Vacation Rentals by Owner

Incredible spot

Guest: Carson B. (Boston, Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 03/20/12 Review Submitted: 03/31/12

We stayed at the house with our two young children (ages 2.4 and 4.5). As others have described, the location is absolutely amazing. The beach right in front of the house is great for swimming. We also really enjoyed the beach around the corner to the left which has a shallow freshwater pool in the far corner nestled amongst the trees. It is a beautiful spot and refreshing to soak in the cooler fresh water. Having access to the canoe and kayaks to explore the river was great. We also checked out the trails around the house and would like to do more next time as we learned from Jim that it is possible to walk all the way to Drake Bay. We really enjoyed the wildlife around the house - many birds, the bats that live under the outside porch roof, the toads that dot the lawn at night. We also enjoyed the experience of using solar power - it makes you much more conscious of the energy you use when you are looking at battery levels on a daily basis. Jim and Rayna were great - they were very responsive to any questions we had. While we weren't able to communicate much with Rafa, he was friendly and very helpful. We had to go in to Sierpe one day to access email and it was easy to flag a boat on the beach around the time that Jim recommends in the house manual. The no-see-ums were really bad one day (it was a hot, non-breezy day) but otherwise did not bother us much and the screens keep the bugs out of the house. We have traveled a lot around the world and really enjoy getting off the beaten track - this ranks as one of the most beautiful spots we have been to.

Recommended for:

Incredible getaway unlike any other!

Guest: SpiderMonkey (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 03/07/12 Review Submitted: 04/01/12

This was a girls getaway and we absolutely loved the Boca House. The setting is unbelievably gorgeous, with amazing 180+ degree views of the Pacific and the Sierpe River. It was exactly what we were looking for - a place to escape and relax, and get adventurous when we felt like it. We flew into Palmar Sur and met a taxi arranged by coordinator Rayna to take us to pick up groceries and supplies (tons of delicious fresh produce!). The boat ride to the house on the river was fun... We saw some of the mangroves and then used the kayaks at the house to go explore them further the next day. We spent 5 nights total and really enjoyed chilling on the porch, exploring the beach, hiking on rocks around crashing waves to a cove with caves, kayaking, etc. Rayna helped us arrange a tour to Corcovado, which was one of the highlights of the trip. If you like independent, unique, outdoorsy travel and spectacular settings, you will love this place!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Relaxing, Beautiful, and Unique

Guest: ChicagoTraveler (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 03/07/12 Review Submitted: 03/15/12

This house was everything we could have hoped for and then some. I wanted to be off-grid and relax without internet, tv, or telephone. We checked in via text to arrange tours/ask questions, but other than that, no technology. And, the porch is a wonderful place to read, day-dream while staring at the view, spot birds, or nap in the hammock. I also wanted a great kitchen since we'd be cooking our own meals. There's a gas grill, a 4-burner gas stove, well stocked bowls, knives, utensils, etc., and plenty of counter space. The only thing missing was a knife sharpener (and, really, I think we could do without:)) I wanted a place where we could lay out and tan or have an adventure. The kayaks were wonderful and Jim showed us where to kayak into the mangroves. We hiked to some beach caves, and went for a stroll on the opposing bank to see sting rays and collect shells. The water was warm for swimming and there's plenty of beach to lay in the sun. We also got picked up via boat and taken to Corcovado where we had a great day tour of the park (ask for nature guide Roy - he is knowledgeable and has an insane ability to spot animals that you would NEVER see on your own!). We traveled as a group of 3 girls (26-34years) and none of us have kids so can't speak to family travel. But, if you're looking for a time out from reality, get some sun, eat fresh food, relax, and create your own adventures, this is the place for you. It's a 20-30min boat ride to anything/everything. So, if you're looking for restaurants, nightlife, and/or other outside entertainment, then this is probably not for you. Thank you Jim, Rayna, and Rafa for providing an excellent vacation. You're definately on my list of recommended travel spots!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

AMAZING View, Great place to connect with nature and relax

Guest: NBNCAN (Toronto, Ontario Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/29/12 Review Submitted: 03/07/12

