Before your first visit to Hacienda Pinilla, a luxury surf resort in Costa Rica, you likely already have an idyllic idea of what awaits: golfing, tennis, mountain biking, surfing, expansive beaches, and a wide world of Costa Rica outdoor adventures… And you’d be right!
There’s always something more to discover at Hacienda Pinilla – another captivating sight to behold, another scenic viewpoint to conquer, and another indulgence to relish. So, let’s discuss a few of our personal favorites: from spa services delivered to your villa to brushes with active volcanoes, from horseback riding through the enchanting backcountry to practicing yoga with a breathtaking ocean view, from golfing amidst wildlife to beach-hopping the coast.
Costa Rica Outdoor Adventures at Hacienda Pinilla
Hacienda Pinilla is more than a luxury surf resort in Costa Rica. Here, where tropical dry forest meets the Pacific and local heritage still lives, the possibilities for exploration, experiences, and enjoyment are boundless.
Go Beach-Hopping (and then, Hop Over the Beach Club)
Discover the allure of Hacienda Pinilla’s three miles of unspoiled coastline, extending to the enchanting beaches of Playa Avellanas, Playa Langosta, and Playa Mansita. Immerse yourself in a myriad of activities – swim, surf (with Playa Avellanas boasting waves up to 18 feet!), snorkel, leisurely stroll, or bask in the Costa Rican sun on some of the purest, most beautiful sands in Guanacaste.
Elevating the experience is the sophisticated Hacienda Pinilla Beach Club – an oasis featuring a refreshing beachfront pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an ocean-side restaurant. Indulge in the pleasure of sipping, savoring, and relishing the panoramic views. Take a cooling dip in the pool, and then set aside some moments for rejuvenation at Hacienda Pinilla’s Wellness Center. Here, a comprehensive menu awaits, offering massages, wraps, facials, scrubs, mani-pedis, and an array of indulgent treatments tailored to your desires.
Hit a Round of Golf
Distinguished as one of Costa Rica’s premier golf courses, Hacienda Pinilla boasts its own par-72, 18-hole oceanfront masterpiece, envisioned by the acclaimed architect Mike Young.
Earning the esteemed title of an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, the course stands as a testament to Hacienda Pinilla’s commitment to preserving ecological harmony. It not only adheres to but also enhances its natural surroundings, spanning 7,200 yards of undulating hills, the rhythmic crash of surf, sun-kissed savannah, and the allure of a tropical dry forest.
Take a Surf Lesson
Our recommended surfing lessons are perfect for beginners and advanced surfers alike. Get up on your board for the first time – or challenge yourself to waves so great, they’ve already taken on Hollywood!
The Tamarindo area’s reputation as a surf haven is no secret – after all, there’s a reason that Hacienda Pinilla is considered a luxury surf resort in Costa Rica – with its colossal barrels, challenging rights, and powerful waves that might seem a bit daunting if your confidence isn’t rock-solid. Enter surf lessons – your key to conquering the waves. Whether you opt for private or group lessons with our skilled instructors, just two hours could see you confidently riding your first wave or mastering new tricks on your board.
Yearning for an extra challenge? Advanced surfers, we’ve got something special for you. Embark on our all-day surf trips to renowned spots like Playa Avellanas, Witch’s Rock, and Ollie’s Point. These famed surf destinations, some immortalized in the classic Endless Summer 2, promise an exhilarating experience for those seeking the thrill of advanced surfing.
Horseback Ride Down the Beach
Spanning 4,500 picturesque acres of Guanacaste’s cattle ranching terrain, Hacienda Pinilla unfolds as a true paradise of rolling hills, sun-drenched coastline, and scenic pastures – many, best explored on horseback!
Immerse yourself in these timeless landscapes, embracing a traditional Costa Rican experience that has captivated generations. Embark on a journey along rugged backroads, encounter wildlife, and traverse from stunning beaches to lush forests. The adventure commences at Hacienda Pinilla’s stables, where horses and tailored tours await individuals of all ages and riding experience levels.
Hike into Nature
Costa Rica’s breathtaking beauty is inescapable, and is especially evident in its lush and rugged landscapes. Traverse this natural splendor is through Hacienda Pinilla’s extensive network of mountain biking and hiking trails.
These trails wind through miles of captivating terrain, presenting natural challenges, scenic routes, and rugged backcountry, covering a total of 45 kilometers that span forests, coastline, and traditional cattle ranches. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular – wildly secluded and beckoning exploration on foot or by wheel.
