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Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca

Photo gallery for Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca

Newly Renovated Travertine Pool Deck and Terrace
Elevate your evening experience with this gas fireplace
New travertine tile pool deck 2024
Suntan time on deck furniture
New travertine tile pool deck 2024

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10204.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Playa Junquillal, Guanacaste
  • Blanca Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Playa Negra
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Tamarindo (TNO)
    ‪37 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

North Secondary Bedroom

2 Queen Beds

South Primary Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

North Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

South Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca

Treat yourself to staying at the modern and recently remodelled Casa Playa Blanca situated on one of the most beautiful pristine beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula -- Playa Blanca, nestled between 2 world class surf breaks at Playa Junquillal and Playa Negra! Feel great that you are vacationing in one of the world's blue zones.
Relax on the secluded Playa Blanca with a good book and a cold beverage, or swim and snorkel in the clear water. The beach is accessible directly from the casa by way of a gently sloping private footpath.
Playa Junquillal is a long stretch of beach to the south and is perfect for walking and beach combing. You are likely to see some surfers and perhaps locals fishing off the rocks, and the occasional group of horseback riders, as well as several species of seabirds, and of course, the Turtle Sanctuary which rescues and hatches out turtle eggs. If there is a hatching, you can be part of releasing the tiny creatures into the sea.
The secure gated property offers privacy with direct access to the pristine Playa Blanca as well as a delightfully tranquil Bali style infinity edge pool which offers serenity both day and night for your exclusive private use. From the terraces and pool deck you will spot several species of birds and butterflies.

The 2200 square foot home accommodates up to 6 people and features an open concept living room, kitchen and dining area which anchors two full master suites to the north and south. Each suite has a large split system air-conditioning unit, full bath and private outdoor sitting area. The south bedroom has a king size bed and the north bedroom has 2 queen size beds.
For larger groups, a guest house on the property that sleeps 4 is available at extra cost. Note: Guest House will never be rented to parties other than those renting the main house.
There is a Pack 'N' Play available upon request.
Weekly housekeeping is included for rentals longer than 7 days. More frequent housekeeping can be arranged at additional cost.

Spend time relaxing in the private tranquil infinity pool overlooking the ocean, unwinding in the shaded hammocks or taking advantage of the many recreational activities available nearby, including:

• swimming
• surfing
• snorkelling
• stand up paddleboarding
• bird watching
• watching and protecting turtles
• adventure tours
• whale watching
• biking
• golf
• fishing
• horseback riding
• canopy tours
• kayaking
• beach walks
• breathtaking sunsets

Our property manager, Mary, can arrange numerous other activities and services such as massages, cooking, babysitting, and transportation.

We invite you to make your perfect Costa Rican getaway a reality. Take advantage of the opportunity to make great memories at Casa Playa Blanca.

Property manager

Laura Irvine
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Supervise children at pool and ocean
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Events

No events allowed
Unless authorized by owner. ie weddings
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Absolutely no smoking in the house.
Guests are expected to lock up the premises and utilize the security system when not at the property.
Guests are to abide by the conditions and rules within our Vacation Rental Agreement.
Please shower off at the outside shower by the pool to remove all sand from the beach before entering the pool or house.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Unless authorized by owner. ie weddings
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Junquillal

Located in Veintisiete de Abril, this villa is on the beach. Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course and Black Stallion Eco Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Las Baulas National Marine Park and Blanca Beach. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Playa Junquillal, Guanacaste

What's nearby

  • Blanca Beach - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Junquillal Beach - 4 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Playa Negra - 8 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course - 27 min drive - 13.3 km
  • Tamarindo Beach - 50 min drive - 35.2 km

Getting around

  • Tamarindo (TNO) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sabanero Steak House - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Lola's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Azul Pool Bar & Grill - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Il Rustico - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Tamarine Restaurant - ‬26 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include infinity and heated pools.

Is Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Paradise! Private Beachfront Home with Pool on Gorgeous Playa Blanca located?

