Do you have a trip planned to Tulemar and are wanting some guidance from previous guests? Or maybe you’re a seasoned visitor and want to share all your tips and tricks with future travelers? Or perhaps you are staying at Tulemar now and want to share all your memories with other Tulemar fans. Luckily, we have created the perfect place for you!

Introducing the Tulemar Guest Forum on Facebook!

The Tulemar Guest Forum is a private Facebook group dedicated to all past, present, and future Tulemar guests. This is a place to ask questions, share your experiences, and bounce ideas off travelers that are just like you. Want to know the best place for ceviche, how to pack for a trip during rainy season, or how much cash to bring? Come to our guest forum to get first-hand testimonials from fellow Tulemar guests!

To join, just click here: Tulemar Guest Forum

And if you’re not already, be sure to follow our Facebook page.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

If you haven’t seen the latest issue if the renowned Florida Design magazine, you’re missing out! Not only does Tulemar’s very own Mirazul have a featured article, but its stunning photography landed it on the cover page. Yes, we’re blushing.

If you’re not familiar with Mirzul, it is one of Tulemar’s incredible private villas that boasts a guest list of celebrity VIPs. It’s architecture, interior design, and open air concept make it truly one of a kind, which makes it no wonder it landed a coveted spot in Florida Design!

Here’s a little bit of what Florida Design had to say:

“THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT COSTA RICA,” KEY WEST-BASED INTERIOR designer David L. Smith says. “The wild life, the climate, the proximity to nature, a rugged rainforest fronted by both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans …” With his early involvement in what would result in a 6,800-square-foot aviary overlooking the sea, Smith still seems awestruck by the grandeur he along with the architectural team and builder created from the jungle mountainside.

While the well-traveled homeowners could have lived any place, the gated community of Tulemar in central Costa Rica already had an infrastructure for water and electricity supplied to the 33 one-acre homesites. “Yet there were challenges,” says Smith, referring to the strict codes to deal with natural seismic activity and the rolling topography of steep jungle terrain. “But for the owners to see ocelots, sloths, monkeys, and scarlet macaws … it was worth it. This place might just be paradise.”

To read the rest of the article, visit the Florida Design magazine article here.

To see more photos of Mirazul and see it’s availability and pricing, visit its web page here.

Ready to book your luxury vacation? We are always awaiting your call.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

We often times hear people ask where they can find the best all inclusive resort in Costa Rica. Unfortunately, Costa Rica doesn’t have a ton of all inclusive resorts the way Mexico or the Caribbean do, and to be perfectly honest, we think all inclusive resorts are over rated anyhow! To prove our point, here are 4 reason Tulemar is better than an all inclusive resort:

1. Personalized VIP service
   • Many people choose an all inclusive resort because they like to not have to worry about anything while on vacation. However, every accommodation at Tulemar comes with a personal concierge that will help you with all your wants and needs while staying at the resort! Want a fully stocked fridge, reservations at the best restaurant in town, a ride to the marina, or personal tour of the National Park? Your concierge will handle all of that, and more!
2. Food & Drink
   • If you’re interested in having unlimited food and drinks, you can get that at Tulemar! We are centrally located with quick and easy access to all the best restaurants in Manuel Antonio, plus we have a beach cafe, and a delicious restaurant with stunning views on site at the resort. Want drinks served to you at the beach? We can handle that! Plus, all the on-site dining options can easily be charged to the room so you don’t have to worry about your wallet while lounging at the beach or pool.
3. Freedom
   • With an all inclusive resort, you are boxed into a limited options, however, at Tulemar, your options are unlimited! Explore the town with transportation arranged by your concierge, have a yoga instructor come to your villa for a morning class, hire a private chef for dinner, or explore the authentic sodas in Quepos with no strings attached!
4. Safety
   • All inclusive resorts are an excellent options for those who want to feel safe and secure in areas that may not be the safest otherwise. However, Quepos and Manuel Antonio are safe towns, and Tulemar is gated and secure with 24-hour security. If and when you leave the Tulemar property, you don’t need to worry about your safety with our recommendations, arranged transportation, and heavily vetted tour companies. You can relax knowing you are in good hands!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

One of our favorite things to do is read reviews from our guests… We love hearing about their memories and everything that made their trip to Costa Rica so special, which is why we take great pride in our Tripadvisor page! Our Tripadvisor page is an excellent place to read first-hand experiences from guests just like you! If you don’t want to sift through all of our reviews, here are a few:

“This was the nicest place we have every stayed. Breathtaking ocean views, super clean rooms, air conditioning in every room, and gorgeous interior. The highlights for us was the housekeeping staff would come in and do our laundry and place all nice and neat on the bed or hang them in the closet. The house was spotless everytime we came home. The wildlife was so prevalent on the grounds, we ended up hardly leaving. Get up early and the whole place is alive. Our concierge, Brian, was so friendly and accommodating. Totally reachable at a moments notice to help with anything and even brought us brownies.” – angelhair76

“To say that our stay at Tulemar was memorable would be an understatement. From our personal welcome from Brian (our concierge) to the stunning accommodations of the Bamboo Villa – everything exceeded our expectations at Tulemar Resorts!  The Bamboo Villa is an amazingly unique structure – with 3 levels of private space – the first level with bathroom, outdoor shower, private pool and lounge area. The middle area (all open air) with dining table and kitchen (coffee/water included daily) and the highest level with the primary suite, spa-like bathroom and balcony overlooking the ocean. From our villa we saw sloths, spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, iguanas and tons of birds.
Above all, what stands out to us about Tulemar is the people. Simply put, they are amazing. Brian Q. is a treasure. His personality, warmth and kindness were incredible. He was available to us 24 hours for questions/issues and needs. He personally drove us to the market so we could stock our kitchen, he arranged our transportation, he brought us a lovely dessert/champagne during some rainy weather and most importantly, he arranged the most lovely settling for us to celebrate our anniversary by planting a tree (as well as making a sign for our tree as a surprise). The service was above and beyond and we give Brian 5 stars!  Overall an amazing location, beautiful villas, and exceptional staff. Pura Vida!” – travelers1995

“Split a honeymoon, half at Arenal and half here to relax. Got a great deal and it was an amazing place. Great beach, room, service… Milagro and especially Chris were there for everything. Lots of sloths, monkeys and other animals. Shuttle services was a great touch. Pretty walkable to restaurants too. Really great.” – Kevin M.

“Staying in Tulemar was the most incredible family vacation imaginable. We had not traveled to Costa Rica before and this trip was beyond our expectations. Our concierge Ashley made sure our excursions were booked, answered any of our questions, and helped us with dinner reservations. She made us feel at home and was a great introduction to the friendly culture we would find all over the area. Our kids still talk about the sloths and monkeys that hung out near our villa, the private beach with warm ocean waves, and the pristine view from our balcony. We compare every vacation to Tulemar! You will not be disappointed!” – garydanawright

Have an upcoming trip with us? We can’t wait to hear about your stay!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

The Casa del Mar you know and love has had a makeover! It is now new & improved, and better than ever!

Casa del Mar is known for it’s spacious living area, its large deck, and its beautiful suites that provide luxury and comfort for every guest. None of that has changed, and now you can experience the same level of luxury and comfort with updated furniture and details throughout the house!

