Playa Cativo

We had the most incredible stay 12/18/24 - 12/21/24 at Playa Cativo! From the stellar customer service that I received via WhatsApp while making the reservation with Kyra (she was AMAZING) to the boat pickup and warm welcome we received from the management team and all of the staff, and every single interaction in between during our stay, it was all perfection! We are frequent travelers and regulars to CR so prior to trying Playa Cativo, we have stayed at many lodges and resorts in the Osa, Guanacaste, and in the North. We love Lapa Rios Lodge, but Playa Cativo’s intimate setting and the deluxe panoramic open air top floor room we enjoyed overlooking the Golfo Dulce was heavenly and in some ways tops Lapa Rios. The property is idyllic with scenic views at every turn. Immaculately clean and well maintained with the most beautiful artwork and furnishings all situated in a remote, natural setting in the most spectacular open air outdoor lodge that feels luxurious and also truly unique. It’s like nowhere else we have stayed! Our room was my most favorite of all lodges we have been to. All of the screened in, open air walls surrounding the space was like a dream to experience. All of the constant fresh air and serene views over the Golfo Dulce were relaxing. The sounds of birds and animals day and night was neat to experience. The tile in the huge, walk in shower was absolutely gorgeous. It was so clean and everything was top notch. We loved our room and can’t wait to stay again in the near future! Moises and Naydeline took great care of us at all meals and the kitchen staff catered to our requests for more locally inspired dishes during our stay. We asked for more Costa Rican style food and they accommodated our requests. I cannot offer enough praise to the owner for what he has created at Playa Cativo. It is a tropical paradise that blends in with the environment surrounding it. I commend him for the way he takes good care of the employees and for that reason we will book Playa Cativo again and again! Thank you for being the best part of our two week vacation to CR over Christmas and New Years.

Seriously blown away by this resort in Costa Rica. It's tucked away, so if you're looking to get off the grid, this is it. There's a ton to keep you busy, but honestly, the staff made the trip extra special – super friendly and they somehow remembered everyone's name. The wildlife is just incredible; you're surrounded by it. Definitely brave the cold and do the morning dip in the waterfall – it's a wake-up call like no other! And if you surf, you're in for a treat. Nothing beats grabbing a cold one after a good session. The nighttime vibe is something else too – the sounds of the wildlife are incredible.

Playa Cativo is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. It is serene and remote - you truly feel like you can unplug and relax surrounded the stunning waters of Golfo Dulce and the rainforest. They have many wonderful and adventurous activities that an keep you busy or you can take it easy by doing yoga, getting a massage or relaxing by the pool. The staff is so kind and helpful and the food is delicious with many dishes made with local ingredients from nature and the lodge's farm. I had the best few days and will definitely be returning.

This luxurious eco lodge nestled at the edge of the rainforest is outstanding. The service was impeccable and the food was amazing. The chef and kitchen team outdid themselves at every meal. But the star attraction is the setting and the abundance of beautiful birds and butterflies and frogs. At night, through the open screens in our room, we felt like we were in the surrounding rain forest, lulled to sleep by the sounds of the water lapping the shore in the bay and the chirping of various frogs. We did excursions every day for six days and never ran out of things to do. It is paradise.

Having the opportunity to visit Costa Rica for the first time was a special treat, and the experience of Playa Cativo made it so much, much more. Alas, I will be dating myself here. Stepping off the boat at the resort, greeted by several staff members bearing fragrant moist towels and cool drinks, I felt a "fantasy island" moment. The buildings and the grounds are impeccably kept. The food...oh the food!! Excellent both in quality and presentation, served by some of the most genuinely pleasant people I've ever met. From remote hiking and quiet solitude to snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking, I believe whatever you are looking for in a luxury vacation will be discovered at Playo Cativo.