Aguas Claras, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Hotel Aguas Claras is the brainchild of a mother-daughter artist team from San José. The hotel is situated in a series of restored, art-filled Victorian houses: one is home to the hotel's reception, another houses six guest suites, and the third is a two-story Caribbean house that can be reserved for parties up to 10. Rounding out the property are six freestanding luxury bungalows. The bungalows and suites are connected to the beach of Playa Chiquita by a private footpath. 

Pros

• The hotel features one-of-a-kind art and architecture steps away from the beach.
• Complimentary banana seat bicycles are available for exploring the area.
• There's a pool bar next to the oasis-like pool.
• Guest rooms have luxurious amenities.

Cons

• The hotel gets booked early; planning ahead is necessary if you want to stay here.
• Kids under 12 aren't permitted, which could be a downside for some families.

Authenticity

Opened in 2017, Hotel Aguas Claras is the passion project of a mother-daughter creative duo—both artists from San José—who fell in love with this stretch of coastline. Together, they took over what was originally a cluster of old cabanas on the beach, transforming the rustic cottages into contemporary Caribbean bungalows and decorating the property with their original watercolor paintings, mosaics, and artwork made by friends and family.

Location

Situated on the edge of the jungle, the property offers access to the semi-private Playa Chiquita beach and is just a short stroll from the bustling town of Puerto Viejo, known for its shops, markets, and cafés. The extensive Cahuita National Park, home to the largest stretch of coral reef in Costa Rica, is just a 25-minute drive away.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Each room is air-conditioned and features a king-sized bed with soft, plush bedding and pillows, along with a lounge area and minibar. The bathrooms have organic toiletries, showers, cotton robes, and hairdryers. The two-story Caribbean House, Casa Floralia, offers an ideal space for larger groups or families, complete with a full kitchen, a lounge space, and five bedrooms, each with a full private bathroom. The hotel also has an array of bungalows, from one-bedroom options ideal for couples seeking privacy to spacious two-bedroom luxury bungalows with private plunge pools and open-air living space.

Wildlife

It's common to see playful monkeys and sloths on the hotel grounds and iguanas lounging near the pool. Travelers can often spot toucans or green macaws in the treetops.

Amenities

The hotel's oasis-like swimming pool is a highlight, complete with outdoor lounge space and a pool bar. There's a fast-dry service for towels and bathing suits. Other amenities include a spa, a beach bar, complimentary bikes, and yoga and meditation classes. The hotel also hosts themed nights and offers activities such as yoga and meditation classes, local handicraft shops, and Afro-Caribbean cocktail and cooking classes. All common areas are wheelchair accessible, as are some rooms.

Family-Friendliness

The hotel welcomes children over 12 years of age. For a family of five or more, Casa Floralia is recommended, or a two-bedroom bungalow is a good option. No extra beds or cribs are allowed. Beach activities such as swimming and snorkeling are just steps away. 

Other Highlights

The hotel's restaurant, Papaya, provides a breakfast menu and serves lunch and dinner influenced by the Afro-Caribbean culture of Puerto Viejo. For a more laid-back vibe, the DaLime Beach Club offers drinks and food on the beach with live music.