Tulemar Blog
It’s no secret that Costa Rica has been blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. It’s lush landscapes and vast picturesque coastlines make Costa Rica a top destination for tourists and gives the locals a lot to be proud of. That’s why Costa Rica has several programs in place meant to serve and protect the environment to ensure that locals and tourists alike can enjoy the country’s natural gifts for years to come.
A perfect example is the Blue Flag Ecological Program (Bandera Azul Ecológic). The program is meant to protect the nation’s coastal ecosystems, prevent beach pollution, and honor those who are doing their part to keep Costa Rica a top destination in ecotourism.
Every year, the Blue Flag Ecological Program grants a prestigious award and certification to beaches that score a minimum of 90% in categories including water quality, coastal sanitation, tourist safety, beach access to garbage containers, drinking water quality, signage, amongst others. Beaches who win the award are monitored monthly to ensure their efforts are being sustained throughout the year.
At Tulemar, we consistently play our part in ensuring we keep Mother Earth clean and protected, and we are thrilled to announce that our efforts have contributed to our 11th annual Blue Flag Program award and certification! This means that the Tulemar Beach is recognized as one of the top beaches in Costa Rica for its cleanliness and ongoing sustainability.
Have you been to the Tulemar Beach yet? If not, come see what makes this place so wonderful!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
After a long day of sun and surf, sometimes it sounds best to sit back, relax, and have someone else do the cooking. Often times this means heading out to a delicious restaurant, but what about those days that you just don’t feel like leaving the house?
Luckily, Tulemar offers private chef service! Our chefs come directly to your villa and do all the preparation, cooking, and cleaning while you relax and enjoy your vacation.
How does it work? As soon as you let your personal concierge know that you’d like to hire a private chef, your concierge will send you a menu for you to choose your meal from. Your chef will then do all the shopping and arrive at your villa in plenty of time to have your meal ready for you at whichever time you choose. The chef menus have a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, and meals can be made vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, or accommodate any allergies or specific requests you have!
The best part? Our chefs can make one special meal for you, several meals throughout your stay, or even all your meals during your vacation. Pricing can vary based off menu choices and groceries, so we recommend checking with your concierge, however, here’s a general guide for 4-8 people:
Buen provecho!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
If you’ve already visited Costa Rica, then you are probably familiar with the popular national dish called gallo pinto. Gallo pinto is made with rice and beans mixed with spices and vegetables such as cilantro, onion, bell peppers, and salsa. It is most commonly served during breakfast, but it is delicious to eat any time of day. And the best part? It’s simple to make and it’s great for leftovers!
Wanting to try your hand at this delicious and healthy dish? Here’s a simple recipe for you to try today!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
WHAT YOU’LL DO
This recipe is as delicious as it is simple! Feel free to get creative and mix it up to fit your tastes. Try added ground beef, extra veggies, hot sauce, or egg!
Want the full tico experience? Enjoy your gallo pinto with a cold guaro sour!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
*photos from eatthismuch.com and vegkitchen.com
Our Tulemar homeowners are incredibly special to us. They are responsible for bringing individuality and exquisite personality to each of our rental homes, and without them Tulemar wouldn’t be possible. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that we are growing our homeowner family… Meet Randy & Terri Norwood: The newest proud owners of Tulemar’s very own Mirasol!
Randy and Terri are both native Texans who met in Houston while volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Married for 30 years, they have a 26-year-old son, Brett; and a 28-year-old daughter, Lindsay. Lindsay and her husband Patrick are proud parents of 6-month-old Sage, who Randy and Terri are working very hard to spoil!
Randy & Terri own a human resource data processing company in Houston called Alliance Payroll Services. Terri is very active teaching bible study with Community Bible Study, and in their spare time they love to travel, spend time at their central Texas ranch, and – as mentioned before – dote on their sweet baby granddaughter, Sage.
In 2007, the Norwood family visited Tulemar for the first time and fell in love with all it had to offer. When Randy and Terri recently decided to buy a rental property in Costa Rica, they of course needed to look no further than Tulemar. The combination of mountains, jungle, wildlife, and a beautiful beach all in one location was an unbeatable combination for them, and one they knew they wanted to be a part of. This led Randy and Terri to Mirasol, a stunning property within Tulemar’s gates, and a perfect rental property and vacation home for the Norwoods.
Randy & Terri anticipate spending many years enjoying Tulemar and look forward to this exciting new chapter in their lives. Welcome to the Tulemar family, Randy and Terri… We’re thrilled to have you!
Interested in being the next new homeowner in Tulemar? Check out our available real estate here… And be sure to check back soon for our virtual tour of the Norwood’s Mirasol!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
The best part about Costa Rica? Okay, that’s a loaded question… But, we know that the endless views are high on the list! If you’re interested in some of the best views in the country, Casa Panorama is the place for you.
As its name implies, this home has panoramic views of jungle and ocean that are guaranteed to take your breath away. Plus, with two separate private units (the casa and casita), this large rental is perfect for families or groups!
The entry level of Casa Panorama has two suites: The first suite has a king sized bed, and the second has two full sized beds. The two suites are connected by an outdoor deck complete with a cold water Jacuzzi overlooking the beautiful views of Tulemar.
The level above the two suits contains a gorgeous entertainment area, complete with a full sized kitchen, dining area, 1/2 bath, and deck.
The lower level is Casita Panorama, which is a private one bedroom suite that can be rented together, or separate from Casa Panorama.
This rental is without a doubt a guest favorite. Interested in learning more? Click here!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Most people take vacations to rest their mind, but what about their bodies? The best way to go back to reality revitalized and rested after a vacation is by taking care of both, which is why it’s important to us at Tulemar to provide outstanding and luxurious spa services to our guests.
Unlike most hotels and resorts, we do not have a spa at Tulemar. Instead, our services are done in the privacy and luxury of your own home, villa, bungalow, or casa on your patio, pool deck, terrace, or indoors — you choose!
We pride ourselves on having the best massage therapists in the Manuel Antonio area, each one with an extensive background and knowledge. They provide unique and personalized massages so that you can get the absolute most out of your services. Looking for a deep tissue massage focusing on your shoulders? We can do it! Looking for a light full body rub down? We got you! Wanting a manicure, pedicure, facial, or other spa service? We can absolutely arrange it! Just let your concierge know, and they’ll handle the rest.