All the things that make Casa del Mar unique have stayed the same: the incredible open air showers, the jacuzzi tub on the deck, the views, and the incredible open kitchen are all still there. But now we have added modern furniture and decor, and an incredible swing-chair on the deck so you can enjoy the views in style!

Check out the new look:

To book Casa del Mar, contact us here. We can’t wait to see you again!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Planning a getaway can be stressful… When is the best time to travel? Where should we go? How do we get there? Should we visit multiple places, or stay in one spot? Add a budget into the mix, and it’s enough to make you want to give up on the idea of a vacation all together!

Luckily, at Tulemar we have several options of accommodations for you to choose from, which means those budget-conscious travelers have a place to stay, too.

Here are our top 5 budget friendly vacation rentals inside Tulemar:

1 – Mot Mot Hideaway

• Starts at $195/night
• 1 bedroom
• Sleeps 2
• This rustic bungalow is spacious and romantic, and perfect for the 2 of you! It has a large bedroom with a king bed, a spacious bathroom, and a large deck complete with a full kitchen, lounge area, hammock, and breath-taking views.

2 – Buena Vista Standard Rooms

• Start at $205/night
• 1 bedroom
• Sleeps 3
• These tropical rooms come with either a king bed or 2 queen beds, a rain shower bathroom, relaxing terrace, and a kitchenette perfect for preparing a small meal or snack after a long day playing in the Costa Rican sun.

3 – Casita Panorama

• Starts at $225/night
• 1 bedroom
• Sleeps 3
• This 800 sq ft unit has a spacious bedroom, kitchen, living room, and large deck with complete furnishings and a BBQ grill. With stunning ocean views and a short walk to the beach, what more could you need from a casita in paradise?

4 – Mirador Escape

• Starts at $225/night
• 1 bedroom
• Sleeps 4
• With a king bed in the bedroom and a trundle bed in the living room, this unit maximizes your budget! This large suite has a fully equipped kitchen, 2 TVs, living area, and full equipped deck with a BBQ grill. With gorgeous ocean and sunset views, what more could you need to entertain your family?

5 – Tulemar Mini Suites

• Starts at $240/night
• 1 bedroom
• Sleeps 2
• This incredible alternative to a hotel gives you the coziness of a suite with all the amenities of our luxurious resort. Enjoy a comfy king bed, gorgeous ocean views, dining area and kitchenette, and walk in shower all while not breaking the bank!

Looking for more pocketbook friendly options? Check out all our accommodations here and filter by your needs! And, as always, if you have any questions please reach out to us directly at reservations@tulemar.com or at 800-936-9622!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Tulemar is fortunate to be located near several supermarkets and quick marts should you need any last-minute groceries during your stay, but if you really want an authentic Costa Rican shopping experience, we suggest visiting the Quepos farmer’s market, or “feria” as it is called here!

The Quepos feria is located in downtown Quepos near the marina (about 5 minutes from Tulemar), and is available every Friday & Saturday, weather permitting.

Inside the feria you will find handmade clothes, jewelry, shoes, seasonal fruits & vegetables, spices, plants, and sometimes you will even see dogs available for adoption through a local organization called PAWS.

The feria is an excellent place to stroll around and shop to help support the local community. We highly suggest adding this to your list of activities if you’re interested in experiencing local culture and meeting several hard working locals. Your concierge will be happy to provide you with more information and arrange transportation for you — just ask!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Magical & unforgettable: That’s the experience our guests describe when they book their wedding at Tulemar. Far from conventional and close to nature. What could be more amazing for you and your guests than a wedding on the Tulemar Beach,​ with an evening reception under the palms and the skies filled with a billion stars!

Tulemar is the perfect setting for your wedding, whether it’s just the two of you or for up to 40 guests. As a private, residential resort and ​because of ​the special and unique venues within, Tulemar may not be suitable for all wedding groups. Our expert wedding planners from Tropical Occasions will answer any questions you may have and guide you along the way, handling all of the details, from transportation to flowers and photography.

Not wanting to leave? Spend your Honeymoon in one of our romantic private villas​ so you can relive your wedding day bliss over and over during your trip!

Check out photos from past weddings for some wedding inspiration:

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

If you’re looking for the perfect place for a romantic getaway with your honey, look no further. Tulemar has everything you need for the ultimate romantic vacation or honeymoon.

We have over 50 unique accommodations to choose from to perfectly fit your needs. Our Bamboo Villas are one of the most popular honeymoon units, and we have several other 1 bedroom units if you’re interested in trying something different. And, if you’re looking for a little more space, we have several 2-3 bedroom units, as well as several large private villas that are oozing with luxury!

As always, every unit comes with a personal concierge that will arrange transportation, activities, and help you with anything else you need during your stay. Want to surprise your significant other with a private chef in your villa? Your concierge will gladly make it happen! Want to get a couples massage by your villa’s pool? Let your concierge know and it will be booked in no time.

It’s possible you may never want to leave your villa, but if you do you will have access to the exclusive Tulemar Beach, all 4 resort pools (including an adults-only pool), the on-site restaurant, as well as 15 other incredible restaurants within a 3 block radius of the resort’s gates.

Plus, e have seen so many couples enjoy their romantic getaway at Tulemar that we now offer an exclusive romantic getaway package! For only $49 you will get a bottle of Concha y Toro sparkling wine and Sibu handmade gourmet chocolates, plus you will be surprised one night with candles, flowers, and homemade brownies! If you’re a honeymooner and can provide proof of marriage, you will receive this package for free!

We can’t wait to help you celebrate your love.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Most people go running when they hear the words “rainy season”. We often get asked when the best time is to visit Costa Rica as many people look to avoid the rain here as much as possible.  We completely understand… After all, it’s hard to catch some rays on the beach when there is a thunder cloud overhead. However, we firmly believe that the rainy season here is just as great as the dry season, and if you’re not convinced we made a list of 7 reasons why.

1.  Cheaper Airfare
   • There are major airline discounts during Costa Rica’s rainy season (May-November). So much so that it’s not uncommon to get airline tickets for 50% (or more!) off the price you pay during high season. That alone is enough reason to visit! We have found round trip tickets for as low as $200 from some U.S. cities.
2. Cheaper Accommodations, Dining, and Shopping
   • As if saving money on airfare wasn’t enough, you can also save some major bucks on accommodations, dining, and shopping, too! Most places offer rainy season discounts with buy one get one free offers, half off offers, and more. Check out our discounts here.
3. Less People
   • If you’re hoping to explore the country without hundreds of other tourists, rainy season is definitely the time to do it! You will find that the national parks, the beaches, and the tours are all significantly less crowded, which means you get to experience the beauty of the country and the locals undisturbed.
4. Better Scenery
   • More rain = more green. In fact, we refer to rainy season in Costa Rica as the green season! The frequent rain provides the perfect atmosphere for lush greenert, plus it feeds the hundreds of incredible waterfalls that can be found throughout the country.
5. Cooler Temps
   • It’s never cold in Costa Rica, but with frequent rainstorms and cloud coverage, the temps can get much cooler during rainy season! Expect a nice warm day followed by a cool and comfortable night. The average temperature during rainy season is between 75-85 degrees.
6. More Wildlife
   • With flourishing greenery, less tourists, and cooler temperatures, the wildlife becomes much more active and visible during rainy season! After a nice rain shower you can expect the monkeys to be jumping from tree to tree and the birds to be playing.
7.  It’s not always wet
   • Many people have the misconception that it rains 24-7 during rainy season. While it may rain most afternoons and nights, it’s common to have a break in the rain in the morning until after lunch.  This is the perfect time to play outside, soak in some sun, and enjoy some activities. Plus, some days it doesn’t rain at all!

