Villas Rio Mar

Certified Elite by Costa Rica's Sustainable Tourism programme, Villas Río Mar is the only hotel in Dominical to hold the highest environmental accreditation available in the country. The property stands on 17 acres of replanted tropical gardens ten minutes on foot from Playa Dominical beach, with a private jungle trail at the rear of the grounds and two swimming pools — one for laps, one for recreation. Solar panels supply electricity for air-conditioning units and other appliances. Solar water heaters provide hot water throughout the property. All cleaning products are biodegradable. The on-site greenhouse grows many of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs served at Crocodile Grill & Bar, the hotel restaurant, which opens from seven in the morning until ten at night and sources meat and fish locally. You can walk across the property's gardens to observe resident birds and plants.

The 61 rooms include Superior rooms with one king bed, Junior Suites with two king beds and coffee makers, and Kitchen Suites equipped with stove, microwave, rice cooker, and blender. Every room opens onto a private patio. Air-conditioning, cable television, ceiling fans, mini-fridge, safe, and wireless internet are standard. Tennis and pickleball courts sit within the grounds. The concierge arranges whale-watching trips to Marino Ballena National Park, snorkelling at Caño Island Biological Reserve, waterfall hikes, zip-lining, surfing lessons, kayaking through mangroves, and guided walks in nearby Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge. Four national parks — Manuel Antonio, Marino Ballena, Corcovado, and Chirripó — lie within driving range. Laundry service is available on request.