Words from our guests

“Gorgeous views and gardens. Private, quiet, and relaxing. Great personal check in from the host! Some bugs in the indoor/outdoor shower as you would expect, but they were kept at bay by our friendly house gecko, who we loved to spot around the room! As mentioned in other reviews, definitely need a good vehicle for the final portion of the drive to the property, but that’s fun, too. Would love to return.”

“This property was absolutely beautiful as well as the surrounding area! It was so peaceful and private. Karen was the best host we’ve ever had. She checked in on us daily and helped set up excursions for us. She had great recommendations on things to do and places to eat. I highly recommend staying here!”

“We had an absolutely incredible stay Costa Rica! The home was even more beautiful than the photos, spotless, comfortable, and perfectly located. Walking up to lush, greenery, and peaceful surrounding felt like paradise. The sunsets 🌅 were magical.”

“Truly a one of a kind home with jaw dropping views and all the comforts of home in an amazing location. Karen was extremely nice and accommodating as we arrived very late on a weekend and she was there to meet us and show us around the home. The steep drive up (a 4x4 vehicle or ATV is required) is worth every minute when you see the incredible view. The home is soooooo private and a real paradise. This is the best we’ve ever stayed in and we’ve traveled the world. We will be back and would highly recommend the home to everyone.”

“Amazing view! Private get away, but easy drive to town. Such a beautiful place, it is a unique experience. Karen is a lovely host and met us there with a coconut 🥥 drink. There was fresh fruit to eat throughout the stay. Would definitely return.”

“Karen was extremely helpful and responsive and very welcoming. The stay was beyond our expectations- Tranquility at its finest. The best place to stay if you’re looking to refresh, refocus and ground yourself with Mother Nature. Excellent for honeymoon stays and I strongly recommend connecting with Karen if you’re interested in the massages - exceptional service! Will return again and recommend to friends and family.”

“Mal Pais and Santa Teresa are on the Nicoya Peninsula and were only discovered by the “surfing fraternity” 15 years ago and they still remain a secret to most. The sleepy fishing hamlet of Mal Pais is a short walk away and here you can join a fishing boat to catch Tuna, Mahi Mahi or Black Mackerel, all ideal for eating back at the Casita or you can enjoy exploring the coastline towards the Caco Blanco.”

“The house is beautiful and the view is even better! Karen was helpful, friendly and amazing. Without Karen’s help the house would not be easy to find. But she proactively sent everything we needed and followed up in the morning to see if we needed anything else. We hope to come back! Thank you. Pura Vida!! ♥️”

“AMAZING STAY 🙌🏽🙏🏽 Pura Vida - Karen was very helpful throughout the trip with tour planning and recommendations etc. Villa itself was unbelievable. Beautiful views, serene, tranquil, clean, private, you name it. Definitely will plan to come back soon!”

“An absolutely stunning property, and Karen was an incredible host! Everything was clean, thoughtfully prepared, and the communication was excellent. Karen helped me feel right at home and assisted with local recommendations. One of the best experiences I’ve had—highly recommend!”

“Karen was an exceptional host who made our stay truly memorable! Her attention to detail ensured everything was impeccably organized and spotlessly clean. She went above and beyond with thoughtful welcome gifts, including fresh fruit, coffee, and wine. Karen’s local expertise was invaluable, providing excellent recommendations for nearby restaurants and grocery stores. She was highly responsive, promptly addressing all our questions with clear and helpful answers.”

“We enjoyed everything about our stay! The place is as pictured and described, but better! It was very private and peaceful, yet close to the beach and town. Karen was so incredibly helpful and kind. Highly recommend!”

“We had the best most relaxing stay. Karen was amazing and very responsive. Very private and perfect for a babymoon. Hopefully we will have the chance to come back!”

“Karen, the host, was a wealth of information and went far above and beyond. When our travel plans completely fell apart and the airline essentially abandoned us, she stepped in and helped us get to Mal País, which we will never forget. Her kindness and support truly made all the difference.”

“I cannot say enough about this place. Karen was top tier in communication and making sure we had everything we needed. The pictures of this place are fantastic and don’t do the place justice. The road leading up is very steep and rocky with lots of ruts and you will definitely need a 4 wheel drive. I highly recommend renting an ATV instead of a car. We plan on returning and instead of renting an all wheel drive vehicle we plan on putting that cost towards an ATV. Santa Theresa is a wonderful surf town. The people here are very nice and welcoming. Karen and this place has to be in the top 2 places we have been. Thank you Karen and we look forward to seeing you again! PURA VIDA!!”

“I don’t know where to begin! Karen was the most incredible host. She scheduled our private dinners, our surf lessons, our car to and from the airport and so much more. She was extremely responsive and kept checking in on us. She made the experience. A cleaner came every day to give us fresh towels and linens and to tidy up the place. It was a resort type of experience but with extreme privacy, so much more to do and cheaper. Don’t hesitate on this place. 10 out of 10 experience. Mal Pais has a piece of my heart. Thank you, Karen for the incredible stay. You are welcoming, attentive and go out of your way. I can’t wait to come back! PuraVida!”

“Where do I start? This was an absolute gem of a place to stay! I’ve stayed at over 50 different all over the world and this has to be in my top 3 ever. Remote location perfect to relax and unwind. Breathtaking views of Costa Rica. Monkeys visiting your balcony. Very clean and well kept house. Pristine pool at the perfect temperature! Nothing not to love about this place 10/10!!!”

“This is the best experience I’ve ever had. From check in to checkout Karen was kind and hospitable. The accommodation is absolutely perfect. The nature and wildlife feels like the garden of Eden. We were visited by monkeys, colorful singing birds, hummingbirds, butterflies, an orange squirrel, etc. the big bowl of tropical fruit Karen brought us was the icing on the cake. Highly recommend.”

