Nestled along one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and unspoiled coastlines, Las Tortuguas Hotel is a charming eco-hotel that offers travelers a peaceful, nature-filled retreat right on the sands of Playa Grande, in the northwestern Guanacaste Province. For visitors seeking relaxation, wildlife, ocean views, and authentic Costa Rican hospitality, Las Tortugas Hotel is a destination that quietly leaves a lasting impression.
A Prime Beachfront Location in Guanacaste
Las Tortuguas Hotel is located directly on a long stretch of flat, golden-brown sandy beach, making it ideal for leisurely walks along the ocean’s edge. The beach is wide, open, and uncrowded, offering guests the rare luxury of space and serenity. The gentle slope of the shoreline makes walking easy, whether you’re strolling at sunrise, collecting seashells, or enjoying a peaceful sunset.
The hotel is situated in Playa Grande, just a few miles north of the lively surf town of Tamarindo on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. While Tamarindo offers shopping, nightlife, and restaurants, Playa Grande remains quiet, natural, and deeply connected to Costa Rica’s wildlife heritage.
One special feature of Las Tortugas Hotel is its beachfront construction. It is an older hotel that was grandfathered in before Costa Rica passed environmental laws requiring hotels to be built at least 50 meters from the high-tide line. As a result, guests enjoy an exceptionally close connection to the ocean—falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to breathtaking sea views.
An Eco-Hotel with a Conservation Focus
Las Tortuguas Hotel is not only a beautiful place to stay—it is also deeply connected to environmental conservation. Playa Grande is recognized as one of the world’s most important nesting beaches for the endangered Giant Leatherback Sea Turtle. These magnificent creatures return to the beach each year between late October and mid-February to lay their eggs.
Because of this ecological importance, development in Playa Grande has been carefully controlled, preserving the natural beauty of the area. Guests staying at Las Tortugas during nesting season may have the opportunity to witness turtle activity through authorized guided tours that protect the animals and their habitat.
A Personal Experience: Client Testimonial
My clients, Ron and Maria Poggenmueller, spent five restful days at Las Tortuguas Hotel during their three-week vacation to Costa Rica in April 2015. Their entire journey was carefully designed by me, Nina Cabezas Creed, CEO of Costa Rica Learn Adventure Travel Agency, with Las Tortugas chosen as the final stop—a place to unwind after weeks of exploration.
Here is what Ron and Maria had to say about their experience:
“A Delightful End to a Wonderful Trip”
“Our reservation at Hotel Las Tortuguas was the last of eight hotels in our visit to Costa Rica and was a five-day resting period after a lot of traveling and wonderful excursions.”
They described Las Tortuguas as the perfect place to relax after an adventurous itinerary, praising its peaceful setting and attentive service.
Comfort, Hospitality, and Ocean Views
Las Tortuguas Hotel is a small, well-maintained property that offers personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere. Ron and Maria noted the friendliness and professionalism of the staff, from the manager to the groundskeeper and security team. Every detail contributed to a sense of comfort and safety.
Dining Experience
The hotel restaurant serves traditional Costa Rican cuisine, with a special emphasis on fresh seafood. Meals are flavorful, generously portioned, and best enjoyed on the open-air porch, which offers sweeping views of the ocean.
Guests are often joined by blue-and-white birds, Costa Rica’s national bird, which occasionally visit during mealtimes. Breakfast and dinner on the porch become memorable moments, blending nature and dining into a uniquely Costa Rican experience.
The bar serves Imperial beer, Costa Rica’s most popular brew, along with refreshing cocktails such as margaritas. Happy hour specials add to the relaxed coastal vibe.
Pool, Hammocks, and Beach Access
The hotel features a pleasant swimming pool area, surrounded by lush greenery and equipped with hammocks for guests who want to rest in the shade. From the pool area, a gate leads directly to the beach, making it easy to switch between ocean swims, surfing, or barefoot walks along the shore.
Whether guests prefer action or relaxation, Las Tortuguas accommodates both styles effortlessly.
Exceptional Accommodations
Ron and Maria stayed in the Honeymoon Suite, specially requested by their travel planner—even though they were celebrating over 40 years of marriage rather than a honeymoon.
The suite was located on the second floor and included:
- A spacious bedroom
- Living room
- Small kitchen
- Bathroom
A spiral staircase led to an upper level with a second bedroom and bathroom, making the suite ideal for couples or families.
The highlight of the suite was the private balcony, offering a 180-degree panoramic view of the beach. At night, the soothing sound of crashing waves created a peaceful soundtrack for sleep.
A Wild Wake-Up Call
On their final morning, Ron and Maria experienced one of Costa Rica’s most unforgettable natural moments:
“We were awakened by the biggest noise you can imagine—it was howler monkeys inhabiting a large tree next to the hotel.”
The deep, echoing calls of the monkeys provided a dramatic and fitting conclusion to their Costa Rican adventure.
Things to Do Near Las Tortuguas Hotel
While Las Tortuguas is perfect for relaxation, it is also an excellent base for exploring Guanacaste. Popular day trips include:
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park – Volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails
- Palo Verde National Park – Wetlands and birdwatching paradise
- Sunset cruise from Tamarindo
- Visit a wildlife sanctuary
- Surfing and boogie boarding at Playa Grande
- Sunset beach walks
- Shopping and dining in Tamarindo
- Wildlife spotting – monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles (in sanctuaries), sea turtles (seasonal)
- Birdwatching – countless tropical bird species
Weather at Las Tortuguas Hotel
Guanacaste is the driest province in Costa Rica, making it a popular destination year-round.
- Dry season: December through April 30 – sunny, warm, and minimal rain
- Green season: May through November – rain usually falls in the afternoons, with lush landscapes and fewer crowds
Even during the rainy season, mornings are often clear and beautiful.
Why Choose Las Tortuguas Hotel Playa Grande?
Las Tortuguas Hotel offers something increasingly rare in modern travel:
- True beachfront access
- Quiet, uncrowded surroundings
- Rich wildlife experiences
- Personalized service
- A strong connection to Costa Rica’s natural heritage
For couples, nature lovers, birdwatchers, surfers, and travelers seeking tranquility, Las Tortuguas Hotel is a hidden gem along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Final Thoughts
Las Tortugas Hotel Playa Grande is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience rooted in nature, comfort, and authentic Costa Rican culture. Whether you are ending a long adventure-filled journey or beginning a relaxing beach escape, this eco-hotel offers the perfect balance of simplicity, beauty, and unforgettable moments.
For those who value conservation, oceanfront serenity, and genuine hospitality, Las Tortuguas Hotel is a destination worth discovering—and returning to again and again.