Our services are great for an individual, but if you’re looking for couples’ services or even a group spa party, those options are fully available! We can easily arrange a full spa day, complete with meal and beverage service. Additionally, we can even arrange for a private yoga session before or after your services so you can fully heal both your mind and body.
We understand that some people want the full spa experience, so if having someone come to your villa isn’t your cup of tea, let us know! We have several great spas in the area that we are happy to refer you to, and can even arrange transportation.
Go ahead… You deserve to be pampered.
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Last month marked the 8th anniversary of Costa Rica’s famed Envision Festival, held annually in Manuel Antonio’s neighboring beach town of Uvita.
Envision Festival is a world class 4-day festival based on 8 pillars: Permaculture, spirituality, movement, art, music, community, health, and eco-building. Each year the festival draws tourist from all around the world to participate in its special offerings and celebrations such as yoga, art, spoken workshops, live music, surfing and much more while connecting with the beautiful natural surroundings only found in Costa Rica.
Envision’s Mission Statement:
As a celebration dedicated to awakening our human potential, Envision provides a platform for different cultures to co-exist in sustainable community, and inspire one another through art, spirituality, yoga, music, dance, performance, education, sustainability and our fundamental connection with nature.
Many attendees of the festival choose to camp in a tent on-site or stay in lodging nearby. However, if you’d like to only get a taste of the festival and choose to stay off-site away from the crowds, Manuel Antonio is an excellent option. With many Envision shuttles running daily, as well as affordable taxi or private van options, it’s easy to get to and from each town.
To learn more about the festival, its culture, and ticket prices, please visit www.envisionfestival.com.
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
*Photos and video taken from envisionfestival.com
European friends, you’re in luck! If you’re not already aware, KLM recently started a direct flight from Amsterdam to San Jose… Which means it is now easier than ever for you to get some sun, fun, and sloths in your life!
KLM made the announcement that they now offer direct flights twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays. The flights depart Amsterdam at 3:25pm and arrive in San Jose at 8:05pm. Likewise, the flights depart San Jose at 10:05pm and arrive in Amsterdam the following day at 3:10pm.
“This new flight, not only will facilitate visits to our country, but also thanks to KLM´s global network, this route will serve as a liaison for Costa Rica to open its doors to tourists from all Europe. This will for sure strengthen tourism in our country, generating benefits to the more than 600,000 persons who work in this activity in direct and indirect manner, and to the communities that find in tourism their opportunity to grow.”
-Luis Guillermo Solís, President of Costa Rica
So, what are you waiting for? We have a cold guaro sour and a room with a view waiting for you!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
One of the best parts of a tropical vacation is plopping down in the sand with the sun on your face and a cold drink in your hand… And, if you’ve been to Costa Rica, you know that the cold drink of choice is none other than a guaro sour.
Guaro is a popular sugar cane liquor traditional to Costa Rica. The most well-known drink made with guaro is called a guaro sour. Guaro sours can be found in nearly every Costa Rican restaurant, each one with its own twist. It’s a drink that you’re sure to never get sick of, and more than likely is one that you’ll want to duplicate once you’re at home. So, we tracked down a simple & delicious guaro sour recipe so you can continue that tropical feeling long after your vacation has ended.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Put guaro, sugar, and lime wedges in a small glass. Muddle generously. Leave everything in the glass and add ice cubes. Top it off with a splash of club soda.
*For extra flare, sugar the rim of the glass and add a lime wedge*
Salud!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
There’s no doubt that planning a destination wedding is both exhilarating and terrifying. There are a lot of details to iron out and plenty of things to consider to ensure your day goes perfectly.
To help you out, we’ve created a list of tips to help you with your process and to ensure that your wedding is everything you dreamed of and more!
When picking a destination, don’t forget to consider the local seasons. While many destination wedding locations are in a constant season of summer, hurricane and rainy seasons exist! Perhaps you’re a risky bride and are willing to take the chance…. But, if you prefer playing it safe, we suggest planning your big day during the dryer months.
There are a lot of factors to consider when picking the perfect dress and bridal party attire. If you’re getting married outside in the heat, you’ll want dresses that breathe easy and keep you cool. Also consider factors like terrain and ease of transportation. You may not want to choose bridesmaid’s dresses that are difficult to pack, or a wedding dress with a long train if you’re going to be walking in the sand.
When planning a destination wedding, be sure to send your Save-The-Dates far in advance to give your guests ample time to plan and budget for your special get-a-way! Also consider guest budgets and try to find a reasonably priced resort/hotel, arrange group airfare rates, and book transportation from the airport to the resort for your guests.
If you plan to have your destination wedding in a foreign country, there may be a few requirements you must meet first, including time of residence in the country, blood tests, age, and parental consent. If you are coming from the United States, The U.S Department of State website is a great place to start your research on these requirements: Visit the site here.
Most countries require your passport to be valid 3-6 months after departure for you to enter the country, and some countries require a visa in order for you to enter. We suggest checking whether or not you will need a visa for your destination country. Also ensure that your passport is valid. Same goes for your sweetheart, your families, and your bridal party! The last thing you want is someone you love getting left behind.
Throwing a destination wedding provides ample opportunities to make your day unique and fun! Trying to decide on a main dish for dinner? Stumped on what your signature cocktail should be? Lost on what song will accompany your first dance? Research your destination for local dishes, cocktails, music, décor, and wedding traditions! This will help you add some unique cultural twists to your ceremony and reception that wouldn’t quite make sense in a traditional setting.
The beauty of a destination wedding is that your wedding extends far beyond just your ceremony and reception! Your guests traveled a long way to celebrate you, so repay them by researching local activities and planning a few group outings for them to participate in if they’d like.
Just as with any wedding, there is likely to be unexpected last-minute surprises… And being far from home where things are familiar gives you less options for a creative quick fix! While we hope your big day is seamless, it’s nice to have a little budget for last minute emergencies in case it is needed in a pinch. If not, you’ll have a little extra fun-mon for after the big day!
We hope this gives you a few important things consider when starting your party planning. A huge congratulations from the Tulemar team on your engagement!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Looking for the perfect rental for your large group gathering? Our incredible Nido de Gansos is the perfect mix of luxury, comfort, privacy, and convenience.
The exterior of this stunning villa is designed with European influence and has a unique tropical modern design. The inside is furnished with imports from Italy and is decorated with beautiful indigenous Latin American art directly from the collection of the Gans Family – the owners of this exquisite home.