Nestled on the beach, this Veintisiete de Abril villa is within a 15-minute walk of Blanca Beach and Callejones Beach. Junquillal Beach and Asociación Vida Verdiazul are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 77 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing 3 week stay

The house and grounds are perfect in every way. The newly renovated kitchen is a cook's dream. We both love to cook and it was fabulous to have an excellent supply of cutting boards, sharp knives, pots, pans, dishware, glasses, etc. Mary was a great resource for us. She had the local fish truck stop by at the house twice per week. The prices are fantastic and the quality can't be beat. We saw the same purveyors supplying local restaurants, so this is the real deal!It was just 2 of us staying in the house, but the setup is perfect for 2 couples or a family. The bedrooms each have a nice ensuite bathroom and are separated by the main living area so privacy is not an issue.The pool and grounds are beautiful and the maintenance is meticulous. We stayed at Casa Playa Blanca for 3 weeks and were so impressed by the level of care. We very much appreciated how clean the house is kept by Magaly the housekeeper, who provides a thorough cleaning on a weekly basis.The location is great if you're looking to experience a more laid back area in Costa Rica. That being said we were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the local restaurants, especially Lochito's which is no more than 5 minutes from the house.We've stayed in lots of properties while vacationing and this one is at the top of our list. Don't hesitate to book here, we are already planning our next visit!Pura vida and thank you Bob and Laura for sharing your beautiful home!Warmest regards,Evelyn and Roger
Stayed 21 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gail Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic views and property

Beautiful house, landscaping and a private beach!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible villa in a wonderful location

The photos do not do this villa justice. It is quite incredible in every way. The location is out of this world and we simply loved staying there. Pool was clean and great for cooling off in and the huge verandas were well used hiding from the sun. Rooms were massive and really well equipped as was the kitchen. Frankly we can’t think of a better place to stay and would have happily stayed longer. Thank you to Robert, Laura and Mary for letting us stay. Kind regards Richard, Ailsa and Family
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tim T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot in the beach!

We enjoyed our stay at this property. The pool and patio area are excellent. The house is spacious and served our basic needs with a fully stocked kitchen. While the beach is quite steep for walking, accessible beached are nearby and easily accessed.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Debbie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heavenly relaxation

Thks was our 7th trip to CR. The home, pool & amenities were fabulous for jist unplugging and relaxing. We will def be back!
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandon S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Perfect Escape in Beautiful Costa Rica!

Our family of five had a fantastic stay in this home. Everything about it exceeded our expectations and the pictures don't due this home justice. The home is extremely spacious and offers everything you'd need to make it your home away from home. The pool and outdoors area is beautiful and offers so much space for everyone. Mary was terrific with questions and recommendations, and our in home chef, Michelle, was a joy and cooked some delicious food for us. We really enjoyed this location to see and experience Costa Rica away from the larger more tourist towns, and the secluded area was just what our family wanted to relax. I'd highly recommend this home and hopefully we'll be back soon.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicole P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful stay

Our Stay at this home was wonderful. Being from Northern Ontario Canada it was important for us to find a beach front home. We were not disappointed. We were greeted by the absolute best property manager Mary!! She waited patiently for us, when we lost our way for a very short time lol not her fault at all!! Pls…..follow her directions and not the map lol she did warn us…our friend is into maps lol not always a good thing lolWhen we arrived, Mary had a wonderful surprise!! We were the first guest to rent since they did the kitchen reno!! It’s seriously stunning!! Absolutely best surprise ever!We loved the size of the home, the private bedrooms and bathrooms for 2 couples.The pool and the terrace were so pretty:) We absolutely loved the location. We walked daily on the beach for our Marguaritas lol A must is the bar on the left of the beach 1/2 hour walk …Bernard dos!! Amazing people and food. Where your water shoes!To the right of the beach 1/2 hour walk is another wonderful spot for food and drink in Playa Negra We had an amazing sunset horseback ride.Mary gave us the name of a wonderful caterer that I can’t rave enough about!! Michelle the caterer is a must!! Her food was amazing !!Mary, was extremely attentive to all our needs:) such a hard working property manager that made our stay absolutely wonderful!! Do not hesitate to rent this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Philip M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Off the beaten track

We had a very relaxing week. The pool and outdoor area was really nice. The bedrooms are spacious and the bathrooms looked new. We really enjoyed the area and would come back again. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey W., USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pool Side Perfection

We enjoyed a wonderful week at Playa Blanca. The home was wonderfully equipped with everything we needed. Both bedroom wings were quiet, well appointed, and the AC never failed. The instructions for using the home were very well detailed and Mary the manager was always just a phone call away and she did a great job lining up entertainment in the area. The incredible beach access was so handy and the pool deck was perfect when we were not at the beach. Felix the guard cat was a hoot!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marsha K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Amazing relaxing paradise!