“Was such a beautiful place. We wish we could’ve stayed longer. Karen was always available and extremely responsive. Only negative was, our SUV was unable to make it up the very steep loose rock road. Karen quickly helped and got us taxi to take us up the rest of the way. Once we got there, everything was perfect. Amazing views.”

“It’s simple. The views are out of this world. I stay at a lot of ’s (like months a year) and this is in my top three in the world. The house was perfect for my partner and I. Karen is extremely helpful. Definitely rent an atv. It’s a great location. The wildlife we saw was incredible. One morning we had monkeys yelling and throwing things at raccoons. It was National Geographic quality. We will be back”

“Oh wow, what an absolutely incredible place. The view, the pool, the location, the host, everything was perfect. I stay in many and this one ranks at the top of my list. Waking up every morning to the sounds of nature and coastal view and taking a dip in the pool was perfect. I will stay here again one day.”

“I had such a wonderful stay! This place is so peaceful. Thanks to Karen for taking care of everything and being so responsive! I’ll be back soon!”

“This was absolutely stunning! The location is beyond beautiful, with incredible views and daily visits from monkeys, butterflies, and so many other amazing animals; it felt like being in the heart of the jungle. The suite itself was gorgeous, spotless, and thoughtfully designed, making it feel like we were completely immersed in nature while still having all the modern comforts. The pool was perfect and so clean, a great spot to relax and soak in the scenery. It’s in the perfect location close to everything.”

“There are not enough positive words to express how wonderful this stay is. The views, the town, the host! I promise you will not be disappointed with your stay here. Karen was all kinds of lovely and helpful. She truly helped make the stay perfect. Do yourself the favor, and just stay. We can’t wait to come back, and will be planning our next trip as soon as possible.”

“Karen was a wonderful host. Always available to answer questions. This house is like a slice of heaven! If you just need to recharge this is the place to go! I will be back soon”

“Karen was exceptional. Not complaints what’s so ever. I did have a pillow that was too firm and she accommodated me with a softer one on the same day. So appreciate that 😊 This was a magical place wish we could have stayed longer. We will definitely be back to Costa Rica trying other avenues as we would like to venture out.”

“Absolutely stunning!! Our experience at this was easily the best experience we’ve ever had. Karen was amazing. No words can describe how helpful, friendly, and awesome she was!! The was everything we could have hoped for. Views were amazing. Wildlife was amazing. Experience was amazing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”

“What can I say?! This place was perfect and exactly what was needed for a relaxing and restful vacation. The views, the pool, everything was so fantastic. I would not hesitate to book here again. It was everything we dreamed it would be.”

“Amazing stay! The house is very private and secluded, and the views are even better than the pictures. An ATV is strongly recommended as it is the easiest and fastest way to get around the area and in Santa Teresa (even more so than a car). The house was a great escape from the happenings in Santa Teresa - you can't beat a dinner on the patio while watching the sun set over the water. Karen was very communicative and flexible, even as we had travel delays due to weather. We hope to be back again someday!”

“Had an absolutely amazing trip. Grateful for the helpful communication from the host and just the space itself. It did volumes for nervous system regulation. Thank you so much.”

“Loved everything about our stay. The house was perfect, the view unreal and Karen was an amazing host. Helped us booking activities and answered any questions we had. We can’t wait to stay again soon!”

“Perfect stay, amazing communication. Can't recommend Karen enough!”

“The home was absolutely amazing. Karen was the best host. We cannot wait to go back!”

“Our honey moon at this was everything we could have dreamed of, the view was very scenic and beautiful. As parents of 2 kids this was a very needed 5 days getaway. Karen was an amazing host and always there when we needed her ! Eloisa made sure to keep our room clean and stocked at all times when needed, she was really kind. Overall amazing group whose will make you feel at home. The only recommendation we have will be to have a projector or TV to keep you relaxed and entertained specially during rainy days. Other than that I would recommend this place all the time. Thank you for being kind and supportive!”

“Our homes are located in Santa Teresa / Mal País, which are intentionally remote coastal destinations known for nature, privacy, and surf culture. Because of this, travel typically involves either driving from Liberia or San José, or flying into Cobano and taking a short taxi transfer. We provide this guidance in our listing, pre-arrival communication, and welcome materials to help guests plan comfortably.”

“Karen is the best host we have ever had. Incredible stay”

“Staying at this property was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, Karen made us feel incredibly welcome—her warmth, attentiveness, and deep knowledge of the area made a huge difference in our trip. She stocked the home with fresh fruits, milk, and other thoughtful essentials, which was such a lovely touch. The property itself is stunning—modern, beautifully designed, and perched in a location that offers truly breathtaking views. Every sunrise and sunset was like a private show. Getting around requires an ATV. Taxis are available, but can be quite expensive. For those not confident in their ATV-driving skills, we highly recommend parking in the grassy areas just before the property—the driveway is steep and a bit tricky for beginners. If you're looking for a true escape, peaceful, awe-inspiring, and hosted by someone who genuinely cares—this is your place. Karen is an absolute angel, and the property is Heaven on earth. We can't wait to return!”

“This place is fabulous in every way! Service was excellent. Not one complaint. The host went above and beyond. Thank you!! 😊”

“This was the best experience I’ve had! Karen was extremely helpful and friendly. The views were breathtaking. I can’t get back there soon enough!”

“Karen was amazing before and during the trip! She’s very communicative and helpful when it comes to planing!”

