Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, Nosara

Pros

• The hotel has fantastic views of the ocean and nature reserve, including from the infinity pools, the restaurant, and the bar.
• The quiet location is removed from Playa Guiones' activity.
• Howler monkeys are easy to spot near rooms and in the trees.
• Shuttle service is available during the day to get to downtown Guiones and nearby beaches,

Cons

• The on-site restaurant can be a bit pricey.
• The remote location means you'll need transportation to get into town and to dine at other restaurants.
• The hillside location isn't ideal for travelers with limited mobility.

Additional Notes From Brittany

I find myself draped over the edge of the infinity pool, watching an unbeatable view of the sun sink below the skyline over the Pacific Ocean. Off to the left, the hotel's restaurant, Chirriboca, and lounge are alive with happy hour chatter and laughter as couples, families, and locals enjoy the view and watch the sky change from light shades of yellow to a vibrant and deep orange. To the right, the landscape falls away down the hillside to the Río de la Montaña, reflecting the colors of the sunset in its still waters.

Authenticity

The Lagarta Lodge is an ecolodge that blends into its natural surroundings, sitting atop a hill with fabulous ocean views and overlooking a private reserve owned by the hotel. The Nosara River also runs through the property, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Location

The Lodge is located near the beautiful beach of Playa Guiones but far enough away to remain a peaceful retreat. With the city of Guiones a few miles away, there are plenty of restaurants and activities to explore. While you'll need to arrange transportation to and from the city, the lodge offers a tranquil oasis for travelers to rest and recharge, and it's only a 15-minute walk downhill to Playa Pelada.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 36 rooms at Lagarta Lodge are a good mix of comfort and luxury. Guests can choose between 10 suites and 26 junior suites, each with a spacious closet and a covered deck with a fan and chairs. Floors are tiled, and bathrooms have a fantastic view with access to soap, shampoo, conditioner, and bathrobes. In addition, each room comes equipped with a safe, espresso maker, bottle of water, mini fridge (empty), ceiling fans, air-conditioning, flashlight, and umbrella. 

Wildlife

Previous guests reported seeing monkeys, exotic birds, coatimundis, and colorful butterflies in the pool area and while walking around the lodge. You might even see a troop of howler monkeys journey through the trees right outside your window. Monkeys can also sometimes be spotted on the dining deck during breakfast. 

Amenities

Lagarta Lodge features two large infinity pools, a Jacuzzi, a pool with a swim-up bar, and a small children's pool. Each saltwater pool is embedded in the bluffs, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the adjacent nature preserve. There are plenty of lounge chairs and space for travelers to relax and enjoy poolside food and drinks. The hotel's spa offers treatments with views of mangroves and giant trees, plus a yoga area guests can use. There's no gym, and the hotel has many inclines and stairs, so it's not ideal for travelers with limited mobility.

Family-Friendliness

Lagarta Lodge is very family-friendly, with a children's pool and kid-friendly food options at the restaurant. Children under age seven stay for free. Most rooms are family-friendly, but travelers with strollers may face some difficulty navigating the grounds. 

Other Highlights

Chirriboca is Lagarta Lodge’s on-site restaurant. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served a la carte, featuring traditional Costa Rican cuisine and international fare with spectacular views over the ocean (particularly at sunset). The hotel's Sunset Bar is full-service and serves a variety of cocktails, mocktails, beers, and wines with views.