We were only able to stay for 4 nights, and it was not nearly long enough! The view from the front porch was unbelievable - like a post-card. One afternoon 3 pairs of scarlet maccaws visited the trees just in front of the cabin... and since the trees are just down the slope of the hill, we were taking pictures of these beautiful birds from only 30 feet away and at eye level! The private beach was stunning and so much fun! The waves were perfect for boogie boarding (I wish we had brought a couple of surf boards). We canoe'd over to the beach across the river and did some great shell hunting. I came home with lots of bi-valves and quite a few sand dollars (one of which was 5 inches in diameter!). The caretaker Rafa, while he did not speak English, was very helpful. He even caught us fish for dinner one night, and helped us launch the canoe. Jim and Reyna did a great job of preparing us for the 'rustic' nature of the cabin. We were not looking for or expecting 'the lap of luxury,' so we were not disappointed with the fact that it is solar powered, etc. We did not have a big problem with bugs, although we were warned that they do not spray pesticides. The kitchen sink, stove and refrigerator are in great working order. We did not use the washing machine, although we did hang our swim trunks and towels out to dry on the clothesline. It was great having an oregano shrub in the back yard - we used it for almost every meal! We loved the easy access to the beach, and fell asleep every night to the sound of the waves and the birds in the trees. SO many different kinds of BIRDS! WOW! And butterflies. And we heard howler mokeys a couple of times, but never saw them. I definitely highly recommend this property. You should stay here. Seriously.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great Vacation!

Guest: Charlie6 (Washington, Ct)
Date of Stay: 02/05/12 Review Submitted: 02/22/12

My wife and I stayed at the Boca House for 10 days and had a great relaxing time. Jim and Rayna made getting there and back easy, relaxing, and fun, including getting provisions. The house was nice and the new screens that Jim installed kept out all bugs. We caught more than enough fish and shared with Rafa & Marvin. The Kayaks were great for crossing the river and then taking a long secluded walk on the beach. Rafa took us on a nice hike in the jungle and to see a small waterfall. Marvin took us on a really nice (easy) hike across the river to see a small pool where there were many crocodiles and he showed us some of the flowers and edible jungle fruits that were very tasty. We saw green parrots, scarlet macaws, and many other birds and even a sea turtle was swimming right off of the beach at the house! The cave hike was adventourous and definitly worth visiting. It is hard to describe this beautiful and relaxing house and the nice people that really made our vacation.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

A little paradise!!!

Guest: caroline g.
Date of Stay: 01/15/12 Review Submitted: 02/01/12

We spent one week at La cuesta roja and we must say that we ve neeeever seen anything like it...it s a dream come true!!!! Relaxing,sitting on the porch have all birds just right in front of us,a beach almost to ourselves and a view to all sides. We felt like 'king and queen' of the peninsula de osa! There was nothing that disturbed our piece....not even mosquitoes or bugs. It was just the best house we ever had! We ll be back!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Amazing

Guest: Ingrid S. (Geneva, Switzerland)
Date of Stay: 01/01/12 Review Submitted: 01/16/12

We stayed at the Boca house at New Year and what a great way to start 2012. The views are gorgeous, the beaches wonderful, Jim, the owner and his housekeeper Rafa very pleasant and helpful to say the least. Kelly took us on amazing tours and delighted us with her vast knowledge. We were surrounded by amazing flowers and birds and we were sorry to leave. Jim even got the local supermarket opened up for us as it was Sunday New Years day. When we needed more supplies they arrived by boat the next day and Rafa kept us supplied with coconuts and fresh fish. There was just nothing that I would have changed or improved and even the bugs left us alone.

Recommended for:

Amazing

Guest: Ingrid S. (Geneva, Switzerland)
Date of Stay: 01/01/12 Review Submitted: 01/12/12

We stayed at the Boca house at New Year and what a great way to start 2012. The views are gorgeous, the beach wonderful, Jim, the owner and his housekeeper Rafa very pleasant and helpful to say the least. Kelly took us on amazing tours and delighted us with her vast knowledge. We were surrounded by amazing flowers and birds and we were sorry to leave.

