Vacation Rentals by Owner

Dave Calgary

Guest: Dave R.
Date of Stay: 01/15/12 Review Submitted: 01/31/12

Terrific location. This holiday was easily our best ever. Cosat Rica is great, and, in particular, Tamarindo is a fantastic destination. The villa is excellent; exactly as described and very comfortable for up to 6 people. It is well appointed and lacking for nothing. Maid service and pool cleaning every other day. Definitely would come again, and have no problems recommending this property to anyone.

Recommended for:

Just what we hoped for.

Guest: Cyril M.
Date of Stay: 01/02/12 Review Submitted: 01/29/12

Our visit to Villa Encantada was even more beautiful that the pictures on your web site. We loved the chance to relax by the private pool and yet we had just a short walk to the beach. Everything about the Villa was first class, very clean and modern. A pleasure to visit. Laurie and the people at the property management office did all they could to ensure that our vacation to Costa Rica was perfect. There are lots of great restaurant choices within walking distance. The people we met on our tours and in the village of Tamarindo were gracious and accommodating and spoke English very well. This is a vacation spot that we would highly recommend to all.

Recommended for:

The Perfect Place

Guest: Craig Pelzer
Date of Stay: 01/02/12 Review Submitted: 01/27/12

We couldn't have asked for more in renting Villa Encantada . The facilities were just as described and more than adequate for the four adults in our group. Conveniently located within walking distance to shopping, restaurants, and beaches, Villa Encantada provided an ideal home base for exploring the local areas. Clean, spacious, and well maintained, Villa Encantada soon felt like a home away from home. We took advantage of the modern kitchen facilities and barbeque area to prepare some of our meals. Grocery stores nearby provided all the ingredients required for our gourmet dinners. Local restaurants deliciously filled in when we were out. (check out The Langosta Beach Club a few blocks away). The hospitality at the local management office was unsurpassed. They were able to arrange for guided excursions and ground transportation to and from the airport in Liberia. All pickups/dropoffs were conveniently from our front door. When we were not out exploring the many attractions Costa Rica has to offer, we strolled the long beaches, or indulged poolside at the Villa. Dramatic evening sunsets on the beach quickly became a daily routine, as was early morning coffee by the pool. Nearby howler monkeys made a great substitute for alarm clocks! Our only regret was that our stay was only for a week!

Recommended for:

Perfect Birthday Getaway!!

Guest: winegrl0225 (Salem, Va USA)
Date of Stay: 08/22/11 Review Submitted: 09/19/11

I had heard about this place for quite some time now. The reviews were all so glossy, I just had to find out for myself! My boyfriend and I booked the trip for the week just in time for his 34th birthday. We rented a car from the Alajuela airport and the drive, although foreign to us, was quite pleasant and easy. We arrived at the house at night and the security guard greeted us and walked us in with our luggage. The house was just as beautiful and enchanting as we had anticipated. The private pool was a huge bonus, we relaxed every afternoon by it. The house had every amenity you could want for your own home. There were several local grocery store, the best we found was the Auto Mercado just coming in to town. They were very friendly, and accepted US dollars with ease. We loved the abundant selections of restaurants!! First stop was Noguis right on the beach, open air palm trees, great hospitality and very good breakfast. By far the best was Langosta Beach Club. Jimmy and the bar staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. We ended up there a couple nights of the week. We ended up reserving a private cabana right by the pool overlooking the ocean. Although it rained we were still protected in the cabana, and the table side service was impeccable. I wish I could post pictures of our meals because they were beyond phenomenal. We took advantage of how close everything was, and walked to get pizza one night, walked to the Supermercado grocery a few times just down the road. The dirt path to the beach was literally less than a minute from the front door. The house and gardens were so beautiful. Such an amazing, relaxing getaway. The management team Lola and Lock were very helpful, they helped us with our bookings and made it very easy to get out and explore. I would definitely recommend this home to couples or family or group gatherings. It had everyting available, and really felt like a home. Thank you Laurie and team for sharing your home!!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our best trip ever.

Guest: Biggdave (Austin, tx)
Date of Stay: 08/14/11 Review Submitted: 08/24/11

Thank you so much for being accommodating. You defienitely made it easy for us. We had the best time. The condo was definitely a highlight of the trip. My wife and 3 kiddos (14, 8, 5) loved it. The kids are ready to move in! The place was a great location, close to everything. The management treated us great, the driver and tour guide, "Negro" was awesome. None of us knew how to relax the first day or two, but we eventually got the hang of some real relaxation. We surfed, went to the volcano and rode horses, zip-lined, you name it, then we came back to swim in that amazing private pool. It was like a fountain of youth. We ate great food and enjoyed ourselves every step of the way. Thanks again. What a great place. We will definitely be going back soon. Have a great day. Biggdave and Family.

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

Fantastic Family Vacation Rental for all ages

Guest: costadave (Los angeles)
Date of Stay: 06/10/11 Review Submitted: 07/03/11

This is the BEST spot for a family vacation. Laurie and his staff are accomodating, friendly, hospitable, attentive and our entire stay was like being at home. The home is intimate and comfortable, asthetically pleasing and original. The pool and garden area is beautiful and is the perfect way to begin and end each day. Langosta Beach is like having a private paradise and is a minutes walk on a beautiful path to a breathtaking beach. There are so many wonderful and delicious places to eat moments away - our favorite being Langosta Beach Club. Laurie has provided all you need from towels to cooking utensils to beach toys. We would highly recommend this home for anyone looking for a great vacation stay with friends or family. Thanks Laurie!!!

Owner response:Thank you very much for your comments "D", I know this was a very special time with your family. Laurie

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

Thank You Villa Encantada!

Guest: Jennifer (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/23/11 Review Submitted: 04/11/11

Once again our stay in Costa Rica was perfect and this villa is paradise. My husband and I stayed at Villa Encantada 7 years ago when we got married, at sunset on the stunning beach across the street. This year we came back for two weeks of relaxation and it was as beautiful as we remembered. It is elegant and romantic with all of the comforts of a luxurious vacation, yet thanks to the design and the gorgeous art throughout the villa, it pays true respect to the natural beauty of Costa Rica. It is clean, well cared for and full of quality and comfort. My favourite area of the house (other than the pool) is the kitchen. It is a jewel. The perfect place for a chef to experiment with the wonderfully fresh ingredients Costa Rica has to offer. The grocery store is 3 minutes away and had everything we needed. The location was perfect for us. The villa is nicely set away from the bustle and party noise of Tamarindo, yet within walking distance of everything you could want. The property management office is only two minutes away for any questions or help that you should require. The neighbourhood is quiet and safe and free from the noise of loud partiers. it is very well suited to days of basking and hiding from the sun, reading, napping, lounging and listening to the parade of tropical birds, lizards and monkeys traveling through the treetops surrounding the villa. We really needed at least two weeks for us to properly enjoy all of the cozy spots that the villa had to offer. Laurie and Bev, the gracious home owners, are wonderful people and we are so grateful for their help and advice in planning our stay. Thank you, we will definitely be back!

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

Most Amazing Trip!

Guest: Lauren (GTA, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/03/11 Review Submitted: 01/17/11

Words cannot explain our trip to Villa Encantada. It was absolutely remarkable. There were six of us staying there and we could not have asked for more. There was tons of stuff to do (locally and excursions) and everything exceeded our expectations! The people and food were excellent and the Villa itself was clean and modern and had everything we ever could have needed. This rental is highly recommended and we are sure to be going back!

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

Simply Blissful!

Guest: Pete and Katie (Chicago, IL, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/08/09 Review Submitted: 10/20/09

Villa Encantada was spot-on on the description Laurie provided, just what we needed to relax at for a long overdue vacation for our anniversary, and by far exceeded our expectations! Upon arrival, the management walked us through what was available in the area, what was closed for the season, and provided us with an up-to-date local map which was extremely helpful. Everything was within walking distance (restaurants and shopping) and a secluded beach literally is right across the street! You can look up and down the coastline and, if you are lucky, you might see 5 other people at most - perfect for uninterrupted romantic walks at sunset. The villa itself has a wonderful private pool surrounded by lush greenery, a fountain, and accent lighting for the evening when you come back after a night on the town, and the villa and pool/patio areas are very well maintained by friendly staff! It was also great having a parking spot for our rental 4x4 in a guarded environment! Be aware of your wet and dry seasons as some places in the area are closed for the wet season; however, we did find a few new gems that recently opened - check out the Elevation Gallery Cafe run by Lane and Tara near the Super 2001 grocery store in Tamarindo. Their tapas menu was outstanding! And for breakfast, you can't go wrong with Gil's Burritos! Don't forget to check out the zipline tours and volcanos - rent a 4x4 and go get lost! You won't regret it (a GPS comes in handy though)! Laurie and the property management staff were extremely friendly and helpful in planning our trip, and I wouldn't hesitate for a second on recommending it to anyone looking to get away to Costa Rica! Thanks for having us and you can bet we'll be coming back soon!

