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La Cusinga Lodge

3.0 star property
Lodge in Ballena with a full-service spa and free breakfast

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Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Km166 Costarena Sur, Ballena, Puntarenas, 60504
  • Arco Beach
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Marino Ballena National Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Uvita Beach
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Drake Bay (DRK)
    ‪162 min drive‬

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Room options

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ILAN Superior Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

ILAN Superior Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

  • 161 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Tinamu Deluxe Room

Tinamu Deluxe Room | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Tinamu Deluxe Room

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Manu Deluxe Room Ocean View

Manu Deluxe Room Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Manu Deluxe Room Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for PALOMA Superior Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

PALOMA Superior Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

PALOMA Superior Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Trogon Deluxe Room Ensuite Ocean View

Trogon Deluxe Room Ensuite Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Trogon Deluxe Room Ensuite Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for GEMELA 1 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

GEMELA 1 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

GEMELA 1 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for GEMELA 2 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

GEMELA 2 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

GEMELA 2 Superior Double Room, 2 Double Beds, Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

About the neighborhood

Ballena

La Cusinga Lodge places you within a mile (2 km) of Marino Ballena National Park and Arco Beach. This 3-star lodge has 10 guestrooms and offers a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.
View more Lodges in BallenaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Arco Beach - 17 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 17 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Uvita Beach - 4 min drive - 2.4 miles
  • Catarata uvita - 7 min drive - 4.2 miles
  • Punta Uvita - 16 min drive - 4.0 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Pizzeria La Fogata - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Heliconia - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Sibu - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Pizza Time - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Marino Ballena - ‬4 min drive

About this property

La Cusinga Lodge

Lodge in Ballena with a full-service spa and free breakfast
Guests staying at La Cusinga Lodge enjoy access to a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi in public areas. Free parking is included with your stay. Front-desk staff can help with concierge services, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Other amenities at this spa lodge include a terrace, a picnic area, and a garden.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi. Other standard amenities include ceiling fans, safes, and free toiletries.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include an outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the lodge's full-service spa. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, and Swedish massages. The spa is open daily.

Languages

English, Spanish

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • Aracari

Things to do

  • Full-service spa
  • Horseback riding/rentals
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Hot stone massages
  • Spa open daily
  • Swedish massages

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 6 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 6 AM - 6 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours

Renovations and closures

This property is closed from February 1 2026 to February 8 2026 (dates subject to change).

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 2 PM—-6 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the lodge at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Cusinga Lodge Ballena
Cusinga Lodge
Cusinga Ballena
La Cusinga Lodge Lodge
La Cusinga Lodge Ballena
La Cusinga Lodge Lodge Ballena

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at La Cusinga Lodge?

La Cusinga Lodge provides free cancellation on select room rates. To learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to do close to La Cusinga Lodge?

This lodge is located in Ballena, a short 17-minute walk from Marino Ballena National Park and also 18 minutes on foot from Playa Ballena. You'll also find Uvita Beach and Ventanas Beach within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at La Cusinga Lodge?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge.

Is there a spa available at La Cusinga Lodge?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include deep-tissue massages.

Does La Cusinga Lodge include a casino on the premises?

No, La Cusinga Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at La Cusinga Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

Is La Cusinga Lodge good for couples?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this lodge, including an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a full-service spa.

Are there hot tubs at La Cusinga Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have a spa tub.

Does La Cusinga Lodge have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, La Cusinga Lodge serves free full breakfasts at Aracari each morning.

Will La Cusinga Lodge allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at La Cusinga Lodge though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at La Cusinga Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from La Cusinga Lodge?

The closest major airport to La Cusinga Lodge is Drake Bay (DRK), which is about 29.2 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at La Cusinga Lodge?

Yes, some guestrooms at this lodge offer a balcony where guests can enjoy ocean or mountain views.

La Cusinga Lodge Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 39 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 39 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 39 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 39 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful eco lodge with walks on property and ocean views. Natural landscaping - Birds, monkeys butterflies etc.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jay, Dallas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jay, Dallas

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Slightly remote lodge, with amazing ocean and jungle views. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The only restaurant served very good food, offers friendly service, with daily specials. The pool is beautiful and peaceful. Lots of wildlife are present, including a troop of Howler Monkeys that howl at 4 am and 4 pm everyday. There are lots of trails for people to explore. It may not be a good place for everyone though. It was a little too quiet for us. It is a place that attracts those who just want to read, mediate or stare into the trees. It attracts older people I think, but the walkways are very difficult for older people, the rocks are slippery and rounded, and the cabins are far apart along steep pathways. There are some very nice trails, but they forbid walking them at night. That really sucks, because that is when the interesting animals can be seen on the trails. I won't stay where I cannot explore at night. There are screens on the cabin windows, but no air conditioning, only fans. We were very warm at night, so lost some sleep. I really like the property, the people, food and scenery, but won't stay there again. Just too boring for my taste. Too many rules! I want to be were I can explore at my leisure and interact with nature and with others. No hotel pool should close at 7 pm!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovely first stop in Costa Rica

