Two-story Tree House overlooking the ocean, the mountains and the rain forest.
Location: San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua, Central America (Playa Majagual, Playa Maderas- 8km N of SJDS - 5 min Maderas) View Map
Accommodations: House, 2 Bedrooms + Other (See Description), 2 Baths (Sleeps 4-5)
Keywords: House
Casa Arbol
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Nicaragua at Casa Arbol -- the ultimate tree house.
The 2-story home overlooks the Pacific Ocean and one of Central America's largest private wildlife corridors, making incredible wildlife sightings an almost daily occurrence. A five-minute drive down our private road will take you to three of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Playa Maderas, Playa Playones and Playa Majagual.
Designed by acclaimed architect Matthew Falkiner and the people behind renowned eco-resort, Morgan’s Rock, this house is proud to be part of a community spearheading eco-friendly vacations without sacrificing luxury.
Casa Arbol was built to be the perfect balance of tropical open-air living and modern comfort. High ceilings provide extraordinary views through our state-of-the-art screen system. This unique amenity brings you the fresh air, the crashing of waves, and the calls of exotic birds -- all while making sure nothing but the fresh air actually comes inside. The home overlooks a low valley and its position is perfect for some extraordinary bird and monkey watching from inside the house or on our two decks.
The house is supported by massive eucalyptus trunks and curved wood ceilings built from sustainable timber. Wi-Fi internet is available throughout the house and grounds. The living room features a new large flat screen TV, a Sony audio system, DVD library, art collection, and leather and wood furniture and furnishings by the architect who designed the home.
The master and guest bedrooms both have forest and ocean views, custom lighting, and their own bathrooms with beautiful stonework throughout. In keeping with the eco-conscious nature of the house, piping hot water is provided by our solar hot water heater.
Our recently upgraded battery-backup system provides silent power for the house even during Nicaragua's brief power outages, so you will not hear noisy generators running and your trip will not be interrupted.
We have a fully stocked kitchen, a new refrigerator, a microwave, gas oven/stove, and purified water available for your convenience. Travel to nearby San Juan del Sur for local fruits and vegetables, some of the freshest fish you’ll ever eat, and meat and poultry that are the very definition of free-range. We can also arrange for grocery shopping and a private chef if you prefer.
A 15-minute walk or a 4-minute drive takes you through forest canopies right to Playa Majagual and private, secluded luxury. From the beach, walk north to explore the tide-pools or south to one of the world’s best surf-breaks. But you may decide to just stay put and sunbathe, have a picnic in the private palapa, body surf in the perfect waves, stare in wonder at the sunset, or all of the above.
Bird and wildlife watching from the house or on the many hiking and nature trails, is incomparable. Howler monkeys live in the trees around the house in large numbers – and you will hear them each day around sundown as they prepare for the night. November thru April is Ocelot and Margay cat season – and we have seen them on many occasions. Kinkajou will likely visit at night next to the porch in the canopy, where the fruits they loves grow and ripen in the green months, May through November. Sloth, Coatimudi and a multitude of other animals will all visit at various times.
Enjoy the custom stonework, stone showers and countertops, outdoor shower and the hammock on the pool deck An additional sunset deck in the very tops of the trees above the house provides the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or watch the sun set in the evenings over the Pacific below. The Master bedroom is an incredible space, all stone, wood, custom lighting and furniture. The vista of the ocean below or the night sky surrounding you -- after lights out it is difficult to tell whether you are indoors or outdoors. Magical.
Concierge services are included in the cost and they can arrange for zip-lines and canopy tours, surfing lessons, fishing expeditions, Spanish lessons, and professional massages on site. Parking, maid services, gardening and pool service, and around-the-clock security are also included. Your laundry can be done for a nominal fee.
Unlike many other rental house, the owners spend several months of the year at Casa Arbol, which means that this home is always well stocked, perfectly maintained, and doesn't have that "rental house" feeling. All services provided according to your preference, your privacy will be respected here. If you don't wish to have your privacy interrupted, it won't be.
