Secluded 2BR Costa Rican rainforest retreat with ocean views, private pool, and lush jungle surroundings. Perfect for relaxing, wildlife watching, and exploring the pristine South Pacific Coast.
Location
This property is situated in the serene tropical rainforest along Costa Rica's South Pacific Coast, where the vibrant green jungle meets the blue Pacific Ocean. The area is recognized as one of the most biologically diverse regions worldwide. Zancudo is a quiet village off the main tourist routes, untouched by mass tourism and crowds, yet it offers essential conveniences such as soda shops, grocery stores, bars, restaurants, and a variety of activities suitable for solo travelers and families.
The Space
Upon entering through the gate, you are just two steps away from the house. Opening the double doors leads into a spacious living room, kitchen, and dining area that overlook the pool and ocean. Two en-suite bedrooms are located down the hallway.
The house features:
- A full wrap-around porch
- Laundry area
- Multiple hammocks and lounge chairs
- An outdoor dining area by the pool
The property was renovated from a traditional 1970s beach house, handcrafted by local builders using Costa Rican hardwood that is no longer available. Original wood details have been preserved, while modern comforts include air conditioning, a Smart TV with Netflix, Alexa with Spotify and Amazon Music, high-speed satellite Wi-Fi, and a desk for remote work.
Wildlife and Surroundings
The village offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year. The nearly deserted beach boasts perfect swimming conditions and a unique atmosphere, framed by lush jungle and striking black volcanic sand. You can often hear and see macaws, parrots, kites, pelicans, and hawks flying overhead. Occasional visitors such as sloths, hummingbirds, capuchin monkeys, and iguanas may appear in the garden.
The calm ocean in front of the house has a sandy bottom, ideal for swimming and boogie boarding.
Activities
Nearby activities enjoyed by the host and their family include:
- Beachcombing
- Offshore fishing
- Boogie boarding at sunset
- Fishing for jacks from the beach and river dock
- Walking along the beach
- Kayaking on the river
- Renting ATVs to explore the town
- Surfing nearby
- Swimming in waterfall pools
- Boat trips for dolphin and whale watching
- Massages on the porch or beach
- Playing soccer in the garden
- Swimming all day in the pool and ocean
- Visiting Pavones for breakfast and surfing views
- Exploring Tiskita Lodge waterfall
- Beach hopping in Punta Banco to watch wild waves
- Swimming in rock pools and discovering wildlife in the trees
Guest Access
Guests have access to a gated, private residential property with a pool that opens directly onto the Pacific Ocean beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car?
A car is optional. You can walk to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. However, a car is recommended if you want to explore other villages.
Which regional airport should I fly into?
The closest and most convenient airport is Golfito, served by direct flights from Sansa Airlines. It is approximately a 35-minute boat ride or a 45-55 minute drive from the house.
How far is the property from the public dock?
The house is a 2-minute walk from the village dock, where boat taxis provide transportation to Golfito, Puerto Jimenez, and other nearby areas.
Is a 4x4 vehicle necessary?
No, the roads are flat, so a 4x4 is not required.
What are the directions by road?
Use the WAZE app for navigation. After booking, the host will provide a location pin.
How far is the property from San Jose Airport (SJO)?
The drive takes approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours. Some locals estimate 4.5 hours, but with children, the host usually allows 5.5 to 6 hours.
How far is the property from Golfito Airport?
It is about 35 minutes by boat taxi and 45-55 minutes by car or taxi. Taxi arrangements can be made upon request.
Do you have boat taxi recommendations?
Yes, there are two preferred captains with boats around 25-35 feet in length, accommodating 6-8 passengers.
Is the house easy to find?
Yes, Zancudo is a long peninsula with a single main road. The house is centrally located just past the school and is easy to spot.
Is the property private and quiet?
Yes, privacy and tranquility were priorities in the design. Despite the central location, the house offers a secluded oasis with lush tropical landscaping, high walls, and a wooden entry gate that ensures privacy when closed.
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, the water is safe, and a Brita water filter is also provided.
Do you provide baby gear?
Yes, the property includes pack and plays, high chairs, a stroller, games, and toys. Additional items can be borrowed upon request.
What is the quickest way to reach the house?
You can drive from San Jose Airport (approximately 6 hours) or fly via Sansa Airlines to Golfito (35 minutes). From Golfito, a boat taxi can take you directly across the river to the house in about 25 minutes.
What tourist amenities are available in Zancudo?
The village offers bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. Activities include fishing, swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, horseback riding, visiting a nearby turtle sanctuary, river tours, snorkeling (better in the dry season), whale watching, hiking tours to national parks and waterfalls.
Is there a guest book?
Yes, a guest book is available both digitally and physically at the house, featuring favorite local spots and activities.
Are bikes available?
Yes, there are two basic beach bikes for guest use.
