modern resort. With 45 comfortable, spacious rooms, guests are given a sense of pampering and luxury. Cariblue also has two pools and hot tubs, a breakfast buffet, a bar, restaurant and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. For recreational jaunts, there are jungle tours, horseback riding and snorkeling. If guests prefer a more eclectic outing, they can visit the National Museum of Chocolate and Jaguar Resource Center.
Irreverent and informal, the Banana Azul has an informal philosophy that is reflected in its decor and operations. The 14 guest rooms have been given fun, whimsical names like "Sloth Caribbean," "Dolphin Room" and "Howler Suite," as well as their own distinctive features, such as hammocks, large bathtubs and rain showers. The resort is also located less than a mile from Puerto Viejo, where guests can shop, eat and see the sights. The Banana Azul offers tours of the Pacuare River, dolphin watching, snorkeling and nighttime turtle-watching.
Less than a mile from Puerto Viejo in Limon, La Perla Negra sits right on the beach, with the Caribbean Sea just steps away. Small and private, the resort has two guest houses with double beds, balcony views and Wi-Fi. Guests are also treated to a daily breakfast buffet, beach massages, snorkeling and jungle expeditions in the tropical canopy.
