costa rica - central america

THE AREA
With a gorgeous stretch of white sand beach and an excellent natural harbor, Playa Flamingo is one of Costa Rica's most appealing destinations. The resort lies on the Pacific Coast, a 25 minute drive north of Tamarindo. (This area is a 3 to 4 hour drive or more from Costa Rica's capital, San Jose, depending on weather and road conditions; you can also fly to the small Tamarindo airport.) Playa Flamingo offers a quiet setting with more private villas and generally less development than nearby Tamarindo; it tends to attract an older crowd. Sport fishing is excellent here, with a large marina to support it. This area is drier than other parts of Costa Rica, but still amazingly lush and green, with a variety of birds and wildlife.

THE PROPERTIES
Access to Tamarindo is via a partly paved road that leads inland, then returns to the coast. Local rental shops and outfitters can help you with everything from surfboard rental to fishing trips to guided hikes of the nearby nature preserves. Note: Many local roads are unpaved; a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy or "green" season (concentrated in the period from September through mid-November).

In the Playa Flamingo area, which stretches north along a wide bay to the quiet fishing village of Potrero, you can choose from a good selection of villas and a few recently built apartments and townhouses. There are homes for every budget, from simple apartments to large, upscale villas with private pools. Some locations are right on the beach or have direct beach access, while others are on the hillside overlooking the beach. The typical property enjoys sea views through lush tropical foliage. There is a limited selection of shops and restaurants in the area, with more extensive choices in Tamarindo.

INTERIORS
Villas and apartments offer 1-5 bedroom(s), 1-3 or more bathrooms(s), living room, dining area, and fully equipped kitchen. Studio apartments are also available. Most include a terrace or balcony. The furnishings are comfortable and modern. Some properties offer air conditioning, ceiling fans, stereo, and other amenities.

HIGHLIGHTS
Villas and apartments in and around the beach resort of Playa Flamingo - an idyllic tropical hideaway with some of costa Rica's best sport fishing.