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Playas
Beaches
Playas pequeñas, aguas tranquilas y un entorno natural. Las playas alrededor de Playa Naranjo son tranquilas, poco concurridas y aún conservan su encanto natural. Al estar ubicadas dentro del Golfo de Nicoya, sus aguas suelen ser calmadas, ideales para nadar, flotar, practicar kayak o paddleboard.
¿Va para la playa? Si prefiere viajar ligero, con gusto le prestamos sillas de playa, una hielera y algunos juegos de playa. Solo avísenos antes de salir.
💚 Ayúdenos a mantener estas playas limpias llevando su basura de regreso.
Playa Guaitil
This peaceful beach is only a few minutes from La Casa del Conde. With calm waters, a quiet local atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, it’s a lovely spot for a beach escape, kayaking or watching the sunset.
1 km • Calm waters • Local atmosphere
👑 Playa Roma
One of our favorite beaches near Playa Naranjo. Calm waters, palm trees and a peaceful local atmosphere — combined with a lovely beachfront restaurant — make Playa Roma a wonderful place to spend a slow afternoon by the sea. Perfect for swimming, relaxing and enjoying cocktails with an ocean view.
4 km • Calm waters • Restaurants on site
👑 Playa Blanca
One of the best known beaches near Playa Naranjo. Playa Blanca is loved for its sandy beach, palms trees, relaxed vibe and gentle waves. While weekends can be lively with local visitors, weekdays are usually peaceful and quiet.
A small restaurant 'Poca a Poca' is usually open during weekends and high season.
7.5 km • Small waves • Weekend restaurant
Playa Blanquita
Looking for a quieter beach experience? Blanquita is a hidden gem next to Playa Blanca. With soft sand, shady trees and a calm atmosphere. A lovely spot if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature almost to yourself.
Accessible by 4x4 via a rough road, or by a scenic 30-minute walk from Playa Blanca with beautiful ocean views along the way.
7.5 km • Hidden beach • Best with 4x4
👑 Playa Muertos
One of our absolute favorite beaches in the region. With white sand, turquoise water and tropical scenery, Playa Muertos feels like a paradise. In our opinion, it’s a wonderful alternative to Isla Tortuga — similar beauty, fewer crowds and much lower costs.
A short 5-minute boat ride from the small town of Pochote brings you to the beach. Boat trips can easily be arranged upon arrival or through local operators like Pochote Tours.
38 km • Tropical beach • Boat access
Food
Restaurantes
While each room at La Casa del Conde comes with a small kitchen, going out for a meal is often part of the fun. Over the years, we've found a variety of places we enjoy visiting and are happy to share them with you. Our personal favorites are marked with a 👑
El Vigia
Located just 100 meters from the ferry, this local restaurant — better known as “Gato’s” — is a great stop for traditional Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto, casados and arroces. Also a nice place for a drink while waiting for the ferry.
1 km • Local food • Budget friendly
La Perla Negra
A unique restaurant near Playa Guaitil with a fun Pirates of the Caribbean atmosphere and plenty of character. The varied menu includes excellent steaks, seafood and local favorites.
1 km • Atmospheric • Steaks & seafood
👑 Aroma del Mar
Our favorite beachfront spot. Aroma del Mar has a relaxed atmosphere, good food and some of the best pizzas and salads in the area. You can eat at the restaurant or take your pizza or burger to the beach and enjoy the ocean from one of the benches.
3 km • Beachfront • Good vibes
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👑 El Jardincito
A nice local restaurant along the road to Lepanto, especially recommended for seafood lovers. Besides fresh seafood dishes, they also serve delicious smoothies and a wide variety of local classics.
2 km • Seafood • Local favorite
La Cangreja
Looking for a more upscale dining experience? La Cangreja offers a peaceful atmosphere near the beach, surrounded by tropical gardens. A lovely place for a relaxed dinner in an elegant setting.
1.5 km • Garden setting • Refined dining
👑 Rancho Azul
Curious about the traditional cuisine of the Nicoya Peninsula? As one of the world's five Blue Zones, the peninsula is known for the longevity of its inhabitants and its rich culinary traditions. Rancho Azul serves authentic Nicoyan dishes in a beautiful natural setting just outside Lepanto.
10 km • Nicoyan Cuisine • Blue Zone Flavors
El Mirador
A local favorite with beautiful panoramic views over the Gulf of Nicoya and Jicaral. The drive up is part of the experience. Try to get there before sunset.
13 km • Sunset views • Local favorite
Muelle del Marisco
A relaxed waterfront spot known for its wooden pier and wide views over the gulf. Perfect for a cold beer or cocktail while watching waterbirds and boats pass by.
7.5 km • Waterfront drinks • Scenic views
Activities
Actividades
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The area around La Casa del Conde isn't known for major attractions or busy tourist spots, but that's part of its charm.
From wildlife spotting and bioluminescence to hidden waterfalls and local experiences, there is plenty to discover here, often without the crowds found elsewhere.
These are the places and activities we most enjoy recommending to our guests. The ones we keep coming back to ourselves are marked with a 👑.
👑 Karen Mogensen Reserve → 34 km
One of our favorite hikes in the area. Despite its natural beauty, the reserve remains surprisingly quiet, often with only a handful of visitors exploring its trails.
The route to the waterfall follows the river through the forest and passes several smaller cascades along the way. There are also additional trails leading to viewpoints higher in the mountains for those who feel like exploring a little further.
What we love most is how natural the reserve still feels. There are no boardwalks or crowds here—just forest, waterfalls and the sound of the river. During the rainy season, when the waterfalls are at their most impressive, the scenery is especially beautiful.
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👑 Curú Wildlife Refuge → 32 km
One of our favorite places for wildlife spotting on the Nicoya Peninsula. The reserve offers a mix of forest, mangroves and quiet beaches, with several well-marked trails that can be explored independently.
Wildlife sightings are common, and it's not unusual to encounter monkeys, coatis, deer, agoutis, scarlet macaws and a wide variety of birds during a single visit.
For those who don't mind a longer walk, Playa Quesera is a beautiful beach within the reserve and a rewarding destination. What we love most about Curú is that it offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the area while still being remarkably uncrowded.
Bird Watching walk (with or without guide) → 2km
If you enjoy birdwatching, this is a wonderful way to spend a morning. Just five minutes from La Casa del Conde, you can explore the trails of Nicoya Silvestre independently or join an early morning guided walk, when bird activity is at its peak.
The reserve combines tropical dry forest with views of the Gulf of Nicoya and is home to a wide variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for other wildlife as well, as monkeys and other animals are regularly seen.
👑 Private Waterfall Hike & Natural Pools, Montaña Grande → 17 km
A true off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trail. This guided hike takes place on a private property where you'll explore the forest, visit several waterfalls and natural water slides, and enjoy beautiful views across the Nicoya Peninsula.
Along the way you'll pass a pitahaya plantation and a reforestation project before reaching a series of natural pools, perfect for a refreshing swim.
What we love most is how peaceful it feels. Instead of crowded trails, you'll have the entire place to yourself, surrounded only by the sounds of the jungle.
👑 Bioluminescence Tours →Boat from Playa Naranjo or Paquera
One of the most unique experiences the Gulf of Nicoya has to offer. On dark nights, microscopic organisms in the water light up when disturbed, creating a magical glow around every movement.
This is one of the few places in the world where bioluminescence can be observed year-round, although conditions vary depending on weather and moonlight. Tours are available by both boat and kayak from nearby locations such as Playa Naranjo and Paquera.
For the best experience, we recommend choosing a night with as little moonlight as possible. And if you're feeling adventurous, nothing compares to stepping into the water and watching the glow surround you as you swim.
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Isla Tortuga → Boat from Playa Naranjo or Paquera
Known for its white-sand beaches and clear water, Isla Tortuga is one of the most popular day trips in the Gulf of Nicoya. Depending on the tour operator you choose, you can visit a quieter part of the island or an area with more facilities and visitors.
Most tours include a boat trip through the gulf and the opportunity to snorkel nearby. Departures are available from both Playa Naranjo and Paquera, each offering a slightly different experience.
We're happy to help you choose the option that best fits what you're looking for.
Isla San Lucas NP → Boat from Playa Naranjo · 15 min
Just a short boat ride from Playa Naranjo lies one of Costa Rica's most fascinating historical sites. Once home to the country's most notorious prison, the island is now a national park where abandoned cell blocks, prison artwork and walking trails offer a glimpse into its past.
The island can be visited independently, but we recommend going with a guide if you'd like to learn more about the stories behind the prison and its former inmates.
Whale & Dolphin Watching → Boat from Paquera
One of the best ways to experience the Gulf of Nicoya. Depending on the season, you may spot humpback whales, while dolphins are regular visitors to these waters throughout the year.
Every tour is different, and that's exactly what we like about it. Keep your eyes open—you never know what might appear next.
Full-Day Boat Tour with Captain Jack Travis → Boat from Playa Naranjo
Want to experience several highlights of the Gulf of Nicoya in a single day? This private boat tour combines Isla San Lucas, Monkey Island, snorkeling and Isla Tortuga, with the option to go fishing if time allows.
Captain Travis knows these waters inside out, making this a great choice for those who prefer a more personal experience.
Montezuma → 60 km
If you're looking for a relaxed day out, Montezuma is well worth the drive. With its laid-back surf vibe, good restaurants and small local boutiques, it's a fun place to spend a few hours.
Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, browse the boutiques or simply take a walk along the beach and watch the surfers.
Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve → 69 km
Costa Rica's first protected nature reserve and still one of the country's most beautiful places for hiking and wildlife spotting. Choose between a short forest loop or a longer trail leading to a quiet beach, with plenty of opportunities to see monkeys, deer, coatis and many bird species along the way.
If you don't mind the drive, it's a rewarding day trip for nature lovers.
Welness & Fitness
Bienestar & Fitness
👑 Wellness with Anja's Pura Vida Massage
Treat yourself to a relaxing massage without leaving La Casa del Conde. Anja offers a range of treatments, including relaxation massages, body scrubs, facials, manicures and pedicures.
With more than 20 years of experience, she creates a calm and personal experience tailored to your needs. Treatments can take place in your room, on your terrace or at a quiet spot in our garden.
If you'd like to book a treatment during your stay, just let us know. We'd be happy to arrange it for you. We recommend booking in advance, as appointments can fill up quickly.
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Roma del Mar Jungle Gym & Tennis Court
If you'd like to stay active during your stay, the brand-new Jungle Gym at Roma del Mar is just a short drive away. It offers a variety of high-quality strength and cardio equipment, and right next to it you'll find a tennis court available for rent.
For current opening hours, court and prices, contact them directly via WhatsApp or call +506 6283 5507.
Practical information
Información Práctica
Ferry
The Playa Naranjo – Puntarenas ferry is located about 5 minutes from La Casa del Conde. Another option is the Paquera ferry, which is about a 40-minute drive from here.
You can book tickets online via coonatramar.com for the Playa Naranjo route. If you're travelling by car, select the option “liviano”. Don’t worry if online tickets appear sold out — half of the tickets are reserved for purchase at the office about 1 hour before departure.
We recommend arriving on time, especially during weekends and holidays, as it can get busy.
If you'd like, we can send you the current schedule via WhatsApp.
Transportation
If you're travelling without a car, we’re happy to pick you up from the Playa Naranjo ferry / bus stop. This service is free of charge.
There is a public bus connection between the Playa Naranjo ferry and Nicoya.You can get on or off anywhere in between on the main road. We can share the current schedule with you if needed.
You’ll also find unofficial taxis in the area that can take you wherever you need to go.
Supermarkets
If you turn right onto the main road, you'll find Gas Station Full after about 300 meters. It’s a convenient stop for drinks, snacks and some basic groceries, but they don’t sell fresh fruit or vegetables.
If you turn left, you’ll reach the first small minisuper in Cabo Blanco after about 1.5 km, just after the bridge. The further you continue along the main road towards Lepanto (around 10 minutes) and Jicaral (around 20 minutes), the larger the supermarkets become.
On your way to Roma del Mar, you’ll also pass a small minisuper.
ATM - Pharmacy - Clinics
The closest towns for practical facilities are Jicaral and Paquera. Here you’ll find ATMs, pharmacies, small clinics and other basic services you might need during your stay.
Both towns are easy to reach by car, and we’re happy to point you in the right direction depending on what you need.
Ready to explore the Nicoya Peninsula? We'd love to welcome you at La Casa del Conde. Discover our rooms or check availability.
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