Bottom line is, Costa Rica is the perfect place to visit any time of year… We hope to see you soon, rain or shine!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

If you’re not quite convinced Tulemar is the right place for your next vacation, we totally get it… We’re picky too and we admire your high standards. Luckily, we are confident that we can meet and exceed those expectations of yours. Not convinced? Check out these 10 reasons why you should stay in Tulemar:

1. The Tulemar Beach
   • Yep! We have our own beach! Not only that, but the beach is fully equipped with free lounge chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, boogie boards, towels and wait staff.
2. Personal Concierge
   • Each rental comes with your own personal concierge who will help with all the planning and details, as well and make your dinner/activity reservations, help with grocery shopping, and assist with anything else you need on your trip!
3. No “Hotel” Building
   • If you’re coming to the jungle, why stay in a stuffy hotel room that keeps you away from nature and wildlife? We have a unique collection of individually owned bungalows, casas, and private villas that put you right in the middle of the action!
4. Ocean Views
   • We’ve heard that vitamin-sea is good for the soul, and we can’t agree more! That’s why our amazing hillside location allows you to have panoramic ocean views from any of our rentals.
5. Resort Pools
   • Yep, pools with an s. We have four gorgeous pools equipped with towels, wait staff, gorgeous views, and plenty of wildlife. One is even for adults only if you’re wanting a little peace & quiet.
6. Dining Options
   • We have a full-service restaurant plus our Beach Bar and Grill, as well as 15 incredible restaurants within 3 blocks of our front gates! Feeling like a homebody? We’re also close to the grocery store if you have a hankering to cook your own meal in your fully equipped kitchen.
7. SLOTHS (and other wildlife)
   • We understand this doesn’t even need an explanation, but we enjoy overdelivering, so we’re going to give you one anyway. There’s a reason The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica’s research and release facility is located inside Tulemar – we have just as much, if not more, sloths and wildlife than Manuel Antonio National Park. Not only can you see sloths, but you can also see monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, iguanas, and other amazing wildlife daily!
8. Nature and Hiking Trails
   • You can easily explore the flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio on any of our several hiking trails right in Tulemar. Prefer hiking in a group? Enjoy the trails during one of our daily Sloth Walks guided by The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica!
9. Free Shuttle Service
   • Since we are located on 33 acres, we understand the thought of walking from point A to point B can be a little daunting after a long day of sun and cervezas. Luckily, we have a free shuttle service that can bring you to and from the beach, as well as anywhere else within Tulemar.

Last but not least….

10. We are in the heart of Manuel Antonio
    • Manuel Antonio has been recognized as one of the most beautiful places in the world, and you’ll get to be right in the middle of it all! Plus, there is plenty of shopping, groceries, ATM, dining, and beaches within easy walking distance.

Now that we have you convinced, we can’t wait to see you soon!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

If you’re looking for a family friendly vacation home that offers privacy, jungle and ocean views, unique & tropical decor, and is the ultimate in luxury, Casa de Frutas should be at the top of your list. The  well-known – and well-loved – home boasts a long list of guests such as Felicity Huffman, Marcia Gay Harden, Janet Shamlian, and Jeff Corwin who have all chosen Casa de Frutas for their tropical vacations.

This open-air home features a main floor that is reminiscent of a luxurious tree house. It has an open-concept with panoramic ocean and jungle views that are sure to take your breath away. The main floor is the home to the kitchen, dining area, lounge area, and primary suite with a king bed, all which have stunning views of your surroundings.

Below the main floor are two additional suites each with their own outdoor entrance. Each suite has 2 queen beds and are perfect for sleeping families, couples, or children. The separate suites give your group plenty of privacy, however, they provide the convenience of proximity for those times you want to all be together.

One of the main draws of Casa de Frutas is the outside terrace & pool. The infinity pool, Balinese pavilion, and bar-b-que grill are the perfect place to hang out, relax, and enjoy the unbeatable Costa Rican sunsets!

Like all Tulemar homes, Casa de Frutas comes with a personal concierge, has easy access to the Tulemar beach, is a quick walk to the TuleCafe, and has access to all 4 of the Tulemar pools. Ready to book your stay at Casa de Frutas? Inquire & book today!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

As of September 1, 2018, the 5 millionth Costa Rican was born around 9:30p.m. The rate of growth has been slow and steady for the country. In 1953 the population of Costa Rica was 1 million, and the number has gradually increased over the past 65 years.

The president of Costa Rica took to Twitter over the weekend to celebrate the milestone:

“We received #Baby5M! We welcome you with a lot of love; love for you, for your family and for Costa Rica. You came to a country that is working to be better for all people because #CadaPersonaCuenta”

We welcome you to the world, Baby 5 Million! We look forward to more growth and happiness to come for Costa Rica.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Are you afraid of speed? Are you less of an adrenaline addict and more of an adrenaline avoider? I can relate!

My name is Lauren, and recently I was told I’d be going on a jungle ATV tour with one of Tulemar’s trusted tour companies. My first thought was “No, thanks.” My second thought was “Carpe diem, Lauren. You got this.” My final thought was “You don’t really have a choice, so stop thinking so much and just go.”

I’ve always been afraid of ATVs. I don’t like feeling of being out of control, I don’t like speed, and to be honest, I’m a terrible driver. I had never been on an ATV and I figured learning to drive one in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle with other tourists in tow was probably the worst idea ever. What if I want to go slower than the rest of my group? What if I can’t get the hang of it? What if I accidentally get hurt, or hurt someone else?

As the tour day rolled around I woke up nervous for what to expect. I was picked up at my font door, shuttled to the main office to sign some paper work, then whisked off to the jungle to begin the ride. I was immediately in awe of the surroundings: A picturesque river filled with giant birds and cows with lush palm trees in the background. The area was beautiful which helped to calm my nerves, and I thought at the very least I’ll get some great photos.

To begin, the tour guide asked if everyone knew how to drive an ATV. I sheepishly raised my hand and told him I had never been on one and that I was, quite frankly, terrified of doing the tour. He grabbed me a helmet, situated me on my ATV, and slowly showed me everything I needed to know to drive safely and have fun. He then brought me out to a field by the river to “test” my skills. This would help him determine how fast he could go during the tour to ensure I was safe and enjoying my time. This also gave me a chance to practice driving and get familiar with my vehicle.

By the end of my “test” I was already feeling more confident and we headed off to begin our tour. I wasn’t sure what to expect: Would we be driving through rivers? Would we be driving on roads? Would we be driving through thick mud? Will I have to go down steep hills? Turns out, the answers to all my questions was ‘yes’!

