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Puerto Jimenez, Osa Peninsula
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, Punta Nicuesa, Puerto Jimenez, Osa Peninsula 60701
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Explore Costa Rica Together on a Fun Family Vacation

Looking for a family vacation in Costa Rica that's more than a typical gated resort? Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge offers an unparalleled, all-inclusive opportunity for your entire family to learn, play, and make memories together in the rainforest, while being immersed in two natural adventure playgrounds in one location!


The Golfo Dulce is the "front door" to the lodge which is only accessible by boat. This Sweet Gulf is one of only four tropical fjords in the world; and its calm, warm waters are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing.

Our "back door" sends you right into the rain forest. The series of private trails surrounding the lodge, as well as those attached to the Piedras Blancas National Park, will provide your family with days of rich & fun adventures.

Our vacation approach is authentic, educational and adventurous, fit for all ages. We provide you with the right mix of adventure and quality down time with family. You may choose from plenty options for self guided activities and unstructured adventure or relaxing; or take a guided adventure tour. And after all the fun, our fresh and delicious locally-sourced tropical cuisine will amaze and replenish everyone.... small kids and big ones too (read all about the unique Dining experience Nicuesa offers >).

Get Drenched & Have Fun

  • Kayak to nearby hidden coves
  • Catch a fish with your kids
  • Cannonball off the dock into warm waters

Immerse in the Rainforest

  • Hike to rainforest waterfalls
  • Discover the mangroves & view wildlife while kayaking a jungle river
  • Look for monkeys, wild pigs and majestic blue butterflies on the trails or perhaps even from the lodge terrace

Learn Together

  • Forage the rain forest for jungle edibles and play "chef" for the evenings meal
  • Practice yoga together at sunrise & sunset
  • Take a tour of the nearby animal sanctuary & release program - Always a favorite of the kids!!!
 

Nature's Classroom

Your kids won't know that Playa Nicuesa's tours are educational because they will be having too much fun. They'll learn how to open coconuts, find out how pineapples grow, and learn about local insects. They can even eat sweet tasting termites!
We also offer many opportunities for spontaneous self guided adventures from jumping into the Gulf for a swim, or taking a breathtaking kayak discovery-ride, or a variety of hikes ranging from easy flat walks to steep climbs into the primary rain forest.

For Families Big and Small

Playa Nicuesa's Two Room Cabins can fit up to 5 guests and offer comfort and privacy. The Mango Guesthouse with four separate rooms is ideal for large groups wanting to rent the whole house; or better yet: you may also rent the whole lodge and bring your whole family and friends together for a big nature-bash!
Food is also an important and interesting part of the experience at Nicuesa (menu example). Almost all of the food at Playa Nicuesa is minutes fresh, from source to plate. We believe in reducing food miles, and therefore we grow a variety of organic fruits and vegetables on the preserve, and catch or purchase fish, and other food locally.
A trip to this magical location will be an authentic and transformational journey for both kids & adults. Your stay at Nicuesa will stretch the imagination and create family adventure memories of a lifetime.

Articles Written About Family Enjoyment at Nicuesa Lodge

Days of Green - Costa Rica's family-friendly eco-resorts open visitors to whole new ways of living
It's unusual to come back from a magical trip to a tropical paradise feeling regretful. But that's exactly how I returned from Costa Rica. I regret that I went alone. I regret that I didn't see my wife's jaw drop at the breathtaking sights. I regret that my sons didn't learn the things I did about treading lightly on this planet while still being very much a part of it. But at least I can tell them. And you. Read the Full Article >

Taking a Detour Off the Beaten Path
In a country with many options for "going green", travelers looking for a rather wild and beautiful place can stop over at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, occupying its own 165-acre preserve right next to the Piedras Blancas National Park on the Osa Peninsula. … Going green and staying green is the philosophy of Michael and Donna Butler, who own this lovely, environmentally savvy lodge tucked away in the rainforest. … Easily suited to hosting small groups with special interests such as birding, multisport and fishing; and it's an ideal place for a family vacation. Rated BEST PLACE TO STAY in 2014 Delta Air Lines Central America Guide > 
 

Guest Comments about Nicuesa Lodge as a Family Vacation Destination

"Memorable Vacation at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge"
I just spent five wonderful days at Nicuesa Lodge with my 10 year old daughter. We took advantage of the morning guided tours to explore the area and to learn about the local flora and fauna. We were mesmerized by how many different species of animals and birds live here. Read full review >

"Awesome Place in the Jungle with the Best Friendly and Helpful Service"
We were at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge for 4 nights. It is a lovely place accessible only by boat. The rooms are open no locks on doors. The service was truly 5 star. The waterfall hike was awesome and so was the boating and kayaking adventure. We were there with two young adult children. Read full review >

"One of the Best Places on Earth - AMAZING"
We left Playa Nicuesa this morning and I still feel tearful, I was so sad to leave! It is a magical place where we (2 adults and 2 children) stayed for 4 nights. There are no doors to the cabins, there is no need to lock anything away, Read full review >

"Return Trip June 2015"
A return trip to Nicuesa with all the family. In 2009 we had a such a wonderful time. Back then boys were 3 and 6 (now 9 and 12). Was wondering if this trip would burst my memory bubble. Well... in fact it grew. Took the multisport escapade package for 7 nights (surf and turf for a week). Read full review >

READ MORE RECENT REVIEWS FROM FAMILIES ON TRIP ADVISOR >

 
GET IMMERSED IN NATURE!Upgraded Green Specials »
GET IMMERSED IN NATURE!Valid on Bookings to Visit until December 15th, 2023
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