We had an amazing 5 nights at casa Playa Blanca. It is off the beaten path ( meaning not a vibrant beach town) but well situated to restaurants. The beach at the back of the house was not that swimmable unless it was low tide but the main Playa junquillal beach - a 15 min walk - was amazing for swimming. There’s a turtle conservation effort that goes on and we got to help put 100 turtles into the ocean! Communication with the property manager was ok. We unfortunately couldn’t get the snorkel equipment that was included in the ad but that didn’t slow us down! The house is well designed and the beds and baths great! I promise you will have an amazing time!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joshua B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secluded Heaven

This property was perfect. It is away from all of the busy towns, but close enough if you want to drive to see them. The back pool/lounge area is private and very nice. The local kitty cat is spoiled rotten and very friendly. There is a nice private path down to the beach. I maybe saw 10 people on the beach the entire time I was there. The place seemed very safe and secure. Carlos and Jorgelina were very nice and accommodating. I didn't need much from them, but they both made sure to reach out every other day just to make sure all was going well. They were very friendly and kind. The house is exactly as described and the host instructions were clear and easy to follow. Waze will take you straight to the front gate. I will be staying here again once it isnt booked up.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Jamie M., Ontario

Idyllic Setting!

Spent 2 wonderful weeks recently at Casa Playa Blanca. Beautiful sunsets out by the pool topped off each day perfectly. Quiet and peaceful, just what we needed. Warm ocean breezes and crashing waves. Friendly people. The house is spacious and well laid out for 2 couples. A few items in the home require attention which the owners have assured will be addressed. An amazing place to vacation. J&C, Ontario
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Chris F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It got even better!!

Second time staying and we plan to keep coming back! Hard to imagine Bob and Laura could have improved on this gorgeous piece of paradise but they have! The entire pool area has been beautifully redesigned with special tile that doesn’t heat up or get slippery. For those liking the shade a beautiful covered cabana area and for the evenings a gas fire pit. Inside the house is pristine with large bedrooms and living spaces and a well stocked kitchen with everything you need. Security is amazing, always felt safe here. Loved the access to the beach for morning walks and the many restaurants within a fifteen minute drive (highly recommend cafe playa Negra!) Check in and check out was a breeze and hosts are helpful, responsive and accommodating. Thanks for another wonderful stay!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Maggie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Playa casa Blanca

Our family of five all above 18, enjoyed our stay @ playa casa Blanca. The only thing we’d recommend is more lighting by the pool for nightlife. Also the path to the beach was a bit longer than anticipated and the beach was at a slop which made walking the beach more work. But overall the casa was excellent and what we we’re looking for. Our most memorable moments were when we’d open the door in the mornings and find Felice the cat coming in to say hello. Our favorite restaurant was Lochito’s. It’s right passed the market Mercado’s right up the road from the villa. We would definitely return for another stay.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Pia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent house and location for a Costa Rica Holiday

Great location and atmosphere for a vacation. We are a family of 5 with young children and had plenty of room and property could accommodate more as it has an additional cabin. House has excellent bedrooms, kitchen, and eating areas. Very safe house with security system. Private pool was great for our family and grounds were well kept with lots of great lawn chairs for enjoying the outdoors. Lots of native birds also in the garden. Beach area is spectacular with great views of the sunsets, miles of sand beach to walk on, no garbage, and the ocean water is crystal clear and good for snorkelling. Were able to spot lots of wildlife in the ocean. House is close to great restaurants and 20 minutes away from great surfing beaches. Would recommend this house to anyone who wants a spectacular house on the Costa Rican coast.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

David A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Definitely a slice of paradise

My Wife and I and another couple spent 2 weeks at Casa Playa Blanca, and it was everything we wanted. The house itself is fine, ocean views from the bedrooms, beds are comfortable, water is hot, nothing that amazing though until you step outside. The huge patio area and large pool are where we spent most of our time. There was almost always some shade to be found, but the pool itself is really in direct sun for most of the day. And then there is the beach! the path to the beach is not far at all, maybe 80ft from the house. Playa Blanca is a gorgeous beach but there are many rocks, so we didn't enjoy swimming there too much but still walked down to enjoy most sunsets. We did not have a 4x4 and we were fine in the dry season although like most of Costa Rica, some of the roads are an adventure. There are lots of good restaurants within about 15mins and a decent supermercado about 7 minutes away. The biggest con for us about Casa Playa Blanca is that you need to have a car to do anything, but totally worth it for us to have a private slice of paradise. Oh, and there is a cat. nice enough but awfully loud when she wants to get fed lol, but she didn't bother us at all.
Stayed 15 nights in Feb 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Christine W., Charleston, SC USA

AN UNBELIEVABLE COSTA RICAN TREASURE!