“This is a lovely spot overlooking the Mal Pais coast. The property is wonderfully private. The pool is well cared for and adds to the relaxing vibe. The local beaches are beautiful and another easy place to relax. Fishing with a local captain was exceptional as well. Karen was wonderful with her communication. You feel like you will looked after if any need arises.”

“We have stayed in several , and this by far was the best experience we have ever had. Karen was an incredible host and went above and beyond throughout the whole trip. She made check-in a breeze, had tons of tips and recommendations, and was communicative throughout our stay. We cannot wait to come back.”

“Omgggggg where do I start? I stayed here for my honeymoon and when I tell you the best decision I’ve ever made. The host is very helpful. She help me book massages ,taxi services and even a chef. She’s very responsive and made my stay so much easier. I definitely recommend getting an atv. Amazing view , AMAZING EVERYTHING!!!!!!!”

“This was the absolute perfect place to spend our 25th anniversary and we are already making plans to come back with the whole family. The house and views were breathtaking and we killed several hours over several days just relaxing on the patio. Karen, Eloisa, and everybody else were fantastic and thank you so much for making this trip so memorable.”

“Our stay was everything we dreamed of for our honeymoon, if not more! The pictures do not do justice. This place is truly gorgeous. Karen is responsive, helpful, and made sure we knew everything about Mal pais and Santa Teresa. She recommended supermarkets and restaurants and told us how to order! We will definitely be coming back.”

“No words. This place is stunning, has the best view of Santa Teresa/Carmen/Mal Pais, and is exactly as presented. The pictures don’t do it justice. Karen was terrific every step of the way to ensure we had an easy and comfortable stay. She went out of her way to help us with anything needed. You are in good hands here!”

“One of the nicest places I’ve ever stayed! The design is beautiful and it feels like they thought of everything. The pool and views were spectacular and the casita was extremely comfortable with everything you need. The inside outside shower with direct views of the coast line was amazing and we loved sunsets from the deck the most. The hosts were on point start to finish. Highly recommend staying here — we will definitely be back!!”

“Location is quiet and private. All you hear are the ocean waves and bird calls in the morning and we loved the visit from the capuchin monkeys!”

“Where to start… LOOK NO FURTHER! Book immediately!!! This villa is just amazing. The pictures don't do the place justice. Every detail is well thought out to make the stay perfect. Daily cleaning, coffee and wine as well as a fruit basket on arrival and Karen who welcomes us with her great kindness. She responds extremely quickly to any questions and inquired about the progress of our stay. You absolutely need a 4x4 to get to the top, but once you get there, you'll forget all your worries! We were celebrating our honeymoon and there's no better place to do it. It's a little slice of heaven!!!Enjoy it in your turn! Pura Vida”

“We absolutely LOVED our stay at La Casa. We truly did not want to leave. Watching the amazing tropical birds and money watching was a daily pastime.”

“This was me and my wife’s honeymoon and it was an absolute DREAM!! Karen makes your experience the best ever!! She helps you with everything and you have a cleaning lady who cleans every day. It’s a very safe place and very quiet. If you come don’t get a car all you need is a ATV! 10/10 recommend!!”

“Wonderful responsive host and welcomed us with wine. Gave me tons of great recs. The place also provided beach stuff like chairs, cooler, boogie board which was really helpful. It’s surrounded by nature and we saw monkeys and iguanas right outside the which was why we picked the place.”

“This house is simply spectacular! The attention to detail, the house amenities, the quality of the furnishings and the build… everything. However, the private nature and the views are top level! Also, Karen is one of the most friendly and helpful hosts we’ve dealt with. Made us feel right at home.”

“Peace and Pura Vida is what you will experience here. The ability to experience Santa Teresa or any surrounding towns and then retreat here to enjoy the evening sunset is a perfect match. Costa Rica is rich in splendor and this house is no exception. It is a compliment to it.”

“Perfection! The place is nothing short of WOW! Karen was the BEST host. She made us feel right at home like meeting a long lost cousin when we arrived. Recommendations were great and the place couldn’t have been more peaceful and spectacular! Highly recommend!!!!”

“If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway to recharge, look no further. It’s more than pictures can show. The sunrise and sunsets are breathtaking. The natural surroundings will bring an overflow of peace. The owners of the property spared no expense with every detail including kindness. If there is a heaven on earth, this is it. Be sure to have a 4-wheel drive and be ready for some steps to get there. Karen will meet you and show you the way. She was a perfect host. Very responsive and met any request we had.”

“Tremendous home with spectacular mountain top view. Very peaceful and Karen our host was on top of even the smallest of details to make our stay for our 25th wedding anniversary something we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”

““Amazing” is the most common description of this beautiful home and I absolutely agree. Our stay was very peaceful and relaxing. Without any hesitation I highly recommend you stop searching and select this home for your Costa Rica visit. Karen, the host is amazing as well and attended to our every need.”

“Beautiful one bedroom with everything one would likely need. Karen was SUPER helpful and engaging prior to and during our visit. She made it all super easy and convenient. Highly recommend.”

“We had an incredible stay. The house had everything we needed for our 2 weeks. Karen welcomed us like family, provided great recommendations and checked in with us to make sure we had everything we needed. It was nice to be able to request clean sheets, towels, garage pick up and cleaning as needed. The house is very private while being close to wonderful beaches and Santa Teresa. The pool was always the perfect temp and we swam daily. The bed was so comfortable. We loved having snorkeling gear to visit the beach just 10 minutes away at low tide. We had a 4x4 SUV and were able to drive up easily. It is a paradise and we had a memorable and wonderful stay.”