Nido de Gansos has a unique design covering 3 levels. The bottom level is where you can find laundry, storage and the house keepers’ workplace; it is not accessible from the main house giving you complete privacy, however, you will have access to the washer/dryer when needed.
Entering through the front door, you have the option of going downstairs to the sleeping quarters or upstairs to the social level.
The sleeping quarters contains 3 suites, each with their own bath, balcony, air-conditioning and king size bed. Each suite opens into the media room, perfect for watching TV or the latest movie, reading or taking a nap.
The social level on the third floor contains the living room, dining room, kitchen and large terrace with the infinity edged swimming pool! There is a small flight of stairs inside that leads up to a small den with another seating area and sofa bed, which can sleep an additional 1-2 children.
This villa is surrounded by dense jungle to the north and has ocean and mountain views to the west. It is located next door to the Garden House, which can be rented in addition to Nido de Gansos for large groups!
Interested in booking this rental? Click here!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Costa Rica has no shortage of wildlife, which is one of the main reasons tourism to this beautiful country is so popular! Throughout the day you can experience monkey, sloth, iguana, porcupine, agouti, and exotic bird sightings, just to name a few.
To allow our guests the full wildlife experience, we’ve teamed up with the Sloth Institute of Costa Rica – which is located on Tulemar’s property – to offer a “Sloth Walk” exclusively to Tulemar guests. During the walk you will see and learn about the abundance of wildlife we have on Tulemar’s property, as well as have an incredible opportunity to see all the Tulemar grounds, homes, and flora & fauna.
But… did you know that a lot of Costa Rica’s wildlife comes alive after the sun goes down? During this time, the Sloth Institute employees hike through the jungle to monitor and track the sloths to ensure their safety and well-being… And now you can join!
We are thrilled to announce that starting Feb. 1st, 2018, our brand new “Sloths After Sunset” tour will be available exclusively to Tulemar guests! During this exciting tour, you will be guided throughout Tulemar grounds with a member of The Sloth Institute’s research team in search of sloths and other nocturnal wildlife species. The walks will be held every Thursday at 6pm and will take about an hour and a half. Every participant will be provided with a special eco-friendly flashlight and we ask that all hikers wear closed toed shoes. The cost for Sloths After Sunset is $35 for adults, and $20 for children under the age of 10. This is an excellent opportunity to observe and learn about Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife, and we are so excited to share it with you!
Questions on Sloths After Sunset? Your concierge can provide you with answers, as well as help you with booking. We can’t wait to see you there!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Being the giant foodies we are, we were thrilled when we received an inquiry from Chef Giada DeLaurentiis to stay at Mirazul over the holiday season. Giada was visiting with family and friends and we wanted to ensure she had a home that would accommodate everyone, had views, and of course had an amazing kitchen.
If you’re not familiar, Giada is a daytime Emmy Award winner, Food Network star, author, and “Today Show” contributor. She is a respected lifestyle advisor and authority of all things that either taste good or are in good taste!
During her stay, Giada enjoyed yoga by the pool with her daughter, Jade, a Costa Rican cooking class, an ATV jungle tour, and of course some old fashioned R&R.
“The Mirazul Villa is absolutely gorgeous! Clean, modern and perfect for a small group. Mauricio was super helpful the entire time, whether it be setting up fun activities or grabbing groceries from the store. Overall it was an unforgettable and beautiful vacation. Pura vida!” – Giada
Giada, it was a pleasure hosting you and your family! Please come back anytime.
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Are you looking for a new vacation home and investment property? Lucky for you, Tulemar currently has real estate available! It is very rare that Tulemar has homes for sale, but as we continue to build and grow, we currently have several units and lots for sale that are in need of awesome homeowners (like you!).
Tulemar is the premier resort development in Manuel Antonio. It is the only gated and secure, 33-acre resort with privately owned bungalows, casas and villas, and its own beach. There are nature and hiking trails leading through the jungle areas complete with plaques describing trees and vegetation. You will see as much wildlife in Tulemar as you do at the National Park including all three types of monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Sound like something you’d be interested in? Check out our available homes and lots below!
*Note: This is our availability as of January 2018. Please check here for updated availability
Interested?
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
The new Tulemar Bamboo Villas are nothing short of luxurious, and are the perfect place for your next romantic getaway, honeymoon, or solo adventure. We could go on and on about how many rave reviews we have on TripAdvisor, but we’ll let those speak for themselves. Check them out here!
Have we piqued your curiosity yet? If you’re interested to know what the hype is all about, we’ve broken down the villas in this virtual tour so you can experience them for yourself, without even reaching for your passport (but keep that handy… More than likely you’ll be needing it soon.)
The luxurious design of these villas is a mix of mid-century modern and tropical beach house. Each private villa is 3 stories tall, combining indoor/outdoor living and a private plunge pool for each villa. The main floor includes the outdoor living area with a large daybed, twin sun loungers, a desk area, and a bathroom with an outdoor shower by the pool.
The second floor is an open air mezzanine with a kitchenette complete with refrigerator, 2 burner stove, microwave, sink, coffee maker and kitchenware perfect for making a quick breakfast, snacks and drinks, but also large enough to cook a meal or to bring in a private chef for a special dinner. The dining area seats 2-4 guests, perfect for a meal with friends!
The third floor includes the primary bedroom with a king bed, seating area, TV, balcony and large bath with a walk-in raindrop shower, twin vanities, separate toilet area and a walk-in closet.
Oh, and did we mention this place has AMAZING ocean views?
You’ll have the services of a private concierge throughout your stay. Massage by your pool? Dinner suggestions? Tours and activities? We can make it happen for you!
Need a little more convincing? Check out this oh-so-kind review by Shelly from Dallas, TX:
“These villas are beyond words! I have never experienced another vacation rental like it; totally open air, private, super romantic, and situated in the jungle (wildlife everywhere!) with the best views I’ve ever seen. It’s beautiful, modern, but with all the comforts of home – and then some! A kitchenette and good sized fridge, stove top if you want to cook at home, full wireless, AC in the bedroom (the only place you really need it) and a HUGE his and her bathroom with rain shower.
The resort itself is like its own world, you’re right in the middle of Manuel Antonio – walking distance to shops, restaurants, grocery stores, etc. – but when you step inside the Tulemar gates you walk into the jungle. Monkeys, sloths, lizards, scarlet macaws, toucans… and more. As if all of this wasn’t perfect enough, the service was the best we’ve ever experienced. We can’t wait to come back!”
