By Rob Goodell

I have said it before and I will say it again, kids rule in Costa Rica! This weekend I took the family to Hacienda Pinilla and we had a total blast.

Pinilla is a large, upscale beach community about a 20 minute drive south of Tamarindo. Saturday morning we woke up and walked down to the tennis courts where I had my 4 year old set up for his first tennis lesson.

The instructor was excellent. He was able to keep all the kids engaged for the full hour with a combination of exercises, games and obstacle courses the were designed to help the kids learn how to keep there eye on the ball and to get them accustomed to running around with a racquet in their hand.

It was my first time seeing my son in a organized sports environment and it was all I could do to not be one of those annoying Dads shouting instructions from the side lines but I did manage to behave myself, somewhat. Now we are signed up for weekly lessons at only $10 a pop. What a bargain!

Next we headed over to the beach club for a bite to eat, some swimming and a surf session. The pool there is awesome with its lagoon style infinity edge that seems to melt right into the blue Pacific Ocean.  Lunch in the new outdoor restaurant was excellent. My wife had a giant quesadilla, I had some cheeseburger sliders and Jimmy had some delicious Mahi Mahi.

After we sat in the shade for a while and let our lunch settle, we took a dip in the pool. The kids were going crazy! Then Daddy snuck out for a little surfy surfy. Good times! As a surfing Dad, you could not ask for a better set up.  Where else can you have the family have all the comforts they need while you surf a perfect right point break directly in front? Not many places that I know of…

The kids then did what any normal kid living in Costa Rica would do and made a game out of pretending the balls were turtle eggs then buried them in the sand trap! It was a perfect end to a perfect day. After a wonderful sushi dinner we all slept like logs. I guess I could get used to this kind of “resort style” living…

Lots located in a gated community with completed infrastructure, fully permitted and has begun construction of the development for the past two years.  The development offers a community pool, rancho style clubhouse, bathroom, changing room.  Stunning, Neo-colonialism style condominiums and clean living:  two-bedroom, two-baths, with wrap around private terraces offering spectacular “Wow!” views and built green from the ground up starting at only $179,000 Developer Financing available.  The development is located only a 5 minute drive from well know Playa Conchal beach and right down the road from Bahia de Piratas (Pirates beach) which National Geographic has called this beach  ……a stunning little beauty of a beach nestled in a sculpted bay…a secluded gem!

These Condominiums offer Luxury finishings and detail craftsman, each condominium presides over breathtaking ocean views and includes:

• Steel frame Construction built to stringent seismic codes with insulated walls & ceiling
• Pella double panel windows and sliding doors to your private terrace
• Air conditioning and fans throughout
• Washer and dryer
• Upgraded Frigidaire appliances
• Doors and cabinets handcrafted from renewable, local wood and made by local craftsman
• Granite countertops in kitchen and marble vanities in each bathroom
• Ceramic flooring throughout
• Luxury decor packages available
• Satellite TV, high speed internet, pools, clubhouse, fitness room & more

• Local architects of international renown envision a development that extends nature instead of replacing it and blends style with energy efficient building systems with a uniquely Central American aesthetic.

These Lots are nestled in a tropical setting within a gated community surrounded by natural vegetation and against a forest backdrop. The development is fully permitted and has a phase of condominiums built along with a residential home.   There is an existing HOA registered and operating the community. This residential section will consist of 21 residential lots and a common area for the owners to enjoy their luxury pool; clubhouse and barbecue area.

These lots set in a tropical setting are starting at only $49,999 with only 50% down at closing and interest-free financing over five years to pay the balance from the Developer, reserve your lot today.

If you look anywhere from Tamarindo to Flamingo there are not many lots at this price point located in a gated community, with amenities and North American quality infrastructure in place, walking distance to a magnificent white sandy beach, and an HOA association in place.  There are two model home designs and floor plans to choose from for your dream residence.