During the tour we drove on wide gravel roads and flat terrain, we drove through shallow rivers, we went up hill, down hill, through massive palm tree plantations, and we gained quite a bit of elevation so that we had incredible views from the top. The best part? I was never scared once. We went fast enough so we could actually end the tour on time, but we went slow enough that I always felt in control. Not to mention, the constant change in landscaping and scenery kept me in awe throughout the entire tour.

Half way through the tour we stopped at two gorgeous waterfalls. We had the option to walk across a suspension bridge and get photos, and also to jump in a natural pool at the base of the falls to cool off. Afterwards, we stopped for a delicious arroz con pollo (chicken fried rice) meal, which was included with our tour. From there, we had a quick and easy thirty minute ATV ride home.

I have to admit, by the end I was hooked and already looking to book my next tour! I had a blast and can’t even remember what I was afraid of to begin with. If you are one who is also afraid of ATVs, I highly recommend looking into a tour. Your personal concierge will be happy to answer any questions and to get you booked on the best tour for your needs.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Are you heading on family vacation and looking for the perfect home that has views, luxury, comfort, and style? Look no further than Tulemar’s luxurious Villa Kiskadee! This 4 bedroom home sleeps 10 people, and provides privacy for your whole group. Every room has its own bathroom and private terrace or balcony, so no one gets the short end of the stick! If your family loves water, Villa Kiskadee has an infinity plunge pool over-looking the ocean, and an outdoor jacuzzi facing a mounted flat screen TV, so you’ll never hear your family complain of being bored!

Love to cook? Not only does Kiskadee have a large open kitchen, it also has its own herb garden so you can cook with the freshest of ingredients.

Located in the heart of Tulemar, this home offers privacy while also having the advantages of all Tulemar’s amenities: a personal concierge, 4 pools, the Tulemar beach, and The Sloth Institute next door.

Want to see more? Check out the video tour:

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Whether you’ve never fished in your life,  you have fished only a handful of times, or you’re a seasoned fisherman, Costa Rica’s fishing scene is one you don’t want to miss. While Quepos has always been a major fishing port, the new addition of the Marina Pez Vela has launched the sport into major popularity for newbies and serious sportsfisherman alike.

With many boat options, as well as many different tours options, it can be overwhelming to narrow down what is best for you and your crew. We understand how this feels, so we decided to help solve the headache by creating a sportfishing directory that can be used by Tulemar guests, or even those who choose to stay elsewhere!

This directory breaks down the best of the best boats, tour companies, and tour options so that you can go into the decision fully informed and confident with your information. All of our boats and companies have been vetted thoroughly to ensure your safety and fun.

You can take a look at the directory here.

As always, you concierge will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have during your planning process. Don’t be hesitant to reach out them at any time! Are you hoping to eat the fish you catch? Many restaurants at the marina and around town will be happy to prepare your fish fresh for you — just ask you concierge about the best place to go!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Maybe you’ve heard of them from Fox News or Daily Mail, maybe you’re one of their nearly 50K Instagram followers, or maybe you’ve never heard of them before today. If the latter is true for you, we introduce to you the guys who make our palms sweat while simultaneously making us want to swan dive like Pocahontas off the nearest 100-foot cliff… Paddle 9.

Paddle 9, a tour company based out of Manuel Antonio, has been making waves on social media and in the news for their adventurous spirits and addiction to adrenaline. Founded in 2012, the company started guiding tours that include waterfall jumping and stand-up paddle boarding. They are family friendly and have a little something for everyone, but Paddle 9 really started gaining media attention when they collaborated with daredevil cliff jumpers & social media influencers Robert Wall (@robert.wall), Justin/Jay Briggs (@brggsy), and Alex Shirley (@alexsquirrely) which unexpectedly led to the filming of an awe-inspiring documentary titled Giants of the Tropic.

Paddle 9 first came across the cliff jumpers on social media in 2017 and thought they’d be perfect to work with, but they weren’t entirely sure what a collaboration with them would look like or if they could even pull it off. The way the story played out has left us inspired, to say the least. So, who better to tell the story than the man who spearheaded the entire operation: Co-owner of Paddle 9, Matty Rosenthal (@mattyruggz).

Tulemar: How did you originally find out about Robert, Justin, and Alex, and how did this partnership come to fruition?

Matty: We found them via Instagram. We originally found Robert Wall’s account because he was making a big statement on social media in the cliff jumping community. He was featured on several extremely popular social media accounts and he caught our eye. Brian Galloway (founder of Paddle 9) and I took a shot in the dark and I sent him a direct message to his Instagram account to see if he’d be interested in a possible collaboration. At first it said “seen” and no response, so we figured he was a “diva” and he wasn’t going to respond! However, a week later he messaged us, and it turns out he wrote out the response but where he was living he had awful internet and his response never came through! Once he realized it didn’t send, he re-sent it and was extremely interested in hearing more about the opportunity we were proposing. We communicated back and forth, and he told us more about his “crew” and their manager who worked for Volcom (@volcom) at the time, Hope Lane (@hopeisdopee). Everything snowballed from there…We set a plan for them to come to Costa Rica, we sent them a travel stipend to go towards the cost of their plane tickets collectively, and we put them up in our Paddle 9 house in Manuel Antonio for 3 weeks. In exchange for these accommodations we were to receive exclusive rights to any content that came from this 3-week campaign, and anyone else we worked with must also tag and/or give proper credit to Paddle 9.

T: So, was it in your original plan to film the documentary Giants of the Tropic?

M: The actual film itself was not the original plan…It sort of organically happened, as did many things that transpired during this campaign because the right people were put in to play on this project. In fact, two films were made during the campaign. The first one was by Robert Wall, which started with cliff jumping footage from places all over in the United States and ended with Costa Rican waterfalls including Nauyaca and Magia Blanca in the Peace Lodge Waterfall Gardens. Alex Shirley completed the first ever decent off Magia Blanca, followed by Robert then Jay (they played a game of “rock, paper, scissor to see who went first), so this was incredibly exciting and historic for us! We premiered Robert’s film at The Marina Pez Vela (located in Quepos, Costa Rica) during his 3-week stay.

Giants of the Tropic was its own animal. When this project began to come to fruition, we realized that we needed to come up with some concrete scheduling as far as waterfalls and places to check out in Costa Rica. I will be the first to admit when I am in over my head, and I was in over my head! So, I decided to enlist the help of another group I had been in contact with via Instagram called Overland Cruisers (@overlandcruiserscr). These guys are a group of friends based out of San Jose, Costa Rica whose weekend mission is to go on as many adventures as they can in their 4×4 vehicles. Whether it be waterfall chasing, a new hike to some incredible view, or camping on a remote beach, they are always doing something while producing incredible content for social media.  Fortunately for us most them are photographers, some by hobby and some semi-professionally. You can check out their work on Instagram at @tagphotocr @de_ride_photography @andresmiranda92 and @andres_elizondo.g.

I reached out to Overland Cruisers when I realized the film was happening and that I couldn’t maximize its potential by myself.  I sent them a message on Instagram and we set up a weekend excursion to explore waterfalls. This was to scout out and decide on some awesome places to send the cliff jumpers upon their arrival, and beyond that we wanted to get to know each other and see if this collaboration would be a good fit. Luckily, we really hit it off, and after spending time with the group it was clear to me that this team was perfect for the job. The collective work ethic of everyone involved in this project was incredible. Every single person brought something to the table. I really can’t commend everyone that was a part of this project enough… The way some things came together – from weather conditions to content we got at all the different places – it was almost like the universe was in support of this project.

