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Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home

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A two-story house with a green roof, solar panels, a swimming pool, and a deck area.
A wooden deck with wicker furniture and a view of dense greenery.
A kitchen with a central island, wooden cabinets, a built-in oven, and a window overlooking greenery.
A house surrounded by dense forest with a view of the ocean.
A cozy room with a wooden ceiling, a large window with a view of greenery, a wicker sofa, a wooden chair, and a small table with a vase of flowers.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Accommodating 8 guests, this vacation home features 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. It includes 2 bicycles, a private pool, and a private chef. Enjoy ocean views from the balcony and deck while exploring nearby activities like scuba diving, birdwatching, kayaking, and fishing. Attractions include Secret Lau Pool and Catarata Uvita.

Highlights

  • Dive into relaxation
    Unwind in the top-rated pool, your perfect spot for relaxation.
  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.
4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Private pool
  • Massages in spa
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony or patio
  • Washing machine
  • Internet

Explore the area

View in a map
Uvita, Puntarenas
  • Place, Secret Lau Pool
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Marino Ballena National Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Uvita Beach
    ‪9 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Bathroom 4

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home

Casa Uvita, located in Uvita, Puntarenas, Costa Rica, is a beautiful 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom eco-home with a maximum capacity of 8 guests. It sits on the edge of primary rainforest, only 10 minutes from the Marino Ballena National Park beaches. Casa Uvita is close enough to modern conveniences, but far enough to be immersed in the sights and sounds of Costa Rica's tropical wildlife. The spacious, indoor/outdoor, two-story home is luxuriously outfitted with wooden floors, high ceilings, large windows and upscale bathrooms. The top floor has a master suite, two additional bedrooms, two balconies, and sitting and dining areas. Each bedroom upstairs has its own private bathroom. Downstairs, there is another bedroom with one double and two twin beds, a full bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, living and dining areas, and covered porches. Spectacular forest and stunning Pacific Ocean views can be seen from every area of the house. Common sightings include howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aracaris, and parrots. Hike to nearby waterfalls or lounge in your hammock to enjoy the forest sights and sounds. Casa Uvita is completely self-sustaining, using solar energy and water from a natural spring. 24/7 security; daily light housekeeping. Beautiful 12 meter-long swimming pool in rainforest setting, with ocean view!
In January 2020 we added a breakfast café on the Casa Uvita property. You can enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast from 6 to 10 am every morning.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
Low railings on balconies. No children under 5 yrs
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 431352vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Bahía Ballena

Located in Bahía Ballena, this holiday home is in the city centre. Marino Ballena National Park and Secret Lau Pool reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Uvita Arts Center and Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. Sunset Surf Dominical - Day Lessons and Parque Reptilandia are also worth visiting. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and ecotours nearby.
View more Holiday homes in Bahía BallenaOpens in a new window
Map
Uvita, Puntarenas

What's nearby

  • Secret Lau Pool - 7 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 8 min drive - 5.7 km
  • Uvita Beach - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Playa Colonia - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Catarata uvita - 11 min drive - 2.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪La Choza de Alejo - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Marino Ballena - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Nativo - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Kinsu - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Bakery - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home?

As of 4 Oct 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home on 7 Sept 2027 start from £739, 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 Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Casa Uvita: Rainforest & Ocean View Eco-Home located?

Located in the heart of Bahía Ballena, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Uvita Arts Center and Secret Lau Pool. Catarata uvita is 1.9 mi (3.1 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 76 out of 82 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 82 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 82 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 82 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 82 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second stay at Casa Uvita and will not be our last! Thanks to our gracious host, Michelle.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved this home! We came to Costa Rica with our four young adult boys. This home was perfect for an active family. Michelle was a fabulous host and made our stay amazing. Check-in was very smooth and the directions to the home were perfect. We loved the area because it was a lot quieter than other beach towns. Michelle showed us a remote area to hike to. She had boogie boards and other beach items for us to use, and she told us the best beaches to go to. From the home we were able to hear the howler monkeys, birds, and other wildlife. We saw several two cans of basilisk that lives by the pool, monkeys and we even saw a kinkajou. We loved being in the jungle. The beach was only a few miles away. We will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a magical stay at Casa Uvita! It is truly a beautiful rainforest home. We had seen toucans, macaws, other birds, lizards, frogs, and monkeys one morning as well. They surely woke us up early every morning!The view of the ocean, pool and areas to hang out are just perfect for destressing!Michele was checking up on us often and helped with our laundry. Very friendly accommodating help at the property!A true nature getaway!
Stayed 10 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Dec 2025
It was great meeting you all. Thank you from the staff at Casa Uvita.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It sits in a beautiful forest with so many beautiful flowers everywhere.Michelle was more than we could have asked for in a hostess. we had car trouble and she offered us anything we needed in the way of rides. You will love your stay here!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication

