As one of the country’s finest and most consistent surf spots, Playa Santa Teresa attracts both novice and expert with it’s smooth, nicely breaking waves. Other offshore opportunities abound as well, including scuba diving and snorkeling, which can be enjoyed at the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve or Tortuga Island, maritime sanctuaries that harbor a wide array of fascinating animals. Visitors will surely enjoy some of the area’s other activities, including horseback riding, sea kayaking, and deep-sea fishing.
Built into nature rather than around it, and run by a friendly, ecologically and holistically savvy staff, Pranamar Villas offers guests a place to truly relax. From the kitchen to the bedroom, Pranamar Villas is committed to health, comfort, and the environment – a fact that is easy to see as soon as you step foot inside the hotel.
The beautifully designed, open-air restaurant specializes in healthy and delicious food. All meals and snacks are made from organic fruits and vegetables, and use only local fish and meat. With bamboo roofs and archways, the restaurant’s atmosphere is at once relaxing and exotic, and offers views of both the ocean and swimming pool. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here seven days a week. As Pranamar is committed to having as little a negative impact on the land as possible, they have chosen to build a chemical-free, saltwater swimming pool. This picturesque, lagoon-style pool is the centerpiece of the hotel and offers guests a refreshing place to sunbathe or cool off.
Another centerpiece, albeit more figurative, of the hotel is the yoga studio. Spacious and open-air on three sides, this studio allows in a rejuvenating sea breeze and ocean song. Built with teak floors, high bamboo ceilings, and antique Javanese doors, it is an inspiring place to practice yoga. Highly trained, encouraging teachers offer morning and afternoon yoga in additional to pilates classes. All abilities are welcome. Additionally, guests are invited to further indulge in relaxation with a professional massage, ranging from traditional Thai, deep tissue, or Swedish massage.
There are a variety of accommodations to fit all needs and desires. The luxurious, two-story villas are built around the pool and have private lounging areas, tropical gardens, and spectacular views. Each has two air-conditioned bedrooms, two private bathrooms, a living room, and plenty of deck and terrace space.
Granite stone tubs are surrounded by tropical gardens that give an exotic flavor to the open-air bathrooms, while the hand-crafted, Indonesian furniture creates a relaxed and romantic atmosphere on the inside of the villa. Additionally, the three spacious bungalows offer simplicity and comfort with an ecological consciousness. Enormous, ocean-facing decks allow guests the chance to watch a sunset or sunrise, while a small, indoor living space with built-in sofas offers a private lounging area.
Room rates: $19214Anywhere.com