T: We love stories like this! If you had to name one thing that inspired the documentary the most, what would it be? What do you feel was the documentary’s main purpose?

M: The campaign itself was the inspiration… The strangers becoming friends and ultimately family, the good vibes and beautiful places we ventured to, the waterfalls we conquered, and the history that was made with first descent at Magia Blanca.

The purpose was that we wanted to bring positive exposure to the cliff jumping community and we wanted to bridge the gap between cliff jumpers in the United States and other countries by telling our story in an inspiring and exciting way.

T: It seems like a lot of work went into this project… Probably more than you anticipated originally. What did your schedule end up looking like during your 3-week campaign with Overland Cruisers and the cliff jumpers?

M: During the 3 weeks the cliff jumpers were here we had a great outline for the bigger excursions. These were usually taking place on weekends to accommodate the Overland squad’s work schedules. Naturally we always liked to have a bigger crew because that means bigger energy. So, the places featured in the film usually were shot between Thursday and Sunday. Costa Rica is not the biggest country and traveling to and from certain locations can take a lot of time due to road conditions and infrastructure, so many of our days would start at 4am or so.

In between larger excursions we would shoot locally in or nearby Manuel Antonio and Quepos. Whether it was at the Manuel Antonio beach or shooting some little cliff jumps at Maracas in Nahomi Parqueo. We got some awesome footage of the guys just goofing off and doing gymnastics in public. You could basically point a camera at them and just watch what would happen!

As far as obstacles we encountered, we were extremely fortunate. For the most part we had great weather, our waterfalls all ended up being jumpable, and locals were willing to meet up with us and show us the way to hidden gems. Everything was amazing and went surprisingly smooth.  However, we did have a few scenarios that had us a little concerned…

T: Oh no. Do we even want to know?

M: Well, the first substantial waterfall I planned to take the crew to was Nauyaca waterfalls about an hour outside of Manuel Antonio. It’s extremely well known in Costa Rica by locals and tourists. This waterfall has a 60-foot jump from the top of the first waterfall, and a 160-foot waterfall on the upper level, but it is not jumpable. We were so excited to get some epic video and photos from here. However, when we pulled into the gas station to fill up for our trek to the waterfalls, we ran into our first snag of the day. Per usual, I shut the truck off while we filled the tank, but when I attempted to turn the truck back on the alarm system malfunctioned and disengaged the engine! I could not get the truck to start, we tried everything. We tried to disconnect the alarm from the battery, we tried letting the car sit and resetting for increments of 5, 10 and 15 minutes, we asked the gas attendants if they had any ideas and when they had none, we asked if they could call a mechanic to come check it out. Unfortunately, no one seemed to have any idea what could be wrong. I did recall that sometimes this can happen when the remote battery runs low, so remembering this and mixing with my frustration l started clicking the unlock button while simultaneously banging the remote against the car! It was both mildly strategic and completely out of frustration, but it worked!  The truck fired up and literally everyone cheered. I was afraid that this was foreshadowing for the rest of our day, but fortunately we didn’t run into any further snags during that trip.

The second obstacle – and absolutely the most daunting – was the weather the first time we went to La Paz Waterfall Gardens.  It was pouring rain and the visibility was next to zero. As we examined each waterfall it was clear that only one appeared jumpable, Magia Blanca (120 feet), which has never been jumped before. Although it appeared to be the perfect place to jump, the weather and water levels were not cooperating to allow the boys any chance at all of depth checking the potential landing zone. So, we ended up leaving without jumping any of the waterfalls and while we had hope, I really think none of us thought it would work out.

T: You mentioned earlier that these boys were the first ever to jump from Magia Blanca. It sounds like your fate took a turn for the better?

M: In the following days we experienced other waterfalls and adventures that you can see in Giants of the Tropics, but at the end of the day all our minds were on Magia Blanca. We couldn’t help but think how incredible & historical it would be to jump this waterfall. Not only has it never been jumped, but no one has ever even been allowed to jump it. It would be a record for two of the jumpers for highest waterfalls they have ever jumped and ultimately it would have tied the entire campaign together perfectly.

To our surprise, while we were trekking around to the other places, we got a call from the manager of La Paz Waterfall Gardens that the weather forecast was looking good for the coming week and that they were feeling fairly confident about a depth check and a potential jump being possible. So, that night we made our way up towards La Paz Waterfall Gardens and stayed in this cozy lodge near the park the evening before. Spending that evening with the whole crew knowing that tomorrow could be a day we make history together was a really special part of the trip. When we woke up the next morning the sun was shining, the skies were blue, and we hit the road feeling hopeful about our day.

When we arrived at La Paz, the boys still had to do a depth check, and because the water was so violent during our previous visit we were worried about whether a depth check would be possible this time around. As we made our way down toward the base of Magia Blanca you could already hear that the roar of the river was much less than our previous encounter… This was a very good thing!  As the waterfall started to show itself through the jungle we could immediately see that the water levels were substantially more inviting, so much so that the boys felt confident in doing a depth check! Upon realizing this was actually starting to become a reality and history could be made on this day, tensions and anxieties rose.

We had an employed a paramedic for this day, and him, Robert, Jay, and Alex all got in the water and made their way around the right side to the rocky ledges where they were able to get right under the falls to the side of the potential landing zone. With only a pair of goggles, Robert jumped into the water and swam to the bottom. Alex went after him and both confirmed the best news ever: The pool was 15 feet deep and a sandy bottom, which meant it was safe for them to make a decent from the top of Magia Blanca! Although all of us onlooking couldn’t hear what they were saying, their body language said it all: This was going to happen. Robert, Alex, and Justin were going to be the first three human beings to ever jump or be allowed to jump from Magia Blanca…

To see the history unfold you can watch Robert Bog The Milkman, Squirrely, and Brggsy in Giants of the Tropic:

If you’re wanting to try your hand at being a cliff jumper, ask your personal concierge about the Paddle 9 tour during your next stay at Tulemar! Hoping to see more collaborations with the cliff jumpers and Paddle 9?  Word on the street is that they are doing round 2 in 2019. Stay tuned and keep checking back with @Paddle9 and @Tulemar for updates!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar & Paddle 9

Take a sneak inside SolAngelo, the newest and largest villa in Tulemar opening March 23, 2019.

This 4-story home is nothing short of luxurious. Perched on the hillside, SolAngelo has stunning ocean and jungle views and surrounds its guests with all that the Costa Rican jungle has to offer. With open air social areas and closed off air-conditioned bedrooms, you get the best of both worlds in this villa.

If you are looking for the perfect rental to accommodate your large group, SolAngelo sleeps up to 14 and has plenty to entertain everyone you’re with. This villa has a private pool, a soaking tub in the garden, a yoga/fitness deck, BBQ, is handicapped accessible, and even comes with an elevator. There are 4 suites, 4 full baths, and 2 half baths for maximum comfort and space. SolAngelo is even family friendly and safe for little ones!

