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Playa Cativo Lodge

4.5 star property
Luxury lodge on the beach, with outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for Playa Cativo Lodge

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Property video
Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated
Bar (on property)
Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Spa
  • Room service

Explore the area

View in a map
Playa Cativo, Golfo Dulce, Piedras Blancas National Park, Golfito, Puntarenas, 60701
  • Place, Playa San Josecito
  • Place, Casa Orquideas Botanical Garden
  • Place, Piedras Blancas National Park
  • Airport, Puerto Jiménez (PJM)

Room options

View all photos for Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View

Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 645 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Luxury Casita with Plunge Pool

Luxury Casita with Plunge Pool | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Luxury Casita with Plunge Pool

  • 592 sq ft
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Ocean View

Deluxe Ocean View | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Ocean Front Casita

Ocean Front Casita | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Ocean Front Casita

  • 861 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa

Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa | View from room

Two Bedroom Ocean View Villa

  • 969 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Premium Oceanview with A/C

Premium Oceanview with A/C | Premium bedding, in-room safe, individually decorated

Premium Oceanview with A/C

  • 861 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 1 Double Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Golfito

Playa Cativo Lodge places you next to Playa San Josecito and within a mile (2 km) of Playa Cacao. This 18-room, 4.5-star lodge has conveniences like an outdoor pool, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.
View more Lodges in GolfitoOpens in a new window

Restaurants

  • Burger King

About this property

Playa Cativo Lodge

Luxury lodge on the beach, with outdoor pool
At Playa Cativo Lodge, guests have access to an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and spa services. You can take advantage of free parking, along with a free area shuttle. The 24-hour front desk has multilingual staff ready to assist with luggage storage, securing valuables, and tours or tickets. Other amenities at this beach lodge include coffee/tea in a common area, a computer station, and a library.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer free toiletries and slippers. Dining areas, ceiling fans, and laptop-compatible safes are also available.
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 pamper themselves by indulging in the onsite spa services. Services include deep-tissue massages, Swedish massages, facials, and body wraps. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy.

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Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free area shuttle
  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast available daily 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Restaurants on site

  • El Gavilan

Things to do

  • Ecotours
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • Snorkeling
  • Yoga classes

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • In the mountains
  • On the bay
  • On the beach
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Spa

  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Swedish massages

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 2 buildings
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Limited room service
  • Separate dining area

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Laptop workspace
  • Laptop-compatible safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children 5 and younger (only guests older than 5 are allowed)

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; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. 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.
  • 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. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Playa Cativo Lodge Puntarenas
Playa Cativo Lodge
Playa Cativo Puntarenas
Playa Cativo Lodge Golfito
Playa Cativo Golfito
Playa Cativo Lodge Lodge
Playa Cativo Lodge Golfito
Playa Cativo Lodge Lodge Golfito

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Playa Cativo Lodge?

Playa Cativo Lodge offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to do around Playa Cativo Lodge?

This lodge is located in Golfito, just steps from Playa San Josecito. Playa Cacao is within a walking distance of 1 mi.

Will I be able to park at Playa Cativo Lodge?

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

Is there a spa at Playa Cativo Lodge?

Spa services at the lodge include deep-tissue massages, beach massages, aromatherapy, and body wraps.

Does Playa Cativo Lodge feature a casino on the premises?

No, Playa Cativo Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Playa Cativo Lodge?

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

What amenities will couples enjoy at Playa Cativo Lodge?

This beachfront lodge offers many amenities for couples such as an outdoor pool and a bar with some guestrooms featuring private plunge pools.

Are there hot tubs at Playa Cativo Lodge?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this lodge.

Does Playa Cativo Lodge have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Playa Cativo Lodge serves free cooked-to-order breakfasts at El Gavilan each morning.

Does Playa Cativo Lodge allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Playa Cativo Lodge.

Are there connecting rooms at Playa Cativo Lodge?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this lodge.

What is the closest airport to Playa Cativo Lodge?

The closest major airport to Playa Cativo Lodge is Golfito (GLF), which is about 8.9 mi away. Another top airport is Puerto Jiménez (PJM), which is around 9.5 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Playa Cativo Lodge?

Yes, some guestrooms at Playa Cativo Lodge offer a deck and may feature ocean views.

Does Playa Cativo Lodge offer wedding services?

There are wedding services available at Playa Cativo Lodge if that's in your vacation plans.

Reviews

Playa Cativo Lodge Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 11 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 11 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 11 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 11 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Nancy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Playa Cativo Lodge is a wonderful place and the accommodations, food and staff were absolutely perfect. It was nice to be so close to the gulf which was calm, warm, sandy and perfect for swimming. My only complaint was that the entire front area of the lodge has been landscaped with grass and ornamental plants, many of which are not native. Because of this large open area few birds or animals come near the lodge. Bird watching was disappointing compared to lodges that have left the rainforest intact or revegetated. Also with the large, unshaded open area the lodge is blasted with intense afternoon sun making the rooms very hot. Despite this our stay was great and unless you are a hard-core birder and monkey watcher you will love Playa Cativo!!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

J

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2023

6/10 Okay

Jeffrey

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
The property is generally good given its environment deep within a rain forest and the staff & management are excellent. The food choice if staying for more than two nights is very limited and the menu does not rotate. The activities around the resort are limited to bird watching and some water based trips such as dolphin spotting. The web site implies you may see a complete range of wildlife including rare sightings of Costa Rica's cats - the reality is you will not and are restricted to birds and an occaisional monkey. Some of the listed activities do not deliver eg AM bird watching is simply a walk around the hotel garden and the Sainos tour includes you stopping after 15 minutes for a drink and some nachos - its not good value as there isnt much to see. The beach at Cativo is not used and so you are restricted to the pool area which is heavily insect infested and so sun bathing or relaxing is difficult. The resort promises alot but doesn't deliver in a number of areas although it is premium priced.

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is paradise. Our room was fantastic, we had views of the sea and views of the jungle.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan, The berkshires ,Ma USA

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The setting is stunning combining the beautiful rainforest with the Pacific Ocean in all their glories. The Lodge purposely blends in with the natural surrounding trying to minimize the intrusion. The team here has a true passion for the ecosystem and ecology . They provided an exceptional level of attention and service.Of note a near perfectly prepared piece of red snapper, an evening massage on my balcony to the music of the rainforest 10 ft away,the first tug of a fish on a hand line, a carafe of fresh watermelon juice placed in my room,sunsets sitting on my balcony.....
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Es, London

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
The lodge is in a stunning location - on the beach but within the rainforest. Incredible scenery, great food, a small but well equipped lodge with rooms with plunge pools. An amazing get away. The lodge offers good value as the meals are included - delicious, healthy and organic. There are various activities and guides available for trips. Our highlight was kayaking in the mangroves. But what really makes this place special are the staff - they are very attentive and nothing is too much trouble. With an attention to detail they made our stay a special one. We would highly recommend a visit and we will be visiting again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

kaitlyn

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

Beautiful place

Amazing place and amazing service !
Stayed 5 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Ruth, Annapolis, MD

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Playa Cativo's welcoming, warm and very ( rain-forest) knowledgeable staff ensure you are well taken care of 24/7. Pampered really! The food is exceptional. This eco-lodge, its gardens and organic farm, in one of the most amazing and beautiful biodiverse rain forests in the world, is beautiful, tastefully appointed, peaceful, healing and nurturing. Just sent 12 days there! Non-toxic insect spray is a must in the rain forest.
Stayed 11 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Increible
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025