Owner response:We feel so very lucky to find so may great people to share our home with. We seem to weed out those looking for air conditioning and proximity to shopping and restaurants etc. A special time with nature, ocean, river, recreation and stunning surroundings is what to expect at our humble but livable home. We have made so many friends with the fine folks staying at our home.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers

Paradiesisch

Guest: Iris G.
Date of Stay: 12/26/11 Review Submitted: 01/28/12

Wollten eigentlich nur 3 Tage bleiben, haben aber verlängert. Das Haus ist traumhaft gelegen. Sage selten bei meinen Reisen, dass ich nochmals komme, aber hier komme ich sicherlich wieder hin. Jim und Susan sorgen dafür, dass man sich wirklich wohl fühlt und sind sehr bemüht. Raffa, der carekeeper, ist immer behilflich, sei es beim Fischen, Kokussnussöffnen, durch den Dschungel wandern u.s.w. Das Haus ist perfekt ausgestattet, einfach traumhaft.

Recommended for:

WE WILL BE BACK!

Guest: Max S.
Date of Stay: 11/20/11 Review Submitted: 12/06/11

My wife and I stayed here for two weeks in November, and we loved it. Let me put it in one sentence “WE WILL BE BACK.” There are so many activities to do around the house that does not cost extra money, just bring your owe gears. We did rock climbing freestyle on a 20-foot rock wall on the beach. Please do research on biting insects, no-see-ums bugs. Deep Woods Off (deet) does not seem to work for us, but tiger balm and baby oil work well for us against no-see-ums bugs.

Recommended for:

Great time at the Boca house!!

Guest: Daniel P.
Date of Stay: 08/13/11 Review Submitted: 08/31/11

We stayed at the Boca house for 5 nights in mid-August and had a blast. Preparing for the trip, Jim was extremely helpful in answering all our questions, giving us handy tips, and helping us prepare for our stay at the house. Additionally, we found Rayna very helpful and although we speak a little spanish, it was very nice to have someone who speaks English meet us in Sierpe, help us with groceries and supplies, and get us oriented to the house. Time flew while we were at the house. We spent a lot of time fishing in various places near the house and hiking on the gorgeous beaches. Rafa caught crabs for us to use as bait each day and took us out in the canoe to fish up the river further one day. The snapper we caught were delicious! We also enjoyed just being at the house and taking in all the incredible views, taking our time making meals, and having a drink out on the patio. One day Rayna arranged the "Cano Combo" tour for us and a boat picked us up at the beach below the house for a day of adventure. The boat ride out to Cano is one that I will never forget as we saw many dolphins, some jumpin WAY out of the water, and lots of humpback whales which we had never seen before. We spent the rest of the day snorkeling at the island and fishing. I highly recommend talking to Rayna about doing this trip. The best way I can describe the house would be to call it functional. The stove is new and the fridge did a great job and keeping our groceries cold. The solar system works great, we had no issues with it at all. We were careful to make sure lights and fans were off when not needed and had plenty of power to do a load of laundry during the day and use the lights for cooking after dark. In the evenings, we usually left one light on in the kitchen and lit a handful of candles and had all the light we needed without draining the batteries. The weather while we were there was great. It was nice all day with a stray shower in the afternoon and ususally rain after dark, which was nice as it cooled it down nicely for sleeping. Althogh cloudy at times, the sun here is very intense so we definately were glad we packed lots of sunscreen. Overall, this place is incredible. The location, beaches, views, and scenery are one of a kind. If you are looking for a new beach home with a whirlpool spa, A/C, and a butler, this place isn't for you. However, if you are looking for an amazing location and adventure, you won't find a better place.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great time at the Boca House!