Off the grid jungle experience in Costa Rica

The owner was exceptionally helpful for our stay. The road leading to the property is very difficult. I became very annoyed trying to do our up and back when traveling
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great secluded get away

My wife and I and another older couple stayed for four nights at Casa Uvita in January. The house was beautiful and well appointed. There was plenty of room to relax and enjoy the view of the forest and ocean. The bird and animal sounds were mesmerizing and the pool was a real treat. We would recommend this house to anyone, with or without children.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible!!!!

From start to finish ..Michele was the most amazing human/ host ever! Words can not describe the beautiful property and wildlife we saw. Truly a one in a life time stay! We will be back asap!
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, seclude home, surrounded by nature

Lovely stay with friends at a gorgeous home, which was decorated with art and furniture created by artisans from the area, making the stay especially unique. Renee did a great job hosting since Michele was out of town. Someone is always present on the property and/or available by phone. Woke up to howler monkeys every morning. Recommended if you want to be close to the beaches of Uvita but in a jungle setting.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Dec 2023
It was a pleasure hosting Deborah and company! They were true nature lovers which is a perfect match for Casa Uvita. Come back any time!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Jungle House!

Just a terrific place to stay - even nicer than the pictures look. Pool is beautiful and huge. Rooms are very spacious and beautifully furnished. Ceiling fans kept things comfortably cool at night. Michelle is a great host who lives next door - she brought coffee over each morning, a nice touch. You feel like you’re deep in the jungle, but you have the convenience of restaurants, groceries, etc at the bottom of the hill less than 10 minutes away. It’s a dirt road up the hill to the house, but it was no problem. Would highly recommend this unique place!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Fantastic Villa

We stayed in Uvita in our 2nd half of our Costa Rica trip and kind of wished we came here a few days earlier so we could have spent more time. The location of Casa Uvita is perfect - far enough off the beaten path to feel very remote, but close enough to all the amenities. And you really can't beat the wildlife literally on your doorstep. Howler monkeys, white faced monkeys, sloths, toucans, parrots etc all seen in our 3 days there. Michele was a great host - gave some great info on local sights and must-dos. I would love to come back here and spend more than just 3 nights!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Three days was short, but you managed to see a lot. Your kids were great at spotting the wildlife! I look forward to future visits!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

The highlight of our trip to Costa Rica!

Our stay at Casa Uvita was the BEST part an incredible vacation in Costa Rica. We fell in love with the house, the town, local beaches, animals in the trees (we even spotted a sloth hanging out near the pool😀), sunny days, tropical rains and gorgeous sunsets. Michele and her team (Carlos, Argentina & Bella) are such wonderful and generous hosts - each of them made our time at Casa Uvita so memorable. We can hardly wait to return and unplug! Sasha & Jackson
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
It was a pleasure meeting you two! I am certain our paths will cross again in Costa Rica or California. Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best stay of our Costa Rican Adventure!!

Two families (8 of us) recently traveled to Costa Rica. We stayed in 5 places and without hesitation CASA UVITA was our favorite! All the reviews were so correct - the property manager was fabulous and helped us so much with booking great tours in the area. So glad we went with her recommendations. We all fell in love with this house within the first 15 minutes of arriving and our feeling only increased as we explored the property, hiked to the nearby river, ate at the wonderful cafe, and experienced the wildlife around the property. We saw more monkeys and parrots at this property than during many of our formal tours! We could not recommend this property more highly!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Jun 2022
We're so glad you had such a wonderful stay at Casa Uvita. Please come back and visit again! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nature immersion instantly!

