Costa Rica is the land many associate with delicious coffee, friendly people, and a dense, healthy rainforest. But it’s also now home to a large number of North American expats. Why, you might ask, is Costa Rica such a draw for expats?
There are so many answers to that question: unparalleled natural beauty, fresh and healthy food, a low cost of living, wonderful people. And you can find it all in Playa Herradura, Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica
A Little More Than Local
Playa Herradura, Costa Rica sits on the Pacific Coast of this Central American nation. It’s officially known as the “Fishing Capital of Costa Rica” and, as a result, it has a bit of a tourist infrastructure built into the city. Located next to the popular Jaco Beach, it’s also only an hour away from San Jose International Airport. As such, many people have bought homes here and now call it their hometown.
The area was once just a locals beach on the Costanera Sur, but since the Los Sueños Marina opened, with over 1,100 acres, 200 slip marina, 600-acre rainforest, and golf course, it’s been “on the map” for many vacationers and retirees. That doesn’t mean you have to live the posh resort life, however. There are many options with every budget in mind in the Playa Herradura, Costa Rica area that make sense for those seeking a new life.
Rolando Vargas
Why Playa Herradura?
But, why should you consider buying real estate in Playa Herradura? Well, who wouldn’t want to live in a place called The Gold Coast? The area has seen a lot of property development in recent years. It’s no longer the sleepy fishing town it once was. That’s not a bad thing, though! You’ll find plenty of friendly people willing to help make your move a little easier. There are plenty of recreational activities, like the aforementioned fishing, but there’s also jungle hiking and golf to keep you busy.
Playa Herradura does have a quiet side, though. Visitors have a selection of only a few hotels, with the one standout being the Los Sueños Marriott resort. It’s not the most touristy of the beaches around. Jaco takes that crown. As a result, it’s perfect for full-time expats in Costa Rica – devoid of the constant beach noise that comes along with living in a popular beach town.
This is possibly the best advantage of Playa Herradura. You’re close enough to all the fun and excitement of Jaco Beach, but far enough away to get some much needed R&R. The more upscale resorts are located near Playa Herradura, so you do have a little bit of tourist infrastructure, but not in the form of the new casino resort that was recently built nearby.
Prices for homes are all over the map. Obviously you’ll pay more for the more furnished and built-out properties in the area. A few acres of virgin land with ocean views can be had for $200,000-$300,000. If you want something pre-built, smaller properties including condos can run as low as $100,000. Again, personal preference will dictate much of the price here.
Beating the Heat Won’t Make You Lose Your Cool
One of the first things you’ll notice about living in Playa Herradura are the pleasantly low prices. You can enjoy the local beer, a Bavaria Negra, for $2, or a fruit smoothie (blackberry, pineapple, or papaya) for $1.50. Tacos and fish can run between $5-$10 a plate (sourced right off the boat and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat).
Utility bills obviously depend on your usage, but many reports in the area say that bills can be kept under $100 a month. Regarding electricity, the biggest expense will be your air conditioning and washer/dryer. If you buy or build a home with good access to ocean breezes, air conditioning might not be a necessity over time, as your body naturally adjusts to the heat and the humidity of the tropics. Collecting rain water in a cistern and air drying your clothes are two common ways to cut utility costs.
Geoff Sowrey
How You’ll Spend Your Days in Playa Herradura, Costa Rica
The area was first, and still is, popular because of its sport fishing. That’s why the Los Sueños Marina exists today. If you’re an expat who’s drawn by the call of the sea, you can host a boat in the “5-star” marina (government sanctioned). Boats from 30 to 180 feet in length can be accommodated, and you can also store your vessel on dry-dock.
There’s also plenty of shopping to be done in Playa Herradura. If you’re looking to source some unique pieces for your new home, you’ll find many shops that sell local Central and South American art. And, of course, there’s always the beach. The nicest ones are located just north at Punta Leona, which is just a few kilometers away. There is a resort nearby, but since it’s illegal to restrict beach access in Costa Rica, don’t let that deter you. The conditions in the area are perfect for swimming, bodysurfing, and boogie boarding.
The Transition Is [Mostly] an Easy One
So, does Costa Rica sound like a place that is calling your name? Playa Herradura welcomes a form of living that’s definitely a lot different than what you’re used to back at home. However, like any other place, it isn’t without its areas that could use some improvement. The costs are lower, sure, but with that comes the occasional headaches over logistical issues like getting mail, internet, and other basic needs.
Luckily, due to the increasing popularity of Playa Herradura among expats, many of the details have been already fussed over by the “pioneers.” As a result, assimilating into Playa Herradura can be a more than manageable task. Take a look at what is offered in Playa Herradura, and make an educated decision for your family as to whether it’s the right spot for you!
Los Suenos, Costa Rica has become the premier destination in the Central Pacific region. Combining the top-rated marina in Costa Rica with quality resort living and amenities, Los Suenos is the epitome of what Pura Vida (pure life) truly is all about.