We would love to gush about how beautiful the architecture, decorations, and surrounding of SolAngelo are, but why take our word for it? Take a look yourself:

Interested in learning more or booking? Click here.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Summertime is here, which means it’s time for backyard bar-b-ques, parties by the pool, and gatherings with friends. Looking for the perfect party treat? We’ve broken down how to make our famous edible pineapple art so you can be the hostess with the mostest this season.

First, check out this amazing video of Anthony, our “do-it-all” man, creating this primarypiece!

Step 1.) Clean your prep area & wash your hands

Step 2.) Cut approximately 3 inches off the top of the pineapple, remove the skin from the fruit and shape the fruit into a ball

Step 3.) Using a knife, remove the bottom leaves of the crown

Step 4.) Remove all the fruit from the inside of the pineapple body and dice into 1×1 inch cubes

Step 5.) Place the cubed fruit back into the hollowed pineapple body

Step 6.) Cut a small piece of carrot in the shape of a bird beak and attach to the fruit ball of the crown using a toothpick

Step 7.) Use googly eyes, felt balls, or beads from a craft store to create eyes on each side of the carrot beak

Step 8.) Rest the bird on the side of the pineapple body using the leaves or toothpicks for support

Step 9.) Impress all your family and friends with your culinary creativity!

We can’t wait to see what you come up with! Be sure to send your photos of your edible art to us on Facebook, Instagram, or at social@tulemar.com.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

The Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica and it hosts hundreds of tourists every day. If you’re considering visiting the park there are several options for your tour, and we know that can be a little overwhelming! We are here to break down your options so you can make an informed decision on the best choice for you and your family.

First, you can choose to walk through the park by yourself, or you can hire a guide to help you spot wildlife and to educate you on the area. Your guide can either do a private tour, or you can join a small group tour. If you choose to hire a guide, this can easily be arranged by your personal concierge.

We recommend hiring a guide for your first tour as you will see and learn more than without one. Each guide carries a state-of-the-art telescope so when wildlife is spotted they can get you a clear view! They’re also trained professionals at finding wildlife that is easily missed by an untrained eye. Interested in seeing a sleeping bat, a baby lizard, or a hardworking caterpillar? Your guide can spot it all and give you a front row seat to the action.

If you’re not interested in hiring a guide you can still enjoy the park without one. It’s still likely that you’ll see monkeys, lizards, sloths, and other wildlife during your hike. You can enjoy the park’s gorgeous surroundings and your walk will end at three stunning beaches that are exclusive to park goers, so be sure to wear your suit and pack a beach towel!

Whether or not you hire a guide, your concierge can arrange transportation to the park for you. Your transportation will drop you off at the ticket booth right at the entrance of the park. However, if you choose to drive your own car or take the bus, we warn you that the process may be a little more chaotic and overwhelming. Expect to see many “officials” in bright vests and caps signaling for you to park in specific areas or purchase tickets from them. While they may look official, know that they are not official park attendants. You can simply tell them “no thank you” and follow the signs and crowds to the parking area and ticket booth. If at any time you feel harassed by someone claiming to work for the park, it’s likely they don’t, so same rules apply!

A few additional things to remember:

1. Sodas and waters are permitted (no alcoholic drinks), and you may bring packed sandwiches or pre-cut fruit. This is to keep the impact on the environment as low as possible.
2. Bring sunscreen, as well as your swim suit and towel if you plan to stay at the beach.
3. The entrance fee is $16 for everyone 12 years of age and older; children 11 and younger are  free. Cash or Visa cards are accepted.
4. The park closed on Mondays and is open from 7AM – 4PM every other day.

Any other questions? Your concierge can help you with anything you need! We hope you have a wonderful visit to the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

It’s summer break, which means it’s the season of sun, fun, and family vacations! You may already know that Tulemar is the ultimate place to make your family memories… After all, we have a private beach, 4 pools, tons of family friendly activities, plus a personal concierge to alleviate any of the stress that is inevitable during a family getaway. But, what about the stress of choosing the perfect home for your family to stay in? We are here to alleviate that for you as well! Meet Villa Mot Mot….

Villa Mot Mot is the most popular one bedroom family villa in Tulemar for a number of reasons. It may only be one bedroom, but it can sleep up to 5 people with the help of a trundle bed in the living room (perfect for the little ones!).  The design of Villa Mot Mot has families in mind: a bedroom with 2 queen beds, the trundle in the living room, and a spacious bathroom that connects the two rooms is ideal for a family that values a little more space than what is offered at your standard hotel. The best part? It’s large balcony has a fully furnished living room, dining area, hammock, & bar-b-que! Just imagine mom lounging in the hammock reading a good book while dad grills burgers and the kids play cards at the table. Perfect family memory? We think so!

Hoping to get some great views of the ocean during your stay in Manuel Antonio? Lucky for you, Villa Mot Mot has inspiring ocean views from the balcony. You may never want to leave your villa!

Have family friends, aunts and uncles, or grandparents that want to join the fun? Below Villa Mot Mot is the equally as beautiful Mot Mot Hideaway. It has its own private entrance and sleeps 2 people, so any tag-a-longs have a private place to stay without sacrificing proximity!

Summer won’t be here forever… Check out Villa Mot Mot and start making the best family memories of your life.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

At the bottom of the hill that Manuel Antonio rests on, you will find the small but lively town of Quepos. This is the town that is home of Marina Pez Vela, a buzzing farmer’s market, a beautiful and well-loved Catholic church, and dozens of shops and restaurants. While Quepos and Manuel Antonio are now the home to many expats & locals – and draw thousands of tourists in annually – it hasn’t always been that way.

Quepos has experienced waves of hardships, change, and adaptation. Its name originated from the indigenous Quepoa Indian tribe which originally inhabited the area in the 1500s. However, by the end of the 19^th century, the Quepoa tribe had unfortunately been nearly wiped out by disease, warfare, and slavery during Spanish colonization.

As Spanish settlers made Quepos their home, they cultivated the Costa Rican soil and used the land for banana plantations, which supported the area’s economy for years. In the mid-1950’s, natural disasters and disease destroyed the banana plantations, which forced farmers to switch from bananas to palm oil as a main export. To this day, you will see acres of palm farms on your drive into Quepos!

While palm oil is still a prominent export for the area, Quepos & Manuel Antonio took a turn towards tourism in 1972 when the Manuel Antonio National Park was established. This bio-diverse park drew attention to the area and spiked the interest of avid travelers. To accommodate these new tourists, by 1980 Manuel Antonio had some rustic cabinas, a few luxury villas, a beachfront bar, and the restaurant El Barba Roja, which can still be visited to this day right next to Tulemar!

By the 1990’s, gay men were one of the cutting edge groups to move into the Manuel Antonio area and helped to develop the town into one of the country’s hottest destinations. This was the small spark that lit the fire of expats and tourists flocking to the area. This uprising has molded the area into what it is today: a bustling destination for adventure tourists, eco-tourists, surfers, sports fishermen, families, and of course, local ticos who take pride in their resilient town.

If you’re looking for a place rich in history and full of breathtaking bio-diversity, Quepos/Manuel Antonio is the perfect destination for your travels!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

There is nothing more important to us than our guests, and to show some appreciation we are giving away a free 4-night stay for 2 in our luxurious Bamboo Villas.

