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Resort on Tropical Gardens near Playa Carrillo

Thousands of miles from his native Georgia, El Sueño Tropical resort co-owner Vinnie Greaves has made the Costa Rican fishing hamlet of Puerto Carrillo a home away from home. Vinnie brings old-fashioned Southern hospitality to the hotel's exotic setting: it's not unusual to see a toucan or an iguana nearby as you dine on Southern comfort food in the open-air restaurant. The late-night bar broadcasts popular sporting events. For all its down-home charm, El Sueño Tropical still seems like a remote Pacific hideaway. The resort's 3 acres of winding gravel walkways and dense tropical flora are just a few minutes from Playa Carrillo, named one of the Best Secret Beaches on Earth by Travel + Leisure.

Inside guest rooms, spanish-tile roofs, wicker furniture, and log beds add to the breezy, tropical vibe. In the morning, choose between a classic American breakfast or a traditional Tico spread of plantains, gallo pinto, and tortillas at the open-air restaurant. The thatched-roof eatery also offers fresh-caught fish for dinner. After a meal, you can indulge the senses further at nearby Playa Carrillo with a seaside massage.

This deal also comes with an activity or tour credit that can be used toward excursions including surfing lessons, a kayak tour, or a zipline canopy tour. The zipline tour gives you a bird’s-eye view of the mangroves and palm trees, but is tame enough for kids aged 6 or older. For water-based adventures, the guided kayak tours head either down the Rio Oro to a turtle preserve or disembark from Playa Samara for snorkeling near a tiny island.

Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica: Secluded Beaches and Exotic Wildlife

Located in Costa Rica’s northwest corner, the Nicoya Peninsula is a geographic wonder of volcanic ranges, dense jungles, and Pacific beaches. You have several options to explore the terrain, including riding horseback through the mountains or taking a bird-watching tour to see the region’s parrots, toucans, and hummingbirds. Just a few minutes from the hotel, Playa Carrillo curls around a crescent-shaped bay hedged by a coral reef. With no buildings or tourist traps, the beach is a serene spot to sunbathe, spot olive ridley sea turtles, or fish for marlin.

For more energetic nightlife, head northwest along the coast to Playa Samara. A popular vacation spot, Playa Samara brims with beachside restaurants, bars with sand floors, and street-side vendors hawking fresh fruit, traditional Guaitil pottery, and autographed photos of Toucan Sam.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.