Interested in booking a vacation at our Bamboo Villas? Contact our reservations office, or head over to our Bamboo Villa webpage to learn more!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
At Tulemar, all our guests are VIP… But sometimes some just happen to be more well-known than others. For example, Jeff Corwin.
Jeff Corwin is a biologist, wildlife conservationist, and Emmy-award winning TV host known for shows such as The Jeff Corwin Experience, Going Wild with Jeff Corwin, and Ocean Treks.
We were thrilled when we were contacted by Jeff’s team requesting several villas for Jeff and his Ocean Treks crew for a week in December while they planned to shoot an episode of the show. Tulemar was the perfect place for their stay since The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica’s rescue and release facility is located on Tulemar’s property.
Jeff stayed in our gorgeous Casa de Frutas… A nature-fanatic’s haven, as its open air concept in the middle of the trees is perfect for animal watching. Check out this awesome video Jeff filmed for us about his stay!
One thing is for sure: We love Jeff Corwin, and we were so honored to be a part of his Costa Rican journey! Looking for more Jeff Corwin? Be sure to check out Ocean Treks every Saturday morning at 9:30PST on ABC!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
One thing is for sure… Manuel Antonio has no shortage of restaurants. They’re all delicious and (bonus) most of them have incredible views. On top of that, there are plenty of supermarkets in the area, and at Tulemar you can even hire a private chef! While it’s excellent to have options, if you’re here for a limited amount of time it may be daunting to figure out the best route to take for each meal.
Lucky for you we have a lot of experience trying new restaurants, making reservations for guests, and hearing feedback from others! So, we’ve taken all our intel and broken down how and where most guests choose to do their meals, so you aren’t stuck tired and hungry trying to figure out what sounds best.
Grocery Shopping
You will have the option to grocery shop with your concierge upon arrival. This is a great time to stock up on your favorite snacks, drinks, and any food you may want to prepare for yourself during your stay. Not ready to buy a certain something? No problem! Your concierge will gladly do a grocery run for you any time throughout your stay.
Private Chef
We can provide a personal chef for one special meal or for all your meals, whichever you choose! We have three private chefs that our guests love. We will send menus in advance and you can choose which chef you prefer (or maybe several!). They will then do the shopping, prepare and serve your meals, and leave the kitchen spotless. The chefs can even work with any dietary restrictions and food allergies. Just be sure to let us know. Here is the approximate cost for 4-8 people, plus the cost of groceries, based upon the menu you choose:
Local Restaurants
First, let us be clear: There is an endless number of amazing restaurants in Manuel Antonio and Quepos. Plus, with the town constantly growing and changing, there are new ones popping up every day! That said, here is a list of some of our tried and true favorites.
We don’t know about you, but we are feeling hungry… Buen provecho!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
We have a pretty awesome gig here at Tulemar… We constantly get to meet amazing guests, and we LOVE helping make your vacation better than you ever imagined. While we help you with everything from transportation, planning, and booking activities before you even leave for Costa Rica, we’ve realized that there are a few extra details you can do prior to your departure to ensure your trip is nothing short of magical. Go ahead and tuck this list away… you’re going to need it for every trip to come.
Now that you’re fully prepared for your getaway, check out this article on how to get the most of your trip once you’re actually there! Do you have any tips you’d like to add? We’d love to hear them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
We won’t say that we’re not emotional people… We’ve been known to get misty eyed at the sight of a baby sloth or get overly sentimental when we see an amazing sunset (which happens often here in Costa Rica). But there’s nothing that gets us right in the feelers quite like our incredible guests. We love them. That’s why we got extremely excited when former guest, Logan, mentioned us in a Twitter conversation saying that she’d love to do an interview for our blog. We immediately replied to Logan and asked if she’d be okay with us e-mailing her a few questions, and lucky for us she promptly obliged. Our questions to Logan were straight-forward and we assumed the answers we’d get would also be straight-forward… However, Logan blew us away with her raw and emotional replies.
Logan and her new hubby, Dennis, visited Costa Rica from Westminster, Maryland in early September. The young couple was here on their honeymoon – which in and of itself makes us feel so honored. We understand the special memories that are made during a couple’s honeymoon, and we are thrilled to hear from Logan that Tulemar didn’t disappoint in making their honeymoon all they imagined and more.
Tulemar: We are SO thrilled that you chose to stay with us for your honeymoon! What made you choose to visit Costa Rica and how did you land on Tulemar?
Logan & Dennis: This was our first visit to Costa Rica. We wanted our honeymoon to be full of adventure, relaxation, and luxury and we knew Costa Rica was known for all three! My husband is not a fan of all-inclusive vacations. I am a very anxious traveler so we took to Trip Advisor for the best reviews on resorts and vacations in Costa Rica, which brought us to Tulemar!
T: What home did you stay in?
L&D: We stayed in the new Bamboo Villas!
T: Who was your concierge? Do you mind telling us a little bit about your experience with having a concierge?
L&D: Our concierge was Chris Madrigal. I can’t say this lightly…He is the absolute best. By the time we left we felt like we were leaving part of our family. He was absolutely amazing. I was sick when we left the USA, and unfortunately grew worse in the first few days of our stay. Chris was amazing and brought a doctor to our villa. Throughout our stay Chris booked our excursions, brought fresh flowers, often gave us champagne and made our experience amazing. He was there around the clock to answer every question, or concern. Although, we never actually had a concern. HE IS SERIOUSLY THE BEST. These words just don’t do him justice. Chris, if you see this please know we’re missing you and if you ever want to visit the States, GIVE US A CALL!
T: What was your favorite part of the trip?
L&D: Oh goodness, my favorite part? My husband and I are staring at each other trying to pick just one thing. We both agree, our villa was simply a dream. We had amazing excursions, amazing times on the Tulemar beach and we were surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife our entire stay. But there is nothing compared to the view from our villa during the Costa Rican sunset. It is unlike anything we have ever seen before. We were always excited to explore and come back to our villa to just relax.
T: What excursions and activities did you do during your stay?