Casa del Suenos

Offers over 1,312 sq. ft. of indoor space with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a covered carport. There are options available to customize your home such as having a covered outdoor terraza and private storage area for those owners who want to rent their home for vacation rentals. You can also convert your three bedrooms into two bedrooms and make the living area larger.

Casa Hermosa

Offers over 1,355 sq. ft. of indoor space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a covered carport. They are custom options available to have a covered outdoor terraza and private storage area for those owners who want to rent their home for vacation rentals. You can also convert your three bedrooms into two bedrooms and make the living area larger.

Casa de Eden has 2,800 SF of living space under roof which includes an extensive wrap around terrace with a partial ocean view.  The home boast luxury finishings including granite kitchen countertops with eat-in counter, Frigidaire Professional series stainless steel appliances, custom marble bathroom vanities, custom wood closets in each bedroom and a utility room with washer/dryer. 

The lot measures approximately 900m2 (1/4 acre). There is a carport and the lot is tropically landscaped with an enclosed fence. There is A/C and ceiling fans throughout the home along with phone, satellite TV and high speed internet. .

Property Highlights include:
•       Ocean Front 7 Bedrooms / 8 ½ Bathroom complex including the employee apartment
•       Income producing with 4 rental apartments
•       Spectacular, unobstructed views
•       Infinity pool with Jacuzzi
•       2 car garage with shelving and large built in wood pantry
•       Fully equipped gymnasium with Jacuzzi, steam sauna and dry sauna
•       Wading pool with hanging hammocks over pool
•       BBQ area
•       Separate employee apartment
•       Spacious Office overlooking the ocean off master suite
•       Indoor rock formation fountain under stairwell
•       Large Satellite dish for US stations through DISH
•       Air conditioning in each apartment
•       Wireless internet in each apartment
•       Cable television in each apartment
•       Antique oxcart landscape
•       Fruit trees….banana, papaya and mango

This unique opportunity is being offered at $2,200,000

Casa Flores features 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths over two levels. There are multiple terraces that offer a variety of private seating areas, in the shade, by the pool, or in the sun. There is a new staircase to the beach, which is only accessible by a couple of homes. In a neighborhood of million dollar plus homes, in the desirable Flamingo North ridge, this property represents an opportunity to have a four bedroom, ocean view home, on titled ocean front land, with a semi-private beach; the least expensive oceanfront home in all of Flamingo. The land value alone is close to $500,000 alone. Great deal that will not last long.

Offered at $595,000!

A great value offered at $380,000

Playa Grande boasts some of the best food in the region, where you can take your pick between restaurants serving Italian or Spanish food, Seafood, Sushi and more. Two surf shops and numerous small hotels and inns add to the services, and tours happen all day. Rent a beach cruiser or a board for a day or a week. You can have a piece of beach living here at an accessible price. This is a project worth checking out!

Lots are an average of 800 square meters (8608 square feet or .2 acres), with water and electric already in and serving the neighborhood. New permits have recently been issued and are in process after 4 years of moratorium. Talk to us today about how to have your beach home on one of the finest beaches Costa Rica has to offer!

Lots starting at $90,000

Contact:

Dave Corredor
Broker, Playa Grande Office
Blue Water Properties
506-2652-9275
506-8748-0587
dave@bwpcr.com

Rebecca Clower, CIPS, NAR
Broker/Owner
Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica
www.bwpcr.com
CR Cell: 011-506-8705-1850
Toll Free: 1-866-658-7795

The beach at Playa Grande is a National Park and is one of the most consistent surfing waves in the region. Howler monkeys are seen and heard often over the sounds of the surf. Within a couple of blocks, there are 5 restaurants at a variety of price points for any budget. A home built on this lot would be an ideal rental for those who may only  occupy their house part of the year. Owner financing available on this ideally located property next to one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.

