La Paloma Lodge

La Paloma Lodge Review

Sweeping ocean views, impeccably appointed accommodations, and lots of tropical-foliage privacy make this lodge the area's most romantic. Planted in a jungle garden on a ridge jutting into Drake Bay, the elegant, spacious wooden villas have bedroom lofts, spiffy bathrooms, and large porches with summery furniture. Numbers 1 and 3, aptly called "sunset ranchos," have the best sea views. Four standard rooms in a shared building are anything but standard: they're spacious and luxurious, with jungle, garden, and ocean views. Room D has a wraparound deck overlooking an expanse of jungle that will delight bird-watchers. Take a dip in the small pool, or head down the hill to Playa Cocolito, the hotel's gem of a beach. The hotel runs diving trips and certification courses and offers river kayaking. The flower-filled restaurant serves excellent tropical fare, and there's always afternoon tea and baked treats. The lodge now has the added luxury of electricity with a generator backup. There's a three-night minimum stay; the three-night package ($1,275 per person) is the best bet, as it includes air transportation from San José, all meals, and two tours.