For those seeking a guided adventure, we offer a two-hour mountain bike tour through Hacienda Pinilla’s pasture land and forest. Traverse wooden bridges, navigate sandy paths, and customize your tour based on your preferred level of difficulty. If you crave a hardcore challenge, feel free to extend your time on the trails. Alternatively, if you prefer to chart your own course, we can assist in coordinating bike rentals for a self-guided exploration.
Practice Yoga
Infuse depth into your Costa Rican journey and practice your preferred style of yoga. Whether you seek a meditative escape, a relaxing session, or a challenging workout, Hacienda Pinilla’s yoga sites and instructors are dedicated to providing a transformative experience that captivates and motivates.
Designed for all experience levels, our community offers group and private classes conducted in yoga studios, within the privacy of your villa, or beneath the expansive Guanacaste sky. Immerse yourself in the essence of wellness and tranquility, elevating your Hacienda Pinilla experience in Guanacaste!
Costa Rica Outdoor Adventures Near Hacienda Pinilla
Our luxury surf resort in Costa Rica offers an upscale home base and convenient location for all your Costa Rican wanderings.
Go Fishing
Did you know that Hacienda Pinilla is situated along a lucky stretch of coastline that harbors one of the world’s most renowned sport-fishing destinations? It’s no wonder that Tamarindo fishing is a standout experience on our list! We provide a selection of tours tailored for reeling in a diverse range of inshore species like roosterfish, snapper, grouper, and others, as well as offshore giants such as blue marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi or dorado, wahoo, and sailfish.
Our fleet comprises various boats, each impeccably equipped and for various types of sportfishing excursions. Guided by highly experienced captains and crews, proficient in both navigating the Pacific waters and pinpointing the best fishing spots, our half, three-quarter, and full-day excursions are available on boats measuring up to 48 feet in length. Get ready for an unparalleled fishing adventure!
Kayak Into the Blue
Up for a scenic tour and a picturesque workout? Experience the best of both worlds with an ocean kayaking tour to Captain Island, located just offshore (a breezy 40-minute paddle) from Hacienda Pinilla.
If you’re after a more self-guided adventure, rent a kayak to explore the sea or meander through the mangroves on a kayaking tour – a invigorating paddle that either cuts through the Pacific or ventures into Tamarindo’s renowned mangrove reserves. Regardless of your choice, you’re bound to unearth a new reason to fall in love with Costa Rica.
What’s SUP?
Ever tried the art of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), mastering the delicate balance between elegance and equilibrium? We consider it one of the finest workouts out there, delivering a full-body challenge that activates your legs, core, and shoulders, with a touch of arm coordination.
Picture it as a blend of balancing, kayaking, and surfing – all wrapped up in a bundle of pure fun. And because we’re of the mind that your luxury surf resort in Costa Rica should also offer SUP, we’re happy to offer a two-hour lesson that transports you to one of the serene and picturesque beaches near Hacienda Pinilla. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned SUP enthusiast, you’ll have the opportunity to rise, find your balance, and start paddling. The best part? If you happen to wobble, the Pacific Ocean has your back to catch your fall. Welcome to paradise!
Swim Beneath a Waterfall
Llanos de Cortés Waterfall is at once one of the most beautiful and most accessible waterfalls in Guanacaste
Picture this: You’re strolling along, spotting wildlife, taking in new sights. Suddenly, as you round a bend, and the roar of a cascading waterfall captivates you – falling water, a gentle spray, and a refreshing coolness. Beneath it lies a tranquil waterfall pool – the perfect sanctuary for swimming, relishing the moment, and immersing yourself in the surroundings. All at the unhurried pace this day demands.
Feel free to embark on the waterfall adventure solo – simply ask, and we’ll gladly provide directions to the nearest (or most impressive, secluded, or…) cascade. Alternatively, explore one of our combo tours, several of which culminate in a waterfall hike and swim experience.
Mud-Bathe at a Volcano
The allure of Rincón de la Vieja is no secret at all – it stands out as one of our cherished national parks. A harmonious blend of cool and steamy (quite literally), this park embodies a rich tapestry of flavor, spirit, and myth. But fear not – we promised ways to cool off, not ways to steam up!
At the core of Rincón de la Vieja National Park lies its namesake, a still-active (sometimes very active) volcano that quite literally fuels many of the park’s mesmerizing attractions. Picture boiling mud pots, steamy volcanic fumaroles, hot springs (some too hot for humans), mini-volcanoes, waterfalls, scrubby moonscape, lush rainforest, and an array of other natural wonders.
Our Rincón de la Vieja National Park Tour options offer a diverse range, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your preferences. But if you’re seeking a refreshing escape this summer, we highly recommend a combination hike along the Las Pailas trail (home to astonishing volcanic sights), followed by a waterfall swim, river rafting, or whatever appeals most.