This was the 2nd time my husband and I traveled to Costa Rica, but this time we brought the family!!! Laura, David, and Bob helped make our stay at Casa Andy one that we will never forget. This beautiful house was perfect for our family: my husband, myself, my mother-in-law (77 years old) and my two boys (2 years old and 18 years old). We started off each morning playing in the ocean which was composed of many lava tide pools which contained colorful fish and amazing rocks and shells. The afternoons and evenings were spent relaxing in the infinity pool that overlooked the ocean. The house was close to Hotel Iguanazul, which was a great place to get dinner and a drink, and to the estuary for some peaceful fishing. Laura put us in contact with a local fisherman from Playa Largato for a fantastic fishing charter. Did I mention that the fisherman put on a show for us by feeding his "pet" crocodile? We will definitely be returning to Casa Andy!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Denise R.

Steps to the beach, Off the beaten path, relaxing!

We stayed here for two weeks in November. If you are looking for something quiet and off the beaten path, you will love this place! We did! Our 1st night there, the caretaker, Magally, came to get us and said there was a turtle on the beach laying eggs right behind the house. We ran down in the intense darkness (bring a flashlight w/a red filter so as not to disturb the turtles) and were able to see the turtle. Our 2nd night we wandered down to the beach on our own and saw a turtle come up on the beach again. This time we were on our own (for awhile) and it was spectacular. Playa Junquillal was beautiful and quiet. The house served as a base to go to Ostional and Tamarindo. Hacienda Pinilla was 20 mins away. Playa Negra 5 minutes away also had a great beach and restaurant. The grounds of the house were beautifully kept, and the pool surrounded by palm trees. Laura was wonderful answering our many questions, even suggesting a local fisherman for my husband, who caught a 5 ft MahiMahi. We would love to go back to Costa Rica and stay at Casa Andy.

10/10 Excellent

David V., Guelph, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect stay at Casa Playa Blanca

My family of 4 had a great vacation at Casa Playa Blanca. This property is located far enough away from the busy tourist locales but close enough to key amenities. Highlights of our stay include: - Feliz the house cat is a charming (and vocal) companion. My family loves cats (we have 4 at home) and having Feliz was a bit of a gift. - The house is right on the ocean. Playa Blanca is a beautiful beach, mostly populated by Costa Rican residents. - The house is great - a nice large and open living space with two large bedrooms on opposite ends of the building. Kitchen is well stocked. Beds are comfortable. The pillows are actually quite bad and we recommend that the owners upgrade them. The house isn't brand new and is a bit worn in a few spots but at the price point the value is excellent. - Property manager Mary is responsive and knowledgeable - There are about 6 very good restaurants quite close to the house (1-2 km). You'll likely want to drive but they are close, food is excellent and inexpensive. The best two include Lochitos and Mundo Milo. - Internet/wifi super suitable for streaming - Nice quality beach and bath towels - Well stocked kitchen accessories - A very special highlight is VerdiAzul, a not for profit organization on Playa Junquillal (just south of Playa Blanca) which protects, hatches, and releases sea turtles. - Not perfect, but nice snorkelling on Playa Blanca when tide is low We will return absolutely. This is a great property.
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Darrow B.

Look No Further!!

If you want to stay in this area, look no further, this is your house! We stayed at Casa Playa Blanca for 8 nights and couldn't have asked for more. It is a fantastic property!! The pictures on the website do not do it justice. All 5 of us were blown away with how spacious the house is and the size of the pool. The walk to the beach is very short which is nice for going back to the house if needed. We all felt very safe at Casa Playa Blanca and everything is very well managed. Mary, the property manager, is friendly and goes above and beyond to ensure you have a wonderful stay. We were in Costa Rica for a wedding and hosted a small party for the bride and groom one night. We used Michelle with Hello Fresh catering to cater the party. The food was fantastic!! I highly recommend her if you need anything catered. Also, we needed a babysitter a few nights as we have a 2 year old and attended some wedding activities. Mary suggested Lila as a reliable babysitter, and we couldn't have trusted her more with our son. She is punctual, responsible, trustworthy and attentive. I was very nervous to have a sitter but once I met her she put all my worries at ease. If you need a trusted babysitter definitely ask Mary for Lila's contact information! When we go back to Costa Rica we will definitely be staying here again. I can't say enough good things about Casa Playa Blanca or Mary. Pura Vida!!
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Traci S., Albany New York

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everything you need and more!

