Punta Islita

Tucked away down rugged roads that wind through lush foliage on the Nicoya Peninsula, Punta Islita is a near secret hideaway of deserted beaches, white sandy coves and pristine wilderness. With nothing to disturb the tranquillity but the colourful birds calling from the trees, waves crashing against rocky outcrops, and the whisper of the shifting sands, this is the spot for perfect relaxation.

The 14 light-filled Deluxe Rooms have uplifting white walls and wide picture windows overlooking the gulf below. They aren't massively spacious, but there are two queensize beds, a good shower in a spacious bathroom, and a separate sink area by the ample wardrobe. The design is simple and modern with delicate Costa Rican touches: mosaic tile details around the shower area, and pretty pictures made from shells by the local community on the walls. Sewing kits come in cute hand-sewn pouches. Although the beds are vaguely Flintstone-esque in their rustic style, the whole place is impeccably maintained and exudes a warm welcome. Your terrace has two comfortable chairs for enjoying an evening drink, with a candle for atmosphere and a hammock for a lazy siesta.

The eight casitas are more Costa Rican in style, with even more space than the suites, and these have a private unheated plunge pool outside. One has a bedroom with a separate wooden deck, and there’s one two-bedroom casita.

The 26 villas are ideal for families, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms (with tubs), plus a bigger pool outside and an extra toilet room. The villas are more modern in style - reminiscent of a North American condo - with basic cooking facilities (a hob, a fridge and a microwave).

Children are welcome at the hotel, and babysitting can be arranged upon request, but there are no specific facilities or interconnecting rooms. Please note that the hotel is not however suitable for young children.

Facilities at Punta Islita include an infinity swimming pool, lap pool and swim-up bar, golf, palm thatched alfresco restaurant, tennis courts, gym and wellness spa.

Seasonal activities at the resort include sea turtle expeditions and river and mangrove kayaking. Signature experiences include surfing, sport fishing, horse riding, bird watching, hiking, and zip line adventure.

• Catamaran Sail with Snorkelling

  Silently glide in a catamaran along Costa Rica's Pacific Coast past exotic bays, golden beaches and tropical jungles, spotting dolphins, sea turtles and whales before dropping anchor in a quiet bay to go snorkelling or kayaking in the pristine warm waters.

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• Ostional Sea Turtle Excursion

  If visiting between September and November, make sure to visit Ostional Beach where tens of thousands of sea turtles return each year to lay their eggs.

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• Visit the SIBU Sanctuary and Wildlife Refuge

  Take a visit to Costa Rica's wonderful SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary and Refuge for injured and orphaned animals. Here you will find rehabilitated howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, coatis, racoons, opossums and porcupines, along with other small mammals.

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Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica