Accommodating 10 guests, this villa features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It includes 1 outdoor pool and offers ocean views from the patio and balcony. Adventure seekers can enjoy nearby swimming, motorboating, and mountain climbing, while golf enthusiasts will find facilities close by. The property is pet-friendly and located near Playa Islita and Playa Camaronal.
Highlights
Family fun awaits
Top-rated for families.
Your own private chef
One of the few properties offering private chef services.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 10
Popular amenities
Private pool
Barbecue grill
Air conditioning
Massages in spa
Washer
Balcony or patio
Explore the area
Islita, Guanacaste
Playa Islita
Place, Playa Islita
13 min walk
Carrillo Beach
Place, Carrillo Beach
26 min drive
Samara Beach
Place, Samara Beach
32 min drive
Nosara (NOB)
Airport, Nosara (NOB)
84 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)
Master Suite
1 King Bed
Suite 2
2 Queen Beds
Suite 3
2 Queen Beds
3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom
Living Room Bath
Toilet
Master Bath
Toilet · Shower only
Suite 2 Bath
Toilet · Shower only
Suite 3 Bath
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica
Villa Jalapa is a private, family-owned ocean-view villa in Punta Islita, designed for families and groups of up to 10.
Villa Jalapa sits in the hills above Playa Islita, surrounded by tropical forest with sweeping views of the Pacific. Wake to howler monkeys, watch scarlet macaws fly overhead, and keep an eye out for deer, coatis and migrating whales from the pool and terrace.
The house has three bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, a full kitchen, indoor and outdoor living spaces, a rooftop terrace and a private infinity pool. The primary bedroom has a king bed, while the other two bedrooms each have two queen beds, making the villa especially comfortable for families, multiple generations or groups of friends.
Experience Islita
One of the things that makes Islita so special is its strong sense of art, culture and community. Local residents have celebrated their heritage through colorful public art, a community museum and a women’s art cooperative, giving visitors an unusually accessible way to connect with the history and creativity of the village. We strongly encourage guests to take time to explore it.
Days here can be as relaxed or adventurous as you want. Walk down to Playa Islita, spend the afternoon by the pool, or explore the surrounding coastline. Nearby Camaronal Wildlife Refuge is known for nesting sea turtles, wildlife and surf, while Corozalito offers another beautiful and uncrowded stretch of coast. Surfing, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, yoga and other activities can also be arranged locally.
The beaches, restaurants and shops of Carrillo and Sámara are within a 30-minute drive for an easy morning beach trip or a sunset dinner.
During your stay
Our longtime housekeeper and local host, Lisbeth, lives nearby and helps care for guests throughout their stay. Daily housekeeping is included, and she can also prepare delicious traditional Costa Rican meals for an additional cost.
We are also happy to help before or during your stay with transportation, local recommendations and arranging activities. You’ll have plenty of privacy, with local support nearby whenever you need it.
Good to know
Villa Jalapa is located in a quiet and relatively remote part of Costa Rica, which is a big part of what makes Islita special. A vehicle is recommended to make the most of the surrounding area. During the rainy season (May–November) we strongly recommend a 4WD SUV; during the dry season (December–April) a regular car can generally reach the villa, although an SUV is more comfortable.
All bedrooms have air conditioning and ceiling fans. The main living area is not air-conditioned but has ceiling fans and large sliding doors that open for natural ventilation.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the villa—fast enough for video calls, video streaming and everyday browsing.
Wildlife is part of the experience here. Monkeys, birds, deer, coatis and other animals may occasionally pass through or around the property.
Guests have exclusive use of the entire villa, including all three bedrooms, the private infinity pool, rooftop terrace, kitchen and indoor and outdoor living areas.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Turn off the lights
Please leave kitchen area clean after using it. Thanks!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 514557
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Islita
Located in Bejuco, this villa is in a rural area and by the sea. Samara Beach and Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Camaronal reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Jungle Butterfly Farm and Safari Surf School. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain climbing and hiking.
Does Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica?
As of Sep 24, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica on Sep 27, 2026 start from $380, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica?
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Where is Private Ocean-View Family Villa with Pool in Islita, Costa Rica located?
Situated by the sea, this villa is within a 15-minute walk of Playa Islita, Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Camaronal, and Museo Islita. Playa Camaronal and Playa Bejuco are also within 9 mi (15 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Very Beautiful place. A little difficult to get to, bit worth it. Kitchen wss not clean. Guest quarters were pretty clean. Outside area was amazing.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 12, 2026
Thanks so much for staying with us! We’re glad you enjoyed the views, outdoor space, and secluded setting. We also appreciate the feedback on the kitchen and will make sure to address it with our cleaning team. Hope to welcome you back sometime!
Pool was great and we loved the view. Easy drive into Islita and down to Playa Islita.If you go, also worth the 20min drive to Mar yTierra (BBQ spot that was the best meal we had during our stay in Costa Rica).
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 15, 2026
Thanks for choosing to stay with us! We hope to see you again soon.
Wonderful place. Clean, everything worked, small issues addressed promptly. Comfortable for our family of 10. Endlessly helpful and welcoming hosts. The rough road from Carillo to Punta Islita is well worth the trouble as it means the gorgeous beach is empty. Terrific community. Loved it all.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 27, 2026
Thanks for staying with us! We hope to host you again soon.
Great villa for a family vacation. Beautiful views, amazing pool and a huge living area with well stocked kitchen. Rooms were separate with bathrooms so lots of privacy. Definitely recommend this place, we will return
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 23, 2025
Thanks for staying with us! We hope to see you and your family again soon!
Beautiful setting. House was fully stocked with plenty of room to mingle and have your own air conditioned space. Close to beach and groceries. Would definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 12, 2025
Thanks for staying with us. We hope to host you again soon!
We loved our stay! Our check in process was seamless and the house was more beautiful that the photos could capture.
We will be coming back again. You’ll 100 % enjoy yourself in this magical home.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 21, 2023
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay in our hidden gem of a property. We look forward to hosting you again!
Fantastic place in a stunning location. We were six, and more than enough room for all. Lisbeth, who is responsible for the home, is a wonderful person and cook! Do not hesitate to ask her to prepare some of her specialities. The location in Punta Islita is unique. This is about a 35 to 45 min drive fro Samara, which includes 25 min along unpaved, somewhat grated, roads. Lots of up and down big hills along the coast. We did it in a front-wheel drive car, but would have preferred 4WD. Once in Punta Islita, you can walk down to the beach in 10 min or walk up to the village in 10 min. There is a small market where you can get most of what young need, and a great coffee shop. Lisbeth can order fresh fish, sea food, and meats!
This vacation ticked all the boxes. We needed a down time for everyone to relax and connect. This property did that. Even without car rentals, we found things to do, walking to Islita and the beach every day. Loved the community and can’t wait to go back.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 26, 2025
Thank you for your review! We look forward to hosting you and your family again soon!
BEAUTIFUL location and an excellent time with family. Lizbeth's meals were superb—everything you could want in a family setting with many activity options. The only downside was a few ants that we controlled with a bit of vinegar and a sprinkling of coffee grounds. Such AMAZING memories of my family time in Playa Islita at Villa Jalapa.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 6, 2025
Thanks for your review and staying with us! We’re glad you and your family enjoyed your stay and Lisbeth’s meals, and we hope to see you again soon.
This is a great property with everything we needed. It is a secluded location so the roads are a little challenging but once you are there, it is just wonderful. We enjoyed the pool, the magnificent views and even seeing wildlife ( monkeys and red macaws) from the villa. Access to the beach, bar and restaurants within walking distance. Lizbeth is a great cook and she made our stay even more enjoyable and worry free.
This is our second time staying at Diego’s house. He is very easy to communicate with, got back to us very quickly, and always had suggestions and advice. The caretaker, Lisbeth, was very friendly and helped us out throughout our stay. The house is beautiful and the location is wonderful. You are in the middle of nature, with scenic views, animal watching and critters around! We loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 19, 2025
Glad to have you stay with us again and please return any time!
We stayed for a week and we had a great time. The pool and view were amazing! The kitchen was well stocked with many items for cooking our own meal. Diego helped us order local fish which was delivered at the door and was amazing. We saw monkeys and many other animals and insects which the kids loved. The beach was a short distance by walking and we could do surfing with nice waves! Overall great stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 19, 2023
Thanks for staying with us, we're glad you enjoyed your stay!
The house is as advertised, beautiful and well equipped. The location is isolated enough for privacy, but only 35 minutes from Samara. There is air conditioning in all of the bedrooms, which is necessary given the heat and humidity. The property manager Diego is really helpful and communicative. A great location!