We are grateful to Laura and Bob for sharing their slice of paradise. We were looking for secluded spot with a pool and on the beach and we certainly found it. The house is beautiful. We loved the layout. The kitchen is well-equipped and you’ll want for nothing. There are some great photos on VRBO, but, as someone else mentioned, the property is even more beautiful in person. You will see various birds, lizards, frogs and crabs, sometimes up close! The beach has plenty of trees that provided shade if you need to seek relief from the sun. The sunsets were amazing! The grocery stores close by have plenty for what we need and the restaurants are incredible. We've enjoyed Hotel Playa Negra & Guacamaya Lodge. We went into Villarreal to Come Fruta on Mary's suggestion for fresh produce. Mary also booked us on the river boat tour that included the pottery demonstration. Huge fan of the boat tour and the lunch after was just delicious- you won’t be disappointed. We highly recommend you read through the book at the house when you arrive as they have compiled great information there. We downloaded Google maps before we left the USA and it worked like a charm. The surrounding roads can be rough and we were glad to have an SUV to navigate them. While out exploring the area, we spotted some howler monkeys and they can be heard (but not seen by us) from the house. We would be remiss if we didn't mention Felice, the cat! He was never very far and we loved having him around.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2022
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Keith S., Port Perry, Ontario

Excellent Place to Stay!

We stayed at Casa Andy for seven weeks and have nothing but good things to say. The house was everything as advertised only better. The nearby restaurants were of good quality with reasonable prices. We ate dinner our 47 out of our 49 nights. Our favourite was Mundo Milo Eco Lodge but we got into a pattern of visiting four of them regularly. Look for the Common Pauraque birds (night jars) on the road when going to the restaurants. They feed at night on the road and take off as you approach them. We saw 25 species of birds while sitting on the lounge chairs by the pool. We also drove to Playa Junquillal for early morning walks. Tamarindo and Santa Cruz are 30 minutes away for serious grocery shopping. Except for the first few miles, the roads are paved and very lightly travelled. Everyday things are available five minutes away at a local shop. I wouldn't stay here without a car. We rented from Adobe Rent A Car. They picked us up at the airport and shuttled us to their nearby office. We had no difficulty following Laura's directions to the house. Very comfortable sitting areas in the shade. Pool is lovely and just what you need after a long walk on the beach. Reach the beach through a gate near the pool and walk down a private path. There were just the two of us for most of the time but we did have another couple with us for one week. The two bedrooms are in separate wings and provide comfortable privacy. The common area is quite large - larger than the vrbo photos show it to be. The kitchen has all that is needed. I have read some of the negative reviews and offer the following: 1. Yes, there are ants but only if you leave food on the counter or dirty dishes by the sink. 2. There is a dirt road. If you want a paved road, choose Tamarindo and crowds. 3. The place is like Fort Knox. Being robbed can only be because of carelessness. 4. The owners not available or unhelpful? Laura was always very helpful and quick to respond.

10/10 Excellent

Chris F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A piece of paradise: secure, well maintained and equipped house with gorgeous pool and beach access

This is a a beautiful property, perfect to get away and unwind. Located just outside of Junquillal, a small sleepy village near to the beach about thirty minutes south of Tamarindo and only 1h20 drive from Liberia airport. The house is well maintained and well equipped. The kitchen has everything you need should you want to prep your own meals or just for lunches and breakfast. It is very secure, with an alarm system and lots of security features - we never felt unsafe. The two bedrooms have their own bathrooms and AC, perfect for a family to be together but have some space. If you want there is also the guest house that is very well setup (owners charge a small fee per night if you decide to use it). House has laundry facilities which is a huge bonus that allows you to travel light. Definitely the highlight of this property is the pool and the beach access. The pool is very private since the property boundaries are all treed, you will feel all alone back there! Pool is a lovely temperature and has a gently sloping entrance so if you are travelling with little ones it will be easy for them to paddle safely while adults are swimming just a little further out. Overall back yard area is beautiful. Only thing to note is that the pool and surrounding deck does not get any shade until mid to late afternoon but there is lots of shade just a bit further back on the covered patios. Beach access is easy and secure with a well maintained footpath running down to white and black sand. The water does have rocks to each side but there is a swimming area right in front and if you like snorkeling people seemed to be enjoying that. The beach is quiet except on public holidays - most days 2 or 3 other families at most. We found the local area to have most of what we needed. You will want to stop at a big supermarket on your way and get your bigger items but for everything else the supermarket in Junquillal is surprisingly well stocked with essentials as well as fruits and vegetables. There are many good and reasonably priced restaurants around within a 5 - 15 minute drive as well. You can also do zip lining, horse riding and ATV riding within a 30 minute drive - National Parks are quite a bit further (2h30 each way) Owners were very pleasant and very accommodating with us in allowing early / late check-in and check out. If you want to get away from it all this is a great place to be!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregory T B., Windsor CO

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We thoroughly enjoyed Casa Playa Blanca for 3 weeks!

