a stunning pool area with white loungers and white sunny umbrellas, with palm trees all around and ocean at the back

Costa Rica

Playa Cativo Lodge

Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica

Costa Rica Holiday Ideas

A luxurious eco-lodge hidden in Costa Rica’s stunning Golfo Dulce region

Playa Cativo Lodge provides an immersive eco-luxury experience along Costa Rica’s Golfo Dulce. Surrounded by the dense rainforest of Piedras Blancas National Park, this intimate lodge is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. Guests enjoy spacious, elegant accommodations with panoramic ocean views, farm-to-table dining, and a range of nature-focused activities. Whether it’s spotting exotic wildlife or exploring the pristine coastlines, Playa Cativo offers an ideal retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Costa Rica holiday today.

A team of real travel experts, brilliant at designing bespoke holidays that focus on boutique hotels and luxury hideaways

This was the best family holiday we have ever had. Tailored to what we wanted in beautiful and perfect accommodation that suited us. Every day was an adventure and honestly trying to find a highlight is impossible. From watching giant green turtles laying their eggs then walking back into the sea, to being woken up by howler monkeys to zip lining through the rainforest and kayaking with crocodiles.
Melissa, Costa Rica
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a private plunge pool with tow lounge chairs which are blue and white striped, one sun umbrella with white cover
a view of a partly swimming pool and a wooden eco lodge behind it withplenty of trees surrounding the area
wooden bar area with four chiars, the bar is stocked with alcohol bottles, chandeliers
a lodge bedroom with confy large double bed with white sheets and pillows, large white rug and a small futon, open windows with 360 degree view of the surrounding nature
a group of people in shorts with a guide on a nature tour looking at an unknown animal
a view of a private wooden terrace with sofa chairs in cream colour, small coffee table overlooking the ocean
an aerial view of a beach and an ocean
a wooden bed with small bed roof, white sheets and two blue pillows, side tables, small dressing table and a chair
a group of people in white clothing practicing yoga on a wooden platform outside
a view of a private wooden terrace with sofa chairs in cream colour, small coffee table overlooking the ocean
a wooden bed with small bed roof, white sheets and two blue pillows, side tables, small dressing table and a chair
a view of a three storey wooden lodge perched in the middle of nowhere in a rainforest by the ocean

"Staying at Playa Cativo felt like stepping into a secluded paradise. The breathtaking views, exceptional dining, and eco-friendly touches made every moment unforgettable."

Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica
18 rooms
Eco-focus
On-site dining
Wellness programmes
Outdoor pool
Nature trails
Bicycles
Air con
Wifi
a toucan with yellow beak in the trees

Why we love it here

  • Escape to a remote, boat-access-only lodge nestled within a private rainforest reserve, where lush greenery and tropical sounds surround you in complete seclusion.
  • Savour farm-to-table dining that highlights the freshest local and organic ingredients, with every meal crafted to reflect the vibrant flavours of the region.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to the pristine waters of Golfo Dulce and a secluded private beach, ideal for kayaking, snorkelling, or simply soaking in the serenity.
  • Embark on guided excursions into the neighbouring Piedras Blancas National Park, where expert naturalists help you spot monkeys, toucans, sloths, and more in their natural habitat.
  • Rebalance body and mind with wellness experiences such as yoga sessions in open-air studios and deeply rejuvenating spa treatments using natural botanicals.
wildebeest

Talk to us about your perfect trip to Costa Rica

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Costa Rica Holiday today.

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a lodge bedroom with confy large double bed with white sheets and pillows, large white rug and a small futon, open windows with 360 degree view of the surrounding nature

Rooms

Playa Cativo’s rooms are designed with eco-conscious luxury in mind, each one boasting stunning ocean views and tropical decor that complements the natural surroundings. Guests can choose from a variety of options, including rooms with plunge pools and private terraces, all outfitted with modern amenities while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

a white plate with a small rice dish and a hand pouring a sauce over it

Food

The lodge’s restaurant prides itself on fresh, local ingredients, offering farm-to-table meals that highlight Costa Rican flavours. Each meal is prepared with ingredients sourced from the on-site organic farm or nearby producers, ensuring an authentic and sustainable dining experience in a picturesque, open-air setting.

two people paddle boarding

Activities

From guided rainforest hikes in Piedras Blancas National Park to snorkelling in Golfo Dulce, Playa Cativo offers diverse activities that immerse guests in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Kayaking, bird-watching tours, and paddleboarding are popular choices for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure

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a jungle lodge Playa Cativo remotely located in between the jungle and ocean
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Playa Cativo Lodge

A luxurious eco-lodge hidden in Costa Rica’s stunning Golfo Dulce region.

So many highlights, and many memories but really different experiences… two full weeks of pure bliss and long-lasting memories.

Cyril Louis-Andre, Costa Rica

Lucy was so helpful and attentive whilst planning our honeymoon to Costa Rica. Everything which she organised for us was just perfect and we couldn’t have asked for more. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Sundowner Holidays

Christopher Finch, Costa Rica

This was the best family holiday we have ever had. Tailored to what we wanted in beautiful and perfect accommodation that suited us. Every day was an adventure and honestly trying to find a highlight is impossible. From watching giant green turtles laying their eggs then walking back into the sea, to being woken up by howler monkeys to zip lining through the rainforest and kayaking with crocodiles.

Melissa, Costa Rica

It was heaven! What a country Costa Rica is. The people are terrific and their attitude to eco-tourism is certainly first-rate

Sarah Wills, Costa Rica
Read more reviews on Trustpilot

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About us

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Our travel expertise ensures authentic experiences, fantastic boutique hotels and outstanding guides that help create unforgettable holiday moments.

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