Playa Cativo

An amazing transfer by boat across the Golfo Dulce tropical fjord to the lodge was such an exciting and delightful experience. On arrival peace and tranquillity descended. We received a very warm welcome by all we met – everyone giving a very friendly hola! A very beautifully designed lodge with a really friendly atmosphere. We loved the artwork and sculptures in the main areas, and even in our room we had a striking Puma painting. It was amazing accommodation; it had everything to make our stay perfect! Our luxury casita was very comfortable and spacious with stunning interior design. The doors opened out to a balcony with a hammock and plunge pool – the hammock great to relax in and the plunge pool to refresh in, both with fab views of the gulf and the gardens. We even got a toucan visiting! Housekeeping was excellent. The dining experience was fantastic. First coffee of the day delivered to our room to be enjoyed on the balcony listening to the forest waking up. We stayed on a Full Board basis and enjoyed 3 delicious meals a day, all freshly prepared and beautifully presented using ingredients from their organic farm. The portion sizes really suited us, and we enjoyed being able to try different things – like the basil ice cream! The tuna was delicious! It's the place to switch off and reset and enjoy a range of activities whilst seeing the rainforest at its best. We enjoyed a hike in Piedras Blancas National Park – a hot and humid uphill and downhill guided trek pointing out plants, birdlife and monkeys on the way. Birdwatching through the lodge gardens – more toucans! – and a night walk where we got to see the iconic, red-eyed tree frog (they’re so cute!). The first tree frog was spotted without leaving the bar, turns out you just need to know the sound to listen out for! We also enjoyed the visit through the rainforest to the Happy Hen organic farm – seeing the produce grown on the grounds. We had a coconut drink waiting for us on arrival! On our third afternoon we took a boat trip to the mangroves – a great adventure! And the kayaking in the mangroves was an exciting new experience. On our last evening, the new moon and cloud cover gifted us another memorable experience. Out into the gulf by boat we witnessed the magical phenomenon of bioluminescence – a sea of sparkling stars. We both visited the spa and experienced wonderful massages. Feeling suitably recharged and wondering how to clean our muddy rainforest walking shoes before packing we welcomed another “nothing was too much trouble moment”, - leave them out by your door and they’ll be returned clean and dry! Muchísimas gracias y pura vida! We’d love to return one day!

From the moment we were welcomed at the airport to the dolphins jumping alongside our boat on the way to the lodge, everything felt extraordinary. Playa Cativo Lodge exceeded every expectation—breathtaking sunsets, gourmet food, impeccable service, and magical views everywhere you looked. The wildlife encounters, from colorful birds to playful animals, made each day feel special, and the excursions were truly unforgettable. I absolutely loved my stay at Playa Cativo Lodge. Five stars all the way. Highly recommend!

A lot of very cool and unique wild life. All of the excursions were entertaining, well timed, and safe. The locations and constant view were constantly astonishing us. The rooms were in good condition and had really good views. The food was amazing and presented well. There was something for everyone and I highly recommend visiting playa cativo.

So beautiful! Food is amazing. Rooms had the best view and service. Saw so much beautiful wildlife! Rooms were very clean! Best customer service everyone was so kind! I highly recommend visiting the spa!

Unbelievably beautiful hotel with fabulous food. Amazing animals wandering throughout the hotel and surrounding trails. By far the best most luxurious hotel in the area.