Las Catalinas (Guanacaste, Costa Rica)
What happens when you mix Cinque Terre, Italy and Vail, Colorado? You end up with the beautifully designed beach town of Las Catalinas in Costa Rica. Em and I were honored to be able to meet with Neal Herman, the President and COO of Las Catalinas and hear how this incredible, family-friendly town came to be. It’s located on the beach with 1,000 acres of surrounding hills for biking and hiking.
Every detail and corner of the community was thoughtfully designed. Las Catalinas’ website says, “its purpose is to create a way of life that is healthy, sustainable, fulfilling, and fun. It’s a place where connecting with other people, and with nature, is easy.”
One of the best things about the town is that it was designed in a way where no cars are needed. All the essentials such as housing, hotels, shops, and restaurants, are located directly in town so there isn’t a need to drive anywhere. The town was designed where families and friends could easily socialize and become less isolated. We were amazed to have this truly unique experience!
Another amazing thing about Las Catalinas is that you can actually make this beachfront oasis your home! It’s perfect for young families and retirement alike, there are properties that are currently for sale. Within our short visit here, it was easy to see why so many people have made this Costa Rican getaway their permanent home!
During our incredible three days in Las Catalinas, we were so thankful to go scuba diving, and to stay at the brand new Santarena Hotel. The staff was incredibly kind. The room had a modern luxury design and we loved sitting on our balcony and listening to the waves crashing on the nearby beach! Each night, we ate at Santarena’s Ponciana Restaurant. The food was amazing and became a highlight that we looked forward to every day! During our stay, we also visited the Wake spa in Las Catalinas. Our massage and facial were extremely relaxing and the spa’s staff was great! On our walk back from the spa, through the town of Las Catalinas, Em and I felt like we fell asleep in Costa Rica and woke up in a small town in Europe!
~ Read our 16 Best Things To Do in Costa Rica post for more ideas on what to experience in this beautiful country!
