Rustic Retreat amid Lush Costa Rican Jungle

With a tropical climate supporting 13 ecosystems, including cloud forests and mangrove swamps, the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. Three-toed sloths, scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, and iguanas all make their homes here. Amid the flora and fauna—and only 330 feet from the beach—lies Blue Osa Yoga Sanctuary & Spa, an earth-friendly retreat that re-creates as closely as possible the feeling of sleeping out in the open. An example of ecotourism in the truest sense of the term, Blue Osa is for travelers looking to experience the wilderness firsthand.

Reflecting the all-natural setting, guest rooms have no phones, televisions, or hair dryers, and all lights, electrical outlets, and hypercolor bath towels are solar-powered. You’ll also find open windows and ceiling fans instead of air conditioning, as well as walls made of thin screens to keep cool air circulating throughout the space. In the mornings, listen for the squawks of scarlet macaws and toucans in the surrounding jungle.

In the cocina, Blue Osa's head chef Marie crafts wholesome, mostly plant-based meals four times a day. They can include vegetables grown on site, freshly caught fish, and locally raised poultry and meat. Outside the dining area, white lounge chairs and a reclining ceramic statue surround the 70-foot lap pool. The onsite spa's services include a coconut body polish that exfoliates and moisturizes skin with freshly grated coconut, raw sugar cane, vanilla, lemongrass, and other natural ingredients. Choose a 60-minute spa treatment as part of this deal, such as a chocolate mud wrap, deep-tissue massage, or botanical facial.

The resort offers yoga classes in an airy studio overlooking the beach and mountains. Blue Osa also has numerous eco tours. As part of this deal, guests can participate in either a bird watching tour or a half-day hike through the jungles of Matapalo.

See Blue Osa's FAQ for additional information.

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica: Outdoor Adventures amid Diverse Flora and Fauna

The cerulean waters and sandy beach of the Golfo Dulce lie just 330 feet from the resort. It's an excellent spot for surfing, swimming, and kayaking since it's free of rip tides, undercurrents, and swordfish fond of fencing. For further glimpses of pumas, sea turtles, and red-backed squirrel monkeys, head to Corcovado National Park. A well-maintained network of hiking trails crisscrosses the park's 13 ecosystems.