Welcome to Costa Rica
You’ve probably heard the buzz about Costa Rica from a friend, or read about it in travel magazine, and we can confirm, what they say is true. Costa Rica is a laid back country, full of friendly welcoming people that fully embrace the “Pura Vida”. Pura Vida meaning “pure life” is a happy feel-good expression used for everything from saying hello and goodbye, to telling people you’re having an awesome day. You’ll quickly see how this laid back philosophy has become a pivotal part of people living long, healthy and happy lives down here.
Costa Rica is ranked #1 on the happy planet index, and why wouldn’t it be. This little country takes up only 0.03% of our planet’s surface, but is home to over 5% of the world’s biodiversity. There are over 500,000 species in Costa Rica, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, macaws and a shocking number of butterflies and hummingbirds. And would you believe that over 25% of the country is protected? There are 20 national parks, 8 biological reserves, 4 world heritage sites, along with countless animal refuges and protected areas.
Encantada Ocean Cottages is located in the quiet beach town of Esterillos Esteon the central pacific coast of Costa Rica. 2 hours driving distance from SJo international Airport.
Esterillos Este
Known for having the cleanest, most pristine beaches in the area, surfers flock to Esterillos Este for its miles of uncrowded beach breaks. Surf is consistent year round with larger swells in Costa Rica’s green season (May - November). The beaches are quiet, picturesque and the perfect tropical setting to post-up and soak in some rays.
Esterillos and it’s neighbouring towns have developed into a place where you can find all the basics at local grocery stores and enjoy a variety of cuisine at nearby restaurants. However, it’s still managed to maintain it’s peaceful, yet rustic charm.
JACÓ
If you’re looking for a little more action or some interesting nightlife, we’re just 20 minutes drive from the bustling beach town of Jacó where you can find almost anything you might need or want.
Jacó is one of the most developed beach towns in Costa Rican and even the town has developed a reputation over the years for its party atmosphere and nighttime activities, in recent years has put a lot of effort into making it an attractive place to visit for everyone, including families.
playa hermosa
15 minutes drive from Encantada and you reach Playa Hermosa that literally means “beautiful beach”. People come here to ride her unstoppable and pounding waves. Hermosa is only four kilometers from Jaco, but it has a drastically different vibe here, with just a few restaurants and a couple of bars.
You won’t find large crowds, bars blasting reggaeton or parties on the beach. With riptides, currents and gigantic waves, it is no swimmer’s beach, so be extra careful when you step into its waters.
Manuel Antonio
Just 45 minutes from Encantada, south of the city of Quepos, is Manuel Antonio National Park, the most visited park in Costa Rica, and also the smallest. Manuel Antonio is brimming with wildlife, including white-faced monkeys, squirrel monkeys, sloths, colorful tropical birds of 350 different types, lack spiny-tailed iguana, green iguana, common basilisk, white-nosed coati and many snake, bat and insect species.
Taking a tour with a guide is not obligatory but we highly recommend it for exploring the forest at it best, learn and navigate without hesitation. Ask to our front desk to book a guided tour for you!
dominical
Dominical is a strip of beach that stretches over 4 km, at about one hour from Esterillos Este. Dominical is probably best known for its waves but the nearby hills are a playground for wildlife and hiking enthusiasts!
One of the best things you can do is hiking to the Nauyaca Waterfalls. This two-tiered waterfall is one of Costa Rica’s most dramatic, with a 200 foot combined drop and a deep natural pool for swimming. You definitely don’t want to miss it. Ask to our front desk to organize your visit to Nauyaca!