This was our 5th trip to Costa Rica; our 2nd to the Junquillal area. We have rented ~40 homes in many countries; Mary Dierkes & her staff are tops! The house & grounds are very private; well-secured by fencing, gates, prickly landscaping & alarm system. Nothing to be concerned about - typical CR security measures. Infinity pool amazing & landscaping extensive. We heard the May>Nov rainy season was not as wet as usual. In 1/2018, vegetation was lush in this area & insect repellant needed; this year hardly any need. The beach, Playa Blanca, is cove-protected, mostly sand w/ rock offshore for protection; best snorkeling we have found in CR. Tide is 5-8 feet: snorkel at low tide out over the rocky shallow bottom, play in the water on the then sandy bottom at high tide. 5 sets of masks/snorkels provided, but only 1 set of back-strap fins. Walk the beach for miles (almost no trash); sunsets amazing. Water shoes best for a walk; some rocky areas. 3 pairs of water shoes provided, size 8,11,?. Playa Junquillal, next beach south, far rougher surf. Seeing baby turtle release at sunset from the marine turtle hatchery is special. Releases, if & where, not well publicized; ask at the turtle hatchery, Junquillal EcoLodge, TPV tours downstairs & Verdiazul (see Goggle). Don’t miss Playa Negra for boogie-boarding (~4 boards provided). A friend who stayed with us had never boogie-boarded before; she had big smiles. Go to Lola’s, picture perfect beach restaurant. Beach road to Playa Negra & then Lola’s has 2 seasonal creeks; no problem with higher clearance 4wd SUV. The birding highlight was a blue-diademed motmot along this road. Also ate at Guacamaya Lodge, Junquillal EcoLodge and MundoMilo; all very good. Mary sent caterers list before trip; PuraVidaCateringCR.com came to the house. The 4 of us watched, asked questions of our gregarious cooks, learned new techniques & had a spectacular meal. There was 1 outage of the municipal water supply each week, none longer than 3 hours, all in the afternoon. Owner said uncommon to be off that often. Mary ordered a 5 gallon water dispenser. The MBDR AC needed freon; Mary had it fixed next day. DSL Wi-Fi didn’t extend beyond MBDR and indoor&outdoor dining tables. Daily outages, an hour or so, possibly related to the cable crews we saw each week on road to Santa Cruz. The outdoor cat, Felix, is friendly, does not scratch & keeps other animals away, except for an armadillo which we saw once when Felix was on patrol elsewhere.
Stayed 20 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

guylaine p., Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vraiment tout y est parfait

Nous sommes restés 9 jours à la casa Blanca et nous n'avons que du positif, la maison a vraiment tout ce qu'il nous faut, je n'ai jamais vu une cuisine aussi bien équipée! Le patio est immense avec toujours un coin avec de l'ombre. La mer est à quelques pas, la plage est très belle et presque privée. La piscine est vraiment belle et plus grande que ce qu’il paraît sur les photos. Bref je la recommande a 100%.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by Laura Irvine

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Why they chose this property

What we enjoy most about the neighborhood is that it is quiet and has an authentic Costa Rican feel. Casa Playa Blanca is away from the hustle and bustle of the more intense tourist destinations like Tamarindo. We are in a perfect location for those who want to do some day trips to the many activities in the area, but also want their own private slice of paradise to relax and rejuvenate.

What makes this property unique

Casa Playa Blanca is unique because it is private and located on a quiet Pacific Ocean beach. Guests have exclusive use of the property unlike staying at a hotel or condo!
The terrace architecture, landscaping and ocean views create a desirable space to find your Costa Rican Pura Vida. Listening to the many species of birds with the calming background sound of the waves makes it an amazing place to relax.
The sunsets are spectacular whether watching from the sand on Playa Blanca or from the lounge furniture on the deck of your very own infinity edge Bali style swimming pool.

Languages:

English

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