B. Burns
Building a Dream – The History of Los Suenos, Costa Rica
In 1991, developer William Royster purchased 1,100 acres of land overlooking Herradura Bay that ultimately would become the Resort and Marina at Los Suenos. Like many potential investors and expats, Royster envisioned the economic potential of real estate in Costa Rica.
After six years of planning, construction began in 1997 with the hotel, golf course, and the first of 800 planned residences that opened just before 2000. The Marina was opened to the public in 2001 with the completion of 200 slips and 80 dry units finished in 2003.
Marina at Los Suenos, Costa Rica
Marina at Los Suenos
Marina at Los Suenos
The Marina at Los Suenos – One of a Kind
The Marina at Los Suenos, Costa Rica has become known for its world-class facilities and ready access to some of the best deep sea fishing grounds in the world. The Marina Village commercial center and the 450 residence units make the Marina a must-see destination for hard core sport fishers and tourists alike.
Living and Playing at the Resort at Los Suenos, Costa Rica
Los Suenos provides a lifestyle second to none. Accommodations with stunning ocean, jungle and golf course views, shops, bars and restaurants, and the two acre, three million dollar beach club, take luxury resort living to the next level.
Los Suenos Residences
Los Suenos Natural Tunnel
Championship Golf with a Natural Twist
The 18 hole championship caliber La Iguana Eco Golf Course is a unique blend of sport and nature. Designed by Ted Robinson, Jr. this par 72 course will prove a challenge for beginners and experts alike.
The 6,700 yard course plays into the lush tropical rainforest and back to Herradura Bay. The “gallery” of howler monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws transform a round of golf from a game to an adventure.
Los Suenos Golf
Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort – Luxury and Relaxation
Opened in 1999 with 191 rooms and 10 suites, this fully-appointed luxury hotel is a central part of the Los Suenos Costa Rica resort experience. The top shelf amenities, including the casino, bars, and the Sibo Rainforest Spa and Retreat are available to all resort guests.
The Marriott Resort
Experience Costa Rica at Los Suenos Resort
There are numerous tours and adventures that can be arranged from the resort to satisfy every taste. For those who hear the call of the sea, there are many deep sea fishing charters and whale watching tours (in season) available at the Marina that can give you the chance to hook “the big one.”
If nature and birdwatching is your cup of tea, tours of the nearby Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park are just a short car ride away. To get up close and personal, the Mangrove Monkey Tour will let you visit the playful whiteface monkeys on their turf and terms.
Mangrove Monkey Tour
Partying at the Beach
Jaco, Costa Rica, long a favorite spot for surfers and beach lovers is just a 10 minute drive from Los Suenos, Costa Rica. This funky beach town is truly a blend of “Key West meets Pura Vida” with bars, restaurants, gift shops, stores, and great places to people watch.
Playa Hermosa, roughly five minutes from Jaco, hosts surfing competitions almost every weekend. For something different, this is a great place to watch the competitors “hang ten” while sipping your favorite beverage at one of the many bars along the beach.
Getting There Is Easier Than Ever
In 2010 the long awaited National Highway CR-27, known as the Carretera Prospero Fernandez from San Jose to Caldera opened, reducing the drive from San Jose to Los Suenos to a very manageable one hour. Taxis, shuttles, limos, and rental cars provide a variety of options to transport you to this luxurious tropical oasis.
Los Suenos-Herradura Bay
Renting, Buying and Living in Los Suenos, Costa Rica
Los Suenos, Costa Rica and the surrounding area has many options for investors or expats who are looking to buy or rent a piece of tropical paradise. The Resort proper is a gated community that does have a constant flow of hotel guests and day trippers coming to the marina, to play golf, or to enjoy the many options that are available.
Most of the residential units at the resort or in the immediate vicinity start in the $150,000 range but can go into the millions. While much of the area is developed, there are still lots available near the resort proper and in the surrounding communities.
What Does It Cost to Live in Los Suenos, Costa Rica?
The cost of living in the Los Suenos, Costa Rica area largely depends on how upscale you wish to go. Rentals can average from $350 to $1,115 per month depending on number of bedrooms and proximity to central locations. On the resort property itself, rents routinely run between $2,000 to $3,000 per month.
Utilities (electric, water, internet, telephone, cable) can be as low as $49 per month to as much as $350 per month. Again, this depends on your usage (think running a/c constantly) and choice of packages.
There are some items, such as computers or other high-end electronics that aren’t as easy to come by in Costa Rica. However the greater San Jose area has many “Americanized” stores, such as Walmart, that are only an hour away.
Buying a Residence in Los Suenos, Costa Rica
The residential units in the Los Suenos resort proper are condominiums and are generally priced per square meter. Prices routinely run in the $400,000 range although prices but can go much higher depending on number of bedrooms, furnishings, and size.
The units are part of individual gated communities that share the common roadways with the Marriott Hotel and Resort. There is ample security and landscaping throughout the property
Los Suenos May Not Fit Everyone’s Tropical Dream
For all of its features, Los Suenos may not fit the ideal of your rustic tropical escape. With its modern amenities, Los Suenos is definitely mainstream Central America and not a secluded paradise.
For the budget conscious, Los Suenos is definitely a more expensive option than other areas of Costa Rica.