If you ever wonder what it's like to feel a direct connection with nature, then this place is for you! Within 5 minutes you go from feeling the white sand in your feet to immerse yourself into the wilderness where the house is located. From monkeys and toucans to hummingbirds and butterflies, flora and fauna in different sizes and colors create an experience for all your senses. The house had everything we needed to have a comfortable stay, a clean pool, amazing ocean view, very close to supermarkets and restaurants (make sure you visit Scala, great atmosphere and food) and Reneé prepared breakfast for us, we loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept 2021
Thank you for your visit! So glad you saw so much wildlife! Renee's homemade breakfast at the café is a perfect way to start off the day. We look forward to having you back in the future- Saludos!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful and amazing solar home with wonderful views and hostess

We just left Casa Uvita and are so sad that we have to go home. It was the perfect magical home for our family's vacation. It is off the grid, and completely sustainable with solar power and springfed water. The pool is beautiful and overlooks the jungle and ocean, with howler monkeys climbing about in the trees surrounding it. The house is comfortable and clean, with a well-stocked kitchen and anything you might need. You will need to remember that this is a solar home and to use your energy wisely, but for us that just made the house more special. The owner, Michelle, was an amazing hostess and worked to make our trip memorable. She really went out of her way to make sure that we had an wonderful time. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
You all were so much fun. It makes me so happy when guests are interested in learning about the rainforest flora and fauna and living off the grid. I have no doubt that we will see each other again in the near future--at Casa Uvita or maybe in Austin, Texas! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A week in paradise!

When we arrived Michelle gave us a tour of the house. It’s the only place I’ve ever stayed that brought tears to my eyes because it’s so beautiful! I was so overwhelmed. Our stay for the next five days was a dream. Listening to howler monkeys at 5:00 am, watching the monkeys in the trees, enjoying the birds, laying by the pool or our balcony. We stopped at a nearby grocery so was able to make our own breakfast and lunch. There Is a waterfall nearby Johnny can drive you to the walk through the jungle with you. It’s so worth the hike! The beaches near by are stunning. We had a car so could drive to beaches. Went to Dominical one day and enjoyed that. Michelle is a great host and lives in a house next to the rental so is there for any questions. We SO want to come back! We highly recommend this. Really is a dream place to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Oh my gosh! It was so nice to have you at Casa Uvita. Please come again and bring your friends!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Absolutely beautiful!

Our family of 6 (kids ages 14, 13, 12 and 8) had the most amazing time staying at Casa Uvita. Michelle is a beautiful person that cares so much about making your stay perfect. She helped us with all of our excursions an has so much knowledge about Costa Rica and the local secrets. Her house is spotless and so comfortable. I miss taking a shower with views of the ocean and jungle. The ocean breeze was refreshing and add that with the surrounding jungle full of sloths, howler monkey's, parrots, toucans and SO MUCH MORE!!! It was so beautiful and fun for the kids. The first thing they did in the morning (5:30 am) was jump in the pool. The last thing they did before bed was jump in the pool. :) We are recommending this house to all of our friends. Out of our 3 visits to Costa Rica, Casa Uvita was hands down the best house rental yet!!
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you for your kind review. It was fun to meet you and all of your kids! It would be great to host you again and do some more photography. Hopefully another sloth will show up to pose for us! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paradise in Costa Rica

Casa Uvita is true paradise. The home is beautiful, well maintained and tucked away in the mountains surrounded by jungle with an amazing view of the south pacific ocean. Every day we saw monkeys, birds, and other wildlife from one of the many outdoor living areas. The pool was a huge hit with the boys. Michele is a wonderful hostess who helped us schedule fabulous local tours to include horseback riding, fishing and kayaking. She also provided advice on different beaches and the best times to visit during our stay. Her knowledge of the local area was exceptional and extremely helpful for our daily excursions. Johnny, the caretaker at Casa Uvita, guided us one afternoon to a local waterfall and swimming hole which we had all to ourselves! If you’re looking for peaceful tranquility and blissful seclusion in Costa Rica, look no further and stay here, you will not be disappointed! Thanks Michele and Johnny for an unforgettable family vacation! It was truly hard to leave. We will be back! Pura Vida!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your kind review. I'm so glad your first experience in Costa Rica met your expectations! You had a nice pace during your stay--doing a few fun activities with the kids but also just relaxing on the beach or around the pool. I hope to see you or your fellow North Dakotans looking to escape the winter blues, soon! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home away from the crowds