“Karen is certainly the best host I’ve had. She went above and beyond - met us with chilled wine and fresh fruit when we arrived. She helped us organize a personal chef (Mario & Fatima were outstanding!) and helped us set up a bioluminescence tour with snorkeling and beach picnic that was amazing. Additionally, she helped us set up ATV rental and Karen aaa easily available to answer any questions or help us along the way. She checked-in daily but was never intrusive. She’s just phenomenal and a tremendous asset to the experience - especially for someone who has never been to the area.”

“This place is fantastic. It’s one of my favorite ’s to-date and we’ve stayed at quite a few excellent ones the last few years across the globe. It was immaculately clean and just as described. The view was fantastic. I did wish it had more sun on the deck and pool earlier in the day but that’s not the fault of the house! We found wonderful beaches and came back for a relaxing late afternoon and evening swim each day. Listening to the birds and other animals with the screened in bedroom was an experience we will remember fondly.”

“My stay in Mal Pais Home was absolutely stunning. The home was extremely dreamy, peaceful and a great place to relax and unwind. We stayed for eight days and it was absolutely amazing. Definitely recommend renting a ATV through Karen, the company she uses is absolutely great and super helpful. My communication with Karen was one of a kind, she was extremely, communicative and helpful. She answered all my questions and made my stay very easy. We were agreed by Karen and her helper, she left for us some wine, coconut water, and fruits. Every time that I had any questions I immediately messaged Karen and she was able to help me. She welcomed us with open arms, as if we were family. Thank you so much, Karen for all your help, you are one of a kind. The best host we’ve ever had. This stay was amazing thanks to you and the beautiful home.”

“The cleaning staff are like invisible super heroes who clean when you're not there, leaving you in total privacy. And if you love thunderstorms, there is no better place to enjoy them than here. We swam in the rain, were lulled asleep to the sounds of the jungle, basked in the sun, & soaked up every single moment. We've enjoyed some amazing travel adventures around the world and this is one of the most incredible places we've ever stayed- Pura Vida!”

“First class service from Karen. Stunning property with everything you need for a relaxing and romantic escape. Nature abounds and close to gourmet restaurants.”

“Karen was a rockstar from the beginning. Our ferry was delayed so we arrived after dark, Karen made sure we’re had a smooth check in as she personally came by the property. She made it extra special for my girlfriend’s 30th birthday. The pictures do not do the property justice, simply breathtaking. About an 8 minute drive from Santa Teresa town which is very happening. Definitely need a 4WD vehicle for the drive up the hill, can get tricky when wet. Yes there will be bugs, creepy crawlers however you are in the rainforest. Waking up in the morning to that view felt surreal. Bed was comfy and AC was great. So much so we needed to add a blanket. Karen can also set up cleaning service, tours and even a private chef to come to property to set up a romantic dinner. Only regret is I didn’t spend my whole Costa Rica trip at this property.”

“Rarely does a vacation rental property exceed expectations and hit it out of the park in every way. This one absolutely does that! Karen is fabulous and extremely helpful, and this well-cared for property is the perfect peaceful, gorgeous, clean and well-appointed home away from home to come back to each day after your explorations of the Nicoya Peninsula, visiting the impressive selection of restaurants in Santa Teresa, enjoying the beautiful beaches, snorkeling at Tortuga Island or hitting the trails in the area (all of which we enjoyed, but coming back to this property each time really heightened our enjoyment of all that the area has to offer. The views can't be beat, and the property's vibe is so zen and healing, that you can easily stay there for days, reading, relaxing and detoxing from life's normal stresses. We were there for 7 nights, and I'm still feeling the friendly, relaxed vibe despite now being back to my high-pressure profession and busy everyday world.”

“Fantastic place to stay. Karen, the host, is incredible. Highly recommend.”

“This place was so beautiful and Karen was an amazing host! Can’t wait to come back!”

“very nice place to stay if you want a real costa rican experience without being too far away from Santa Teresa”

“If you are considering staying at this beautiful home, do it! My boyfriend and I had the most wonderful stay here and can't wait to return!”

“Karen is amazing. very responsive helpful and kind. the house has all the amenities and more”

“Arrived late and was greeted with a warm, friendly welcome. The house is more beautiful in person than in the pictures. It had everything you could need. Karen checked on us daily and was readily available with suggestions and tips. The view alone was worth it! I would definitely stay here again without hesitation. Thank you! ❤️”

“The villa is phenomenal - the design is absolutely brilliant! Everything in the house is of highest quality, and includes all the amenities you’ll need. The entire experience was above and beyond - Karen was super - responsive, kind, helpful and very thoughtful. No doubt this is the best place to stay in Malpais and we’ll definitely be back! Thank you for a fabulous experience ❤️”

“The most amazing stay period. Everyone was so helpful and friendly from the very beginning. Karen was an amazing host. The pictures do not do this place justice. It was surreal. It was so hard to want to leave and explore because the house is so incredible.”

“This place is an absolute dream! My husband and myself stayed for our honeymoon and it was even more amazing than the photos! So serene and peaceful. The view and the wildlife could never get old. The kitchen had everything you would ever need to make any meal or drink! Not only was the home perfect, Karen was the ABSOLUTE best host ever! She gave us food and market recommendations for delivery, set us up with a massage and surf lessons and the best hiking! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”

“Amazing location, and absolutely stunning view. Karen was so helpful, booking massages and a chef to come to the house. will absolutely keep this on the top of the list for return visits!”

“Definitely the nicest I have ever stayed in! Everything about it was fantastic and I highly recommend! The view was absolutely gorgeous and it was very clean. Karen was very friendly and accommodating and was there to help us with anything we needed. We would definitely stay there again!”

“The view is exceptional and the place provides a nice calm and private oasis away from the bustle of Santa Theresa, while still being close enough to explore the fantastic beaches and restaurants. Highly recommend!!”

“We stay at several times a year, and this was by far the best. Wake up to toucans out your window, a stunning ocean view, and complete privacy. This house exceeded our expectations in every way, and we will be back as soon as we can.”

“Karen was an incredibly friendly & helpful host from the moment we landed until we left. She helped us book tours, massage, private chef, restaurant recommendations—anything we needed. Staying here was a literal dream. Don’t hesitate for a second.”

“Everything about this house was top notch - from the host Karen, who was so kind and helpful; to all the beautiful amenities. The view is stunning, along with the sounds of nature and wildlife. The sunset view is unbelievable, best sunset we’ve ever seen. This house thought of every detail; from the architecture, the pool, privacy, and short distance to local spots at the bottom of the hill. Malpais has beautiful private beaches and the house is a short distance to downtown Santa Teresa where you can find endless dining and activities. Karen recommended an ATV to get around on and explore: highly recommend as well, for you get the local feel on transportation and it allows you to explore the whole bottom peninsula without a problem! Thank you for a wonderful Anniversary trip, it’s one we will never forget!”

“Beautiful setting with incredible views. Because it is isolated from the business of Santa Teresa, there is abundant wildlife... monkeys, toucans, tayra (think of a small jaguar-like animal even though it isn't, and coatimundi. The house itself is amazing...clean, modern, with pretty much everything you need (I loved the single unit washer/dryer but laundry service is available) Internet access is excellent. Daily cleaning is an over-the-top nice service. Karen was always reachable and checked in at appropriate times. She stocked the refrigerator with some necessities, including a bottle of wine and fresh fruit.”

“GET IT! Stop searching! These photos do not capture the true beauty and feeling we experienced as we were transported to a state of total calmness and serenity. What makes this space so special is its remarkable ability to bring the power of nature into a calming atmosphere. Its glass walls fully open up to a variety of outdoor living spaces, framing the picture perfect ocean views. We heard howler monkeys off in the distance and even had a group of Capuchin monkeys come through onto the mango trees just outside the kitchen window! Full jungle vibes without the mosquitoes too! Karen was the most amazing host! She was always there to help, with the most positive attitude. She saved us when we almost ran out if gas! Lastly, Santa Teresa is a very high energy town. We picked to stay there over NYE for that reason, but it almost became too much stimulation for us. Staying in Mal Pais was so much better for us. 4x4 is a MUST and the nearest gas station is 30 min away so plan accordingly :)”

“The best experience ever, from the moment we walked in the door everything felt like luxury. The drive up to the top is worth every bit of it, the view is absolutely incredible!! The house feels like a vacation in itself. Karen was available within minutes to help with anything we needed and was so sweet to check in with us daily to make sure we were having a great time. She helped us book private massages at the house as well as a tour to Tortuga island! She even got us a nice bottle of wine for our anniversary along with a whole basket of local fruit. There is daily cleaning which is a huge plus, and everyone that works around the house is so nice!”

“Beautiful view, fantastic home. Karen was extremely responsive and helpful throughout the entire process.”

“This rental is simply extraordinary…. If you've come across this listing, look no further, you won't be disappointed! The view of the ocean and nature is even more beautiful than in the photos, the place is really very peaceful. Karen is an amazing host, very attentive, she gave us plenty of advice and was ready to help us with the slightest need. Thank you so much for everything!”

“My favorit place in the world. We have been there the second time and definitely not the last time. Everthing just beautiful and perfect.”

“Our stay was beyond expectations. The property is private and peaceful. One of the most restful vacations we have ever experienced.”

“Phantastic view over the western coastline of Nicoya peninsula with perfect sunsets. Karen made everithing just perfect from the beginning to the checkout.”

“Everything about this stay was absolutely fantastic. The place itself and the views were stunning. Highly recommend watching sunrise and sunset from the deck. This was one of the best if not best stays we’ve ever had. Karen was incredible - so thoughtful and checking in to make sure we were happy. Highly recommend her having organize massages and private chef at the house. Couldn’t recommend this stay enough! Thanks again, Karen!”

“The home has fantastic views of the sunsets. The deck has a some area for peak-time sun tanning but otherwise much needed shade during early morning to early afternoon. The home stays very well cooled even without the AC. There is an out door grill and outdoor gas stove top. The hosts and cleaning crew are amazing! You will certainly need 4x4 to ascend the drive to the home.”

“This house is conveniently located 10mn from santa teresa and the best restaurants but I would recommend dining in at least one night and enjoy the barbeque.”

“This place is amazing. The pictures are great but don't do it justice. It is nestled in a secluded spot with complete privacy, yet has great sea views to watch sunset. The property itself is brilliant, it is clear that the owners/designers thought of everything. Nadja was a great host who was very helpful and made us feel at home. The only downside was having to leave!”

“It was a great 4 days. It was the first 4 days of my retirement but you shouldn’t wait until you retire to stay here. We did an ATV which was fun but a 4x4 is fine for this location. There are many interesting options in Malpais but we really didn’t do anything but eat out per the recommendations, walk on the beaches and enjoy this house, pool and wildlife. I would highly recommend it.”

“If you get the chance to book this villa, do it! It was an unforgettable experience. It was hard to even leave as it has the most beautiful view overlooking Santa Teresa! 4x4 transformation is a must. You don't get those views without some kind of climb. The restaurant at the bottom of the hill delivers. The villa sits in a gated community and we felt very safe.”

