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Tag: Costa Rica

Top 10 Things to do in Ojochal, Costa Rica

Ojochal is a small town located in the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. We’ve put together this list of the ‘Top 10 Things to do in Ojochal, Costa Rica” to make planning your trip easier. Let our full-time Concierge know if you’d like help planning a visit or making a reservation to any of these locations.

Things to do in Ojochal

1. Visit Playa Tortuga

Playa Tortuga is a beautiful beach located just a few minutes from Ojochal. It is known for its pristine waters and the turtle conservation project that takes place there. You can take a guided tour to learn about the project and watch the turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean.

reserva playa tortuga ojochal

2. Go Horseback Riding

Enjoy horseback riding on a Costa Rica farm and explore the Ojochal area. Just a generation ago, horses were still the primary method of transportation in the area.

things to do in ojochal horseback riding
Go horseback riding in Ojochal.

3. Enjoy a World-class Restaurant

Ojochal is known throughout Costa Rica for its amazing and world-class restaurants. There are several high-end gourmet restaurants and several local restaurants. Be sure to enjoy the amazing culinary offerings at a couple of the restaurants. The gourmet restaurants we recommend are ‘Citrus’, ‘Exotica’ and ‘Fusion’. Enjoying a wonderful restaurant should be on everyone’s personal “Things to do in Ojochal” list.

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Enjoy world-class restaurants in Ojochal. Above is from Fusion.

4. Visit Finca 6 and the Mysterious Pre-Columbian Spheres

Finca 6 is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are still plenty of mysteries about who, and how, these almost perfectly round spheres were formed, and what their purpose was. It is Costa Rica’s Stonehenge-type immersive museum. Here’s a video with more photos and information. Although not actually in Ojochal, Ojochal is a great launching point to visit the museum as it is approximately 35 minutes away and an easy drive.

finca 6 spheres Costa Rica
The mysterious spheres found on ‘Finca 6’.

5. Enjoy Live Music

The Los Gatos Locos (‘the crazy cats’) bar and restaurant has live music every week. They also have a full menu and bar, along with pool tables and darts. Enjoy the fun atmosphere while you enjoy the views from the second floor ‘tree house’ area (or on the ground floor where the billiard tables are located).

los gatos locos ojochal live music

6. Visit El Pavon Waterfall and Restaurant

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During the dry season, enjoy a swim at El Pavon.

7. Spend the day at one of the beaches

Ojochal is home to several amazing beaches. Playa Tortuga has miles of beach available to walk and to explore. It is where Reserva Playa Tortuga is located. Playa Ventanas is another beach that is located in Ojochal. It is a wonderful beach, with some available amenities on the beach. Ventanas is Spanish for ‘windows’. Visit the beach to see the naturally occurring windows that have been naturally cut into the nearby mountain. Visiting the beaches are one of the most popular things to do in Ojochal.

playa ventanas ojochal Costa Rica
Playa Ventanas is a wonderful beach in Ojochal.

8. Private Hiking and Wildlife Tour

Hire a local guide to take you into the jungle and explore the amazing wildlife. Poison dart frogs, toucans, scarlet macaws, monkeys and snakes are the most commonly found reptiles, mammals and birds seen on the tours.

9. Go Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the nearby rivers, mangroves and beaches. You will go on a guided tour to see amazing vegetation, wildlife and make lifelong memories. It is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area around Ojochal.

ojochal kayaking

10. Yoga and Wellness

Ojochal is also a great destination for yoga and wellness retreats. There are many yoga studios and wellness centers that offer classes, workshops, and retreats. You can connect with your mind, body, and spirit in the peaceful and natural surroundings of Ojochal. Akka Institute has on-site, overnight, lodging options that Costa Rica Las Villas manages. Guests love waking up and walking to their yoga class.

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Large and beautiful yoga studio at Akka Institute in Ojochal, Costa Rica

Ojochal is a beautiful and diverse destination in Costa Rica with plenty of natural beauty and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Ojochal has something to offer for everyone. These are just some of the Top 10 things to do in Ojochal. We could have listed many other activities – and probably will very soon. But if this is your first time, visiting, use these list of recommendations to start your exploration in Ojochal. You will love it!

Pura vida!

advantages of costa rica vacation rentals

7 Advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals versus Hotels

There are many advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals versus renting a hotel. Below are Seven (7) advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals versus renting a hotel room.

Advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals

  1. More Space and Privacy: One of the most significant benefits of renting a vacation home from Osa Property Management is the amount of space available to you. A vacation home typically provides more space than a hotel room, allowing you to have more room to relax and unwind. Moreover, vacation homes offer more privacy compared to a hotel as you won’t have to deal with the hustle and bustle of other guests or staff. You can enjoy your own space and feel at home, making it a more relaxing and comfortable vacation experience.
Advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals

2. Cost-Effective: Renting a vacation home can be a cost-effective option compared to staying in a hotel. Vacation homes generally have lower prices per night compared to hotels, especially when staying for an extended period. Additionally, the cost of a vacation home can be shared among a group of people, making it even more affordable. A single home can be rented for a group of eight people (4 couples), instead of renting four hotel rooms. The larger the group, generally, the more cost-effective option and advantage of Costa Rica vacation rental versus a block of hotel rooms.

3. Cooking Facilities: Most vacation homes have fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to cook your meals. This can be a significant advantage as eating out in restaurants can quickly become expensive, and it can be challenging to find healthy meal options. By having a kitchen, you can prepare meals according to your dietary needs and preferences, saving money and eating healthier.

advantages of Costa Rica vacation rental is well-equipped kitchen

4. Customer Service: Osa Property Management provides excellent customer service, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and hassle-free. You will have a dedicated team of professionals who will be available to assist you with any questions or concerns throughout your stay. This personalized service is not typically available in hotels, making it an added advantage of renting a vacation home.

5. Home-like Experience: Staying in a vacation home can provide a more home-like experience, making you feel like a local. It allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle, providing a unique experience that cannot be replicated in a hotel. Moreover, vacation homes can be located in residential areas, allowing you to explore the surrounding neighborhoods and experience the local way of life. For the homes in the mountains and in more rural areas, the feeling of “home” quickly is felt as Guests begin to absorb nature’s energy, sounds and vibes.

6. More Flexibility: Renting a vacation home from Costa Rica Las Villas provides you with more flexibility in terms of your schedule. Unlike a hotel, you won’t have to worry about strict breakfast times or limited menus. Instead, you can plan your day according to your preferences, and you won’t have to rush back to your room before a specific time. This flexibility allows you to have a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation.

7. Amenities: Most vacation homes come equipped with a range of amenities that can make your stay more enjoyable, such as private pools, outdoor grills, and comfortable lounging areas. These amenities provide a more personalized experience, allowing you to tailor your vacation to your preferences. In the southern zone of Costa Rica (from Quepos south) there are only a handful of tennis courts available for the vacation rental market. (if you enjoy tennis and want to rent one, consider Gema Escondida)

Renting a vacation home from Costa Rica Las Villas in Costa Rica provides numerous benefits over staying in a hotel. From more space and privacy to cost-effectiveness and a home-like experience, vacation homes can offer a unique and enjoyable vacation experience. So, if you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, consider renting a vacation home from Osa Property Management for an unforgettable experience.

These are just some of the Advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals. There are definitely more Advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals which we will highlight soon, but these are some of the most common reasons we at Costa Rica Las Villas hear from our guests.

Be sure to take a look at all of the homes Costa Rica Las Villas has available to rent and you can experience the advantages of Costa Rica Vacation Rentals for yourself!

If you own a home in Costa Rica, please consider having Osa Property Management evaluate the rental and income potential of your home.

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6 Reasons Zip lining in Costa Rica is Amazing

Zip lining in Costa Rica has become a popular adventure activity for tourists from all over the world, and for good reason. Costa Rica is renowned for its lush tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, making it one of the top destinations for adventure seekers. Let us explore some of the reasons why zip lining in Costa Rica is the best in the world.

Zip lining in Costa Rica

Zip lining in Costa Rica jungle
  1. Natural Beauty: Costa Rica is a country with a vast array of natural beauty, from its dense rainforests, to its stunning beaches and volcanoes. The country is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and jaguars. The zip lining experience in Costa Rica allows you to take in all of this natural beauty from a unique perspective. You will soar above the treetops and get an incredible bird’s-eye view of the jungle canopy, which is home to some of the rarest species of flora and fauna in the world.
  2. Variety of Zip Lines: Costa Rica offers a wide range of zip lines, from short and easy to long and adrenaline-pumping. The country is home to some of the longest zip lines in the world, including the famous Superman zip line in Monteverde, which is over a kilometer long and reaches speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. Whether you’re a seasoned zip liner or a first-timer, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
  3. Safety Standards: Costa Rica takes safety very seriously, and all zip line operators must adhere to strict safety standards. Tourists can be assured that they are in good hands when they embark on a zip lining adventure in Costa Rica. Tourists are provided with safety gear and are given instructions on how to use it properly. The zip line equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and the operators are trained to ensure the safety of their clients. Due to these safety standards, zip lining in Costa Rica is a fun adventure for guests of all age – from 5 to 85 years old!
  4. Eco-Friendly: Costa Rica is a country that prides itself on its commitment to the environment. The zip line tours in Costa Rica are designed to be eco-friendly, and many of the operators use renewable energy to power their operations. They also work to preserve the natural habitats of the wildlife that inhabit the rainforest canopy. Zip lining in Costa Rica is an adventure that not only offers an adrenaline rush but also a chance to learn about and appreciate the natural beauty of the country.
  5. Cultural Experience: Costa Rica is a country that is rich in culture, and many zip line tours incorporate cultural experiences into their packages. Tourists can learn about the traditions and customs of the indigenous people who have lived in the area for centuries. They can also try local foods and learn about the history of the country. Zip lining in Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s culture from a new perspective.
  6. Accessibility: Costa Rica is a relatively small country, and zip lining tours are accessible from most tourist destinations. Whether you are in San Jose, Manuel Antonio, or Monteverde, you are never too far away from a zip lining adventure. This makes it an easy and convenient activity for tourists who want to experience the thrill of zip lining.
Zip lining in Costa Rica is fun for people of all ages.

To recap, we believe zip lining in Costa Rica is the best in the world because:

  • Natural beauty
  • Variety of zip lines
  • Safety standards
  • Eco-friendliness
  • Cultural experiences
  • Accessibility
Zip lining in Costa Rica is a family fun activity.

Costa Rica has perfected an adventure that is not only thrilling but also informative and environmentally responsible. If you are an adventure seeker looking for a unique experience, zip lining in Costa Rica should be at the top of your list.

Costa Rica Las Villas over 40 vacation rentals within a short drive of several Costa Rica zip lining tour operators. Contact us to help you find the best Costa Rica vacation rental for you – and if you’d like to go zip lining!

zip lining in Costa Rica
Even the guides like to have fun!
activities in uvita costa rica

Top 10 Activities in Uvita Costa Rica

Uvita is a small town located in the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is a hidden gem with a lot of natural beauty and plenty of things to do. If you’re planning a trip to Uvita, here are top 10 activities in Uvita to add to your itinerary.

Activities in Uvita

  1. Visit Marino Ballena National Park

Marino Ballena National Park is a must-visit destination in Uvita. It is a protected area with a unique sandbar formation that resembles the shape of a whale’s tail. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, humpback whales, and sea turtles. You can take a guided tour to explore the park, swim in its crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the stunning views.

There are plenty of Costa Rica vacation rentals to enjoy right in Uvita – some walking distance to Marino Ballena National Park. Please look here for rental options in Uvita.

Marino Ballena National Park
Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita or better known as the “Whale’s Tail Beach”.
  1. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in Uvita. The best time to spot whales is between December and April, during the humpback whale migration season. You can take a whale watching tour and witness these majestic creatures up close. It is an unforgettable experience. Book a Whale Watching Tour Here.

  1. Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls

Nauyaca Waterfalls is a hidden gem located in Uvita’s mountains. It is a two-tiered waterfall with a height of over 200 feet. You can take a guided tour or hike to the falls and swim in the natural pools. The views are breathtaking, and it is a great place to cool off on a hot day.

Nauyaca Waterfall
Nauyaca Waterfall. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Costa Rica and Central America.
  1. Explore the Rainforest

Uvita is surrounded by lush rainforests with a variety of wildlife. You can take a guided tour or hike through the jungle and spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and other exotic animals. It is a great way to get in touch with nature and learn about Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

  1. Visit the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

The Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured or abandoned animals. You can take a guided tour and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to protect Costa Rica’s wildlife. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even big cats.

We are now halfway through the list of the Top 10 Activities in Uvita. The first five activities can be done via low-impact options, and people of all ages. The next five activities will require a bit more strength and stamina.

  1. Surfing

Uvita is also a great destination for surfers. The nearby beaches offer a variety of surf spots for all skill levels. You can take a surf lesson or rent a board and hit the waves. It is a great way to enjoy the ocean and the beautiful scenery.

