La Paloma Lodge, Corcovado National Park

La Paloma Lodge is an eco-friendly hotel set in a quiet and remote part of Costa Rica’s jungles, just a short walk from the beach. The property covers 14 acres (5.5 ha), with low-lying buildings; there are four rooms in the main lodge and seven “ranchos” (free-standing bungalows). The lodge opened in 1993 and was renovated in 2009. You’ll encounter abundant local wildlife, especially tropical birds, and some quiet beaches are just a short walk away. There is a small swimming pool in the gardens on the property. Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant made from locally sourced and fresh produce (plenty of dietary needs can be catered for). Adventurous travelers can take advantage of the free kayaks and paddle boards you can take out on the nearby Agujitas River or the coast. Families are welcome on the property, and the staff are incredibly accommodating and friendly.

Pros

• The hotel is set in a rainforest with diverse wildlife on site.
• There is a small pool in the lodge gardens.
• Guests can take advantage of the complimentary kayaks and paddle boards.
• The on-site restaurant serves meals made from fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients, and all dietary needs can be accommodated.

Cons

• The property is on an incline, so it may prove challenging for travelers with mobility issues.
• La Paloma Lodge is rather isolated, so not for those who want to be in the hustle and bustle.

Authenticity

La Paloma Lodge, an eco-friendly hotel, is perched atop a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding tropical jungle. This property sits on 14 acres (5.6 ha) of land, a short walk from the Agujitas River and secluded black-sand beaches. It's an ideal getaway for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. The rooms are rustic and chic, with dark wood floors and beams, wicker furnishing, and colorful artisan-made accents like woven pillow coverings or painted ceramic silks.

Location

La Paloma Lodge is rather secluded, located just outside the village of Drake Bay, but it’s also close to stunning secluded beaches, like Cocalito Beach, which is within walking distance. For something livelier, you'll be about a 25-minute walk from Colorada Beach and the cafés and restaurants that line the shore (if you prefer a taxi, the drive is just three minutes).

Rooms & Bathrooms

The lodge offers seven bungalows and four rooms, all equipped with air-conditioning and located amid the jungle. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, exuding a rustic yet comfortable aesthetic with dark wood beams, large picture windows, wicker furnishings, and vibrant artisan-made touches. Each room has a private balcony and amenities like orthopedic beds, complimentary filtered water, in-room safes, and private bathrooms with hot water. The ranchos, or bungalows, are perfect for families, offering extra space and even more privacy.

Wildlife

You can see monkeys in the trees and scarlet macaws flying overhead from your balcony. The lodge is surrounded by a jungle packed with diverse species of tropical birds, like hummingbirds and toucans. For more birdwatching opportunities, you can travel to the nearby Agujitas River.

Amenities

La Paloma Lodge offers a host of amenities that make your stay both comfortable and memorable. You can take a refreshing dip in the small swimming pool, which overlooks the ocean and is framed by jungle foliage. The pool area is lined with a stone-tiled patio with tables and chairs, making it a perfect spot to relax with a juice or cocktail from the bar. There is free parking, and some rooms are wheelchair-accessible; however, since the property is set on a hill, it might be challenging for those with mobility needs.

Family-Friendliness

Families with children of all ages are welcome at the hotel. There are ranchos, which are ideal for larger families. Although there are no amenities for children, kids will enjoy the pool.

Other Highlights

The lodge also offers complimentary kayaks and standup paddleboards for exploring the Agujitas River and coastline. All meals—made of the freshest ingredients—are included with your stay, and vegetarian options are always available on request.