Our group of four just loved this vacation home and it's owner Michelle. The home is surrounded by the jungle and lots of Costa Rican wildlife. We loved the many different areas to relax in and around the house. The furniture was very comfortable, the kitchen was well equipped, and the beds were fantastic as well! A big bonus was the boogie boards and beach chairs available for use. As recommended by Michelle, we hiked the trail on the property to the beautiful river. It was a great experience but it was a workout! We spent also spent a lot of time in the pool - it too was lovely. We saw monkeys, an ant-eater, Scarlet Macaws, parrots and numerous other birds. I highly recommend having breakfast in the little cafe on the property. Rene is a fabulous cook and she prepared a wonderful breakfast for us on our last morning. The house is off the grid but we had no problems and always had power. The ceiling fans did a great job keeping us cool while we slept. We just loved Casa Uvita and will definitely return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Amazing home and host

We were looking for a private setting where we could enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica, with our family, and we found it at Casa Uvita. We've visited Costa Rica many times and this is by far one of our favorite spots. The open design of the home allowed us to feel part of the environment and enjoy the splendid view of the ocean. The wildlife around us was truly spectacular. Howler and white faced monkeys, sloths, toucans and a variety of other birds greeted us. The location is close enough to the ocean ( 5 Minutes), yet far enough away to allow a quiet retreat. On the days we didn't hit the beach, we lounged around the pool and enjoyed the serenity of the rain forest. The home is tastefully decorated and can easily accommodate a family of six. If you choose to make your own meals the kitchen has everything. We found the gas grill to be a bonus. Michele and her staff kept the property immaculate. They made sure we had everything we needed. They took us to explore "hidden treasures" within the area. Michele provided awesome suggestions on places to check out, she certainly has a wealth of knowledge about Costa Rica. We would love to return to this special place.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
It was a lot of fun having you and your family here to ring in the New Year. You took full advantage of all that Uvita has to offer--beach combing, boogie boarding, waterfalls, river rafting and then you even found time to rest and relax by the pool or swing in a hammock. I will definitely look you up if I ever go ice fishing in Minnesota! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded our Costa Rica Dreams

Casa Uvita was all we had hoped for when we planned our trip to Costa Rica! In choosing a house, we were impressed with the commitment to sustainability and the natural surroundings. When we arrived, it was clear that we got that and more. We were truly immersed in nature on all side: Birds, butterflies, monkeys, lizards, and an amazing diversity of plants. Each of the porches provides a different perspective of the beauty of Costa Rica. The front is a garden with many flowering plants that attract butterflies. As a butterfly fan, I was in heaven. (I guess if you live in CR you get used to the blue morphos) but they never ceased to excite and delight me.)Both sides of the house are in the jungle. It was fun to watch the monkeys as they traveled through. The upstairs side porch provides an eye-level view of the activity in the trees. From the upstairs back porch there is an ocean view, which is especially nice for sunset. In addition to the natural beauty, the house is amazing. Beautifully decorated with art and textiles, a well equipped kitchen, a library with fiction as well as field guides, comfy beds, great bathrooms. The house is designed to maximize breezes and natural light. We enjoyed the outdoor dining area for all of our meals. The patio and pool were great areas to relax. The pool was cleaned every day. Our host Michelle was very friendly and responsive. I'd like to say more but it seems I'm exceeding my space. I just can't say enough about the joy of Casa Uvita!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Superb