“This place will blow your mind, the view is out of this world built on a hill in a private jungle setting with your own private pool, good location with lots to do in the area, that the hosts Nadja was very helpful with she would go out of her way to help, don’t talk about the beautiful sunsets you can see from the whole place. It felt like I was in heaven best air b n b I have ever been in awesome! This place is a A +”

“Casa Tierra y El Mar was amazing. The house itself is beatuiful and the location is perfect, it's a very private place surrounded by nature with a spectacular ocean view. It was sparkling clean and Nadja was a great host, very friendly with good communication and very thoughtfull of health protocols. Very recommended for anyone looking out for a relaxing vacation, sounds of nature and beatiful landscapes.”

“The place is amazing, incredibly comfortable and the views 🤩!! Now, be ware of the entrance… The first day I had to carry my suitcase, groceries, bags, etc… up three steep flight of steps bc the driveway is 75-80 degrees of inclination and the second day I decided to take the car up that hill it took all my might (mind you I am a very experienced driver) to he able to maneuver the car up and down that hill!! But once your up there you will forget everything you just went thru to get up there!!”

“What an incredible place! Pictures don’t do it justice ! And that SUNSET! WoW! Amazing romantic place. Be sure to get the chef services too ! Karen was so helpful along the way too!”

“The incredible architecture, the beautiful views, the infinity pool, mood controlled lighting, mechanical blinds, indoor/outdoor rainfall shower, daily cleaning, full kitchen, outdoor barbecue, A/C…. To name only a few. This place was incredible.”

“this place was BEYOND INCREDIBLE. the view is that of paradise, most days we didn’t want to leave the casita because we loved it so much!! clean, beautiful, & lots of wildlife around you! Karen is such a sweet, thoughtful individual to work with and helped us booked activities, get food delivered, & always checked in with us!! it made for a memorable honeymoon. absolutely amazing hospitality, please please go ahead and book this place if it’s available!! you won’t regret it at all! we hope to return soon :) pura vida!!!”

“This is hands down one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever stayed. Situated right up against the first national reserve in CR the quiet tranquility and breathtaking views were incredible. Close to all the amenities but far enough away to retreat and flow with the vibe of nature. Incredible bird watching right from our deck and the sounds of monkeys every evening. There was only one place to be for sunset and that was in our own private infinity pool looking out over the jungle and the sea. Wouldn’t stay anywhere else!”

“What a dream. This place is absolutely incredible. We spent 2 nights there and we already miss it. So beautiful to always have some access to direct sunlight, be able to take a dip in the pool and warm up in the sun. It’s such a private oasis with a breathtaking view of the pacific ocean. We slept with the blinds open every night to find ourselves waking up to the sun rise, ocean, and a wide variety of trees and plants.”

“We were told, and are in agreement, that this is the nicest place in Mal Pais. The absolute perfect place for a couples getaway. If you’re on the fence, just book it, don’t think twice, you will not regret it. ATV necessary, probably not very kid friendly (but I don’t have one so who knows)”

“The house is absolutely gorgeous. If anything, the pictures don’t make it justice. It is more impressive in person, very luxurious. The view breathtaking. Nadja was very attentive of anything we needed, always replying immediately and very accommodating on our schedule. 20/10 we would stay there again. 4x4 is a must, suuper steep entrance. On holidays try and book the ferry, as drive from SJ can be a little overwhelming. Pool was refreshing and clean, the house extremely private, we felt like we had a mountain to ourselves. Fully recommended, well worth the price.”

“We stayed at many incredible places in Costa Rica, but this was the highlight. Incredible location and views. Amazing customer service - Nadja made our trip so special. Our highest recommendation!”

“Absolutely beautiful! The view is amazing and we were able to see monkeys, iguanas, and many birds right from the deck. The pool was refreshing and above all the hosts were extremely helpful and gave great recommendations for activities in the area. Wish we could have stayed longer!”

“This home is absolutely wonderful. Perfectly located a few minutes away from the excitement of Santa Teresa and immediately above the local Mal Pais area. The home is perfectly secluded from anyone around you, with gorgeous views and a very well thought out space. It was very comfortable and our hosts/ concierge were incredibly helpful leading up to the trip and during our stay. Communication was very easy and they recommended many great activities/places to visit. Highly recommend for a purely unique and tranquil stay in Mal Pais.”

“On point architecture and stylish design. Has all the thoughtful touches you would hope for in a high, end luxurious space. Great mattress, soft cozy sheets, epic view, great communication and super clean. Would highly recommend!”

“Great place and beautiful views, wonderful staff (gardener and housekeeper). Quite tricky to reach (especially steep entrance ramp, not sure if you can get up with a car, we had an ATV).”

“One of the most remarkable and special places we’ve ever stayed at. The view is unparalleled and the house puts you right in the action. Lee and Nadja were outstanding hosts and I truly couldn’t recommend this place enough, you have to see it to believe!”

“This apartment is absolutely stunning! It’s probably the most beautifully executed studio apartment I’ve ever stayed in!”

“Just 10 min away from the main road, this Casita is a piece of heaven. From the views to the stylish space, super comfy bed, the side deck to have breakfast or just talk and watch the horizon, you will definitively enjoy every aspect of this stay! we will come back for sure :D”

“Amazing modern contemporary house that was built for joy and relaxation. It’s perfect for 2 ppl. No people around, just monkeys and beautiful birds. Nadja is an amazing host that responds right away to any inquiry you may have. Will be back!!!”

“Excellent villa, with amazing ocean views, beautifully designed with awesome amenities. The deck and pool is also great. Location is solid with about a 5-10 minute drive to Playa Carmen and Santa Teresa beach. I recommend renting an ATV if you can as some of the Mal Pais roads are pretty rough.”

“A warm and very natural relationship with Karen, very much in harmony with this unique place.”