L&D: We did the sloth walk, ‘CAUSE HELLO, who doesn’t love to see sloths?! We also did the catamaran tour! We loved that. While on our tour we saw hump back whales, a mother and her baby. We stopped for snorkeling, swimming, and fun on the water slide. They even provided lunch! And the food is simply AMAZING. That was another great part of our stay. THE FOOD IS SO GOOD EVERYWHERE YOU GO! We also did the ATV tour. We were fortunate enough to be the only two on this tour so we got an intimate experience and learned some about Costa Rican culture. Our tour guide was amazing and we had some messy fun while riding to some gorgeous waterfalls!
T: Can you tell us about some of the animals you saw during your stay? Which siting was your favorite?
L&D: We saw many sloths, monkeys, and aquamarine life! Our absolute favorite were two red macaws. They flew at morning, mid-afternoon and in the evening as the sunset. I think they had a nest in the tree outside our villa. My husband and I kept joking that they were also enjoying their honeymoon. We hear they weren’t spotted too often before we were there! But we kept seeing them flying around us frequently. They were absolutely beautiful. I really miss watching them…
T: What about the surrounding restaurants… Did you get a chance to explore any of them? Where was your favorite place to eat?
L&D: My husband is a total foodie so we explored the local restaurants a lot. We loved the Tule Cafe. We had breakfast there almost every morning and ate there for two evenings! We really enjoyed Agua Azul which is a more local rooftop bar. We went on our last full day and wish we discovered it sooner! We had great two for one burgers after a long morning spent in the National Park! We also loved Z Gastro Bar in the marina. We went twice for dinner. Their fresh fish is nothing like we have in the states and everyone is so kind.
T: If you could give one piece of advice for future guests at Tulemar, what would it be?
L&D: Be prepared for a really hard goodbye. I’m sentimental and my husband always laughs at me, however, I cried leaving. Tulemar is like a home away from home. It is surrounded by luxury and natural beauty. All the staff is extremely helpful and kind. I also recommend a rain jacket! We went during rainy season and life carries on through the rain! So, bring a rain jacket and embrace the Pura Vida life style!
T: Anything else you’d like to add about your stay in Costa Rica?
L&D: Honestly, I was a little worried traveling to Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio is a safe destination full of beauty. You don’t feel worried traveling the streets on your own and everyone is so willing to help you! If you’re considering visiting this beautiful country, I highly recommend doing your research and picking Tulemar and Manuel Antonio. We stayed quite a long time and really wish we could come back again!
Logan and Dennis, THANK YOU for your kind words. It was such a pleasure hosting you at Tulemar. We wish you years of happiness and bliss… and when you’re looking for an anniversary getaway, you know who to call!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
We are all about relaxation here at Tulemar, but we understand that it’s not always that easy. How familiar does the following scenario sound?:
It’s been 1 year, 5 months, 13 days, 6 hours, 22 minutes and 17 seconds since you got back from your last vacation, and every second since then you’ve been day-dreaming about your next escape from reality. The countdown finally ends and you board your plane to paradise, only to find out your brain won’t shut off and all you can think about is work that needs to be done, calls that need to be made, errands that need to be run, and whether or not you left the garage door open.
We get it. We’ve been there. And we hate it too. That’s why we decided to share some of our best tips on how to fully relax and live in the moment while on your once-of-a-lifetime vacation.
Tip #1: Digital Detox
It’s extremely easy to fall into the trap of checking-in back home while you’re away on vacation, especially now more than ever with e-mail, texts, and video calls all at our fingertips. So, put the phone and computer away. It truly is that easy. If you have a house or pet-sitter back home that you need to check-in with, make a plan to check-in at a set time every day and give the sitter an emergency number (perhaps a friend or neighbor) to call if anything comes up outside of that time. And as far as social media goes… If you’d like to take a photo, snap it quick and plan to edit and post it at a later time so you can fully take in your current surroundings. It may be difficult to be away from your phone the first couple of days….But, like all detoxes, it will get easier.
Tip #2: Go Easy on the Booze
The worst way to spend a day in paradise? Hungover. Alcohol can take a serious toll on both your physical and mental state. If you’re prone to anxiety, alcohol can be a big trigger. Not only will you spend your next day feeling bloated, achy, and nauseous, but your brain will be foggy and anxious as well. Don’t get us wrong, we want you to have fun and unwind… just be sure to do it moderation to avoid any adverse effects the following day!
Tip #3: Get a Massage
Of course a massage feels great, but did you know there are several other incredible health benefits to a good rub down? Massages help alleviate anxiety, aid digestion, improve sleep, boost immunity, and even eliminate cellulite. Oh, hello summer body! The best part? Tulemar provides at home spa services, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your rental to reap these amazing benefits!
We don’t know about you, but we are feeling more relaxed already. Wishing you health, wellness, and a bon voyage!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Costa Rica is perfect for relaxation, good food, kind people, and lots of adventure, which is exactly why couple Dustin and Lauren Huffman chose to visit. Coming from the Pacific Northwest in mid-September, the couple was looking to enjoy some warmth & sunshine and wanted a resort that allowed them to completely unwind while also offering some options for adventure. We wanted to know more about their stay and get some great tips for future guests, so we sat down with Dustin and Lauren to get the 411 on their visit.
Tulemar: We certainly hope that Tulemar met all your expectations for a healthy mix of relaxation and adventure! You guys stayed in Mirador Escape – how did you like it?
Dustin & Lauren: We loved it! It was the perfect size for us and we had the most amazing views!
T: We are so happy to hear that. Who was your concierge?
D&L: Chris Madrigal… He was amazing! He continuously tried to go above and beyond to ensure that our trip was all that we wanted and then some. He was able to get us booked on a couple of great excursions, surprised us with a bottle of champagne one evening for our anniversary, and gave us homemade brownies on our final evening there. We really felt as though anytime we needed him he was available.
T: That’s excellent! Our concierge team is great and they work really hard to make sure your vacation is perfect. We are so glad that you took advantage of some of our excursions. Which was your favorite?
D&L: The waterfall tour was amazing because it allowed us to see more of the country and things outside of Tulemar. In addition, the hosts of the tour were able to provide us with a lot more insight into the culture of Cost Rica and why things work the way they do. Beyond this, simply wandering the resort was amazing: from the pool and restaurant with amazing views, to being able to walk throughout town to get anything else we wanted. Most of the time when we travel internationally we are unable to leave the resort due to safety concerns, and this was not even a thought this time around.
T: Sounds like you guys really got to explore a lot! We heard you also got to see a lot of wildlife during your stay. What was your favorite animal?
