Luxury travelers in Costa Rica often gravitate toward two standout destinations—Guanacaste and Santa Teresa—each offering a distinct yet complementary experience. In the north, Guanacaste captivates with its expansive coastline, grand estates, and luxury villas that are designed for exclusive travel. To the south, the vibrant coastal charm of Santa Teresa entices with its laid-back elegance, world-renowned surf culture, and eco-luxury accommodations in Costa Rica nestled within lush jungles. Guanacaste’s grandeur and Santa Teresa’s chic charm offer harmonious, sustainable travel experiences in Costa Rica for an unforgettable escape. Planning an extended luxury vacation across South America? Learn all about spectacular experiences in Latin America.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica – Where Eco-Luxury Meets Timeless Elegance

Guanacaste, one of Costa Rica's premier luxury travel destinations, seamlessly blends eco-luxury with breathtaking sophistication. The region stands in striking contrast to the vibrant coastal charm of Santa Teresa—trading bohemian energy for wide-open landscapes, grand estates, and refined experiences that blend with the raw beauty of nature.

Refined Adventure on a Grand Scale

Here, even the simplest activities are elevated into moments of exclusivity. Imagine galloping at sunrise along secluded trails on horseback, gliding across turquoise waters on a private yacht to untouched beaches, or strolling through nature reserves teeming with life—all experienced in utter seclusion.

Highlights include: 
Private Sunrise Horseback Rides: Journey through serene trails and golden landscapes as the day greets you. 
Luxury Yacht Excursions: Charter a vessel and discover hidden beaches that feel like your private sanctuary. 
Elite Golf Escapes: Play world-class courses with fairways overlooking volcanoes and the shimmering Pacific. 
Curated Eco-Hiking Expeditions: Marvel at nature’s wonders, from cascading waterfalls to meticulously preserved reserves.

As for surf culture in Guanacaste—it exists, but in a different way than in Santa Teresa. For those drawn to the waves, Guanacaste offers a refined take on surf culture—typically in private surf lessons away from bustling crowds—that transforms the ocean into a personal retreat.

Eco-Luxury Meets Wellness in Lush Jungles 

Guanacaste is a sanctuary where sustainability takes center stage, and wellness is woven into every moment. Here, mindful escapes are about rejuvenation and balance, delivered with unparalleled sophistication. From bespoke spa treatments using volcanic clay and fresh aloe to private jungle yoga sessions designed for complete tranquility, every detail is designed to renew and restore. 

Guests can savor experiences such as:
Exclusive Yoga Retreats: Privately guided sessions in jungle pavilions, surrounded by nature's serenity.
Luxurious Spa Rituals: Indulge in treatments that harness the natural healing properties of fresh, local ingredients. 
Farm-to-Table Dining: Enjoy bespoke menus crafted by private chefs with organic, locally sourced cuisine. 

Private Villas Offering Unmatched Space and Sophistication 

Guanacaste’s eco-luxury villas offer an unmatched blend of privacy and sophistication, ideal for travelers craving secluded elegance. Thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, these exclusive residences deliver a perfect balance of modern luxury and ecological awareness.

Highlights include:
Stunning Infinity Pools with terraces that open up to sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
Secure Gated Communities featuring privacy, top-tier security, and exclusive amenities.
Sustainable, High-Design Villas that merge contemporary comfort with a commitment to nature.

Interested in learning more about Guanacaste’s most captivating villas? See this elegance au naturel and discover the most enchanting villas in Guanacaste.

For those seeking a dual destination experience, Guanacaste pairs beautifully with the vibrant coastal charm of Santa Teresa. One offers expansive elegance, the other a bohemian luxury lifestyle—together, they create the ultimate exclusive travel journey in Costa Rica.

Santa Teresa – The Most Beautiful Beach Town in Costa Rica 

Santa Teresa is not just a beach destination; it's a portal to the "Pura Vida" lifestyle—a balance of nature, simplicity, and mindful luxury. This idyllic corner of Costa Rica brings a perfect mix of eco-conscious travel, unspoiled beaches, delectable cuisine, and sustainable living. Whether you're catching waves or savoring organic meals, Santa Teresa invites you to take a plunge into its tranquil, unbothered ways.

Discover the Beaches of Santa Teresa 

Playa Santa Teresa (La Lora) - Framed by dense jungle and golden sands, Playa Santa Teresa injects lively energy into the area. Morning mist follows early risers as they take horseback rides along the shore. By evening, breathtaking sunsets transform the sky into a palette of molten gold.  Known for its stellar surf breaks and hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Santa Teresa is a haven for both seasoned surfers and beginners eager to master the waves.