We had a wonderful 3 night stay at La Cusinga Lodge, starting from being met in the parking area by Mabel, the welcome alcohol free cocktail and the friendly waiting staff. Our room was very large (Trogon) with a inside seating area and huge balcony. The bathroom walls and floor are all lined with pebbles, very "flintstonesque". It was my birthday during our stay and the lodge put fresh flowers in our room and decorated the bed with rose petals. We ate in the restaurant for breakfast and dinner every day and the food was excellent with plenty of choice and big portions. The hotel also has a beautiful yoga platform but sadly they did not have a teacher available during our stay. The pool is a short walk away from the main hotel and is very private. There are also walking trails on the property to waterfalls where you could take a refreshing dip. Whilst here we did a whale watching trip (sadly nothing spotted as we were on the cusp of the right season) and a self guided trip to the Nicoya waterfall which was busy but great fun. We would return to La Cusinga Lodge in a heartbeat.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joseph

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
one of the best restaurants we experienced on our 10 day Costa Rica trip. A wonderful natural Post, beautiful pool, and so much wildlife right outside your cabin/yurt.... One of our favorite stays.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alison

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful location, lovely lodges, good food, great cocktails, chilled out pool and natural swimming hole. Most importantly, extremely helpful and friendly staff, who went the extra mile to help us when we had a stressful problem (hire car related and nothing to do with the hotel), which they resolved. Would absolutely recommend.

10/10 Excellent

Molly

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property and view was beautiful. It was very secluded and felt safe. The sunsets and wild life were some of our favorite parts. Food and staff were also excellent. The beach was a pretty intense walk to get to, but beautiful and private once there.

10/10 Excellent

Kristin

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful private bungalows in the rainforest with balconies overlooking the ocean. Friendly staff, great food, wonderful trails down to the beach. They greeted us with pineapple juice when we arrived and packed us fresh fruit to go since we had to leave for a tour at 6 am before the restaurant opened for breakfast. Dinner was delicious! Can’t wait to return!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Wonderful nature resort with various lodges

The entire resort is an attraction in and of itself. It offers such a serene environment with an abundance of wildlife and great natural trails. Great for families and hikers alike. If you can make the drive down to the coast, it is worth it to come to see this place.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emilie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property is stunning full of wildlife and the staff is really professional.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Carlos

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The location is fantastic. The room we stayed in needs some TLC - the bathroom sink faucet was singing some aria while the floor fan had its own tune which disrupted our sleep. As for their spa services, their therapist was terrific. However the spa facility could use some rejuvenation.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

sam, Baltimore

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great property. Loved the hikes to the beach. The view is awesome.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was not what was advertised (poor setup, thin walls, poor light, roof fan barely pushed air). The breakfast is served at 7 although it is posted that it is at 6 and when I called previous to my stay they told me the same.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The beach was amazing! The cabins are very private and comfortable. There are monkeys and toucans on site. The staff was fantastic. So friendly! We got a flat tire and they pointed it out to us and immediately changed it for us...in the dark! Exceptional service! Highly recommended! We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
La Cusinga offers beautiful hikes through the rain forest, spectacular Arco Beach, howler monkeys and other wildlife, good and reasonably priced food, and spectacular ocean and sunset views. The only negatives I can think of for guests would be there is no pool, and staying here requires being able to walk reasonable distances over occasionally bumpy trails. For us, this made it more interesting. Overall a beautiful property and wonderful experience.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovely stay at La Cusinga Lodge

The hotel and lodges were beautiful and we very much enjoyed the “private pool” and beach as well as the great surroundings. The service was great and we were always received with smiles and good service for all inquiries. The only small comments we could have for improvement would be; - Complimentary tea and coffee would be great - The coffee at the morning breakfast table was cold - More tanning-areas for enjoying the sun would be great Thanks for a super stay!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice feel of nature and solitude. Unique experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Ariel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Trip of a lifetime!

Just returned from a 9 day family trip to Costa Rica, 7 nights of which we stayed at La Cusinga Lodge in Uvita. Can't begin to describe how perfect our experience was. The grounds are absolutely breathtaking, and you really never need to leave property to experience an authentic Costa Rican rainforest. The cabinas have amazing views, and are kept immaculate. The natural swimming pool (La Poza) is so unique, and beats a traditional resort pool any day. The food at Aracari Restaurant (on site) is exquisite. The most memorable part of our stay, though, was the people... the staff is exceptional and really goes above and beyond to make sure each guest's stay is top-notch. The office staff were a huge help (from check in to helping us book multiple excursions throughout our stay), the servers at Aracari were as friendly as possible (our son quickly made friends with our main server for the week), and everyone you encounter from security to maintenance all have a smile on their face and are ready to offer assistance in any way they can. Thank you, La Cusinga, for making our 20-year-in-the-making trip everything we hoped it would be!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Julia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Reza, Vancouver

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Beautiful location and scenery

Had a great time at this hotel, location is amazing, the restaurant food is delicious and love the nature around the hotel. Beautiful private beaches and hiking trails with lots of animals visiting you
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

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