“Amazing . Masterful use of space for complete indoor-outdoor living. If you’re an architecture buff, you will love this place. Beautiful real stone and travertine throughout. Views from the terrace are even nicer than the photos, if that’s possible. House felt very safe as is in a gated community in a quieter part of the area (Malpais). Karen was an incredible host and made sure our stay was as comfortable as possible. She helped us arrange for ATVs to be dropped at the house and a private chef from one of the area’s top restaurants for a sunset dinner at the house. Check in was easy and daily maid service was appreciated.”

“Magical paradise. You won't believe your eyes. And the casita was just perfect. Our host was Karen, which we were kinda freaked out about because I had been chatting with Nadja until almost a week before we were leaving. Howeva! Karen was awesome! She was so sweet and helpful and kind. She gave us her Whatsapp info right away and was there for us 1000%. She got us 2 quads, cabs back and forth to the airport, a couple's massage THE DAY we got there, and an awesome zipline excursion/hike to Montezuma Falls.”

“I can only reiterate the previous reviews - this house is beautiful, it felt like a dream, and the view will take your breath away. We stayed here during the beginning of our trip, and didn't want to leave. We ended up extending our trip - simply to come back to the house and enjoy it awhile longer.”

“The place is as advertised, and as previously reviewed. Truly stunning. The detail of the home, workmanship, architecture, all flawless. Each night in the rainy season you’re greeted by beautiful storms and lighting shows over the ocean, all at distance but occasionally a downpour greets the roof and makes for an amazing sleep or evening read with a glass of wine. As to Nadja, forget about it. Ain’t no one in the hospitality game better than her! She is like having a warm host, with the best local Rolodex, all wrapped in Four Seasons execution - total all star. Book now. Book again. Don’t screw it up. 50 stars.”

“This is the only place to stay in the Malpais/Santa Teresa area. Do it, now. You will not regret it one bit (as long as you have a 4 wheel drive car to get there!) We knew the place would be lovely based on the listing and everyone else’s reviews but it still blew our expectations out of the water. The view is unmatched, one of the best we’ve ever seen in all of our travels. And the home itself is modern, clean, and a perfect spot for a couple to hole up and recharge. We found it hard to leave for any exploring during the day, we loved it so much! We will definitely plan on staying here again on our next trip!”

“I spent part of the week in a beach front house in Santa Teresa and the end of the week at Casa Tierra y el Mar. I thought I would prefer to be on the sand but I was wrong. This spot is off the charts. Every detail is attended to. The architecture and quality of build is supreme. I compared the villa to a 5 star resort without the hassles. It is simply one of the finer properties, at a perfect scale, that can be found in the area if not the world. The view is mesmerizing and insane. It is easy to get anywhere you want, but I found it hard to leave. It is a true sanctuary. You will be very impressed. Lee and Julie are attentive hosts and a great couple.”

“We leave the casa with heavy hearts that our trip is over. We could not have imagined a more perfect place for our stay. This is the kind of that makes you NOT want to leave the house. We spent more time at home then out but still enjoyed everything Costa Rica has to offer. Karen was such a gracious host and helped facilitate multiple assets to our stay. We have to say thank you to our masseuses and private chefs that came to the house and took care of us as well as daily housekeeping. The pool is even more beautiful than photographed. We even watched monkeys in a tree nearby. Keep me in mind, many places in town deliver which allows you to enjoy the comfort of your own home after adventuring all day. Book this place now - you will never regret it. Karen, thank you for everything!!!”

“We admittedly were initially a little hesitant to book here thinking it might not be worth the cost. We couldn't have been more wrong, and in fact when our time there was coming to an end, we ended up extending our stay for multiple nights more. We seriously never wanted to leave!”

“Our only disappointment was that the pool was absolutely freezing our whole visit. Apparently it is heated by solar so if it is overcast at all it stays freezing. It was much colder than the ocean for swimming and we were really disappointed not to be able to use it more. This was a major downside for us and yet I still give this listing 5 stars because it’s that special. We didn’t want to leave. I already want to go back.”

“Probably the best that I have stayed at. The design is perfect. The indoor/outdoor living was wonderful. We appreciated having an enclosed, fully applianced kitchen, but be prepared for some bugs and geckos, you're still in the jungle! The highlights were certainly the pool, deck and views. I think it's the best view in all of Santa Teresa & Mal Pais. It simply can't be beat. The road up and down is steep, and more difficult at night, so be prepared with the appropriate car. We enjoyed the ride to Santa Teresa, takes about 10 min.”

“A stay at La Casa is a beautiful, organic experience. The house is a testament to design as the flowing roof appears to blend into the hilltop; entrenched perfectly with its surroundings. Perched among gardens and canopy of trees, the view that La Casa provides is near painfully breathtaking. The vista from the bedroom will forever be entrenched into our minds. It seems as if every detail of the house was carefully considered and planned, be it the beautiful wood planks of the deck, the bedroom ceiling fan, or the interior and exterior lighting. Speaking of which, the lighting and its ease of use is seriously impressive and offers many options to fit a particular mood. However at sunset the house may be best experienced with all lights off, plunged in the pool while intaking a beautiful panorama and listening to sounds of the nearby Cabo Blanco nature reserve.”

“The location and views are spectacular! And the home is beautifully built and equipped!”

“We loved our stay at this majestic property overlooking the Pacific Ocean above Malpais. The view, comfort and overall experience at this property are exceptional. Our experience was pleasant from start to finish. Communication was easy and the hosts were always available to answer questions or help with recommendations for food or entertainment in the area. The road up to the property is steep in places and is not much different from many of the roads in the area and around Costa Rica. We will measure all future beach views and tropical vacations to what this property has to offer. High end amenities, thoughtful design, functional style, plenty of different areas to relax, and world class views amongst the sights and sounds of birds, monkeys, and ocean breezes.”