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

Villa Encantada, Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Guest: Jim and Ellen (Kansas City USA)
Date of Stay: 04/25/09 Review Submitted: 05/17/09

This was our first stay at Villa Encantada but it will not be the last. The house was beautiful, comfortable and quiet, the location perfect for frequent walks on the beach and easy forays into Tamarindo. We did not need a car as groceries, restaurants, and coffee were easily accessible. This trip rates as one of our best ever..

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Family Favorite!!

Guest: ajandcompany (Valencia, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/11/09

This was our third trip to Costa Rica staying at Villa Encantada. Thanks to Laurie and Bev, this has become our family tradition. You won't find nicer owners anywhere. It is my families favorite trip, and we travel alot. The villa is in perfect condition. The Rental company RPM is great. During our three stays everything has always gone very smooth. My husband and I travel with our two sons (12) and (15). They love that the beaches are so close and great for surfing, collecting shells, beautiful sunsets, and perfect weather. The locals have been exceptionally great. Restraunts are close and delicious. Every trip seems to go so fast that we start planing for the next and it can not come soon enough. Wonderful place to stay. Looking forward to 2010!!

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

Enchanted Indeed!

Guest: Janettem (London, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/07/09 Review Submitted: 04/28/09

If you are seeking the perfect vacation spot you have just found it! Laurie and Bev's home in paradise is perfect for a couple, a few couples or a family. The villa is exceptionally clean, comfortable and well appointed with everything you require to make your own meals during your stay. However with so many great restaurants within walking distance you may not want to cook! There is something to suit every taste and budget - from 5 star fine dining to local fare and everything in between. The beautiful Playa Langosta is two minutes away - you can walk for miles on this great beach when the tide is right. Playa Tamarindo has the reputation of being the best surf beach in the world. Whether you want to be active or just kick back and relax - you couldn't find a better place or more comforatble accomodation to do it in! I have been ther 5 times at this wonderful Villa - looking forward to number 6!!

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

Perfect, just perfect

Guest: anquka (Jupiter, Fl USA)
Date of Stay: 12/27/08 Review Submitted: 01/10/09

Our first trip to Costa Rica was perfect thanks to Laurie and Bev, owners of this home. We stayed for 10 days. Husband (52) Wife (42) and 2-14 year old girls. The home and the management company (RPM) will beat all of your expectations. Its location, within a short walk or scooter ride, to Tamarindo, is just right. The beach is JUST across the road through a lovely, short trail. The home is in perfect condition, clean and well kept. Exactly on par how we live in our home. Everything works just fine. If it doesn't RPM is responsive and JUST down the street a block. Neighbors to the home are all a treat to know. We didn't rent a car and glad we didn't for our first trip. Be sure and ask for drivers Rainer (Rain-yer) and Negro (Neg-ro), they can organize anything you want including a private lobster dinner on the beach..the best we've ever had. The surprise came at dark with a young lady twirling a flaming baton. Drivers were this thoughtful and always prompt. We would instantly return to this home and hope to see the owners again. Special people. We would trust RPMs advice and support completely. This was one of our best trips ever...and it was just blind luck that we found them.

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

Amazing Family Vacation

Guest: Brian and Christine (Apple Valley, MN, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/01/08 Review Submitted: 03/01/08

This was our first time to Costa Rica and we didn't know what to expect. My wife and I and our 2 kids (ages 5 and 9) had a great time. The temperature was perfect. Every day we would use the pool (several times), do a litte local sightseeing, read, play on the beach, and end the day watching the sunset. There was a local grocery store nearby, so we had everything we needed. We could also walk into town to find everything you could possibly want. We learned a little spanish and had a lot of fun meeting some of the local residents, and other tourists. I managed to get a round of golf in and the whole family went on a river tour where we saw a lot of birds and crocodiles, and our kids fed the monkeys right from the boat. Amazing! The tour guide picked us up right from the Villa. Our kids loved the daily walks to the beach (less than 3 minutes away) because they saw different birds and other beach life (star fish, hermit crabs, and lots of other stuff), and the water was warm. We will definitely go back again. The Villa was just as amazing as the scenery and beach. It was clean and well cared for. We felt save all the time, and we had everything we needed. It was air-conditioned, had a barbeque, all the appliances, separate bathrooms, and a TV. I even watched an NFL playoff game. I would definitely recommend this to a friend.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.