Guest: Daniel P.
Date of Stay: 08/13/11 Review Submitted: 08/30/11

We stayed at the Boca house for 5 nights in mid-August and had a blast. Preparing for the trip, Jim was extremely helpful in answering all our questions, giving us handy tips, and helping us prepare for our stay at the house. Additionally, we found Rayna very helpful and although we speak a little spanish, it was very nice to have someone who speaks English meet us in Sierpe, help us with groceries and supplies, and get us oriented to the house. Time flew while we were at the house. We spent a lot of time fishing in various places near the house and hiking on the gorgeous beaches. Rafa caught crabs for us to use as bait each day and took us out in the canoe to fish up the river further one day. The snapper we caught were delicious! We also enjoyed just being at the house and taking in all the incredible views, taking our time making meals, and having a drink out on the patio. One day Rayna arranged the "Cano Combo" tour for us and a boat picked us up at the beach below the house for a day of adventure. The boat ride out to Cano is one that I will never forget as we many dolphins, some jumpin WAY out of the water, and lots of humpback whales which we had never seen before. We spent the rest of the day snorkeling at the island and fishing. I highly recommend talking to Rayna about doing this trip. The best way I can describe the house would be to call it functional. The stove is new and the fridge did a great job and keeping our groceries cold. The solar system works great, we had no issues with it at all. We were careful to make sure lights and fans were off when not needed and had plenty of power to do a load of laundry during the day and use the lights for cooking after dark. In the evenings, we usually left one light on in the kitchen and lit a handful of candles and had all the light we needed without draining the batteries. The weather while we were there was great. It was nice all day with a stray shower in the afternoon and ususally rain after dark, which was nice as it cooled it down nicely for sleeping. Althogh cloudy at times, the sun here is very intense so we definately were glad we packed lots of sunscreen. Overall, this place is incredible. The location, beaches, views, and scenery are one of a kind. If you are looking for a new beach home with a whirlpool spa, A/C, and a butler, this place isn't for you. However, if you are looking for an amazing location and adventure, you won't find a better place.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Serenity by the Sea

Guest: Sara D.
Date of Stay: 08/01/11 Review Submitted: 08/09/11

My husband and I stayed at the Boca (as the house is affectionately known) for five days on our honeymoon and had a relaxing, reflective, and recuperative time. The location and house are spectacular...totally matching the description and photos (if not besting them). We often had to pinch ourselves at the beauty around us and our luck at being there. Rafa, the caretaker, and his whole family were warm and unobtrusively welcoming (and subtly watchful over our crazy kayaking antics). Rayna, Jim's Costa Rican coordinator made our journey to and from San Jose ridiculously easy and helped orient us to life at the Boca. Jim was a pleasure to work with coordinating our stay and providing helpful hints. As for activities, we mainly swam each day in the Pacific (or dipped in the Sierpe for variety), canoed across the river, walked along the beach, cooked up a storm, and had some wicked Scrabble games at night. Our favorite activity was probably sitting on the porch watching the waves. As for any words of wisdom to pass along...prepare yourself to live off the grid. As Jim says, this is kind of luxurious camping rather than the other way around. It was buggy (though my husband had nary a bite, I was chewed up) and steamy (we never once considered using the hot water in the shower--the cool water was our main cooling technique)...also guests might consider the cost to get to the house. I had naively not budgeted adequately for that part of the journey. Overall, a fabulous and memorable adventure...many thanks.

Owner response:Sara D was not the first to miss our note in the confirmation email on the fee for transportation from Sierpe to the house 15 miles down the winding river. We charge $65 each way for the 45 minute ride. When we are in the area and use my boat and I drive, we about break even. When we are not there and we have to hire a boat and also pay a person to spend the time to come and orientate you to the property it costs us $120 minimum of which we pick up $55 out of pocket. If you were in Sierpe and tried to hire a boat for the 45 minute ride each way and wait for you while you swam at the beach you would probably pay $150. Boat maintenance, motor costs and maintenance, very high gas prices (currently about $6/gal) all ad up and are expensive. We truly believe the $65 is necessary and fair for the ride. This guest was not complaining, we both agree that it needs to be pointed out ahead of time more clearly.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Loved the Boca House