We thoroughly enjoyed staying at this property. Most of our time spent there was in the gorgeous pool watching the Macaws as they flew overhead. Our group consisted of 2 families - 4 adults and 5 kids ranging in ages of 5-16. Diego the property owner and Lisbeth the property manager were both very responsive whenever we had any questions and on top of things if/when we needed them. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 28, 2023
Thank you for your kind words! We hope to see you and your group again in the future.
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Joanne M.
Jan 26, 2023
Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Awesome home
Loved the pool, the layout, separate casitas, super comfy beds. Views of howler monkeys, coatis, scarlet macaws from the property. Short walk to beach and Marriott hotel. Beach bar is a plus. Expensive however with Cdn exchange. A bit of a climb to get home. Grounds professionally cared for. Well worth a visit.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 26, 2023
Thanks for staying with us Joanne! We are glad that you enjoyed your stay.
Fantastic stay! First time in Costa Rica! Amazing pool and amenities! Grateful for the SUV we rented to travel the last bumpy 10 km. Beach club of the local hotel was very accommodating for a cabana rental when we wanted to splurge.
Natural sightings of howler monkeys and macaws. Also a wonderful visit to The Jungle Butterfly farm.
Walked to the couple local restaurants - perfect after spending all day in the sun/pool.
Would love to come back!
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 23, 2023
We are glad that you enjoyed your stay and would love to have you visit us again!
Verified review
4/10 Poor
Pamela B.
Dec 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Ok, but needs to improve
The property is ok, the manager and person responsible to receive us was very kind. but the property needs maintenance. Kitchen cabinets are damaged, and main room with Living room don't have a/c and gets too hot. Rooms are ok, and the pool is nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 16, 2024
Thanks for your review, we will improve the issues you’ve listed immediately. I’d like to note that the listing explicitly states that there is no A/C in the living room and kitchen, but we do provide several fans and the doors slide open. Hopefully you were able to cool off in the pool and have a pleasant stay.
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
chris
Dec 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Magical. It takes some time to get to the Villa and be aware the roads are not paved or flat. All wheel drive helped a lot. the trips is worth it though. If you are looking for nightlife and action. this is not the best choice. If you are looking for tranquility and a truly immersive Costa Rica experience this place is perfect. The people in town were great and everywhere we ate was delicious. We were also lucky enough to have the caretaker Lisbeth make a few dinners and she is a great cook. Diego was a very responsive host and Lisbeth was always there to help with questions and tips. We saw monkeys and coati on property and macaws and parrots flying overhead. the kids loved having private spaces and the pool and living/ dining areas were great spaces to come together. Samara is about a 35 minute drive for tours, food and more great beaches. Would recommend 100%
We had a wonderful stay in Punta Islita. The house was amazing — perfect for a group of friends as it features a central shared kitchen and living room which is surrounded by 3 private bedroom villas — all leading out to the pool. The villas were quiet, clean, with great AC making for a comfortable stay. The location, while in a quiet rural area, had several great local restaurants nearby and was a quick 10 minute walk to a beautiful quiet beach. The locals are so friendly and we also enjoyed doing activities/ excursions via the hotel next door. Diego was incredibly helpful and answered any questions we had in preparation for the trip. Lisbeth, the house caretaker and chef was absolutely wonderful. I HIGHLY recommend hiring her to cook some meals at the house. Probably the best food we had all trip. We would happily return any time :)
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 4, 2025
Thanks for choosing to stay with us! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip to Islita and we hope to see you again in the near future.
We had a great 7 night stay here! Two adults and four university age kids. It’s definitely remote and the town and area restaurants are charming. We had a 4x4 and were glad to have it! There were howler monkeys and macaws in the trees every day and we spent hours in the pool after venturing out to do activities like surf school, horseback riding and art classes. The management at the neighboring hotel was wonderful on multiple occasions. The housekeeper Lisbeth took great care of us and her cooking was fabulous!! We made so many memories that will last a lifetime! Thank you for sharing this magical place with us!
Our stay at Villa Jalapa was amazing from start to finish! Lisbeth was an AMAZING cook and took great pride in cooking and cleaning for us the entire time we were there. Our kids loved everything she made! The rooms were beautiful and comfortable and the bird watching in the morning was really great. Would definitely stay again! We loved the town of Islita and all the people there!
We spent a day at the beach and rented a cabana from the local hotel with food and drink service to our chairs. We all did surf lessons on the beach and had a great time. My daughter and I did a 30 minute massage at the outdoor "spa" in a private cabana that was super peaceful and secluded.