  1. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a popular activity in Uvita. You can take a guided tour through the rainforest or along the beach and enjoy the stunning views. It is a great way to explore the area and connect with nature.

  1. Visit Isla del Caño

Isla del Caño is a small island located off the coast of Uvita. It is a protected marine reserve with a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks. You can take a guided tour to the island and go snorkeling or diving in its crystal-clear waters. It is a unique experience and a great way to see Costa Rica’s marine life up close.

  1. Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the nearby rivers and mangroves. You can take a guided tour or rent a kayak and paddle through the scenic waterways. It is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the natural beauty of Uvita.

  1. Yoga and Wellness

Uvita is also a great destination for yoga and wellness retreats. There are many yoga studios and wellness centers that offer classes, workshops, and retreats. You can connect with your mind, body, and spirit in the peaceful and natural surroundings of Uvita.

akka institute
Akka Institute is in nearby Ojochal, Costa Rica.

There are obviously more than these activities in Uvita to choose from, but we feel these are a great Top 10 Activities in Uvita and this is just a short list. However, we encourage everyone to enjoy at least a couple of them while they are here. Uvita is a hidden gem in Costa Rica with plenty of natural beauty, tours and activities for the entire family and people of all ages to enjoy.

Be sure to look at all of the rentals we have to offer in Uvita.

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Casa Lapas New Costa Rica Rancho

New Costa Rica Rancho

The owners of Casa Lapas, our Chairman Duane Halverson and his wife, Mary, recently improved their home – they added a beautiful Costa Rica Rancho behind the home.

Casa Lapas was the first home constructed in Las Villas de San Buenas and the Halverson’s have been continuously adding features and landscaping to improve not only the look, but also the functionality of the home for their use, their friends’ use and clients. The most recent change was punching a hole in the wall of the garage and building a rancho behind the house.

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This home is located in the Estates area of the development. If you would like to own a lot near this home, please take a look at the Estate Lots masterplan.

If you are interested in renting Casa Lapas and its amazing new Costa Rica Rancho, please visit the availability calendar or Contact Us for more information.

Costa Rica Retreat Center Plans

costa rica retreat center plans
The survey for Costa Rica Retreat Center plans (subject to change)

We have always planned on offering more than just an affordable Costa Rica real estate option and with that in mind we are in the early stages of our Costa Rica Retreat Center Plans. We have designated the area we will use, pulling several lots out of inventory, surveyed the area, GPS marked all protected and old-world trees and will start work on the actual plans and models soon.

The actual retreat center will be located just outside the boundary of Las Villas de San Buenas residential development, but part of the original mother farm that was purchased over a decade ago. We have many ideas for the space, including, but not limited to:

  • Yoga
  • Executive training
  • Costa Rica Real Estate training and tours
  • Costa Rica photo retreats
  • We will rent the space, and adjacent cabins, out to those wishing to host their own retreat

The planned location of this Costa Rica retreat center is perfectly located adjacent to a quebrada (stream/creek) that flows throughout the year – even during the dry season. Due to the tree canopy, it is rarely too sunny or hot (it can get a bit humid – you are in a tropical rain forest after all!) and given the proximity to the creek, simply take a refreshing dip to cool off.

Another advantage of the planned location is that it is only a five minute walk to the amazing waterfalls located nearby.

Whether those who use the retreat center are there for business or pleasure, waking up to the sounds of howler monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws and even owls, will be an experience of a lifetime.

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Given we are early in the planning session, we cannot guarantee details, but this is the current Costa Rica Retreat Center Plans are. We will be working with Osa Property Management on the facilities management. Stay tuned!

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Meet Our Customers

We our proud that we have had customers visit our properties from throughout the world. 

Due to COVID19 and the current travel restrictions that are in place, here’s a short video to watch and to remember Costa Rica by (and to start planning for your first/next trip).

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Scarlet Macaw (Lapa) Photographed from Casa Lapas

There’s a reason we call Casa Lapas, ‘Casa Lapas’. A lapa is the Costa Rican name for the scarlet macaw. We hear and see them almost daily. Below is a photograph of one in an almond tree near Casa Lapa.

The photograph below was taken by Nick Halverson in May 2015 from the backyard of Casa Lapa using a Nikon D5000 with a Nikkor 18-140 mm lens. It is of a scarlet macaw (or a lapa as they are known in Costa Rica).