D&L: We loved the titi monkeys! Having our maid come to our room and tell us that the titi moneys were right outside our residence was amazing. There had to have been 20-30 of them in the trees playing with one another.
T: Ahhh… the titi monkeys are so fun! Did you get a chance to explore any of the surround restaurants?
D&L: Yes! We ate at many of the restaurants in the surrounding area. Our utmost favorite was Agua Azul for two reasons: The view and the freshness of the seafood!
T: Yum! We love fresh seafood! Now, before we let you go, if you could give one piece of advice for future guests at Tulemar, what would it be?
D&L: Remember bug spray! One of the most fun things to do is watch the sunset each night on your balcony, but if you do not have enough bug spray you will regret it!
T: GREAT tip! Dustin and Lauren, it was so wonderful having you stay with us. Thank you so much for your time, and we certainly hope we see you again very soon!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
There are many reasons our guests choose to stay at Tulemar. Some guests are on their honeymoon, some are looking for a family-friendly resort with lots of activity choices, and some come because they want to feel immersed in the jungle and are hoping to see lots of the Costa Rican wildlife. If the latter reason resonates with you, then you’re certainly in good company…. After all, our motto is “Where Nature Lives” for a reason!
At Tulemar, we pride ourselves on the amount of wildlife and nature within our gates. Some people claim to see as much wildlife while staying with us than they do at the national park (of course, we still highly recommend you visit the park!). If you’re curious what to expect when staying with us, we’ve broken down a list of some of the most popular sightings. And don’t worry, we’ll have a pair of binoculars waiting for you at your home.
Sloths
Tulemar’s property contains all the flora and fauna that sloths love, which is one of the reasons The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica chose to have their Research and Release facility located within our gates. We offer a daily Sloth Walk hosted by the Sloth Institute where you can see and learn about the dozens of two-toed and three-toed sloths living inside Tulemar.
Monkeys
In Manuel Antonio, there are three kinds of monkeys, all of which you can see in Tulemar! We have howler monkeys, titi monkeys, and capuchins. These little guys will love to visit you on your patio, but whatever you do, please do not feed them!
Birds
Into bird watching? Great! Not into bird watching? You will be soon! We have over 180 species of birds in Manuel Antonio, including kiskadees, hummingbirds, toucans, and scarlet macaws. Check out this interview with honeymoon guests Logan and Dennis to find out which bird was their absolute favorite.
Lizards
We have reptiles aplenty in Tulemar, and we must admit that the lizards around here are nothing short of amazing. They range from tiny geckos to large and colorful iguanas, which are arguably one of the most spectacular species found in Costa Rica. Not fond of scaly things? Have no fear… These guys keep to themselves, and also help keep the insects at bay!
These are just a few of our favorite and the most common wildlife sightings, but there are many more animals to discover in Costa Rica and at Tulemar! Which animal is your favorite to see?
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
At Tulemar, we love social media! It helps us connect and engage with our guests, and it gives us an amazing outlet to share constant photos of adorable titi monkeys or our delicious gallo pinto lunch. But what do we love more than social media? Responsible tourism. Unfortunately, sometimes participating in that perfect Instagrammable moment causes severe harm to nature, which is big no-no in our book.
To help explain, we have a letter from Sam Trull, Director/Co-Founder of the Sloth Institute of Costa Rica. Read on to learn how you can be a smarter and more responsible tourist…
Recently there has been a proliferation of wildlife selfies being posted on social media sites, with Instagram alone reporting an increase of 300%. And thankfully, there has been a huge response from the global community on the harm these selfies impose on wildlife. We get that some people just don’t realize that taking selfies with wildlife is simply not only harmful but unethical.
A recent video uncovered by the investigative work of “World Animal Protection” tells a horrific story. Trees are being chopped down and sloths are being ripped out of trees and are passed around from tourist to tourist as if they were a toy. These sloths are wild animals and show all the signs of being in stress when taken from their environment. An average tourist thinks that the sloths’ outstretched arms are a sign of the sloths posing when in fact it means they are in high stress mode. There is no way these precious animals will survive very long in these conditions. Unfortunately, their survival isn’t important to those who are profiting from this trade. They can always go and steal another sloth from the jungle. It’s a vicious cycle full of suffering sloths and dwindling wild populations.
Every day wild sloths are removed from their jungle homes for no reason other than to make money off of naive tourists. People who travel from far away lands relish the opportunity to get close to and even touch a sloth! I get it. A well angled selfie gets many likes on social media and sloths are amazing. I work with them every single day and I never get tired of seeing their sweet faces. I never forget the honor and privilege it is to work so closely with them. But the only place I truly enjoy seeing them…is in the wild. The only ‘sloth selfie’ I will take is the one with my sloth necklace or a stuffed sloth.
But there is good news. There is something you can do about it! Just say NO to taking selfies with sloths or any wild animal on your travels. If no one is paying for this service, then it will no longer continue. And help educate your neighbor. The best wildlife photo opportunity is one where they are in their natural environment; shot from a distance. You can help save sloths just by saying no and by spreading this message. Be a responsible sloth/wildlife tourist and pledge your allegiance to this cause here:
http://www.theslothinstitutecostarica.org/dont-selfiesh-protect-wildlife-sloth-ambassador-pledge.
Here are other ways you can be a responsible sloth tourist:
Together we can make a difference.
#slothlove
Sam
About The Sloth Institute Costa Rica:
www.theslothinstitutecostarica.org
The mission of The Sloth Institute Costa Rica is to protect and enhance the welfare and conservation of sloths through;
RESEARCH of captive, wild and recently released sloths including collaborations with conservationists and scientists around the world.
EDUCATION to generate and disseminate responsible information about sloths.
CONSERVATION programs that negate human encroachment issues impacting sloth welfare and habitat.
TSI’s headquarters are located in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. For further information, email info@theslothinstitutecostarica.org.
You can also follow us on our Facebook page @theslothinstitute; Instagram @theslothinstitute ; Twitter at @slothinstitute
More ways to help:
Pura Vida,
Tulemar & The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica
Here in Costa Rica, we love chocolate! So much, in fact, that we used to drink it before we discovered coffee. We hold our beloved cacao beans to such a high regard that centuries ago the indigenous tribes of Central America traded them as currency, and it was just as – if not more – valuable than gold.