Contact:

Dave Corredor
Broker, Playa Grande Office
Blue Water Properties
506-2652-9275
506-8748-0587
dave@bwpcr.com

Rebecca Clower, CIPS, NAR
Broker/Owner
Blue Water Properties of Costa Rica
www.bwpcr.com
CR Cell: 011-506-8705-1850
Toll Free: 1-866-658-7795

dave@bwpcr.com

Motivated seller! Offered at $75,000

This property features 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and is over 1400 SF
including the balcony. The property is being sold fully furnished and
turn-key. Currently on the short-term rental market. One of the best deals
in Flamingo Beach for a remodeled condo this close to the beach at $225,000.

by Dave Corredor

Playa Grande, Guanacaste is the home of Parque Nacional Las Baulas (Leatherback Turtle National Park) and is located across the bay from the popular surf town of Tamarindo. Known for a spectacular beach and one of the most consistent surfing waves in Central America, Playa Grande is a charming, unspoiled coastal town of about 200 year round residents. There are a number of quality restaurants in town, and surf shops and lessons are a common site on this 3-mile stretch of beach. For those who like a slower pace, Playa Grande is a must-see, and Tamarindo and all its amenities is a long walk (with a quaint water taxi ride) or short drive away.

The National Park beach is one of the primary nesting grounds for the Leatherback Turtle in the Northern Pacific. In the interest of protecting these magnificent creatures, for many years Playa Grande has had stricter building regulations than almost anywhere in Costa Rica, including a lengthy moratorium. But now, for the first time in 4 years, construction permits are again available in Playa Grande with a new approval required related to ground water.

The first new permit for a home has recently come out, and the project is indicative of the new regulations: within 500 meters of the beach, there is essentially no commercial construction of any kind, only single family residential construction with limited coverages and low environmental impact will be permitted. After more than 4 years with virtually no construction, there is much demand to build and to sell in Playa Grande. This type of lengthy delay creates a nice opportunity for buyers; that is to say that prices are still low as the the market is just waking up. Lots within a short walk to the beach range from $90-130,000 for around 800 square meters (with financing available), and some lots that would require a 15-minute walk are as low as $40,000 for over 5000 square meters.

Large ocean view lots go from $99,000 to around $200,000. Homes in the two neighborhoods next to the beach have been changing hands from the $300,000s up in to the $600,000s for beach front homes. Today Playa Grande offers a rare opportunity for beach living at reasonable prices. Living in Playa Grande means living in harmony with the environment. Looking from the beach, one can see few signs of the presence of humans.

Tall, dense trees line the length of beach and birds and howler monkeys are plentiful. Many days one can walk out and be alone on Playa Grande, Playa Ventanas, or Playa Carbon, all within walking distance. For six months of the year, Playa Grande is dry and enjoys offshore winds often. During the green season, it cools off a bit with some rain and the forest explodes with lush tropical beauty. This town is quaint and quiet, truly a gem worth seeing.

THE REBIRTH OF THE PLAYA GRANDE REAL ESTATE MARKET

Living in Playa Grande means living in harmony with the environment. Looking from the beach, one can see few signs of the presence of humans. Tall, dense trees line the length of beach and birds and howler monkeys are plentiful. Many days one can walk out and be alone on Playa Grande, Playa Ventanas, or Playa Carbon, all within walking distance. For six months of the year, Playa Grande is dry and enjoys offshore winds often. During the green season, it cools off a bit with some rain and the forest explodes with lush tropical beauty. This town is quaint and quiet, truly a gem worth seeing.

Your Residence… Your Casita… Your Escape.

Discover easygoing elegance at your own tropical hideaway… enveloped by cool sea breezes, sweeping ocean vistas and lush Costa Rican jungle.

Las Mareas offers exclusive Casita Residences to own or rent, each overlooking Costa Rica’s pristine Pacific coastline. Live an uncluttered life rooted in the joys of simple living. Our residences sit against the backdrop of lush Guanacaste hills and green zone looking out at Guanacaste’s untouched sands. Within the privacy of El Tesoro, Tamarindo’s only gated community, Las Mareas Residences offer the best of both worlds: direct access to secluded beaches and abundant surf breaks just a short walk to the vibrant Tamarindo town center.