Guest: Julie (Castle Rock)
Date of Stay: 02/25/11 Review Submitted: 02/19/12

My family of 4, including myself, husband and two sons in their 20's, were here in February. This was our 2nd stop for 4 nights on a 2 week trip in Costa Rica. This is a very unique property on a beautiful vista, overlooking a river mouth and the ocean. When we got back home and looked at over 1800 photos, the ones we took here are the most spectactular. It really makes you think about the views, flowers, beaches, sunsets and endless water. My favorite things: Being on the boat with Jim, the orchids, the sounds. What we did: snorkeling and scuba diving at Cano Island, fishing on Jim's boat, kayaking and canoeing with the caretaker Raffa. What we cooked: Spahgetti made with Chorizo, fresh Pargo crusted with macadamia nuts, a grilled pork loin, with camote (sweet potatoes). What we brought: a lot! fresh fruit and vegetables from the market in Palmar Norte, groceries from Sirepe, wine, beer, flash lights, tent lights, head lamps, shoes that can get muddy have traction and can be washed easliy. Ipads with movies, games and books on them. This was for us was an awesome experience, the spent time together in a very special place on the planet, got to enjoy the Osa for 5 days, in a house with a beautiful view. These owners are experts at getting you in and out, they will help you with all the details!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, sightseeing.

A Special Place

Guest: npeck (New York/Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 01/24/11 Review Submitted: 02/06/11

We spent five beautiful days watching birds in the trees in front of the house, walking on the beach, traveling to Corcovado National Park. Owners Jim and Susan welcomed us and brought us down river to the house where caretaker Raffa is nearby to take care of your needs -- a hike, a fresh fish, a coconut, kayaks. We rose with the sun and lingered on the porch after sunset. We loved every minute of our stay.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Absolutely Unique location!

Guest: Elena (New York)
Date of Stay: 01/20/11 Review Submitted: 02/20/11

This is amazing location, amazing! The house is on the cliff, overlooking river on one side and ocean on the other - no breaks in magnificent view! No other houses in view too - blue skies, blues waters, green rain forest - just what you come here for, in Costa Rica! The beach is magnificent! We went to swim and watch sunset on the ocean, and saw schooner on the horizon. We felt like in a movie:)! Housekeeper brought us a bag of fresh coconuts every morning. The owners were very welcoming and helpful in every way. We bought our groceries in Sierpe, right near the dock, but I would suggest you ask your driver to bring you to the shop near airport in Palmar - all the fruits and produce there are much better quality. Mangoes are super sweet, and melt in your mouth, and tomatoes are heirloom. They have great homemade cheese that we grilled for breakfast - yamm! My husband went fishing right in front of the house. And I was on the porch relaxing, watching birds and seeing him in a boat down bellow! Amazing. He caught couple of red snappers and we grilled it on the porch for dinner. Enjoyed immensely. Costa Rica ROCKS!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.

180 degrees of stunning views!

Guest: Ele (London, England)
Date of Stay: 01/08/11 Review Submitted: 01/31/11

The five of us were met by Jim in Sierpe, purchased our provisions, had lunch in Las Vegas restaurant (not even remotely like the one in Nevada where we had just come from), we jumped in the boat and sped down Sierpe river arriving at Jim and Susan's simple but beautiful house in the most amazing place. Since I have returned I have tried to put into words to tell people what their house is like, but it is impossible .. All I can say is when you climb the steep path up to the house and see the views from it, your jaw drops and you become speechless. It sits at the mouth of the river where it meets the ocean and it is truly one of the most incredible situated houses I have ever been to. The house is simple wooden building, clean and million times more comfortable than you were in your cabin at summer camp- with comfortable large beds, ensuite showers, flushing toilets and a kitchen where I happily cooked every day with a glass in hand and just gazed at the view. Its run by solar power- and we did managed to drain the cell the first night playing music on our Ipod but most of us just ended up reading by candlelight which was very relaxing. Luckily our housemanager came and charged the cells the next morning with the generator. The beach below the house is pretty much all yours and white sand and gorgeous. I recommend you make down there to watch the sunset. Jim arranged 2 great trips for us - 1 to Corcorvado on a hike and the other to Cano island to dive and snorkel- I can recommend the diving at Cano- it is nice gentle diving but with lots of big fish- sharks and Mantas. The housemanager took us on a short walk into the jungle to visit the "Cascades"- luckily I recognosed that word with zero knowledge of Spanish and knew that there was a beautiful freshwater waterfall at the end of the walk. We never managed to get in a kayak- it was too nice just hanging at the beach , on the terrace or the garden of the house. We didnt do everything we could do have done in the 4 nights we were there- but all that means is that we can go back- hopefully very soon! Thank you Jim and Susan for sharing your house with us! Ele & Ged

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wow!