Many people enjoy the “resort experience” and Los Suenos and the Marriott certainly deliver it. However, if the allure of a small Costa Rican village or town is what you desire, Los Suenos is probably not for you.
Lastly, Los Suenos is a gated community. For those seeking to immerse themselves in local lifestyle and culture, this atmosphere may seem constricting.
What Does an Expat Need to Know About Living in Costa Rica?
Whether you are retiring, investing, or deciding to see what Costa Rica has to offer, there are some basics that every expat needs to keep in mind. First, and foremost, things move more casually here than in the U.S.; the phrase “tico time” is important to remember when making any schedules.
Unless you are planning on applying for residency under one of the categories, you will be required to leave Costa Rica every ninety days for at least 24 hours. Keep that timeframe in mind as you pursue your tropical dream.
Learning the language, while not essential, is something every expat should try and accomplish. Being able to understand what is being said on a daily basis will make your Pura Vida experience that much more enjoyable.
Los Suenos, Costa Rica – A Model Investment
The success of the Los Suenos Resort and Marina complex is a prime example of the potential of real estate investment in Costa Rica and Central America as a whole. The undeveloped land that William Royster purchased in 1991 has increased in value many times over and will continue to do so into the future.
The key to succeeding in this kind of venture is to develop a cohesive plan and partner with individuals who have both the knowledge and expertise to bring those plans to fruition. Identifying the paths to progress, such as finding the location best suited to enhance the project, is crucial to making your concept the success you envision.
A True Return on Investment
The increase in property values in Costa Rica has soared over time. A recent listing for a 200 hectare (494 acres) parcel with views of the bay at Los Suenos had a sale price of $13,000,000. If Royster were trying to purchase his 1100 undeveloped acres today, it would cost just under $30,000,000 dollars.
This kind of investment potential, along with the many other attractive features of Costa Rica (business friendly environment, low taxes, good infrastructure) cannot be ignored. If the prospect of owning and developing your own piece of “pura vida” is exciting, there’s no time like the present to begin your search.
Building Your Own Investment Plan
William Royster discovered the location for what would ultimately become the Resort at Los Suenos, Costa Rica while sailing the Pacific. The lesson here is to explore areas that appeal to you and see if there is one where you can envision your project coming to life.
Deciding what kind of investment you want to make is just as important as the location. Are you thinking of building a Costa Rican hideaway, a small development, or a major commercial enterprise? Framing your intentions is an essential step in bringing your plan to life.
Doing your research also means establishing a realistic budget and time frame. Rome wasn’t built in a day and making your Costa Rican dream a reality should be a long-term goal rather than a short-term sprint.
So When Is the Best Time to Build Your Dream?
Costa Rica continues to be a prime location for expats, investors, tourists, and business. So when is the best time to build your Pura Vida dream? The answer is simple: Now!!
Map of Los Suenos, Costa Rica
Los Suenos, Costa Rica Fast Facts
- Population: Approximately 10,000 when including local villages
- Typical temperature: average maximum temperature is 32℃ / 90℉
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: San Jose, Costa Rica
- Nearest U.S. consulate: San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s forests cover less than 0.03% of the Earth’s surface, yet it contains nearly 5% of the planet’s plant and animal species. Clearly this tiny country is an incredible place to experience our planet at its most abundant!
1. Ballena National Marine Park – Puntarenas, Central Pacific Region
This unique park is along one of the more remote stretches of Costa Rica’s coastline, on the southern end of the Central Pacific region, and encompasses several beaches. The park gets its Spanish name for a peculiar sandbar formation at Playa Uvita beach that goes straight out toward the ocean before splitting and curving in two directions, much like a whale’s tale.
Photo Credit: David Herskovits
2. Palo Verde National Park – Guanacaste, Pacific Coast Region
This is an undiscovered jewel in the Costa Rican park system. The animal population is spectacular. The trail system leaves something to be desired, but this certainly means fewer crowds, and there are a number of areas that can be explored by boat.
Photo Credit: Rod David
3. Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge – Alajuela, Costa Rica – Nicaraguan Border
Nature cruises through these wetlands are quite popular, but don’t worry, there are thousands of acres to explore. A boat trip here or in Tortuguero, or Damas estuary is certainly the easiest and maybe the best way to see a lot of wildlife on your visit to Costa Rica.
Photo Credit: David Berkowitz
4. Manuel Antonio National Park – Quepos, Pacific Coast Region
For a tame, up-close glimpse of the rain forest and some of its more photogenic inhabitants, Manuel Antonio National Park is a favorite. Located on the central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most visited—and smallest—national parks.
Photo Credit: Emmanuelle Bourgue
5. Monteverde Cloud Forest and Biological Reserve – Monteverde, Cordillera de Tilarán Mountain Range
Costa Rica’s most famous cloud forest reserve is packed with an astonishing variety of life: 2,500 plant species, 400 species of birds, 500 types of butterflies, and more than 100 different mammals have been catalogued so far.
Photo Credit: Jardín Botánico Nacional
Let us know where you get up-close-and-personal with nature in Costa Rica.