People come to the Matapalo area to enjoy the majesty and tranquility of nature. There isn't much nightlife and residents live by natural rhythms, going to bed at nightfall and rising with the sun. If it's a lively party scene you're after, you'll be disappointed. However, if what you want is a rare experience of unspoiled nature, you'll love it. Activities range from mellow (lying in a hammock and listening to the surf) to extreme (waterfall rappelling). We, or our managers, will help you with logistics and arranging whatever activities interest you.

Some of the many things to do include:

photo taken by
guest Thomas Haney

• A walk down the coastal jungle dirt road toward Backwash and Matapalo beaches can be a real adventure. You are likely to see monkeys, toucans, macaws, hawks (and countless other bird species), iguana, iridescent blue morpho butterflies and much more. The rainforest ecosystem is very much intact here and there are exotic species of plants and animals everywhere you look.

• Exploring the tide pools in front is great for discovering new life forms. We've been amazed at what we've seen in them!

• Hiking to one of the gorgeous waterfalls and through the endlessly fascinating rainforest.

• Beach fun. Some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world are right here, including your front yard. The beach in front is great for swimming. It's only 4-6 feet deep for 200 yards out and the clean, blue water averages 86 degrees year round. Gathering driftwood and shells, or watching the hermit crabs is fun too.

• Monkey watching. Endlessly entertaining, they often scurry right by our porch, through the almond trees - and are often all over our yard.

• Bird watching. This is one of the best places in the world to view hundreds of species, including the rare scarlet macaw.


photo taken by
guest Debbie Seman

• Kayaking - We supply a two to three person kayak, so you can either surf the waves or explore the shoreline. Everything looks different from the water!

• Rainforest tours, on foot or horseback (including world famous Corcovado National Park).

• A boat tour of the fabulous Golfo Dulce with whale and dolphin watching.

• A tour of the incredible Cana Blanca Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can get up close and personal with rescued and orphaned wildlife.

• Fishing. This area offers world-class inshore and offshore sport fishing.

• Star gazing. No light pollution makes for an amazing sky. Or look down and see thousands of lightning bugs lighting up the lawn!

• Ocean front facial. The creeks feeding onto our beach have natural clay that people swear by for smoother skin;

• Yoga classes and massage