Guest: CC (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 08/17/10 Review Submitted: 09/06/10

This is indeed an amazing place - not only the views and the ever changing skies, but the flora and fauna too. Every tropical plant we'd ever seen at the florist's in a small pot seems to be the size of a tree at Boca. Well, except for the orchids...which are definitely not florist shop orchids! The toucans, scarlet macaws, vultures and green parrots were frequent visitors, and flew really close by while we were having our morning coffee on the porch, and again late in the afternoon. We also saw a beautiful squirrel cuckoo, red capped manakins, tanagers, humming birds, a magnificent frigate bird, pelicans, white ibises, herons...We liked the animals too - the lizards, especially the large bright green one that lives behind the blue bench and comes out to sun himself around noon, and the huge toads. The white faced monkeys visited a tree behind the house once. We saw the mantled howler monkeys near el manantial too. Serban went fishing off the rocks in front of the house one day, and returned promptly with dinner: a big fish. It was too much for three people to eat, but fortunately none of it was wasted, since Rocket also appreciates fresh fish. We enjoyed Rocket's company. He is a good dog, reliable and well behaved. The eight resident bats were a lot of fun to watch as they stretched and groomed themselves before heading out for their evening meal. They seem to do a very thorough job of eating the bugs around the house - there were no mosquitoes to speak of on the porch. Rafa, the caretaker, was very helpful. He was at the house every morning, tending the plants - being available without being intrusive. We went on a hike to the waterfalls with him and Rocket. Rafa also helped us with the kayaks, and we were glad we were able to cross the river to go beach combing on the other side - there were lots of sand dollars and pink shells. Rayna helped us a lot. She arranged all our transportation within Costa Rica, and our accommodations in San Jose. She met us in Sierpe, helped us with the grocery shopping, came to the house with us and explained everything. The Manual at the house was also very useful. This lovely house, tucked between the jungle and the ocean, is not for everyone. Read the owner's description attentively: it is very accurate. Ask the owner any questions you may have: he is very helpful. Thank you, Jim and Susan, for sharing your piece of heaven with us!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Best Vacation Ever!

Guest: Amy (Amarillo, TX/ USA)
Date of Stay: 07/12/10 Review Submitted: 08/08/10

This vacation was unbelievable from the beginning. Rayna met us in Sierpe to help us get groceries and to get on the boat to travel to the house. It was a relief to have an American who we could easily communicate with. She was indisposable when it came to telling us the little things we needed to know about food, transportation, etc. The river boat ride to the house was packed with crocs, white faced monkeys and of course the magnificent mongrove trees. When we arrived to the house we emerged from the mouth of the river to the Pacific Ocean. That was our view for our entire stay. The location as advertised was wonderful. The house as advertised is great if you like to camp. We actually liked the bats - we had no mosquito problems at all. The dogs we also enjoyed. Especially Rocket who stays at the house at night. The house sits on a hill with views of the river and the ocean and the jungle is right behind. We saw monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, birds, tons of crabs, and lizards all from the house! We only left once to snorkel at Cano Island. Rayna set up the trip and it too was full of sights like humpback whales, dolphins, and tropical fish. Rafa, the caretaker, was also great. He came up just once a day to maintain the grounds and do anything we needed. He was available at all times, but since we didn't speak Spanish well we had a difficult time communicating with him. Jim was great helping us prepare for our stay. We had several emails back and forth where he made sure we were ok getting to the house, preparing for what we would need, had a way to communicate back home, and basically answered any questions I could think about from safety to tours. I can't say enough how wonderful this trip was. We were looking for a secluded vacation on the beach and we got it. The beaches were totally empty except for a few people who live around the house going to and from their homes. It was a blast exploring the beaches and kayaking to the island across the river. Thanks Jim (Rayna and Rafa) for a great trip! Amy and Missy

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Heaven on Earth!

