Hotel Aguas claras

This charming Boutique hotel is located on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica in the seaside town of Puerto Viejo. Ideal for travelers looking for a more intimate stay. The laid-back vibe is felt throughout the property as well as town with bars and restaurants on or across from the beach.

Not nearly as developed as the Pacific coast of the country, Puerto Viejo is almost a step back in time. Roads are paved but narrow and run almost parallel to the shoreline. Each turn of the road gives a glimpse of the water and palm tree-lined beaches.

The town itself is spread out with narrow roads filled with cafes, restaurants, bars and open air nightclubs.  The roadside stalls offer fresh fruit, coconut water, handmade art and crafts by the local people anxious to share their culture. Tourists are welcome here with open-arms and everyone is made to feel at home.

Aguas Claras is a small bohemian hideaway offering guests accommodations ranging from a 5 bedroom beach house, free-standing bungalows and guest room suites. All units have air-conditioning and private bathrooms, the suites are all king bedded with outdoor showers. The beach house, Casa Floralia, is a 2 story building with fully equipped kitchen, large dining table and 2 separate living areas (one on each floor) for gathering. It’s perfect for a large family or group of friends wanting to be under the same roof but with separate bedrooms and private bath.

My stay was with a group of Travel Advisors that felt like old friends by Day 2. We stayed up late chatting in the second story living room curled up on cozy couches and rocking chairs. Large ceiling fans kept us cool as we exchanged life lessons, dream vacations and appreciation for the industry we are so proud. The last 2 years have been a challenge for everyone and our industry has comeback stronger than ever.

This trip felt like a reward to myself for making it through record-breaking sales, working 12+ hour days and endless Covid 19 entry requirement changes. Experiencing this part of the country gave us all the much needed opportunity to slow down and recharge.

Dalime Beach Club is a short walk away, as the property is not directly on the beach. Here you can enjoy lunch or dinner in the restaurant or out by the beach with toes in the sand. There is a restaurant and pool on site as well. Guests have their choice of areas to sit, relax and reconnect with their loved ones. Cocktails are served poolside or on the beach. Happy Hour on the beach is a highlight with delicious appetizers to snack on along with a cold Costa Rican beer or mixed cocktail. There are lounge chairs and daybeds strewn about the beach for guests to claim and enjoy as the day winds down and temperatures begin to drop.

Unlike the rest of the country, rainfall in this area is experienced throughout the year as this is a tropical climate. Average temperature is 76 F with plenty of sunshine. Activities in this area include snorkeling, diving, fishing, hiking, kayaking, zipline, waterfalls and visit to Jaguar sanctuary to name a few.

I would love for more of my clients to experience this amazing part of Costa Rica. It’s a much slower pace than other regions, the people are an amazing mix of cultures with a strong Afro-Jamaican background. The food is different, the language is different, the vibe is unlike any other in this small country. It leaves you with a longing for the simple life, feet in the sand, drink in your hand. Looking forward to my return.