Costa Rica’s lush landscape is conducive to growing amazing coffee, spices, produce, and you guessed it: chocolate. It is for this reason that we are so proud to be the exclusive retailer in Manuel Antonio for Sibu Chocolate, Costa Rica’s premier artisan chocolatier.
Sibu Chocolate was founded by Julio Fernandez Amón and George Soriano. Their mantra? The chocolate had to be organic, it had to be made start-to-finish in Costa Rica, and most importantly, it had to be good enough to stand up to best chocolates in the world. That mantra has held true, as Sibu Chocolate is now an International Chocolate Awards prize winner.
The International Chocolate Awards ceremony is held annually and judges companies, chocolatiers, and artisans from 16 countries and several regions of the world. This year, Sibu Chocolate took the silver medal for their apple and lemon caramel covered bonbon… Which we must admit this prize is well deserved!
Click Here To Watch Sibu Chocolate Featured on Original Fare
Interested in trying Sibu Chocolate? Stop by our reservations office located below Agua Azul or ask your concierge. They make the perfect gift for someone you love (even if that person is yourself)!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
It’s no secret that at Tulemar, we love sloths! Not only do we love sloths, but we are passionate about their health, safety, and conservation, which is why we are proud partners with the Sloth Institute of Costa Rica. At Tulemar you can find the Sloth Institute’s release facility, and you can often find The Sloth Institute’s staff wondering the Tulemar trails looking for and studying sloths.
If you’re reading this, we will go ahead and assume you also love sloths (welcome to the club!). And if that’s the case: you’re in luck! We offer a daily “Sloth Walk” available exclusively to Tulemar guests, and trust us, it’s just as good as it sounds. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Price: $15. The money goes directly to help the research, rescue, and rehabilitation of our beloved sloths.
Time and Day: The Sloth Walk is offered every day except Tuesday. It starts at 9:00am and lasts roughly an hour and a half.
Where to Meet: You meet your tour guide at the Tulemar reception desk and depart from there.
Where You’ll Walk: The hike begins at the top of Tulemar, passes through trails and roads, and finishes up at the Tulemar Beach!
During the Tour: In a short guided hike, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter many beautiful birds, monkeys, and (of course) sloths. Not only that, but your knowledgeable guide will share awesome facts about the animals, the vegetation, and even some of the Tulemar homes!
So, don’t forget to pack your walking shoes, because our Sloth Walk is sure to be a big hit with anyone in your family! And, if you’re looking for more ways to help The Sloth Institute, here are some great links!:
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
There’s a lot of things we love here at Tulemar: The beach, the jungle, good food, amazing views, and sloths (of course), just to name a few. The one thing we probably love the most, though, is our guests! Carl Lam and Jackie Medvetz are no exception. This young couple from California made Tulemar their last stop on their tour de Costa Rica, and the rave reviews of their stay have us blushing.
Read on to hear about their visit and to get some great tips for your own stay.
Tulemar: First off, we are SO happy you stayed with us and we got to know you! You were such wonderful guests. Do you mind telling our readers when you visited and how long you stayed?
Jackie & Carl: My boyfriend and I visited in the beginning of the rainy season, but all we got were beautiful days with some soothing afternoon showers. Sept 25-Oct 2 were our full dates in Costa Rica and we stayed at Tulemar for our last two nights. Had we known how amazing this place was we definitely would have planned to stay longer!
T: We are so happy to hear that you loved your stay! What home did you stay in?
J&C: We stayed in the Bungalows (Unit 114), nestled in the jungle, on the side of a cliff, at canopy level, over-looking the ocean. These bungalows were AMAZING! I repeat AMAZING! The bungalow is mostly all windows offering panoramic views for as far as you can see, but also offers privacy because you’re surrounded by the canopy layer of the jungle. Staying at Tulemar allows you to be submersed into the jungle with all the luxuries of being in a resort. You have the option to hang at the pool, take out the free kayaks, hit the beach, or eat at the resort restaurant with, again, more breathtaking views of the jungle, ocean, and wildlife.
T: It really sounds like you had an amazing time. If you could choose one thing about your trip that was your absolute favorite, what would it be?
J&C: Our favorite part about our trip was our experience the last three days and two nights at Tulemar. We were completely content with animal watching at our bungalow, but the second you leave the gated community there are plenty of little shops, great restaurants, and an awesome yoga studio with ocean views, all within walking distance. This part of our trip allowed us to be completely relaxed. We had everything we needed right within Tulemar: a bar, restaurant, pool, beach, kayaks, all at our fingertips. Tulemar puts you in touch with the true beauty of Costa Rica; the nature surrounds you, the animals are everywhere, you have front row seats to the sunrises and sunsets, and then the day is topped off with some evening showers to put you to sleep.
T: Ah, yes! The animals! Sounds like you saw a lot of them. Can you tell us about some of the animals you saw during your stay?
J&C: We stayed in the jungle for the duration of our trip, Sept 25- Oct 2, but saw very few animals (aside from our tours) until we got to Tulemar! Let me tell you about the wildlife at Tulemar: it’s truly breathtaking! The moment we arrived at check-in we saw two howler monkeys, a sloth, and a porcupine! Once we got to our villa we had about 15 little titi monkeys jumping from our roof into the trees right outside our window. We saw monkeys every day of our stay. They hang out in the trees and are so close for viewing but pay no heed to humans. We saw about 20 of the little titi monkeys again on our last morning at Tulemar, as well as a mama monkey and her baby walking across a wire near the check in desk. We ate at the restaurant next to our bungalow and the waiter pointed out a sloth in the tree next to us. We also got to see a flock of toucans flying from one tree to another early one morning (so cool)! On the last morning of our stay we were lucky enough to see a few whales out in the ocean from our living room! There’s also tons of iguanas EVERYWHERE! The wildlife is just flourishing here and it’s oh-so-beautiful!
T: That is so awesome! The wildlife at Tulemar is our favorite, too. Now, what about our second favorite: FOOD! Did you get a chance to explore any of the surrounding restaurants?
J&C: There was an amazing restaurant across the street called Café Milagro. It’s low key with a great patio, yummy local plates and delicious plates native to other countries as well. We also had dinner at an awesome restaurant nearby called Emilio’s. It offers amazing views and a fun open air environment. Although we were able to eat at the surrounding restaurants, one of our favorite places was the one right at Tulemar (Tule Cafe) next to the family pool. Their ceviche was amazing, and so were the entrees and dessert. It also has an amazing view! The staff was very helpful and accommodating. Not to mention, the 2 for 1 happy hour beer special can’t be beat!