Guest: C&DK (Twin Cities)
Date of Stay: 02/20/10 Review Submitted: 04/13/10

My husband and I spend a week at this beautiful, amazing place this past February. I believe the website descripton and pictures very accurately describe this adventure seeking vacation home. The beauty of this place is the scenery - river, ocean, mountain ranges, palm trees, birds, beaches and rainforest. We caught lots of fish, hung out at the beach, lounged in the hammock and truly relaxed in the heaven on earth! After a couple days we got used to the rooster and the heat, totally didn't mind the bats (found them kinda interesting!), saw one bug in the home, and used the fans and lights without issues all week long. This was all part of the adventure! The home was very clean and well maintained. This is a very remote place - leave your fancy vacation clothes and shoes at home. Come here to relax and enjoy the solitude and amazing views.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Beyond Expectations!

Guest: Paulette G. (Lindstrom, MN)
Date of Stay: 02/15/10 Review Submitted: 04/12/10

I just had to write a review when I saw the negative one that had been posted by someone who stayed there in Jan. We were there in February and this place has an incredible location and the photos and descriptions are spot on. It was very clean and well maintained. Not just the home itself, but the entire property. I can't imagine that what that person said has much accuracy to it. Other than the part about the rooster. We would definately recommend staying here and plan to go again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fabulous location

Guest: granadoman (Dillon Montana)
Date of Stay: 01/06/10 Review Submitted: 04/03/10

I was actually inspired to write this review when I noticed the negative and completely false review on the site. I went to the site to show my friends who are planning a trip and was shoked by the review. I thought this cannot be the same place I stayed, but it is. The listing description accurately describes this location. Sure, the place leans to the rustic and I did see a bug or two but over all, this was the kind of place you only dream of and don't think you will actually have the opportunity to stay in. The electricity needed to be updated but appearently it is now. The views are spectacular, the beaches pristine and vacant. I had no trouble with the phone and was able to order groceries (and some beer) and it arrive in a timely fashion. Hot showers, nice kitchen, great varanda to read on, quiet, peaceful and truly a pleasure. The caretaker, Rafa, was congenial and made certain we had everything we needed. Between him being in his house below and Rocket, the dog, we felt perfectly safe and comfortable. I found the ownwers to be polite, honest, humble and accomodating. Both my husband and I highly recommend this rental.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Do not stay here

Guest: gr2010 (atlanta)
Date of Stay: 01/03/10 Review Submitted: 03/27/10

My husband and I stayed here for two nights in January, although half way through the first night we were ready to leave. The views are lovely and there is complete solitude but the pictures and listing are very misleading. You should know that the solar power machine is strong enough to run either the lights OR the fan. However the fan is from circa 1977 and only circulates all the bugs in the room, and LOTS of bugs there are. We expected bugs, you are in a jungle, but not expecting that many inside the house. Then there are the resident bats that live on the porch and it the roof. You get to hear them squeak pretty much all the time. The bats coming home plus rooster calls makes for an early morning. The emergency phone is a complete joke. You literally have to stand upside down and sideways on your pinky toe to get it to work. It is completely unreliable and if there were an actually emergency you would be helpless. We were forced to stay 2 nights out of the 4 we paid for because the owner, nor his son, were able to get us out before then. In the middle of the 2nd night, someone came to the house & shined a flashlight into it. The stray dogs(arguably the best part) were barking like crazy & we asked in Eng. & Span. who was there, but got no answer so we "slept" with a knife by the bed that night. The next day we asked the caretaker if he had come to the house, which he had not, & he asked around & could not figure out who it had been- mind you the closet neighboor is a serious hike away. The owners son was supposed to take care of our activities planning but he was a little too Pura Vida about setting things up, so we got screwed on that front. We had asked to have a tour set up at Corcavado National Park- never happened, and we wanted to go diving at near by Cano Island. He got the diving set up but instead of the boat ride taking 40 mins (a big reason why we wanted to stay in Drake Bay) we were put on the slow boat which took TWO HOURS in each direction. Overall our stay was abominable. We paid up front for 4 days, were ready to leave after 1, but ended up staying 2 and were not refunded any of our money. They made it seem like they could have rented it out 4 times over had we not been there. The rest of our time in Costa Rica was bliss, but this was a huge mistake & I hope this reviews prevents anyone from making the same mistake we made.

