FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Location & Getting Here

Discover the Southern Pacific Zone Our villa is nestled within the prestigious, gated community of Costa Verde Estates in Escaleras. Perched high above the coastline, we offer a serene, private retreat while keeping you within easy reach of the vibrant surf towns of Dominical and Uvita, as well as the renowned Marino Ballena National Park.

Getting Here For most international travelers, we recommend flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, which offers the widest range of flight options.

From San José (SJO) Airport:

Driving Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The Journey: The drive is a scenic journey from the Central Valley down to the Pacific coast. We recommend a rental car (4x4 is highly recommended for our mountain location) or a private shuttle service to ensure a comfortable arrival.

From Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP):

Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
The Journey: If you prefer to minimize your time on the road, you can take a short domestic flight from SJO to Quepos. From there, it is a convenient, direct drive south along the beautiful coastal highway to reach our estate.

Arrival Tip: We suggest coordinating your arrival during daylight hours to fully enjoy the spectacular mountain and ocean views on your final approach to the property.

Where is the villa located?

The villa is located in Costa Verde Estates, a private gated community in the Escaleras area of Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific Zone. The property sits between the coastal towns of Dominical and Uvita, surrounded by lush jungle and overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Is the villa near the beach?

Yes. Several beautiful Pacific beaches are within easy driving distance, including beaches near Dominical, Uvita, and the surrounding Costa Ballena region. Because the villa is located in the mountains above the coast, a vehicle is recommended for reaching the beach and exploring the area.

How far is the villa from Dominical?

Costa Verde Estates is approximately 20–30 minutes by car from Dominical, depending on the route, road conditions, and traffic. Dominical is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent surfing, restaurants, cafés, and local shops.

How far is the villa from Uvita?

Uvita is approximately 20–30 minutes by car from the villa. Guests can enjoy restaurants, grocery stores, tour operators, and access to attractions including Marino Ballena National Park and its famous whale-tail beach formation.

How far is Marino Ballena National Park?

Marino Ballena National Park is within convenient driving distance of the villa, near Uvita. The park is famous for its coastal scenery, sandy beaches, marine wildlife, and distinctive whale-tail formation visible at low tide.

How far is the villa from San José International Airport?

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), near San José, is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours away by car, depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, and stops along the way. The route offers a scenic drive from the Central Valley to Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific coast.

How far is the villa from Quepos La Managua Airport?

Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP) is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour away by car, depending on traffic and the precise route. Guests may fly domestically from San José to Quepos and arrange a rental car, private transfer, or shuttle for the drive to the villa.

Which airport is best for reaching the villa?

For international travelers, SJO is generally the most convenient airport because it offers the widest selection of international flights and rental-car services. Travelers seeking to reduce driving time may consider a domestic flight from SJO to Quepos, followed by ground transportation to Costa Verde Estates.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle?

A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Costa Verde Estates is located in a mountainous area, and some access roads and driveways may be steep, winding, or unpaved—particularly during the rainy season. Guests should confirm current road conditions before traveling.

Is the villa suitable for families or groups?

The villa is designed as a comfortable retreat for families and groups traveling together. It features multiple private bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, spacious outdoor areas, and shared gathering spaces while still allowing guests to enjoy privacy.

How many bedrooms does the villa have?

The villa includes three distinctive bedrooms:

Ocean Bedroom: A queen-size bed, Pacific Ocean views, private terrace access, air conditioning, and a ceiling fan.
Jungle Bedroom: A queen-size bed, tropical garden and jungle views, private terrace access, air conditioning, and a ceiling fan.
Master Bedroom Suite: A spacious second-floor suite with a king-size bed, Pacific Ocean and jungle views, private terrace, air conditioning, and a ceiling fan.

Does the villa have air conditioning?

Yes. The Ocean Bedroom, Jungle Bedroom, and Master Bedroom Suite all include air conditioning. Each bedroom also has a ceiling fan, allowing guests to customize the atmosphere for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Does the villa have a private pool?

Yes. The property features a large saltwater infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is an ideal place to swim, relax, and enjoy the surrounding jungle and coastal views.

What views can guests expect?

Guests can enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding jungle, and lush tropical landscape. Large patios, terraces, windows, and sliding doors connect the interior spaces with the natural beauty of the property.

What is included in the bedrooms and bathrooms?

Guest amenities include:

Luxury linens and towels
Bath soap and shampoo
Hair dryer
Air conditioning
Ceiling fans
Ensuite bathrooms
Private terraces or outdoor access, depending on the bedroom

The Master Bedroom Suite’s bathroom includes two Travertine stone sinks and an open-air spa shower with both rain and handheld showerheads.

Is the property private?

Yes. Costa Verde Estates is a private, gated community surrounded by nature. The villa offers a peaceful setting away from crowded tourist areas while remaining close to beaches, restaurants, towns, and outdoor activities.

What activities are available nearby?

Depending on the season and local conditions, guests can enjoy:

Surfing and swimming
Whale- and dolphin-watching tours
Hiking and nature walks
Visiting waterfalls
Exploring Marino Ballena National Park
Fishing and boating
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Wildlife viewing
Dining in Dominical, Uvita, and nearby coastal communities

Are restaurants and groceries nearby?

Yes. Restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, and other essential services are available in the nearby towns of Dominical and Uvita. A rental car is recommended for shopping, dining, and exploring the area.

Is the property suitable for remote work?

The villa’s peaceful setting and connection to nature can be well suited to remote work or extended stays. Guests should confirm current Wi-Fi speed and reliability before booking if uninterrupted connectivity is essential for work or video conferencing.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Costa Rica’s dry season, generally from December through April, is popular for sunny weather and easier road conditions. The green season, typically from May through November, brings more rain but also exceptionally lush vegetation, fewer crowds, and vibrant tropical scenery.

Should we arrive during daylight hours?

Yes. Daylight arrival is strongly recommended, especially for guests unfamiliar with the area. It makes the mountain roads easier to navigate and allows guests to fully appreciate the ocean and jungle views on the approach to the villa.

Is a rental car recommended?

Yes. A rental car provides the greatest flexibility for reaching the villa, visiting beaches, dining out, shopping, and exploring Dominical, Uvita, and the surrounding region. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the roads leading into the mountain community.