Additional Notes
While a car is not necessary, having one or access to a taxi can enhance your experience, especially during the rainy season.
Reviews
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Recent Reviews
5
Diane
5 months ago
This was our second stay at Sarah‘s and once again it was absolutely delightful! We finally got to meet her as well and found her to be even more friendly and informative in person than in texts. The beautiful woodwork shines, the design is perfect for us, the pool is lovely and warm, and the landscaping with Maikol at the helm is gorgeous. Every morning we would walk the 160 steps down the path to the black volcanic sand beach, swim in the warm calm waters of Gulfo Dulce and return to the private pool for a dip. The privacy of both the house and the beach are very welcome. We loved seeing a mama and baby sloth in a tree right in our yard (thanks to Maikol) and watching the antics of the monkeys on the roof and nearby trees! This year we got to meet new friends at the local restaurants recommended by Sarah. Always good food. We’re already looking forward to returning next year! Bob and Diane
5
Andrea
5 months ago
Wir hatten die schönste Zeit mit unserer Familie. Die Lage einige Schritte vom Meer, den Pool, die Spielsachen haben die 2 Wochen im Haus von Sarah für unsere Kids (3&5) unvergesslich gemacht! Bei allen Anliegen wurde sofort geholfen, sogar bei jenen ausserhalb des Hauses!!! Danke für alles
5
Jason
6 months ago
Dès que nous sommes arrivés nous nous sommes incroyablement choyés de vivre une semaine dans un endroit aussi magnifique, le premier soir nous nous sommes couchés tard pour profiter au maximum du site enchanteur et nous nous sommes levé à 4:00 du matin tellement nous étions excités de vivre une journee complète sur le site. Luna del mar à playa zancudo est tout simplement un coup de cœur incroyable!! Merci à la proprio d’avoir compris comment créé un endroit où on s’y sent merveilleusement bien!
5
Raquel
6 months ago
Gracias Sarah por la atención. El lugar es precioso y quedamos muy enamorados. Esperamos regresar pronto.
5
Karen
6 months ago
Sarah is outstanding at communicating. Her place is very special. We took our adult daughters and they enjoyed playing volleyball, swimming and walking/ jogging on the beach daily. Memories were created that will last a long time. The local people are kind, welcoming and helpful. We went out in the boat with Nelson and caught fish and snorkeled. Leonella treated the girls and I to wonderful massages at the house. Such a beautiful place to spend time.
5
Matt
6 months ago
This our 4th stay at Sarah's place and it continues to "set the bar" for our favorite places in Costa Rica. Her place is a perfect blend of "off the beaten path" but with some of the luxuries that are really appreciated (such as air-conditioned bedrooms and great swimming pool). Great location, as it is very walkable to several very good restaurants and the beach is very safe and swimmable. Sarah is a super attentive and knowledgeable host with really good local recommendations. She and her place can't be beat!
5
Robert
7 months ago
Our family of five stayed for a week at Luna del Mar and truly loved it. We explored nearby spots like Puerto Jiménez, Golfito, and Pavones/Punta, but we kept coming back to the same conclusion: our favorite days were the ones we didn’t go anywhere at all. Being right there at the house was the best part of the trip. The location made everything really easy. We walked or rode bikes to one of the two markets, several restaurants (El Coquito was our favorite), and the dock to catch the boat taxi. We also had great adventures with Fernando from Extremosur. We chose not to rent a car and never felt limited or inconvenienced at all. Sarah’s guidebook was incredibly helpful and made planning simple. We used her recommendations throughout the week and felt confident we were making the most of our time. Sarah was a true Superhost, both before and during our stay. She was so responsive, thoughtful, and genuinely kind. Sarah and Mikail checked in while we were there to make sure we had everythi
5
Jimena
7 months ago
Casa hermosa, con todo lo necesario y más para disfrutar. Lugar tranquilo, privado y la piscina increíble. Realicé la reservación a último momento, pero Sarah en minutos nos ayudó a facilitar el proceso y nos dió las indicaciones para pasar unos días hermosos con mi familia. El acceso a la playa es lo mejor, las vistas preciosas y el mar increíble en esa zona.
5
Kevin
7 months ago
I'm so glad we booked Sarah's place for our vacation! My husband, myself, and our two 17 year old boys had a great time! This was unlike any trip we have ever taken. I can't explain how incredible it is. You really need to experience it for yourself. Sarah is an amazing host and quickly answered all of our questions. She gave great recommendations and was so helpful along the way. It was our first time in Costa Rica and when we go back we will definitely be staying at Sarah's again. I couldn't imagine staying anywhere else. Getting there is not easy, but it is worth it.
5
Tyler
8 months ago
We went for our Honeymoon and its was perfect. Sarah was so responsive, helpful, and friendly. Everyone in Zancudo was very friendly as well. What a beautiful house and location. We definitely will be back.
Location
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Location shown is approximate (within 1km radius)
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