Playa Cativo Lodge

Our stay at the hotel was incredible. From the moment we were promptly picked up at the dock, everything was perfect. We arrived at the beautiful hotel, where the staff were incredibly friendly and professional — truly world-class customer service. The rooms were in excellent condition, the food was delicious, and the tours were both varied and informative. Playa Cativo feels like a little piece of the Garden of Eden.

Una experiencia inolvidable empezando por la recogida en Golfito, como en los platos preparados por el chef ( increibles ), y siento si me dejo alguien en el camino no es mi intención pero dar las gracias a Carlos, Alexandro, Moises, Kendel, Alonso, Valeria que nos acompaño en las excursiones... y que hicieron este viaje especial. Playa Cativo es un paraiso, un hotel y unos servicios inmejorables que te hacen sentir como en familia. Mil Gracias de unos murcianos !!!! Esperamos volver pronto.

May 12-17, 2025. We join in the stellar reviews of past guests. The rain forest surrounding Cativo, the staff, the accommodations, the tours/guides and the food/wine are all amazing. But, something that we did not expect was the unparalleled blue water fishing we experienced. Captain McAllister put us on the best marlin and yellowfin tuna we have EVER had. Totals included 4 marlin, including 350+ 450lb blues. Also, we limited on 70lb.+ yellowfin tuna. (We lost a 100lb fish at the rail.) At the end of the day we were exhausted, but incredulous at our success. We were concerned about going in the rainy season, but found that the daily showers didn’t typically arrive until about 4-5:00pm or later. Each of our 5 mornings and days at Cativo during the “rainy season” were beautiful and essentually rain free. An absolutely amazing experience with the nicest people in an unforgettable and isolated corner of the world.

We had a wonderful several days dropping off the grid at Playa Cativo. Accessible only by boat, the lodge feels truly remote - nestled into the dense, hilly rainforest where you feel immersed in nature. Somehow, despite the distant location, they built a beautiful lodge with luxurious rooms. Our suite had huge screens, catching the ocean breezes and allowing us to fall asleep to the chirping and cooing of the forest creatures. The nighttime soundscape was really amazing. Days are easily filled. Yoga on the outdoor platform was the perfect way to start the day - and a 90 minute Thai massage the best way to end it. Some days, there were activities in between (hiking, swimming, surfing - you name it); other days, just a book. There’s no bad answer. The food is exceptional. Every meal was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. I embarrassed myself by ordering several desserts each night. An exceptional culinary team, which delivered at high global standards (not just “ok for a sunny holiday”). The staff is very welcoming, attentive, and professional—they felt very invested in making sure we had a great time… and remembered our names, food allergies, and drink preferences, often anticipating our order minutes before we knew it ourselves! Pro tips: - Bring Tevas. Cute in a hippy-chic way, but perfect for beach walks and waterfall treks. - Book several days (the week)

Our time at the Playa Cativo Lodge in Golfo Dulce ( southern Costa Rica ) was magical. After flying in a 12 seater from San Jose, we were warmly greeted by Alexandro of guest services, and taken on a 30 minute boat ride to the eco-lodge ( no roads - only way in ). Upon approaching the lodge, the volcanic beach was lined with hundred’s of magnificent palm trees - we quickly melted into the environment. Cativo is a Eco-friendly resort, and the sights and sounds of the birds & monkeys at anytime of day with an occasional rain forest shower just magnified the atmosphere. Now combine this with 5 star features and food that is out-of-this-world makes this a magical place. Edward, the Executive Chef, is extraordinary. He uses his culinary skills and makes fresh ingredients from the resort’s organic farm ( actually started in early 1900’s) and all meals are to die for. We loved the daily fresh local fish. We stayed in a villa with a plunge pool ( highly recommended), and if needed, the WiFi was never an issue. The staff was extremely friendly and genuine with Kenneth, the GM, setting the tone. Kendell, the F&B manager was magnificent at the bar and dining venues. Keilyn & Moses prepared a surprise anniversary celebration for us one night that was soo special. A big thank you to Daisy who gave us complimentary restorative Yoga combined with sound therapy daily at 4. What a treat and Kudo’s to all the staff for making everyone feel so welcome. Lots of excursions to partake in or take a short hike to the resort’s waterfall - or do nothing at all and immerse yourself into the nature of the resort. Rooms are serviced twice daily and we used room service for breakfast, always on time with the freshest fruit. With a total capacity of 40 guests, you really feel the ambience of the lodge and grounds with gorgeous views of the Oso Peninsula. Cativo is the perfect place to get re-set and re-charge. Stefan L

El lugar es espectacular 😍 Esta rodeado de naturaleza exótica. Está perfecto para descansar en pareja, con amigos y familiares. 100 % recomendado. La comida es deliciosa y el staff super amable. Nos hemos sentido como en casa. Perfecto para desconectarse del ruido exterior.