If you are looking for a night on the town, San Juan del Sur, and its fantastic line of beachfront restaurants and bars, is just 8 kilometers away. There is even a small casino if you want to play cards or slots. And if you want to know our favorite places to eat and drink, just ask. We can also give hints about discounts in the area.
Whether watching a Kinkajou eat from the trees in front of you while relaxing in the pool, learning to howl like a Howler monkey out on the observation deck, or eating your first homemade bowl of gallo pinto, Casa Arbol is guaranteed to give you a vacation you will never forget.
Check in time- 3PM Check out time- 11AM
(but late check in/out approved whenever possible)
Contact us for September/October special pricing!
4WD vehicle is STRONGLY suggested, and required during the rainy season.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : Architect designed for maximum eco-friendly airflow to every space. Additionally, there are large overhead fans in every room.
- Linens Provided : High quality sheets & towels.
- Washer (2) : Hand wash/dry facilities avail on site. Shared electric washer & dryer in development, 3 minute walk -- or you can have our maid do your laundry overnight for a nominal charge.
- Dryer : Hand wash/dry facilities avail on site. Shared electric washer & dryer in development, 3 minute walk -- or you can have our maid do your laundry overnight for a nominal charge.
- Off Street Parking : Private parking location at home and at the beach.
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer : Down hill next to security gate, with 24 hour guard on duty.
- Beds
- King Bed : In the master bedroom. And like most of the furniture in the house, the master bed was designed by the architect, Mattiew Falkiner from his furniture collection "Simplemente Madera"
- Queen Bed : The second bedroom (in Nica queen-size is called a "Matrimonial" size)
- Twin/Single Bed : High Quality inflatable air mattress can be used indoors or on covered porch/deck.
- Entertainment
- TV (No Cable/Satellite) : Large Screen TV (42" LCD )HD, DVD collection, but bring your favorites.
- DVD
- Video Library : Treehouse collection, 50+ movies, and bring your favorites or buy (1.00 ea.) or rent in town. All English w Spanish subs.
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library : Good local radio reception, CD player -- and both a wireless and wired connection for your iPod/iPhone if you want to play from your own iTunes library.
- Shared Pool : Shared infinity pool but with only one other home. Gorgeous views and monkeys overhead!
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Condiments, all utensils, everything you need. Fresh bottled drinking water provided. 6 gas burner range and gas oven.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : The owner is a cook so the kitchen is outfitted accordingly.
- Refrigerator : New fridge installed last year.
- Microwave
- Catering Available : Chef available -- let us know and we will arrange for you.
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : Rare here, works beautifully. Bring BBQ sauce, difficult to find in Nica.
- Deck/Patio (2) : Several multiple decks, one overlooks everything - the best sunrise, sunset set view around, covered with shade.
- Balcony
- Lanai : Great covered porch & views.
- Gazebo : On upper deck, by the pool
- View/Location
- Beach View : Wonderful 4 minute drive or 12-15 min walk down the private road to our beach!
- Ocean View : Wonderful 4 minute drive or 12-15 min walk down the private road to our beach!!
- Communications
- Broadband Internet : We have one of the fastest connections in the area and a wireless router -- or you can plug in directly with a hard-line, if you prefer.
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : We have one of the fastest connections in the area and a wireless router -- or you can plug in directly with a hard-line, if you prefer.
- Other Amenities
- Private Eco- Resort. Multiple Decks, 10' screened windows everywhere, private access road to beach, laundry service available, cook available with prior request, grocery shopping service, sun and rain umbrellas, beach towels and mats, super easy surf break access, insect repellent & sunscreen available.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed : Sorry, no pets. But the monkeys and tropical birds will keep you company.
- Kid Friendly : Perfect place to reconnect and have an incredible adventure with your kids...abundant nature trails, perfect pool for kids or adults after the beach.
- Smoking Not Allowed : No smoking anywhere inside the house, please.
