Wooden footbridge, leading past lanterns toward a large tree at Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda
Wooden footbridge, leading past lanterns toward a large tree at Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda

Things to do in Puntarenas
Costa Rica 

Immerse yourself in vibrant culture & nature in the
Costa Rica rainforests

Santa Lucía Jungle Hacienda rests at the intersection of two worlds, where the lush rainforest of Carara National Park and the timeless charm of a colonial town intertwine. Beyond its natural wonders, Santa Lucía invites you to immerse yourself in both adventure and heritage.

Bridge spanning a dense green jungle gorge below near Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda

In The Heart of Nature and Culture

Set along the banks of the Tárcoles River and nestled within a 500-hectare reserve, the hacienda offers front-row access to one of Costa Rica’s richest ecological landscapes. In this unique transition zone between rainforest and tropical dry forest, scarlet macaws soar above the canopy, white-faced capuchins dart through the trees, and crocodiles drift lazily along the riverbanks. The rhythm of the jungle pulses through every path, villa, and shaded bench, gently embracing the town that now lives within it.  

Unleash Adventure, Embrace Heritage

Glide through the mangroves of the Tárcoles on a river safari, or dive into the warm Pacific waters for an unforgettable underwater experience. Kayaking along the coastline reveals hidden corners of the lush landscape, while horseback rides offer sweeping vistas, leading you to the majestic Bijagual Waterfall, one of Costa Rica’s tallest. For birdwatchers, the treetops are a paradise, alive with scarlet macaws and more than 400 species waiting to be discovered. Within the hacienda, the reimagined colonial village—complete with a chapel, cantina, and traditional homes—offers a picturesque setting for photography and cultural immersion. Santa Lucía offers not just a place to stay, but a setting to move slowly, take in the details, and feel the living connection between earth, story, and time.

Bijagual Waterfall near Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda, cascading over massive rocky cliffs wrapped in lush green foliage
Sunset over Carara National Park, with winding trees reflecting on hazy hills near Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda

Carara National Park

Carara National Park is located only 2 km south of the Tarcoles River bridge in Puntarenas. In the park, you will see the only transition forest in the Central Pacific; it attracts species from both the dry and humid forests, presenting an exciting chance to see the converging flora and fauna in one place. Carara is also considered one of the important birdwatching hubs in Costa Rica. 

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Sandy beach cove curving to rocky outcropping & hillside near Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda, Puntarenas Costa Rica hotels

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a slice of paradise only 15 minutes from our hotel. This cozy beach is the perfect spot for a day trip escape. Its 500 meters of white sand, pristine waters, coral reefs, and lush vegetation make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Spending the day at Blanca Beach, you will feel firsthand the energy of Pura Vida! 

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Aerial view of dark sand beach and turquoise waves by coastline, with a resort on the edge near Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda

Jacó Beach

Jacó is a picturesque beach town only 15 minutes from the hotel, with a vibrant atmosphere and stunning beaches to enjoy an array of exciting aquatic activities or just lounge and sunbathe. Jacó is a must-visit Pacific gem! Ask our concierge for great recommendations of what to see and do. 

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