Not familiar with the Bamboo Villas? Check out the video of them here.

Our contest will run from June 15-July 1st, 2018. On July 2nd we will choose a lucky winner who will be treated to a 4-night stay with a guest between Sept-Nov 2018 or 2019.

Want to enter? Just fill out the entry form here! Don’t forget to also follow us on Facebook and Instagram  so you don’t miss any future contests!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Tulemar’s Bamboo Villas are absolutely perfect for romantic getaways, honeymoons, or even just a solo adventure. They have three stories, endless views, and guarantee plenty of wildlife sightings. There are countless details that make these villas extra special, including their open air concept, private infinity pool, modern and sleek design, and their personal concierge, Brian! We didn’t feel that photos did them justice, so we created a video tour for you to get the full experience of how luxurious and romantic these villas are… So, take a few minutes to share the views with us, and to meet the Bamboo Villas’ very own, Brian!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

Costa Rica has a lot to offer, which is why it’s such a popular tourist destination for people all over the world. If you’re looking to relax, explore, have an adventure, or learn something new, you’re in the right place! But, what if you’re limited on time and can’t decide the best way to spend your days in Costa Rica? You’re in luck! We’ve created a (very scientific) quiz to direct you to the perfect activity to book during your stay.

 Are you a morning person or night owl?

1. Night owl all the way!
2. The mornings are my favorite.
3. Neither! I’ll sleep when I’m dead.

What’s your favorite drink?

1. A glow-in-the-dark cocktail.
2. An iced latte.
3. Red Bull.

Which shoes do you have to pack when going on vacation?

1. I don’t worry about shoes! I prefer being barefoot.
2. Vegan sneakers.
3. I don’t care as long as they’re comfy while on-the-go.

What’s your spirit animal?

1. A dolphin.
2. A sloth.
3. A scarlet macaw.

What’s your ideal date?

1. A canoe ride at sunset.
2. The zoo.
3. Roller blading through the park.

If you answered mostly #1…

You come alive in the evening and love the ocean! We suggest booking a nocturnal paddle boarding tour with PaddleVision. PaddleVision offers the only nighttime stand-up paddle boarding tours in Manuel Antonio, where you can experience the ocean after dark. You’ll head out before sunset so you can enjoy the magical colors of the sun on the water, and then you’ll paddle in after dark as the LED lights on your board light up the ocean. This is an adventure you won’t want to miss, and it’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget!

Includes transportation, snack, water, and photo package of your session
$65 per person
www.paddlevisioncr.com

If you answered mostly #2…

You love the mornings, and prefer living life at a nice leisurely pace. We suggest booking The Tulemar Sloth Walk with The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica! This is the perfect tour for the whole family. In an hour and a half guided walk through Tulemar, you will join Sloth Institute researchers as they spot sloths, monkeys, birds, and other wildlife found in Costa Rica. You will have an opportunity to learn about the animals, as well as learn about The Sloth Institute’s mission.

Offered daily at 9:00 AM (except Tuesdays), Mondays & Wednesdays also at 3:00 PM
$18 per person
Children 7 and under are free
www.theslothinstitutecostarica.org

If you answered mostly #3…

You have an adventurous soul and you get restless if you’re not on the move! We suggest booking a zipline tour with Canopy Safari! During your zipline tour you will sail through the canopy like Tarzan as you take in the sights and sounds of the jungle. This exhilarating activity was invented in Costa Rica, and at Canopy Safari you have a variety of ziplines, platforms, and styles to choose from to make sure you get the most out of your tour. Each tour includes breakfast and lunch, and you will have an option to purchase digital photos of your exciting day.

www.canopysafari.com
$85 per person

If you’re thinking you may prefer a different activity, don’t worry! We have dozens to choose from…. Check out the list here. If you have any questions or want to book something ASAP, just reach out to your concierge and they will get everything taken care of for you. Enjoy!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

PazAmoré is Tulemar’s newest villa, and is a dream for anyone looking for modern architecture, unique layout, or even just private and luxurious accommodations within the jungle. Homeowners Glen and Jules built PazAmoré – which means “peace and love” – with three distinct design directions: it must be modern, it must be sexy, and it must be tropical. We are here to vouch that this home is indeed modern, sexy, and tropical!

This stunning home is three stories tall, and has 3 private air conditioned suites and 4 full baths. The living space of the home is spacious and open air, and each room has ocean views that will take your breath away. Wanting to enjoy some time outside? PazAmoré has a beautiful infinity pool and outdoor seating area complete with a BBQ grill, iron griddle, fire pit, mini fridge, and sink.

While the design of this home is guaranteed to impress, we believe the magic is in the details. PazAmoré’s homeowners had all furnishings custom-made by a local craftsman, handpicked decorations from their international travels, chose a granite kitchen counter top that encompasses the jungle vibes of Costa Rica, and have created this home from the ground up to be the perfect modern escape.

One of the most impressive aspects of PazAmoré is the primary bedroom suite. The floor to ceiling windows on two of the walls open up to balcony that has incredible ocean views. Plus, there is a full sized lounge swing next to the bed if you’re wanting some extra space to relax while you look out over the jungle! The primary bathroom has a walk-in shower that contains a stunning stone bathtub, and floor to ceiling tinted windows so you can soak in the views of the treetops and ocean while you bathe.

Wanting to bring a bigger group? PazAmoré can accommodate 8-10 people, and there is a king sized day bed in the living room for any extra people who will undoubtedly want to join you on your getaway.

For more information and to book this home, visit the PazAmoré page.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

We know you have a lot of choices when planning a vacation. Where to visit? Where to stay? When to go? What to do? We also know that with so many incredible options, you really can’t go wrong with anything you choose. We aren’t here to tell you why we are better than anywhere else, but we do want to tell you what makes us different so you know why choosing Tulemar will make your vacation extra special.

1. Our Homeowners

   You probably already know that we put love into everything we do, but did you know there is also an added layer of love inside Tulemar? That added layer is our homeowners! Each one of our 50+ villas, casas, and bungalows are individually owned by people who put love into the home by providing unique decorations and special touches. This means that you get all the perks of staying at a luxury resort while also receiving the experience and charm that comes with staying in an AirBnb or VRBO. That’s a pretty irresistible win/win in our book!

2. Our Concierge Team

   They’re energetic, they’re friendly, they’re eager, and more than likely you’ll view them as part of the family by the end of your trip.  You’ll be introduced virtually to your concierge as soon as you book your stay with Tulemar. From there, your concierge will hold your hand through all your trip planning and your stay to ensure that anything you need is taken care of promptly. Want to plan an activity? Your concierge can handle that! Need to know where to eat the freshest seafood? The concierge will make you a reservation and arrange transportation. Not only will they help you with any of your needs, but they also go the extra mile to make your trip special. Guests often receive little surprises from their concierge throughout their stay, because we truly believe each guest is VIP.

