On Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, Aguas Claras is a work of art. In fact, we wouldn't expect anything less from the team of well-known mother-daughter artists who restored this collection of Victorian bungalows (the swishy lobby even has a turreted tower), adding a distinctive flair to every space. Aguas Claras is also a few sandy steps away from two of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean - snorkelling is a must! The dining options are fabulous and include the cool-as-a-cucumber DaLime, right on the beach and overflowing with Puerto Viejo's Calypso charm - and if you're craving more of it, the vibrant town is a bicycle ride away.
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Set within tropical gardens of bougainvillea vines, cycads and palms, the pool is a delight with plenty of brightly-painted loungers and a thatched bar. Just next door, the Papaya has been dubbed one of the finest hotel restaurants around, serving fabulous seafood including an inventive take on rondon soup - and a triple coconut dessert to follow. Open-sided lounges are a lovely spot to just chill, while the Casa Ghandi yoga deck and spa offers some good R&R. Head to DaLime for reggae music, sunset cocktails and delicious local dishes.
Aguas Claras' suites (aka 'sweets)' are all perfectly curated, their pristine, white interiors splashed with artwork, vintage furnishings and eye-popping headboards that all offer a nod to each unique theme from 50s Havana to oceanic. The suites all have a living area and massive bathrooms with spa-like showers, while the stilted bungalows are Caribbean-cool and feature a kitchenette. Two-bedroom bungalows also enjoy an open-air living and dining space, and the Cacao bungalow is the most exclusive with a wrap-around veranda for sunbathing and private massages.
Aguas Claras is surrounded by beauty spots, whether it's the beaches right on the doorstep or the sights and sounds a little further away. Go kayaking up 'Eduardo Creek' (eyes peeled for river turtles and swooping kingfishers), or visit a BriBri community and learn about their deep connection with cacao. Dive the incredible coral reefs of Cahuita National Park, where shoals of tropical fish, reef sharks and stingrays await, or hike into the forests where sloths, iguanas and poison dart frogs rustle amongst the leaves.
Aguas Claras' perfect melding of exquisite design and the quirky Caribbean coast.
If you're travelling as a larger group, take a look at the Casa Florialia, Aguas Claras' private two-storey house. It's only a short walk to DaLime and the semi-private Playa Chiquita, and boasts a wet-bar and kitchen.
No children under 12 are allowed to stay at Aguas Claras, so younger families will need to look elsewhere.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Aguas Claras can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Costa Rica trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Costa Rica trips featuring Aguas Claras or get advice and suggestions from one of our Costa Rica specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Aguas Claras start from around $340, or US$340, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
The Caribbean cost, its tiny towns and nature-rich parks are laidback, vibrant and incredibly enjoyable