If you want to eat at the local Don Romero's you need a reservation, but I would highly recommend it! It's a very intimate setting with the chef preparing food especially for you!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 9, 2022
We’re very happy that you and your family enjoyed your stay! We look forward to hosting you again in the future.
Villa Jalapa is a lovely home
The pool is the highlight
Diego, property contact, was excellent at assisting with our needs
The adjoining hotel has great pickleball courts which we used everyday
The beach is nice
The hotel needs to be more accommodating to non hotel guests
Such as us staying at villas
Highlights include the housekeeper Lisbeth
Her cooking is fabulous and it’s so great to have a clean home
Dining- the hotel is good but best restaurant is aromas nearby- don’t miss it
And kimbute and don Ramiro’s- although we gave up trying to dine there
This was a return visit for us
The golf course doesn’t exist now
But the area is beautiful
A golf cart included with the house would make it super special since it’s a long hill up to the house
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 31, 2022
Thank you for your feedback Allison! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay in Villa Jalapa and look forward to hosting you again sometime in the future.
We had such a great stay over the New Year with my family. The property itself is everything you could want on a tropical beach vacation. It felt extremely safe and was well stocked. We have never been to Punta Islita before and we found so much to do in our week's stay. Diego was so helpful and communicative in setting up things before our arrival and making sure our stay was going well. Lisbeth, the housekeeper/cook was amazing!! Her cooking is wonderful and more than that she is just a lovely and sweet person and made us feel so welcome and comfortable. As a Mom to 4 young children, it was so nice to REALLY take a break at a VRBO. We took some awesome guided hikes and tours with Eduardo (find him at the beach). Just a great trip made better by meeting so many wonderful locals who love their country and are happy to share it. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 6, 2022
Thank you for your review, we're very happy that you had a relaxing time at Villa Jalapa and enjoyed your trip to Costa Rica.
We loved our stay. It is remote and the road not great (we came from Arenal). But the property is lovely. And Lizbeth is all the great things you have heard. Amazing food at $20 a meal and she secured the seafood for us.
The bedrooms are wonderful (although towel racks dangerous for tall people!). Great touch having shampoo, body wash in the showers. Would benefit from a suitcase rack.
Communication great with Diego - very responsive.
Loved the pool and the rooftop - scarlet macaws morning and evening to spot.
Kitchen is very well equipped, although we didn’t use most of it because we left it up to Lizbeth. We played a couple games which were supplied, very fun.
Overall a great visit, and highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 22, 2022
Thanks for staying with us, we’re glad that you enjoyed your time at the villa! And thank you for your detailed feedback—we hope to see you again in the future!
About the host
Hosted by Diego Sancho
Villa Jalapa has been our family’s home in Islita since the mid-1990s. Our family has always been deeply connected to nature and conservation: our mother is a former executive director of the Costa Rican National Parks Foundation, and both of her children went on to work in the natural sciences.
We’ve spent decades getting to know and love Islita, and Villa Jalapa has become our family’s refuge from everyday life. We’re excited to share it with guests and help them experience the place that has meant so much to us.
Why they chose this property
We chose Islita because it feels genuinely different from much of Costa Rica’s developed coastline. It is quiet, surrounded by tropical forest and wildlife, and has developed a strong sense of local community.
What makes Islita especially special to us is the combination of nature and culture. The village has celebrated its heritage through colorful public art, a community museum and a women’s art cooperative, making its history and creativity part of visitors’ experience.
It is a place where you can spend the morning on an uncrowded beach, the afternoon watching monkeys from the pool, and still feel connected to a Costa Rican community.
What makes this property unique
Villa Jalapa combines privacy, sweeping Pacific views and the comforts of a family home with a genuine connection to Islita.
The villa sits high above Playa Islita, surrounded by tropical forest, with an infinity pool, rooftop terrace and indoor-outdoor spaces designed to take advantage of the views and wildlife. Howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, deer and coatis are regular visitors, and migrating whales can sometimes be spotted from the terrace.
Just as important, guests are cared for by Costa Rican people who know the area well. Daily housekeeping is included, our longtime housekeeper Lisbeth lives nearby, and we’re happy to help with meals, transportation, local recommendations and activities. By staying at Villa Jalapa, you’re supporting a 100% Costa Rican operation.
Languages:
English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests