Be nature’s guest at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Rica. This eco-lodge, situated on 165 acres of private, preserved land, is a perfect remote getaway. Located on the Osa Peninsula, Playa Nicuesa gifts you all the rainforest has to offer.
Playa Nicuesa sits within Central America’s largest rainforest along the Pacific Ocean. This area along the Golfo Dulce is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. It is no wonder Playa Nicuesa is placed here. This pristine and private lodge gives guests access to the mountains and the coast, with all the amenities and activities of both.
Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Playa Nicuesa is the place for you. Across the Golfo Dulce from Puerto Jimenez and accessible only by boat, enjoy the immersion in nature here. There are endless activities suited for the wildlife explorer or the vacationer.
Their story
Playa Nicuesa was founded on principles of sustainability and hospitality. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations perfectly perched in the heart of the Osa Peninsula. The real adventure lies in the rainforests and coastline, with all of nature’s beauty adding to the beauty of the lodge.
The lodge offers numerous activities for guests to enjoy nature. With a guided Sustainability or Rainforest Tour, guests can learn all about the tropical rainforest and the importance of sustainability. Playa Nicuesa has guided options for the nature novice, but guests are also encouraged to explore by themselves within the preserve.
Playa Nicuesa is the epitome of an eco-lodge in Costa Rica. A mixture of sustainability and conservation preserves the natural beauty, which draws guests to this part of the world. Playa Nicuesa is award-winning, with five leaves from the Costa Rican Sustainable Tourism Board, as well as recognition from Tripadvisor and the Green Leaders network.
After a long day of exploring the jungle or snorkeling in the sea, the cozy yet luxurious lodge. Guest cabins are carefully crafted in fine hardwoods. Guests can opt for private cabins with wrap-around porches and private terraces. With a focus on local culture and cuisine, Playa Nicuesa gives guests the authentic Costa Rican experience. Read more about them here.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The main lodge is constructed from salvaged Costa Rican wood using local labor. All other wood used onsite comes from naturally fallen trees.
- Buildings occupy only 2% of the entire property—the remainder is privately preserved.
- The construction used recycled materials whenever possible, like roof tiles made from recycled plastics.
- Rainwater trenches channel heavy water and reduce erosion on site.
High level of energy efficiency
- Nicuesa has energy provided by a hydroelectric turbine. A backup generator runs off of reused vegetable oil. The energy supply is limited, and guests are discouraged from unnecessary energy-intensive products.
- Cabins and lodges are designed to allow the natural flow of air and light, which reduces the need for electricity.
- Laundry uses a passive solar drying room.
- Solar lanterns provide unobtrusive outdoor lighting.
Pioneer in waste management
- Water comes from a natural spring and is cleaned using a UV and sediment filter.
- Gray and black water is separated and cleaned using micro-organisms.
- Trash is separated to allow for proper recycling of glass, plastics, aluminum, and paper.
- Organic waste is composted and used in gardens.
Organic and chemical-free operation
- The cuisine at the lodge is locally sourced, with fresh fish, tropical fruits, and vegetables. Fruits often come from the preserve itself.
- Gardens and maintained landscapes do not use artificial fertilizers or pesticides.
- The lodge staff uses natural solutions to deter certain insects and pests.
- All cleaning products onsite are organic and biodegradable.
Actively protects nature and community
- Playa Nicuesa employs almost exclusively locals, including architects, laborers, and service staff. Former hunters have been trained as tour guides, fostering a constant state of growth learning and rehabilitation.
- Playa Nicuesa has sponsored many community projects, from a local school to a recycling center. Every month, Playa Nicuesa sponsors an employee to attend an intensive English-learning program.
- The lodge is working to preserve and beautify the area constantly.
- Playa Nicuesa regularly buys from local fishermen, farmers, artists, and craftsmen.
Most Popular Activities near Playa Nicuesa
- Sea kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, swimming
- Bird-watching walks to see many of the 20 Costa Rican birds.
- Golfo Dulce dolphin, whale, and turtle watching
- Mangrove kayaking
- Zip-lining
- Hiking to waterfalls and in the Piedras Blancas National Park.
READ ON – 36 Eco-friendly Things to Do in Costa Rica (From A to Z)
Best time to visit Playa Nicuesa
- To avoid the rainy season, plan your visit outside May-June and September-October.
- If you want to enjoy this place the sunniest it can be, visit in March or December.
- The humidity in Costa Rica is high all year around.
- Smaller showers or thunderstorms can be expected all year around, so please be prepared.
READ ON – Best Time To Visit Costa Rica (Factual Data, Pros & Cons, What to Expect)