Tropical minimalist lair
Cantilevered above the rainforest canopy, dark slate terraces and a saltwater infinity pool gaze down at the Pacific coastline.
“Built by a local architect and biologist couple, the six villas unite the vocation of each with sleek design and a sustainability programme…”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Open-plan villas feature floating beds, exposed glass rain showers, and teak verandas overlooking the ocean.
Notable
Personalized service across eight suites with private wine cellars, plush double hammocks, and tailored local transfers.
Notable
Showcases hand-carved Boruca masks, greenhouse-grown produce, and fresh seafood from surrounding Pacific coastal waters.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Wallpaper* and AFAR.
This is a glamorous hotel, with serious modern design and locally sourced materials from gray slate to teak wood.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Marino Ballena National Park lies below, where humpback whales breach along the coast and rainforest trails lead down to remote beaches.
The rooms
Open-plan suites feature bamboo ceilings, floating beds, and freestanding glass rain showers looking onto teak verandas.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Submerged sunbeds and an underwater sound system line the dark-tiled saltwater infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
At the table
The open-air dining pavilion serves locally caught seafood alongside organic herbs and produce from the on-site greenhouse.
The resort sits on a hillside overlooking Marino Ballena National Park and its famous Whale’s Tail sandbar, where migrating humpback whales can often be spotted.
How it began
A Costa Rican architect and biologist couple conceived the retreat, pairing sharp minimalist structures with solar power and native landscaping.
Good to know
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Uvita
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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.