Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica Playa Chiquita
Boutique Hotel Aguas Claras Puerto Viejo
Artistic jungle atelier
Playa Chiquita Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Renovated
2023
Price
$$$$
Outside the door
The brand
Cayuga CollectionArtistic jungle atelier
Curved papaya-hued loungers flank the pool amid dense canopy, while vintage Caribbean timber cottages catch the ocean breeze.
“Hotel Aguas Claras, where you can see sloths climbing in poolside trees.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Victorian-Caribbean timber cottages filled with Elizabeth Steinvorth watercolors, upcycled vintage furniture, and whimsical retro-pastel palettes.
Notable
Weekend DJ sets at poolside Papaya and relaxed sunset gatherings around the lantern-lit beach club deck.
Notable
Afro-Caribbean menus featuring Dock to Dish seafood, surrounded by coastal jungle where sloths and toucans roam.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Along the coastline, Hotel Aguas Claras is an anomaly and a gem. It has a clubby, local vibe, bringing guests and the community together.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Unpaved jungle tracks lead straight to the calm reef waters of Playa Chiquita, with Puerto Viejo a short bike ride away.
The rooms
Deluxe bungalows offer private plunge pools, while timber suites and open-air cottages feature wraparound verandas and outdoor showers.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The asymmetric outdoor pool curves through tropical gardens beside an integrated hot tub and thatched dining pavilions.
The spa
Papaya Restaurant & Bar
Open to the jungle breeze under a thatched roof, tables are set for Afro-Caribbean seafood and cocktails.
At the table
Just off the beach, DaLime Beach Club serves fresh ceviche and craft cocktails on its lantern-lit wooden deck.
How it began
A mother and daughter duo reimagined older seaside cottages, blending Victorian-Caribbean architecture with their own paintings and upcycled furniture.
Good to know
Stay here
Boutique Hotel Aguas Claras Puerto Viejo
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.