Playa Carmen - Situated between Santa Teresa and Malpaís, Playa Carmen blends surf culture with laid-back charm. Its gentle waves are perfect for beginners, making it an ideal spot to start learning about the delicate dance of surfboards and the ocean. Off the beach, chic lounges and exclusive beach clubs provide shaded retreats, offering expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet plates to match the sweeping Pacific views. 

Playa Hermosa - True to its name, Playa Hermosa (Beautiful Beach) offers a meditative escape. Pristine sands and calm waters invite quiet reflection, yoga, or relaxing swims. The beach is bordered by lush greenery, embodying eco-luxury in its purest form. This untouched coastline is perfect for those seeking mindfulness and calmness, encouraging travelers to slow down and connect with nature.

Dining in Santa Teresa 

The region’s culinary scene perfectly captures "Pura Vida" by blending fresh, locally sourced ingredients with global influences. Each of these restaurants reflects Santa Teresa's dedication to culinary excellence and sustainable practices.

Here’s a quick guide to some must-visit dining experiences:
Uma Santa Teresa – Nestled in the jungle, this high-end restaurant specializes in multi-course tasting menus featuring organic ingredients. Try their slow-braised short rib with cacao-infused mole for a Costa Rican twist on upscale dining.

Koji – A secluded gem serving exquisite Japanese-inspired cuisine. The bluefin tuna sashimi kissed with yuzu is a standout. 

Habaneros – Casual yet vibrant beachfront Mexican cuisine. Passionfruit ceviche and chipotle shrimp tacos are must-tries, especially when paired with a fresh margarita as you soak in ocean views. 

Drift Bar & Kitchen – Perfect for modern indulgence, this spot seamlessly transitions from mornings featuring truffle avocado toast to evenings of espresso martinis, all within a chic setting. 

For a complete curated itinerary of Santa Teresa or to elevate your stay with the luxury of private dining, reach out to us today. Your next extraordinary meal is waiting at luxury villas in Santa Teresa.

Eco-Travel and Sustainability 

Santa Teresa offers numerous ways to explore and enjoy while leaving a minimal footprint. Many establishments are solar-powered, feature sustainable building materials, or contribute to local conservation efforts. Eco-conscious travelers will love the emphasis on preserving the area’s natural beauty. Restaurants like Uma Santa Teresa and El Tercer Ojo focus on locally sourced ingredients, while sustainable accommodation options blend seamlessly into the surrounding jungle. Beyond dining and accommodation, travelers can engage in eco-friendly activities like surfing, yoga, snorkeling, and guided tours of nearby wildlife reserves. Supporting local businesses and respecting the environment is at the heart of the Santa Teresa experience.

Guanacaste vs. Santa Teresa 

While Santa Teresa is revered for its tranquil, jungle-framed beaches and refined luxury, Guanacaste offers a slightly different take on Costa Rica’s beauty. Here’s how they compare:

Where Luxury Feels Like Home: Exclusive Villas in Guanacaste and Santa Teresa

For those seeking a private retreat that embodies Costa Rica’s natural beauty, these two exclusive luxury villas deliver the perfect blend of refined indulgence and unfiltered connection to nature.

Villa Avellana – Guanacaste’s Grand Coastal Sanctuary

Set against the pristine shores of Playa Avellanas, Villa Avellana redefines beachfront luxury with uncompromising sophistication. Its bold contemporary design and uninterrupted ocean views create an unparalleled sense of harmony with nature. At Villa Avellana, luxury isn’t just a part of the experience; it defines it. Offering unrivalled space and serenity, it is a retreat where exclusivity meets infinite possibilities.

Villa Pasha – Santa Teresa’s Exclusive Jungle Haven

Tucked away in the verdant coastal jungles of Santa Teresa, Villa Pasha invites you to experience a bohemian-meets-luxury escape just steps from one of Costa Rica's most celebrated beaches. Designed for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without giving up high-end comforts, this villa flows effortlessly between open-concept living spaces and tropical gardens. Whether it’s sunrise sessions in the waves or cocktail evenings under the stars, Villa Pasha delivers a refined and exhilarating lifestyle.

Want to go beyond and explore even more of Costa Rica? Discover perfect villas in Puntarenas.

Few destinations offer the balance that Costa Rica does. In Guanacaste, luxury unfolds across sweeping landscapes—expansive elegance in Guanacaste shaped by grand estates, endless coastlines, and exclusive adventures. Santa Teresa, by contrast, invites you into its intimate charm. It is a place where creativity and connection thrive amid mindful escapes in lush jungles. Together, these two regions create a complete journey: an experience of contrasts that harmonize.

LVH specializes in curating exceptional private experiences tailored to your desires. Let us craft a one-of-a-kind journey that transcends expectations—where every detail is considered, and every moment is yours to define. Contact LVH to begin your Costa Rican escape.