Where to Stay
Explore more, do more, and see more wildlife when you stay at Hacienda Pinilla, a luxury surf resort in Costa Rica and and ideal launchpad for all manner of Costa Rica outdoor adventures. Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Villa Alegria
6 bedrooms | 6 baths | 17 guests
Introducing Villa Alegria, a luxurious retreat with a mini climbing wall, heated jacuzzi for 10, an expansive pool, and a fitness room, just a 5-minute walk to the beach!
Step into a sanctuary that transcends the definition of a home: Casa Alegria (the Home of Joy) is a total retreat, where unforgettable moments are curated and crafted. Graciously accommodating up to 17 guests, the villa’s pièce de résistance is its colossal pool. This is not your average pool; it’s a veritable aquatic kingdom that includes a 3x3m heated Jacuzzi capable of hosting at least 10 people, creating a complete and private pool party experience. But the marvels don’t end there…
At Villa Alegria, each master bedroom boasts a breathtaking pool view and its own balcony or petite terrace. Imagine waking up, sliding open the door, and immersing yourself in a paradise right at your feet. For our youngest guests, the children’s bedroom transforms into a play haven with three bunk beds, a mini climbing wall, and a mezzanine for epic sleepover adventures.
Villa Alegria isn’t merely a home; it’s a lifestyle. Embrace a vacation life of opulence and entertainment in this haven of comfort!
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Casa Navidad
4 Beds | 5 Baths | 12 Guests
Welcome to everything you could want for your vacation: a luxurious retreat that combines minimalism and coziness, to create hygge (an environment of quiet comfort) and high design. Best of all, it’s just 200 meters (0.2 miles) to a secluded beach, accessible only to guests.
There is much to love about this spacious and upscale home. We’ll start with the bedrooms: There are four, each with ensuite bathrooms, king-sized beds, and TVs with cable. Here, no one draws the short straw! And then, there is the spacious and fully equipped kitchen, the inviting living room, and the incredible outdoor living spaces, which include a shaded terrace, outdoor living room, and indoor-outdoor dining with a grill, wet bar, ice maker, and wine refrigerator.
Welcome to where you’ll never want to leave! Because it gets better, thanks to your private pool and pickleball court! And did we mention? Your reservation includes a dedicated housekeeper, who will be available Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to noon (holidays and some restrictions may apply).
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Casa Guayacan
4 Beds | 4 Baths | 11 Guests
Surrounded by rare tropical dry forest and bordering Hacienda Pinilla’s golf course, Casa Guayacan is the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy, and wander, often without seeing another soul.
For here, you’re just a quick morning stroll to the pristine beach. You’re overlooking an evergreen, championship golf course. You’re minutes to Hacienda Pinilla’s many amenities. And yet, you’re in your own world: an almost secret retreat, where your luxury experience extends to a private infinity pool and indoor-outdoor living, walls of glass and a calming color palette, enormous bedrooms and master suites with private outdoor access.
Casa Guayacan adds an additional star to its service cap with a “house mom,” who provides housekeeping, does the laundry, and prepares your daily (except Sundays and holidays) breakfast, lunch, and cocktails. And, of course, as guests, you’ll also have exclusive access to Hacienda Pinilla’s many amenities, from the spectacular Beach Club and golf course to the trails, tennis courts, and horse stables.
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Villa del Bosque
4 Beds | 4 Baths | 12 Guests
Named for the tropical jungle that surrounds, Villa del Bosque, or the Forest House, is a beach-inspired, modern home. Its sleek design and contemporary style both complement and accentuate its surrounds: lush gardens, palm-thatched outdoor living, and towering trees.
Villa del Bosque is the kind of home that invites you to take a deep breath and simply enjoy. To slow down and embrace the moment. And to remember why you’re here: for blue skies and fluorescent sunsets, for streaming sunshine and fresh ocean breezes.
Do it while lounging at your private pool, complete with a waterfall feature. Or while preparing a meal on the poolside grill or in the gourmet, chef-ready kitchen. Or as you luxuriate on the sun loungers and find respite in the covered poolside rancho. Because here, your vacation is whatever you want it to be.
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Need Help Planning & Reserving our Luxury Surf Resort in Costa Rica?
When you reserve your Hacienda Pinilla vacation home with us, you gain access to our full concierge services.
When you book, we’ll get in touch to help you plan all the details of your stay. Our job is to get to know you, so we can help you plan the trip of your dreams. Whether you just need help arranging transportation or would like a full itinerary – everything from your airport shuttle to a full trip’s worth of activities, private chef services, and golf cart rental – we’re happy to help.
Even better, our concierge services are always free. So, why wait? Get in touch and let’s get started!