There were four lapas eating the ripening almonds from the almond tree in the early morning. If you look closely at the photo you can see that this one has the almond between its beak. We planted those trees approximately three years ago and we now regularly have lapas flying in and eating.

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Lapa (scarlet macaw) enjoying an almond behind Casa Lapas, Las Villas de San Buenas. (c) Nick Halverson

 

 

Shipping a Vehicle to Costa Rica

Shipping a Vehicle to Costa Rica

Submitted by Jason Mueller, who has lived in Costa Rica for three years and specializes in facilitating the process of shipping vehicles to Costa Rica.

If you have dreamed of living in a beautiful villa in paradise island, then Costa Rica is the place for you. Costa Rica has some of the world’s best surfing waves ,the most beautiful shoreline and a wide array of things to do in-and-around the coast. 

Why Make the Move to Costa Rica?

A popular location for tourists as well as expats looking to find a new tropical home is the town of San Buenaventura, also known as San Buenas, located in the Southern Pacific area (Osa) of Costa Rica. This town is about a mile offshore, but those who like keeping their toes in the hot sand will have easy access to reach the beach in no time at all. You’ll find great views of the mountains and oceans (there are real estate options for both) and plenty of things to do while in town.

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Amazing mountain views from Casa Lapas in Las Villas San Buenas.

For the golf lovers, the San Buenas Golf Resort opens their greens to those that want to have a great round of golf, followed by a cold drink. Golf in Costa Rica is a great way to soak up the sun and spend a day relaxing with friends. 

If you want to take in a bit of nature throughout Costa Rica, the parks and recreational trails offer a glimpse into the fascinating wild life in the area that includes monkeys, birds and many other wildlife species and best of all, the comfortable, warm temperatures welcome everyone to come enjoy everything that Costa Rica life offers.

The beach seems to be what many people come to Costa Rica for. The coast has much to offer, especially for those who like to surf, swim, kayak or otherwise spend time lounging in the sand and enjoying the ocean. Costa Rica is well-known around the world as the best place in the Pacific for surfing, and even if you have never surfed in your life, you can still enjoy watching others as they whip around on the waves. Better yet, in Costa Rica you will be able to find a great surf instructor and find out what it feels like to ride the waves on your own. Enjoy Playa Ventanas, Playa Pinuela or Playa Dominical, where the best surfing can be found.

If you’re planning on making a permanent move to Costa Rica, you’ll find many lavish villas, condos and even small houses where you can spend years to come living in paradise. Whether you want to rent or even buy a home to live in or find a plot of land and have a home built, you will find many options to choose from.

Is Moving to Costa Rica Hard?

Moving to Costa Rica does not have to be difficult, but you may find that gaining permanent residency can take quite a bit of time. If you are a retiree or a person who has a steady income stream monthly, and can prove you have steady income, you may be eligible to get a pension visa, also called a Pensionado Residency. Many people in the country on a tourist visa leave every 90 days and return the same day to be able to stay another 90 days.

Many rental homes are furnished, so before you start packing your home in the U.S. to have everything shipped, you may want to determine where you will live and see what you will need. Many household items may cost more in Costa Rica than what you would pay in the U.S., so take the necessary time to see what you may need to spend to purchase new items as opposed to what you will spend shipping things over. Customs taxes on household goods can range between 10% and 13% of the value of the property. To ship household goods, you need to hire a reputable international moving company.

Shipping a Vehicle to Costa Rica

Shipping a vehicle to Costa Rica can be affordable with rates that generally run between $1000 USD and $3000 USD. You will need some important paperwork including your passport and a

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Many roads in Costa Rica are gravel, therefore, four-wheel traction vehicles (4×4) is recommended

driver’s license as well as the vehicle registration and title. You will also need to provide customs with the bill of lading and an emissions test certificate. Taxes on vehicle imports can be high and typically range from around 52% up to nearly 80%. The newer the car, the lower the tax requirement for import. A reliable international auto shipping company like A-1 Auto Transport, Inc. will be able to assist with moving your vehicle to Costa Rica. Visit this page for more information on the shipping process as well as how much it will cost.

Whether you plan to be the perpetual tourist and wander from one area to another renting a vacation home for a while before moving on, or you want to plant your roots by purchasing a lot to build a home or by purchasing a beautiful home, condo or villa, you will quickly find there are many great things about Costa Rica that you will fall in love with quickly. With many options for living, your dreams of moving to Costa Rica can come true and soon you will see just how great life can be when you’re living the Pura Vida lifestyle that you can only find in Costa Rica.