“WOW! This place will take your breath away. We just felt incredibly fortunate to have stayed in such a beautifully designed and located house! As someone else mentioned in the reviews...."if this is available and you are considering, just book it"! We didn't want to leave. We were constantly surrounded by howler monkeys, parrots, hummingbirds, incredible and unforgettable sunsets, watching storms roll in and out on occasion, the list goes on. All the amenities you need in a rental and more! Our host Nadja was a gem! Anything you needed help with or requested she was almost immediately there to help. We didn't expect such great service, but we were just so pleased with how everything worked out. If you plan to stay here, consider yourself a fortunate one! This rental is going to be VERY hard to beat!”

“Beautiful place and an unbeatable view. Grounds are very well cared for and the place is really clean. Everything a couple would need for a great stay is provided. The kitchen was nice for making meals at home, which we would have done more of if the area restaurants weren’t so excellent (like, truly excellent 👌🏼). It was pretty cool to check out the jungle and ocean in the shower. The deck area is very private. The pool is awesome for the hot afternoon and even better at night - we liked turning all the lights off and viewing the stars.”

“This apartment is a fantastic choice. It has a perfect location: Very secure within a gated community and with a beautiful view over the mountain and the bay. Yet is only a 10 minuted drive into Santa Teresa with all its shops and restaurants. You do want to make sure you have a motorized vehicle though, as it is too far up the hill to walk anywhere.”

“As for the home itself- it’s well appointed, the layout is beautiful, the views are stunning and it is a great place to relax and recharge. Things to know: you will need a 4x4 or ATV vehicle because the home isn’t within walking distance of the beach or town and located in the mountains. Most restaurants are in Sta Teresa which is about a 15 minute drive from the house. However, there is a local fish market and a small grocery just down the mountain from the house that is perfect for stocking up on essentials. We really enjoyed grilling freshly caught fish on the patio of the house and rarely went into town to a restaurant. The house itself is very private, but it’s not remote- it is part of a compound of 3 houses on the same land. However, even though there were people staying at the houses at the same time we never saw anyone else. This is part of a gated community that felt very secure.”

“This is the first /hotel of my entire life where I walked in the door, took a look at the surroundings and amenities and said, "I don't think we need to leave for a few days." We spent more time in this home than we ever expected and it was pure bliss. The view was insane. The pool was cool and inviting. We were able to cook any way we wanted - even BBQ. We had close sightings of iguanas, monkeys, coati mundi's and watched butterflies and hummingbirds all day every day. We went down to the beach that you can see from the back deck and I much prefer the view (especially the peace and quiet) from this home! The drive up was totally manageable, if a little intimidating at first, and totally worth it. I'd happily stay here again and already have friends asking for the info to stay here for their next trip.”

“If only all vacations could be this amazing! This is a truly spectacular, unique and restorative touch of paradise! The expansive views of the coastline with rolling waves, turquoise ocean and jungle take your breath away. And then there are the sunsets, the birds and monkeys and other wildlife, the moon over the water, and the constant sound of waves in the background. All of this from a totally private six star accommodation with a huge outdoor deck with plunge pool. It simply does not get better than this!! Lee and Nadja are both exceptional hosts who take care of every detail and who made our stay here such a pleasure. They will share their extensive local knowledge of restaurants, beaches, day trips etc - and they are genuinely lovely people who want you to have the best experience ever. If you're looking for a luxury vacation retreat that has it all, look no further! Our next trip here cannot come soon enough!”

“This was by far one of the best I’ve ever experienced. The sophisticated design of the villa isn’t only an architectural spectacle to look at, but has you completely immersed into the experience of the surrounding jungle through its panorama views, infinity pool and outdoor terraces. And our host, Nadja, was an absolute rockstar. She was always immediately available for any questions or assistance and gave great suggestions for food spots and how to get around. She also set up our transportation to/from the local airport and our ATV rental, which removed a tremendous amount of stress off of us. We even missed our first local flight from SJO to the local airport, unfortunately due to customs, and she was able to arrange a second taxi to pick us up after the later flight, within 5 minutes with zero hesitation. She was even so thoughtful and surprised us with champagne and desserts for our anniversary.”

“It's seems redundant to remark on the beauty, relaxation and over all tranquility because the place speaks for itself. This unique structure has perfect positioning, a remarkably efficient floor plan and a design that makes everything feel like it just roll off your shoulders. Rather, we would like to point out how lovely our host Julie was. Not just because she was available anytime we needed her or for how informative she was about everything this amazing place has to offer during your stay (as well as amazing adventures outside of it), but because she went to the extent to let us sit down in her home and read a book that was put together documenting the building process of the house, allowing us to feel connected to the people involved in the designing and building as well as the family the house was built for. This was such a well rounded experience and we would highly recommend staying there.”

“5 star everything. Felt like a dream — looking forward to the day I can go back!”

“Just awesome, for us the best experience we ever had, book it, go for it:)”

“It would be advisable to make the trip in a 4x4 vehicle, however, I went in a simple traction SUV and although I had to force it a little, I was able to access it without further problem.”

“The house has a breathtaking view of the house. It is ideal for a couple, has a full equipped kitchen, it is super clean and there is too much privacy. It's best to go in a 4x4 car in case it rains, my husband and I 90% of the time we don't use double traction, but if it rains it's better to have it. The house is super well located, 5 minutes from Santa Teresa and all the restaurants. There is a lot of security, at no time we feel danger and access is restricted by an electric gate. Karen is super attentive and answered all questions almost immediately and made sure we had everything we needed during the trip ...10/10. As a super plus, we paid for a 60 mins massage that was delicious, I regret not asking for the 90 mins haha. Super recommended place, I would go again without thinking about it!”