Remote Jungle Hideaway near Pavones Beach

In the Gulf of Dulce along Costa Rica’s southwestern border, a steady torrent of white-capped swells breaks against the coast of Pavones Beach. Just a five-minute walk from the point break, Castillo de Pavones is located on a mountainside perch in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle. The property is extremely remote—the nearest town is more than 30 miles away—but well worth the journey for the surfers who come here to ride the world’s longest left wave. Each deal comes with an activity credit, which you can use toward a surfing trip that explores little-known surf spots, or on a number of other outdoor excursions. Go on a deep-sea fishing trip into the ocean or explore the jungle via horseback ride or on a canopy tour.

The five-story hideaway features a stone façade and rustic timber balconies that blend in nicely with the tropical scenery. On the third, fourth, and fifth floors, you can use your dining credit at the glass-enclosed Blue Morpho Grill & Lounge, which has 360-degree views of the ocean, the jungle canopy, and the bay. The eatery hosts a Brazilian-style buffet some nights, which is packed with all-you-can eat pizza, Costa Rican meals, a salad bar featuring organic vegetables, nuts, fruits, and berries, and platters of jumbo river shrimp, filet mignon, and chicken skewers. From here, guests can climb onto the rooftop deck to gaze at the sea while keeping an eye out for the toucans, monkeys, and scarlet macaws that inhabit the surrounding jungle.

Decked out in natural coral, marble, and stone accents, spacious suites overlook the ocean. Each one contains a two-person jacuzzi tub and a private balcony or patio from which to admire the view. In the morning, a complimentary Costa Rican breakfast can be delivered to guest suites or served in the restaurant; it includes freshly squeezed juices and house-made smoothies.

Pavones, Costa Rica: Far-Flung Beachfront Village with Jungle Wildlife

Although Pavones' world-class surf has attracted its fair share of visitors, the tiny beachfront community remains largely undeveloped thanks to its very remote location in southern Costa Rica. While there are plenty of outdoor activities in and around Pavones—including jungle canopy tours where you might spot scarlet macaws and monkeys—the best way to experience the community is on a surfboard. Pavones Beach gets thick, heavy waves that consistently barrel, a major draw for experienced surfers. The aptly named Rio Claro, which translates to "clear river" in Spanish, winds past Castillo de Pavones' property and empties at the beach. Guests of the hotel often swim, tube, or hitch a ride on a friendly sea turtle down the river.

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