Casa Uvita is a marvelous off the grid luxury home. The house can happily accommodate either a couple like us or a group of family or friends of multi generations. There are many spaces in which to enjoy the outdoors in or out of out of the sun. The pool is very private. The view over the jungle to the Pacific is breathtaking. Sunsets are magnificent. The range of tropical flora and fauna is immense. Before breakfast we listened to the howler monkeys and then were able to watch as many as 5 at a time as we ate our breakfast. The Casa Uvita facility is made infinitely nicer by the presence on the property of the owner, Michelle and her staff. Michelle is a fountain of energy and information about the flora and fauna and the many, many activities possible in the Uvita area. She is quite delighted to share her knowledge. She has recently opened a breakfast cafe on property. We enjoyed breakfast there each day from the menu which included fresh fruits, just baked breads and pastries, and a full eggs and bacon meal. Conversation with Michelle, her staff, and other cafe guests was a great way to start each day. The staff will provide massage, yoga, or various hikes if desired. Equally they are wonderful making reservations for any of the Costa Rican adventures like zip lining, paragliding, whale watching, birding, or exploring the national parks. Casa Uvita is first rate for a restful respite from the world or as a base for adventuring or a combination of both.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
It was our pleasure to have you again at Casa Uvita. It was obvious to us that you two had a special connection with Mother Nature and all her beauty. The animals don't perform for just anyone! But you two saw it all...patiently observing and blending in. We couldn't ask for better guests at Casa Uvita and the Early Bird Café. We look forward to your next visit during those cold winters in the northeast U.S. Pura vida!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Rustic Nature Setting or Luxury? At Casa Uvita You Can Have It All!

Wow, Casa Uvita was all we hoped for from reading the reviews, and more! First, the house itself is gorgeous. It is amazing to be in such a remote and eco-conscious place, completely off the grid, and yet experience such luxury. Secondly, the setting is fabulous. Just sitting on the deck, taking in the view and the sights and sounds of the jungle, was all we needed to make our vacation a huge success. We saw wonderful birds, monkeys and even a sloth – no need to go to a crowded park; it was all right there in our front and back yard! The wildlife is especially amazing at dusk and dawn – we really miss waking to the sounds of the howler monkeys! If you want to do more (though you don’t really need to in order to have a great visit), there are so many options – beautiful hikes, picture postcard perfect beaches, waterfalls and swimming holes all to yourself, kayak and snorkeling adventures, and great restaurants (though we mostly ate in – the store is right at the bottom of the road, the kitchen is lovely and there is an outdoor BBQ). And these are just the things we managed to fit into 4 days at Casa Uvita – we need to come back and stay longer! The best part: our hostess, Michele, was so warm, welcoming and happy to help us plan our days of adventure. We never would have discovered a fraction of the area on our own. She will tell you the best place to hike at low tide, the best beach spot for the sunset, the best guides in the area, the best restaurants, whatever your heart desires. Her sense of wonder, excitement and passion for protecting the environment are infectious. Thank you, Michele, for the best visit to Costa Rica imaginable!
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
I was thrilled to have guests so interested in learning about the birds, monkeys, and bugs! You came prepared to hike, snorkel and beach comb, but I'm glad you also found some time to simply sit on the deck and take in the views and endless sounds. Pura vida!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful off-grid home immersed in nature with ocean views

We enjoyed 2 spectacular weeks at Casa Uvita. The house, forest and views were every bit as spectacular as advertised. We didn't expect such a warm welcome from our hosts; they made us feel comfortable, welcome and safe the whole trip. Michelle lent us two of her bicycles to go with her on a morning cycling trip (I was a bit hesitant at first given the last time I was on a bike was over 20 years ago – but it was super fun!). My favourite part of the morning was getting to see and take some great photos of the Scarlet Macaws having their breakfast in the trees. We also had the opportunity to use Michelle’s boogie boards to catch a few waves. Casa Uvita is a luxury house in a jungle setting that is off the grid and fully run on solar power. We loved that we could be close to nature, while leaving a light footprint. The weather was very hot when we were there and we found that the fans and cross-breezes through the house kept us comfortable at night for sleeping, however, if you are looking for cold, air-conditioned rooms, then this probably isn’t be the place for you in the high season. The pool was amazing! It felt refreshing all day in the heat, and at night, when the air cooled off, it almost felt warm. We just loved it! Every morning we'd wake up with the howler monkeys and enjoy coffee on the deck, watching the toucans and parrots play. The town and beaches are all close and comfortable (just make sure you rent a 4x4 :) ). There are stunning nature walks right around the property, including 2 stunning waterfalls and many inspiring ocean views. Michelle and her team were 'above and beyond' generous with their time and knowledge - we arrived as customers, but left as friends.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your kind words. We all enjoyed having you at Casa Uvita. I hope your dreams of living down here come to fruition! Pura vida!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking home, great location and most generous host ever!