3. Our Location

   There is good reason that Costa Rica consistently tops the charts as one of the best places to visit. It has an abundance of exotic wildlife, stunning mountain ranges, award-winning beaches and national parks, picturesque waterfalls, and thick jungles with a wealth of flora that make you feel like you’ve been transported into Jurassic Park.One of the jewels of this incredible country is Manuel Antonio: Home of the famous Manuel Antonio National Park. Tulemar has been thoughtfully built a short 5-minute ride from the National Park, and is situated on a hillside overlooking the ocean among dense jungle crawling with wildlife.  Inside the Tulemar gates you have a variety of amenities, including 4 pools, a restaurant, and a private beach; Plus, our central location makes it a breeze to access anything in Manuel Antonio you want!

4. The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica

   Nature conservation is extremely important to us at Tulemar, which is why a partnership with The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica – which is dedicated to the research, education, and conservation of sloth welfare and habitat – seemed perfect for us. Nestled inside the Tulemar gates is the Sloth Institute’s Research and Release facility. While the facility is not open to the public, Tulemar guests can enjoy daily “Sloth Walks” with a Sloth Institute employee. Plus, the ongoing research and conservation that The Sloth Institute brings to the area means that wildlife is abundant! Hoping to see monkeys, birds, and lizards during your stay? You’re guaranteed to see them at our resort!

If you need more convincing, browse the rest of our site to see all we offer! We are really looking forward to seeing you soon.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

It’d be a shame to visit Manuel Antonio and not visit the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park. It is one of the smallest national parks in the country, however, it is one of the most visited due to its large variety of flora and fauna. The park is only 683 hectares, and it contains various jungle hiking trails, a waterfall, and 4 white sand beaches perfect for cooling off and relaxing after a long day of exploring. Plus, at $16 per person to enter, it’s affordable and easy to have a day full of fun and education!

With the establishment of Manuel Antonio National Park in 1972, the people of Costa Rica decided to preserve, for future generations, one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse areas in the world. Although it is the country’s smallest national park, the stunning beauty and diversity of wildlife in its 683 hectares is unequaled.

manuelantoniopark.com

A wonderful option for exploring the park more in depth is by doing a guided tour. We highly encourage this option, as the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and will educate you on Costa Rica wildlife and its conservation. They also have an extremely good eye! The guides will spot sloths, monkeys, and iguanas, but beyond that they will also find tiny tree frogs, crabs, caterpillars, bats, and more, all which are very difficult to spot with the naked eye. With their telescope you can easily see the animals up close, and the guides will even snap a photo for you through the lens, so you can look like a professional nature photographer to your friends back home… In fact, the photo used in our thumbnail was shot with an iPhone through the telescope lens!

Are you more into plants than you are animals? The rich diversity of vegetation in the park will give you lots to explore. Your guide will educate you on the flora, point out interesting features, and allow you to smell – and sometimes even taste – various species!

The park has many trails, including a handicap accessible trail. The trails lead through the jungle and ultimately end up at numerous white sand beaches that are perfectly nestled in coves, so they have minimal waves and are clean and beautiful.  The tour of the park can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, and you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and catching some rays, or you can leave the park and head on to your next activity. If you’re in a hurry (although we don’t recommend you are), you can easily walk through the park in 15-30 minutes!

This is a day activity we strongly suggest, and one we are certain you will enjoy.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar

*Park hours are 7am-4pm, and the park is closed on Mondays

There is no better way to create family memories than by traveling together. Unfortunately, the thought of flying with young children can be daunting, and often times deters families from even trying. Luckily, we have some tips to make sure your family flight is a success. So, go ahead and book that dream vacation… The flight is going to be a breeze.

• Show up early
  • Keep yourself, and the kids, calm by avoiding the stress that can occur by rushing through the airport. Getting through the airport as a family takes a lot more time than traveling solo, so be sure to budget plenty of time. For an international trip, we recommend arriving three hours early, and for a domestic flight we recommend arriving two hours early.
• Dress Comfortably
  • Be sure your children are in comfortable, breathable clothing with minimal layers or accessories that can easily be lost while getting through an airport. This will keep them from fussing with their clothing, and it will allow you to have less to keep track of!
• Book a Window Seat
  • Kids are often fascinated with watching the airplane take off and land. Buy yourself an extra 30 minutes of entertainment by placing your kid next to the window so he/she can enjoy the view!
• Pack a Light Blanket
  • As we all know, airplanes can get chilly. Pack a blanket or sweater for your child to keep them from getting fussy over the temperature.
• Come Prepared with Games
  • Be prepared with a few airplane friendly games for when your child starts getting restless. Coloring books, etch-a-sketch, mazes, mad-libs, and games with magnetic pieces are all great for airplanes!
• Be Fully Charged & Downloaded
  • If you’d like to give your child a phone, iPad, or tablet for them to watch shows and play games on while traveling, be sure your device is fully charged and that any show they want to watch is fully downloaded.
• Pack Headphones
  • The one thing worse than having a dead iPad? Having a fully charged one with no way to listen to the sound!
• Pack the Necessities
  • Consider packing a few snacks, baby formula, medications, extra diapers, pacifiers, and a change of clothes.
• Don’t Forget Teddy
  • Does your child have a favorite teddy or security blanket? Be sure these items are in your carry on to avoid a meltdown mid-flight!
• Avoid Ear Discomfort
  • Children’s ears are extra sensitive to in-flight pressure. Consider giving your little one children’s Tylenol 30 minutes before your flight and having hard candy, gum, or a pacifier on hand to help alleviate pressure and keep your child comfortable and happy. *As always, consult with a doctor before administering any over-the-counter medicine to your child.

Pura Vida, Tulemar

The first thing most people ask when planning a trip to Costa Rica is “What will the weather be like?” or “What’s the best time to visit for perfect weather?”.

These are excellent questions; however, they aren’t that simple to answer.

Let’s start with question #1: “What will the weather be like?”. Typically, it’s safe to say that Costa Rica will be hot and humid. However, Costa Rica is made up of many micro-climates that make predicting weather here difficult! Most people want to avoid rainstorms during their visit as much as possible, but sometimes weathering a storm is inevitable – we are in the rainforest, after all! In fact, if you try looking up weather forecasts for Costa Rica, they most often will always show rain – but don’t let this deter you. We’ve learned to take those forecasts with a grain (or less) of salt!

Now let’s tackle question #2: “What’s the best time to visit for perfect weather?”. Technically speaking, Costa Rica does have a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season (also known as our summer) is December-April. During these months, it’s typical to not see as much rain and have sunny blue skies and hot temperatures. On occasion you may have a rain shower to cool things off, but it’s not quite as often as during rainy season.

The rainy season (also known as our winter) is May through November. During this time you’ll see heavier and more frequent rain and thunderstorms. Typically, however, these storms happen in the afternoon and evening after the day’s festivities are done! While many people hear “rainy season” and immediately write off visiting during this time, there are a lot of upsides to planning your trip during rainy season. For one, there are a lot less tourists, so you can experience less crowded beaches, activities, and restaurants! Plus, the rain keeps things cool and green, and it can be very peaceful and relaxing. If you’re adamant about avoiding rain, we highly recommend not visiting during October and November, as these are the wettest months of the year!

Whether you’re looking for rain or shine, we know one thing is for sure: fun is in your forecast! We’ll have an umbrella waiting for you just in case.

Pura Vida,

Tulemar