- Activities
- Zoo/Wildlife Park
- Restaurants
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Windsurfing
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Other Activities
- Concierge service is included with all rentals so you will have as much help as you need arranging activities. Bird and Wildlife watchers paradise. Jungle Canopy Tour Zip Line nearby. Great gym facilities in town at Cross-Fit center. Yoga center down the road. And they opened a casino in town, if you feeling like playing cards or slots.
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
LOW SEASON (June 1 through Oct. 31) 900.00 week, 150.00 night
HIGH SEASON (Nov 1 through May 31) 1100.00 week, 180.00 night
HOLIDAYS (Xmas, New Years, Semana Santa) 1600.00 week, 250.00 night.
PayPal or Credit Cards accepted. 5% discount given for cash or check.
We have a one week minimum during Holidays and a three day minimum other times.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 2011
Why the Owner Chose San Juan Del Sur
We bought this place after having rented it a couple years ago. Its a fantastic house, well-designed and furnished. The setting is just about perfect for a tropical retreat and the two closest beaches are among the most beautiful in the world.
Owner's Map of San Juan Del Sur
My wife and I are based in Los Angeles, but we travel several months of the year.
Property Photos
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- Two-story Tree House overlooking the ocean, the mountains and the rain forest. - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua Vacation Rental
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- Infinity view and the house -- see the ocean through the trees - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua Vacation Rental
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- The main patio. Eat or have a drink and watch the sun set over ocean. - San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua Vacation Rental
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- Living room with ocean sunset
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- Living Room
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- The Living and Dining room and stairs leading to the bedrooms downstairs
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- The Master Bedroom
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- Master Bedroom looking towards the master bathroom
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- Master shower with a view to the jungle below
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- 2nd Bedroom
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- 2nd bathroom
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- Dining in the main living area.
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- Even the kitchen has a breath-taking view of the ocean and green hills.
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- The entrance to our pristine beach
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- Sunset at Playa Maderas
Traveler Reviews (12)
absolutely loved it!
Guest: Lynn
(Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/17/12
Review Submitted: 01/30/12
This was a last minute holiday and it turned out to be our best one yet. We have travelled to many destinations and as most travellers know you have to take the good with the bad BUT this is the first time there was absolutely no complaints. The food and drinks were great, the people friendly, the beaches beautiful and the tree house amazing! It felt like you were in an i-max/virtual reality theatre, the view, sounds and smells of this amazing place has to be experienced to appreciate its uniqueness. Waking up to the view from the master bedroom was an experience in itself, this place is more than we expected and definitely worth it. The first time driving there may be a little intimidating but after that you become used to it very quickly and it can actually be a pleasure due to all the wildlife sightings. The house is very well equipped, clean, comfortable and an eco friendly marvel, the staff is very friendly and helpful, Gabby was wonderful, never had to ask twice for anything, she was very helpful and answered all our questions, she made our holiday/adventure so much easier. She arranged a driver/ guide for us (Francisco) he was so much fun and a such great person, he showed us the best of what Nicaragua had to offer. Just to mention a few things we tremendously enjoyed was... the zip line, the volcano tour, shopping in some of the small towns, great seafood at el-timon, great drinks at Iguanas, buying fresh seafood at the market and touring around experiencing everything san juan del sur has to offer. If you are looking for an easy holiday/adventure this place has everything!! Luved it so much that we want to return in a few months and maybe purchase a place. What a grrrreat place!!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
More than a tree house!
