“It's about the spectacular view” This was our first trip to Costa Rica and although I did lots of research prior to our trip, I wasn't totally sure what to expect. We arrived in the dark (and it gets dark at 5:30PM) so we couldn't appreciate the perfect setting of Flying Toucans until the next morning. My favorite part of our experience was the privilege of rising at first light and enjoying the sunrise every day (at 5:30 AM)on the balcony, appreciating the glorious colors of the sky as the tides came in and watching the tropical creatures as they came in to visit. Actually, the view is so spectacular at any time of the day with a constant show of wildlife, you will find it very difficult to leave when you have activities planned. This was the rainy season which I didn't fully understand but it was perfect for us -- on most days we didn't see rain until later in the afternoon or evening and when it rained, we quite enjoyed the experience of the tropical downpour. Flying Toucans was perfect for the two couples on our trip and we loved that the living room was actually outside. Even the kitchen shutters opened to take in that gorgeous view of the infinity pool and the Pacific . Clearly the owner’s thought of every detail in design and location, the house manager came to meet us on our arrival in the dark and was a font of information about the area during our stay since he has been a resident for many years; he goes above and beyond to make your stay perfect yet he knows exactly the right balance between being available and giving you your privacy . We took a side trip to Manuel Antonio one day which we thoroughly enjoyed (the benefit of traveling to Costa Rica in the rainy season, is the crowds are much smaller). When we returned to Flying Toucans that evening after walking on every available trail, climbing every step and seeing lots of wildlife, the grounds person surprised us all with a Pipa Fria which I think was the most refreshing beverage I have ever tasted! Having a cell phone for local phone calls was a nice feature and since we turned our USA phones off except for Wifi, it was something we found very useful -- thank you! All in all, Flying Toucans made our first visit to Costa Rica, one we will never forget and we highly recommend this property. It really was paradise!

“Everything you expect” My wife and I recently stayed at Casa de Cinema for 10 nights. It was awesome!! We chose the rainy season to avoid the tourists and were not disappointed. If you're looking for the nightlife and normal touristy locations that you can walk to, then this is not the place for you. However, if it's secluded nature with modern convenience you're after, then this is exactly what you're looking for! About the house: It's a great space with a nice open living/dining area that opens on to a huge porch overlooking the pool. We spent most of our time on the porch enjoying the cool nights and listening to nature. Two separate bedrooms each with their own bath was nice. With just the two of us, we used one as a dressing room and we each had our own bathroom. The power drops out for a second or two maybe twice a day, but that's the nature of Costa Rican living. It really didn't get in the way of anything. The pool has plants surrounding it for privacy and blocks the view of the ocean, but you can just walk up the stairs to the cinema (huge covered patio) and have your morning coffee with a view. About the area: The house is a few (6) kilometers from Dominical up a mountain road. The road is not paved, but gets graded twice a year so it's easy to drive. We drove it in both dry conditions and heavy rain and had no problems. There are lots of howler monkeys in the area that move around daily. They hung out in the trees about 150ft from the house on several mornings! Awesome!! Also, there's a great waterfall and swimming hole only 30 feet from the road up. Great hidden spot! About the hosts: Toby and his wife Kim were great! They live in a house up the hill and were extremely nice and accommodating to anything we needed. The microwave went out and 3 hours after we notified them, it was replaced. Toby's a musician and has a little recording studio at the cinema. Kim is an artist and has her studio up the hill from their house. Summary: This is a fantastic place to stay!!

“Villa Paraiso lives up to its name!!” This was by far the best vacation I've ever been on and it was all thanks to the unbelievable Villa and amazing service. The Villa itself exceeded my wildest expectations! Exquisite infinity pool with a gorgeous ocean view, a kitchen that belonged in a magazine, and a state of the art movie theatre! Just outside of town it was the perfect distance from civilization for a nice secluded getaway. The surfing is a must - there's a shop that rents boards for $10/day only 5 minutes away. We even went deep sea fishing and caught a nice dinner! The nearby Playa Hermosa and Bellina are must sees and a great fresh sushi at a restaurant around the corner. Other than that anything and everything is readily available from the helpful staff who does their best to show off Costa Rica. Definitely a 5 star vacation! Can't wait to go back!

“Perfect Beach Wedding Location!” We had our wedding at the Discovery Beach House and it was a truly amazing experience. If you’re looking for a beach wedding location in Manuel Antonio, I highly recommend doing it here with Chelsea Brandau as the wedding coordinator. (She’s not directly associated with DBH, but did such a phenomenal job that she deserves recognition) The house itself is lovely and comfortable; the perfect gathering place for our large group of friends and family. We spent a lot of time hanging out by the pool, in the hot tub, and on the back patio. Its proximity to the beach can’t be beat! It was so nice to be able to lounge by the beach and make the short walk into the house to grab a drink or use the restroom. It felt like we had our own private section of the beach behind the house. The staff here is amazing! We hosted gatherings at the house for several days, including the wedding, and they were excellent about accommodating us with a smile. They offer 24-hour security and assistance, which was an excellent feature. We felt safe being outside at night and well attended (Juan was there to unlock an accidentally locked door at 1 a.m. ☺). We wanted a beach wedding with a more authentic and personalized experience than a resort and Discovery Beach House was simply perfect! We’re so happy we chose to have our wedding weekend here. It was AMAZING!

“Debra's 50th Birthday” By far one of the best vacations ever. Casa Espanola is a fabulous, upscale villa that is spacious, modern and clean. I traveled with a group of 20 people and everyone was in awe. I probably will never go to a hotel again after the Casa Espanola experience. The dining area was big enough for everyone, thus producing a total family vibe at mealtime. The rooms are big and the beds are huge. Chef Glenda and her daughter were the absolute best and the menu selections are just too many to name. The ride from SJO airport was 2 1/2 hrs but no one seemed to mind the long ride because it gave you an opportunity to sightsee. We also took the local bus in Manuel Antonio for about .67 cents....what a deal. I can't say enough about this fabulous place. I can't wait to go back. Thanks to Amy, Hazel and the staff at Casa Espanola.

“Beautiful vistas and exceptional accommodations” Casa Ramon is simply the finest villa we have ever rented. Alberto, the manager, was extremely professional and very willing to assist 24-7. The bedrooms were spacious and nicely furnished with very comfortable bedding. Our family of ten had absolutely no complaints. The views of the mountains and the Pacific from the overlook and outdoor patio will be remembered for years to come. The white face monkeys and Toucans kept us entertained. We also had some wonderful meals prepared by the chef and we have requested some of the recipes.

“Very modern place with upgraded key essentials” I have stayed in places where the photos and the actual place simply do not match up. This place is beautiful and even better in person. We by chance stayed while the owners were also on vacation and what a pleasant experience. They are passionate about this place down to the detail of the sheet thread count and quality of the towels. There concierge was excellent and the recommendations for everything from food to adventures was right on. The way the small houses are laided out are very private and quaint. The decorations to the kitchen items provided were very impressive. The location is close to everything. I am big on bathrooms and was very satisfied. We will definitely stay here again this summer or for sure next year. The price was very competitive and after looking around at other places in this price range nothing and I mean nothing compared.