The open-air residences boast a unique Pacific Rim style, crafted with select local materials made to blend and weather with the tropical climate and local ecosystem while simultaneously balancing your indoor/outdoor lifestyle.

A smart and environmentally sound design concept combined with an unparalleled natural setting make the residences at Las Mareas unlike any other. You’ll find privacy and comfort within a gated community, just steps from the beach at your casita – the only properties in the area offering unspoiled panoramic views of the Guanacaste coastline, Playa Grande, Las Baulas National Park and the tropical dry forest.

Features:

• 6 Residences: Each with more than 2,000 square feet of living area
• 3-Bedroom/3.5-Bath
• Stainless steel Bosch appliances
• Pacific Rim tropical architecture and design elements
• Infinity pool with ocean view
• Gated community with security
• Poolside bale and gazebo
• Outdoor parking space
• Outdoor shower, shared between 2 units
• Paved roads with underground utilities
• Outdoor living areas with extensive ocean views
• Premiere location just steps to north Tamarindo Beach near the Tamarindo Estuary and Playa Grande
• Access to Pangas Beach Club and its facilities as well as automatic participation in the villa owner rewards program

Specific Areas:

Garage + storage: 48.10 m² (517.74 sq.ft.)

Main living level: 99.60 m²  (1,072.08 sq.ft.)

Upper level: 92.89 m²  (999.86 sq.ft.)

Total A/C area: 159.00 m²   (1,711.46 sq.ft)

Total constructed area: 260.00 m² (2,798.62 sq.ft.)

PRICE TO BUY: $770,000

1450 sq ft condo with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Fully furnished kitchen with a large deck overlooking the lap pool and ocean. Walk down the stairs to a secluded beach, bbq area, aquatic center with snorkeling/diving, and tennis. The condo has a queen poster teak bed and two double beds, each with a bathroom. Also available is a roll away bed and portable crib. From the living/dining area and master bedroom are magnificent views of the ocean, bay and hills.

Offered at $324,000

General Amenities Phone: Phone Internet: Broadband (Wireless) Maid Service: Twice weekly Air conditioning Ceiling fans Clothes dryer Iron and board Laundry service Linens provided Towels provided

Room Amenities Bedrooms: Linens Provided, A/C, ceiling fans Bedroom 1: Queen Bed Bedroom 2: Two twin beds Bathrooms:Towels provided Bathroom 1: Shower Bathroom 2: Shower

Kitchen Amenities Blender Coffee maker Freezer Microwave Oven Refrigerator Toaster

Entertainment Amenities Cable TV DVD player

Outdoor Amenities Balcony Parking outdoor Parking security Swimming pool

Garden:

Beaches: Flamingo, Potrero, Conchal, Sugar Beach

Restaurants: Marie’s, Mar y Sol, Angelina’s

Offered at $549,000

Casa Miramar was built 5 years ago in the mountain development of Pacific Heights. This home has unbelievable ocean views that go forever. Breath-taking sunsets can be viewed every evening from the pool terrace at Casa Miramar. This home as 3 beautifully furnished and decorated bedrooms, each with its own bath. The amazing outdoor area features a large covered pool bar fully furnished with sink, ice maker, refrigerator and lots of cabinets for storage. It also has a long bar and swivel bar stools.

Guests of the home can dine inside or outside as dining tables are located in both places. The kitchen is fully furnished and ready for a hired chef or for preparing your own meals.

Casa Miramar is secluded and private yet close enough to drive to beaches and restaurants as you desire. This is truly a great newer construction home and includes 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths plus a caretakers apartment as well. Sold fully furnished and turn-key.

A great value at $795,000.

As we rounded the bend into Villa Real we were greeted with the smell of barbeque.  We effortlessly hopped off our regal stallion and tucked in to a buffet of  carne asada, fried chicken, arepas, arroz con pollo and topped it off with a couple cotton candies.  He can’t stop talking about now and wants a horse.  I tell him no problem, as soon as he can work a shovel….