Owner response:This person complained 2 months ago and VRBO told me the case was closed. All of their accusations are GREATLY exaggerated and basically unfounded. Their story has also changed significantly since their first complaint showing some creative new angles. Our home, which IS our home is as our ad clearly says, an adventurous location not for the people who want pampering. It also states that if you don't like camping, this may not be the place for you. We have bats that are outside and eat bugs at night. I have been communicating using the same phone left for them all week?? The caretaker also has a phone that works in case of emergency. There are no "Stray Dogs", only mine and those of the neighbors who seldom make a sound in the night. I have never had anyone look in with a flashlight and this seems to be a new story, omitted from the first complaint, sounds fishy to me. Ceiling fan works fine, Solar system has been completely re done and is great, we have never run out of electricity. We do not spray poisons to kill all the bugs and see an occassional bug in the house. The many birds, geckos and outside bats appreciate that we do not poison them indirectly. Her idea that our home is bug infested is an outright lie. Yes, the roosters start early, I'll give her that one, however, what better way to be awaken when you are out of your normal surroundings. Of all the people who have stayed, this is the ONLY complaint and, apparently, she is not giving up since this is her second run at it. Every other renter has loved it. I have never heard the bats "squeak" and I live there. The "activities" were set up by the renters as they wanted. They just didn't like the way they turned out. Jim and Susan

Recommended for:

The Real Costa Rica

Guest: Buster 7 (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 03/08/09 Review Submitted: 05/01/10

I stayed at this home for a full week. I wanted an out of the ordinary, tropical experience, far from the crowds and I was more than satisfied. The views of the sunset's from the deck or the beach were the spectacular. The ability to swim in the river or the ocean was an added delight. We charted a boat for fishing and caught many great fish. We went scuba diving out of Drake's Bay to Canu Island. The town of Sierpe offered the true Costa Rica experience. I would recommend this rental to anone looking for a true away from the crowd experience.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers

Worth returning to!

Guest: Trevor C. (San Jose, CR)
Date of Stay: 01/14/09 Review Submitted: 05/06/10

If you are looking for a truly unique experience, with beauty like I have never seen anywhere on earth, this is the PERFECT place. The ad is very accurate with what is there. It is rustic but very comfortable, and what it lacks in luxuries, it more than makes up in sheer physical beauty and nature. It is an beach and animal lovers paradise. I visited with friends in January. We were met in the charming town of Sierpe and promptly escorted down the beautiful river to Jim and Susan's house. The captain was nice and helpful and did a very thorough job of orientating us to the property. My only complaint is that I didn't have more time to spend their. It was totally private and peaceful. Thanks Jim!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

our favorite vacation site !

Guest: cobalt (wisconsin)
Date of Stay: 04/08/02 Review Submitted: 04/03/10

I'm thinking of another vacation at this site and in checking the web came upon the review that was sent march 2010. I have such fond memories of our 2 vacation there, the wonderful beach,the fishing and the view, the boat ride down the river with the monkeys in the trees, the alligators on the banks of the river, the floating gardens in the river, the birds in the trees calling to us. We found the beds to be comfortable and bug free (I would have expected some visitors) There were no solar panels when we were there, but we were quite happy without city conveniences. The nite birds were fun to watch as we had no t.v. to distract us from our jungle experience. The jungle tour that I went on was super. I had the guide to myself as no one else was available to go. My husband went on a fishing trip and caught a sailfish (and released) there was a little trouble with the boat but it only enhanced the experience. I would go again in a heartbeat, I enjoy getting out of the box. I would recommend this for the adventurous.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers