Las Catalinas, Costa Rica: Where Barefoot Luxury Meets Adventure & Wellness

Imagine a place where mornings start with the sound of waves, cobblestone streets invite you to wander barefoot, and every detail feels curated just for you. Welcome to Las Catalinas, Costa Rica—a car-free, beachfront town in Guanacaste where sustainability, Mediterranean charm, and barefoot elegance meet in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re craving adventure, wellness, or simply moments of serene relaxation, Las Catalinas offers an experience that feels exclusive, effortless, and deeply personal. Here’s why this hidden gem should be at the top of your next Costa Rican getaway.

Why Las Catalinas is Unlike Any Other Beach Destination

Las Catalinas isn’t just a destination, it’s a lifestyle. Pedestrian streets, vibrant plazas, and breathtaking ocean views create a sense of calm and freedom you won’t find at a typical resort.

Here, the focus is on experiences that make your vacation feel intentional:

  • Reconnect with nature along tropical dry forest trails or while swimming in turquoise waters

  • Balance activity and relaxation with hiking, biking, paddleboarding, and yoga

  • Indulge in wellness with sound healing, meditation, and private spa treatments

  • Savor life slowly with farm-to-table dining under the stars

Every moment here encourages you to slow down, soak in your surroundings, and feel genuinely present.

Where to Stay: Private Villas & Boutique Hotels

Las Catalinas isn’t a single resort, it’s a carefully curated luxury town, offering both private villas and boutique hotel experiences.

Private Villas & Luxury Homes

  • Panoramic ocean views and infinity pools

  • Spacious 1–8 bedroom layouts, ideal for families or groups

  • Open-air terraces and elegant interiors designed for relaxation and connection

Casa Chameleon (Adults Only)

  • Exclusive hillside villas with saltwater plunge pools

  • Panoramic views of the Pacific

  • Exceptional dining at Sentido Norte, blending Costa Rican flavors with gourmet finesse

  • Perfect for couples seeking romance and privacy

Tip: Your villa or hotel choice can be tailored to your travel style—whether that’s a family adventure, a wellness retreat, or a romantic escape.

Adventure & Wellness: Curate Your Perfect Day

Las Catalinas is a playground for both adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re looking to move or unwind, every activity is designed to help you reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people you’re traveling with.

Some of the experiences you can enjoy:

  • Hiking & Biking: 40 km of trails weaving through tropical forests and along the ocean

  • Water Adventures: Paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving in pristine waters

  • Sunset Horseback Rides: Hidden beaches and unforgettable views

  • Yoga & Meditation: On the beach or private rooftops, blending movement and mindfulness

  • Cultural Experiences: Hands-on sessions with chefs, artisans, and wellness experts

  • Private Excursions: Catamaran cruises, yacht trips, and day trips to national parks or volcanoes

Pro Tip: Consider starting your day with a sunrise hike, followed by coffee overlooking the Pacific—pure magic.

Gastronomy: A Culinary Journey by the Sea

The culinary scene at Las Catalinas is as thoughtfully designed as the town itself:

  • Sentido Norte (Casa Chameleon): Fine dining with sweeping ocean views

  • Local Cafés & Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Casual yet sophisticated

  • Private In-Villa Dining: Personalized menus curated by private chefs

  • Beach Picnics & Sunset BBQs: Perfect for family or friends’ gatherings

Food here isn’t just nourishment—it’s an experience that enhances every moment of your stay.

Getting There Made Simple

Located just 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR), Las Catalinas is easily accessible yet feels a world away. Travel options include:

  • Private Transfer: Recommended for comfort and efficiency

  • Helicopter Arrival: A scenic introduction to the coastline

  • Self-Drive: Parking is available outside town; once inside, explore by foot, bicycle, or golf cart

No cars, no traffic, just peace and freedom.

Pair Las Catalinas With Other Destinations

For travelers seeking a multi-destination experience:

  • Costa Esmeralda, Nicaragua: Cross-border luxury and pristine beaches

  • Arenal Volcano: Hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure before unwinding on the coast

  • Papagayo Peninsula: Classic luxury resorts paired with boutique, car-free charm

Combining destinations allows for an elevated, personalized journey through Costa Rica and beyond.

Why I Recommend Las Catalinas

Las Catalinas is more than a beautiful destination. it’s a rare fusion of community, design, nature, and luxury. Here, barefoot relaxation meets adventure and wellness in a way that feels personal, exclusive, and memorable.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a friends’ retreat, or a romantic escape, Las Catalinas offers a transformative experience that stays with you long after you leave.





Your Next Step

Ready to wander barefoot in Costa Rica? I can help you craft a personalized, stress-free escape to Las Catalinas, from selecting the perfect villa to planning curated adventures and private dining experiences.

Let’s chat and start designing your dream getaway today!

Book Your Consultation

Veronica Espinoza