As all the other reviewers have mentioned, this place is magical. Michele has preserved a unique space in the wild, as much of the surrounding area of Uvita continues to grow and further develop into the forest. Her space is quiet, filled with wildlife and a welcoming atmosphere for you to explore as you wish. Within the first days, we saw a sloth, toucans, howler monkeys, basilisk lizards, katydids, toads and so many beautiful birds surrounding the home. To get there from the main road, we drove up a short hill (5+ minutes) through the trees and jungle canopy to the property (easy to find signage all along the way). Michele was there to greet us and help answer any questions as soon as we arrived -- with a platter of cookies in tow! My kids fell in love with this place immediately. I travelled with my two children (ages 7 and 10) and mother, and we were beyond comfortable in the spacious bedrooms and beautiful porches that wrap around the property. The pool was perfect for cooling down at the end of an adventurous day. The location of this property was also incredibly convenient if you want to stay in one place, and have lots at your fingertips. Lovely beaches, horseback riding and other excursions just 10 minutes away, and an incredible tour of the mangroves in Sierpe just 1 hour drive (highly recommend!). So much to see and do, but without needing to spend lots of time in the car to get there. There are also plenty of restaurants (all with many dietary options), bakeries, well-stocked grocery stores, banks for anything you might need during your trip. Throughout our time, Michele was always available to help with recommendations, arranging bookings and connecting with great local guides who know the area best. Don't pass up the chance to stay here -- it was a gift to meet Michele and visit this magical place she has stewarded. Thank you for everything!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Just what we were looking for

We are coming to the end of our month at Casa Uvita, and we will be sad to go. It has been an amazing adventure! And a true home away from home. As we round the corner coming up the mountain and see the beautiful flowers cascading over the bank, we know we are back to our refuge. The house is beautifully designed to make you feel like you are a part of the rain forest--almost like being outside all the time. The wood floors and ceilings and woodwork and furniture are exquisite--and immaculately clean! The daily light housekeeping was far from light! The best treat was just sitting on whatever deck had the best ocean breezes at the moment and watching and listening to the forest life around us. Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, toucans, aracaris, mealy parrots, and even a Scarlet Macaw. We could hear the sound of the surf, even from our bed. Owls hooted at night. Just a short drive down the mountain and across the highway and we could walk the long beach out to the whale's tale at low tide. It was the perfect place for swimming, as the waves were minimal. Michele was a great host, always ready to help with anything we needed, and wanting to make our stay perfect. Consuelo, besides keeping everything so spotless, taught us how to make tortillas and pizza dough and chicken asado. Gerardo found the sloth for us, whenever it was around. Alison was a joy, practicing her English on us. And Keylor has the internet connection in great working order! We even shared some "extended family" meals together. The Uvita/Ojochal/Dominical area has many fine restaurants. Michele will be happy to pass on our recommendations. We can't imagine a better place to have started learning to be retired.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
You truly became part of our family at Casa Uvita. Your "good vibes," patience and quiet demeanor led to you spotting sloths, toucans, aracaris, slaty tailed trogans, mealy parrots, capuchins, howlers, and yes...that elusive scarlet macaw. You taught us all that retirement means finally having time to enjoy life, nature, and better yet, one another. Ching, ching!

About the host

Hosted by Michele Gonzalez

Host profile image
Michele González, co-owner and visionary of Casa Uvita, is a bilingual teacher, adventure travel guide and public health professional. When she is not on her bike, swimming, bird watching or beach running with Casa Uvita guests, Michele works as an international health and education consultant throughout Latin America. Antonio Arroyo, co-owner, is a construction genius, currently working in northern California and at Casa Uvita. He is both the design and muscle behind Casa Uvita. When Antonio is not designing or building something fabulous, you can find him cooking gourmet meals for friends and family.

Why they chose this property

Welcome to Casa Uvita. Our hope is that guests will forever remember the vast beauty of this mountain, its wildlife, the ocean views and of course, Casa Uvita. Whether you are an active traveler, or you just want to lie in a hammock, Casa Uvita will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
In January 2020 we opened the Early Bird Café, located near Casa Uvita. We offer a variety of delicious and nutritious full breakfast options, coffee, homemade breads, pastries and fresh fruit smoothies. The café is open from 7 to 11 am.

What makes this property unique

The house is completely self-sustaining, using solar energy and water from a natural spring. From its two balconies enjoy the stunning Pacific Ocean views and do world-class birding.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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