Guest: jwn
(Minneapolis, Minnesota USA)
Date of Stay: 12/14/11
Review Submitted: 12/30/11
My wife and I stayed here for 5 nights in December. We loved it! I had seen this house on VRBO and thought it looked great and it lived up to our expectations. This usually doesn't happen to us. We had been very active prior to coming here with volcano climbing, biking and kayaking and we were looking forward to quiet time in a tranquil setting. That was this house. It did feel like being in an elegant tree house with a wonderful view of the jungle and distant Pacific. We were a little unorthodox in not renting a vehicle. We were content to explore the nearby beaches on foot and welcomed the hike up and down the mountain. This is probably not the way most would do it. But for us it worked. Certainly if there are issues with health or hiking inclination than a 4-wheel is necessary. We just didn't want the hassle and expense of a car. We stocked up on food and enjoyed cooking most meals in the lovely kitchen. This is a truly unique place. We even enjoyed the Howler Monkeys and the incredible noise they made around 5 am. A lot of time and thought went into planning and building this house and we are appreciative. If you are looking for an off the beaten path experience but would like some amenities, this is the place for you. We would also like to thank Gabby for all her help. She took us shopping before we went to the house, showed us around town, and filled us in on all the important information. She was ready and available to answer any questions and we felt at ease knowing she was a quick call or email away. I would advise bringing reading material and some movies, though I was just as content lying in the hammock watching the monkeys and the surrounding jungle. Oh yeah, even though the house is so open with screens for windows, no bugs seemed to get inside. Man what a cool place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children, romantic getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Fantastic House, Beautiful Country
Guest: Allison
(Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 08/12/11
Review Submitted: 09/02/11
I stayed at Casa Arbol during Nicaragua's rainy season with my husband and two young sons. The house is fantastic -- inspired architecture in a beautiful setting with a nice pool. It is well equipped and has great views of the jungle and the ocean. The concierge service and the people who worked at the gate to the community, Balcones de Majagual, were friendly and helpful. The process to book this house was simple and the owner is very responsive and provided us with good information in advance of our trip. A note about the rainy season -- it did rain every day, but only for a brief time. We were able to hit the beach every day and enjoyed plenty of sunshine. Playa Majagual is right down the road and it is absolutely beautiful. It is about a 15-20 minute walk from the house, but you can drive right up to the beach and park if you don't want to walk. We had the entire beach to ourselves many of the days we were there. If there were other people on the beach, there were no more than five other people around at any given time. We also enjoyed Da Flying Frog canopy tour, and the horseback riding they offer. I highly recommend El Jardin restaurant, which you will see a sign for on the road to Casa Arbol. We usually don't like to vacation in the same place twice because we like to explore somewhere new every year. But, I definitely want to go back to Nicaragua and stay at Casa Arbol.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, romantic getaway, families with teenagers.
Lovely Honeymoon
Guest: Newlyweds
(Philadelphia, PA, US)
Date of Stay: 04/11/11
Review Submitted: 07/29/11
We had a fantatic time in SJDS at Casa Arbol. The home is amazing. The location is breathtaking! It was just the two of us on our honeymoon, but the house could have easily fit many more. The pool was perfect. The hammock was relaxing. We lounged, we cooked, we watched movies the owners left for shared use. My husband and I have both said it was the best sleep of our lives. Waking up amongst the trees is an experience that is hard to quantify in words. You just sleep great. SJDS is a super spot. We've kicked around the idea of looking for property there. Largely b/c of the experience we had with the home and the concierge. Use of a 4WD is absolutely recommended. The drive is an adventure in itself.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.
Great house in a great spot with a great view near a great beach.
Guest: Josh
(Los Angeles)
Date of Stay: 12/27/09
Review Submitted: 02/02/11
We've been coming down to Nica for several years and last New Years we decided to invite a bunch of our friend on our trip. We rented the Casa Arbol as well as two other houses in the immediate area. All 14 of us had a great time. This is a great house in a great spot with a great view near a great beach. Yes, its a little out-of-the-way -- but isn't that part of what we are looking for when we travel to these kinds of places? San Juan is close enough for support (groceries, some good restaurants, medical help etc.) but far enough away that you don't feel consumed by tourists. We will definitely be back.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, families with teenagers.
Ocean View with Jungle Trees
Guest: Glenn/San Diego
(San Diego, Ca. USA)
Date of Stay: 06/04/10
Review Submitted: 06/12/10
Spent a week here with my wife during the first week in June and couldn’t have picked a better spot to relax. The rainy season is on so you'll need a four-wheel drive but the effort is well worth it. This house is constructed with large Eucalyptus timbers as foundational pillars with authentic Nicaraguan wood flooring throughout. The design of the home was engineered to take full advantage of the tremendous views, airflow and sunsets from this home are spectacular. I'm missing this place already. Gabby the concierge took care of all the particulars and logistics at the property and can assist you in any travel, restaurant selections and sightseeing excursions. She's a true professional and comes highly recommended.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.
Isolated
Guest: LaCinda
(Oregon, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/18/10
Review Submitted: 05/10/10
The view is beautiful! We could hear the ocean waves and howler monkeys. saw monkeys daily as well as many different birds. However, we left after 3 nights...the casa is a 30min drive from SJDS and a 4-wheel drive is a necessity. Even then, it takes an experienced driver to get up the steep hillside. My 4yr old granddaughter didnt want to go to the beach after the first day because it is a 20min hike (30 with her) each way. I appreciate the unique home but it is isolation for anyone who is not capable at driving in rough conditions. My hope is that the owner will accurately portray this home with all its beauty so that nobody will be disappointed.
Owner response:I'm glad you liked the home and I'm sorry if the terrain was a bit too challenging for your 4 year old. Yes, a 4WD vehicle is recommended -- and that is stated in the description. As for the "isolation", well, as you stated, its only a 20-30 minute drive to town. I guess one person's "isolation" is another person's "solace".
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.
Guest: Andrew29
(Denver, CO)
Date of Stay: 10/17/09
Review Submitted: 10/17/09
Peaceful. We enjoyed 4 amazing nights at Casa Arbol on our honeymoon. This house is one of a kind - a 4wd vehicle is a must to get you to the house while 24/7 security allows you to leave any safety concerns at home. Gabby was a trememdous asset - especially given our very basic understanding of Spanish. Her intimate knowledge of everything in the SJDS area (food/restaurants, tours/activities, beaches, you name it!) proved to be much more valuable than any hotel concierge could ever be. A local who speaks perfect English, Gabby was able to service all of our needs as we enjoyed the SJDS area. If you are looking for nightlife or other tourists, Casa Arbol is not for you, however, if you are looking to relax and enjoy Nica's natural environment and all it has to offer, look no further. You can enjoy the same environmentally conscious design and Nica outdoor experience while paying a fraction of the price of Morgans Rock - the high-end eco-resort is just a couple of miles down the road. Scott and Gabby could not have been more helpful with all the email question we posted before the trip. The tree house is newly built and appointed with modern amenities - there is no need to want for anything while you relax in paradise.
Recommended for:
Guest: Leo F. Blickley
(Santa Barbara)
Date of Stay: 07/28/09
Review Submitted: 07/28/09
My family and I were pleasantly suprised at by the beautiful atmosphere and thoughtful design, artwork and comforts afforded by Casa Arbol. The feeling of openness and closeness to nature as well as the incredible views and solitude definitely make it a first of its kind experience for us. Gabby was very helpful and went out of her way to make sure that we were comfortable and well supplied as well as having lots of good suggestions for dining and activities. We found it to be the perfect location for a relaxing sojourn away from the commercial overload of most retreats. My daughter who is an avid birder found that just sitting quitely on the deck an endless flow of different birds would come by to display there plumage, and sing their special song. Thanks for a great experience, Leo, Tia, Jessica, Kyle and Tod
Recommended for:
Guest: Corby Richmond
(Thunder Bay, ON)
Date of Stay: 04/01/09
Review Submitted: 04/01/09
My wife and I travel quite abit and we think that this place is one of the best places we have ever stayed. If you prefer to be out of the noise and tourist areas, however still be a short drive to it. This is perfect. Very quiet, private and beautiful. Rent a 4x4 from Managua if you can as it's much cheaper. The beaches are perfect, we went for walks down there all of the time and then home for beers and pool time. Gabby was the best person to have around, she helped us with everything and couldn't be a better resource. Email me if you want pics. We took 1000 of them.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #181489
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