Costa Rica: A Rustic Getaway at Samasati Nature Resort

It was the beginning of our two weeks in Costa Rica, and what we really needed was to set the scene. We needed to unplug, shed the constant activity and communication of our everyday lives, and dive in. We couldn’t have chosen a more perfect place to do just that.

Set on 270 acres atop a hill between in the Limon province, Samasati Nature Resort is a beautiful lodging space set back from the bustling streets of nearby communities.

Our Samasati adventure started with our sweet shuttle driver, Rudy, dropping us off at the small house that serves as a lobby. Our bags were loaded into the back of a four-wheel-drive pickup, we piled into the front and backseats, and we set off up a steep and bumpy hill to the lodge. If you’ve read reviews and are wondering if you actually do need four-wheel-drive, take our word for it. It’s not an option. If you bring a standard car here, it will sit at the bottom of the hill!

Speaking of reviews, we did our homework and knew exactly what we were getting into – it seems some reviewers found themselves caught by surprise by the remote location and basic surroundings. What a good reminder to “check into” a place before you check into a place.



Check in was smooth and simple, and then our driver brought us even farther up the hill to our home for the next few days – the Tempus Pearl House.

Rustic luxury may sound like an oxymoron, but the moment you step into this space, you will understand fully. Surrounded by gorgeous, lush jungle filled with beautiful animals in their native habitat, this house has an amazing ocean view to boot. Sitting high atop a tree directly off the expansive deck was our welcoming committee – a sloth – which was amazing, because Bria was really looking forward to seeing one!

The entire second floor of Tempus Pearl House is a relaxing master suite, with a king size platform bed in the center, a beautifully crafted marble bathroom, a walk in closet, and French doors leading to the perfect upper deck. Settling into one of the rocking chairs there, you can’t help exhaling, long and deep, to make space in your soul for serenity.

Downstairs, there is a second bedroom, a well-appointed but simple kitchen, and a living space. On the expansive patio was the biggest draw of the house for the children, a hammock with a great view. That hammock could tell the story of our stay perfectly. It was a place for lounging, reading, cuddling, playing, sightseeing, sleeping…perfection.

“I loved that place, it was great!” Bria said once we were home. “My favorite part was the hammock, and the towels folded into animals.”

Yes, there were animals, just one of the extra touches from the staff. Our stay featured impeccable service, thanks to the manager, Scott, and his attentive crew. We never found ourselves with an unmet need, including shuttle trips to town and yoga classes.

The food was not a great fit for our family, but that is not unexpected when traveling. For example, we learned that cold milk is important to our otherwise flexible four-year-old. She doesn’t care what sort (cow’s, almond, even soy), but having it warm was a huge turn off to her. We quickly came up with a plan B to make sure everyone’s needs were met. After the first day, we had breakfast at the lodge (cereals, breads, and other simple things) and brought back takeout to our kitchen for lunch and dinner.

Throughout our stay, there was a calm, laid back atmosphere. We were actually the only guests staying at the resort during the time we were there, so as we explored, that had positive and negative points. (It would have been a great place for the kids to run around with a new friend or two!) The grounds are large and include several hiking trails, plus a waterfall the boys found themselves spending an afternoon enjoying.

There is a wide variety of accommodation available, including bungalows and cabins – something for any size party. Plus be sure to visit the meditation hall and take in a yoga class, offered each morning and evening. Stephanie is amazing. Spa options are offered near the main lodge.

The history of this place is a great draw, as well.  A group of like-minded individuals got together in 1994 and decided to create a space to enjoy together. They got started in 1994, using an ox to carry the first timbers for building the first structure. The rest was built with wood from local reforestation and trees fallen on the property (green wood). Samasati Nature Retreat is part of the Sustainable Tourism Board and follows strict eco-friendly guidelines. We love staying in a place you can feel good about!

We found Samasati to be a great home base for our adventures, though the kids were ready for a little more action when we left. And that’s just what they got, as our next stop was the Arenal region.