T: All of that sounds so great! Any recommendations on what to order?
J&C: Yes! You’re in Costa Rica, so eat the local food! For breakfast we ate a tico plate every day (don’t forget the Lizano sauce), for lunch we had the casada plate, and for dinner we typically ate some kind of fresh local fish (their red snapper is amazing). For an appetizer we recommend ordering patacones. Don’t forget dessert! The flan and flambe were our favorites!
T: Sounds amazing! Now, to wrap up: If you could give one piece of advice for future guests at Tulemar, what would it be?
J&C: First and foremost, definitely make sure to stay at least 4 nights at Tulemar. We stayed two nights and did not want to leave. We were just getting used to our jungle paradise! Although we had an absolutely amazing time doing the activities we did there, had we stayed a bit longer we could have taken more advantage of the free kayaks, snorkeling, and secluded beach. And just a couple more pointers: Wake up early! It’s your best bet for seeing all the wildlife in action and the opportunity to see the sun rise. Also, be sure to bring some bug spray and itch relief just in case you do get bit by bugs!
T: GREAT pointers! Anything else you’d like to add about your stay in Costa Rica?
J&C: Fully submersing yourself in the Costa Rican culture is like hitting the reset button. The way of life here really reflects the local saying “pura vida” or pure life. They live simply, take care of their country, and are so helpful to tourists. Visiting Costa Rica is truly a life-changing experience!
Carl and Jackie – it was a pleasure having you stay with us. Your kind words and amazing tips are so much appreciated. We cannot wait to see you again SOON!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Ahhhhh pura vida! We just love that phrase, don’t you?
If you’re not familiar, ‘pura vida’ (poo-rah vee-dah) means “the pure life” in literal translation… However, you will undoubtedly hear this phrase non-stop in Costa Rica as a term of gratitude, as a response to “how are you”, as a replacement for “you’re welcome”, or even just as a random outburst of excitement. It’s the nation’s unofficial slogan, and beyond that, it truly is a tico way of life: a Costa Rican hakuna matata, if you will.
We must admit that pura vida sure is contagious. This got us thinking: who is to blame (or thank, rather) for giving us this Pura Vida Fever?
One would assume that such an iconic expression must stem from a monumental event in Costa Rican history, or perhaps was the catchphrase of a beloved president from long ago. However, that’s not quite the case…
All signs point to a gentleman by the name of Gilberto Martinez Solares, the director of a 1956 Mexican film by the name of — what other than — Pura Vida. The film tells a story of a luckless man who encountered countless misfortunes. Despite his negative circumstances the character would exclaim “pura vida” to keep a positive outlook on otherwise bleak situations.
The film made its way to Costa Rica in the 50’s, and by the 70’s the phrase had taken popularity and was making its mark as the nation’s motto, perfectly expressing ticos’ zest for life and positive outlook on every situation.
If you’ve ever visited Costa Rica, it’s easy to see why this idiom has gained such popularity. Down here it’s pura vida indeed. And if you’ve never visited Costa Rica… Well, what are you waiting for?!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
There just seems to be something about little monkeys that makes people want to feed them. We see it happen often, and while we completely understand wanting a group of monkeys to swarm you (hello, perfect Instagram moment), we also understand the negative impact that this has on the little guys. If you aren’t convinced, here are 5 reasons why you should never feed the monkeys:
So please… Help us keep our primates pleasant and in tip-top shape, and keep yourself healthy and out of trouble!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
I’m “Tulemar Dave” and I’ve been active with Trip Advisor for over 10 years now. I respond daily to every review, from every guest, on the Tulemar Bungalows and Villas site on TripAdvisor. I smile with the great reviews, and I learn from any comments made by our guests that will help improve our operations in Tulemar (although I really appreciate it when they tell me in person or via my email – lol ).
I also provide advice and my opinions to travelers looking to spend time in the Manuel Antonio area on a range of topics from activities to restaurants to transportation.
Years ago, one guest commented “just ask Tulemar Dave on TripAdvisor” and the name stuck. I’m actually Dave Houck. I live in Tulemar year round, and I co-own this company with my business partner, Mauricio Jara, a Costa Rican.
I first came to Costa Rica over 20 years ago on vacation. After exploring the country during many subsequent trips, I decided that I wanted to live in Manuel Antonio, so I built a home in Tulemar and now live here as Tulemar’s only full-time resident. If you stay with us, I’ll be a neighbor!
Every one of the accommodations in Tulemar is privately owned. These owners are our friends and neighbors. We know them and their properties well. Our reception, along with my office, is located right at the front entrance of Tulemar. We can assist throughout your entire trip: from accommodations and transportation to tours, restaurants, activities and special services. Whatever your Costa Rica vacation needs, we can make it happen!
While you’re in Tulemar, please feel free to drop by and say “hi”!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar Dave
Tulemar is a one-of-a-kind 33 acre, gated and secure, residential resort located right in the heart of Manuel Antonio. We have a collection of 40+ privately owned vacation homes, ranging from our classic Bungalows to our luxurious Private Villas.
Our properties are surrounded by jungle and the wildlife is abundant. You’ll see three types of monkeys, two types of sloths, scarlet macaws, two types of toucans, motmots, kiskadees, other exotic birds, iguanas, agoutis, and more right from your villa and throughout the resort.
At the Tulemar Beach you’ll find warm, tropical waters with a sandy beach and lots of shady trees plus lounge chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, boogie boards, and towels.
We are not a traditional 5★ resort, an all-inclusive, or a franchised hotel (with loud music playing around the pool areas and lobby). Each of our accommodations in Tulemar are privately owned vacation homes. Our front desk and reception area is located within Tulemar. We provide reservations for most of the properties exclusively and directly. Our reservations team is also located right here in Manuel Antonio. They are very familiar with each of our properties and are happy to help you find the best options for your stay.
The Tulemar Gardens Resort is managed by the Homeowner’s Association made up of the individual homeowners. Since every property in Tulemar is privately owned, we have several property management companies that manage the bungalows, casas, and villas within. Tulemar is centrally located in the desirable town of Manuel Antonio. We are within walking distance to many wonderful restaurants, cafes, and shops. Another great dining option that many guests choose to experience is a private chef who can prepare some or all of your meals. Dine in or delivery service is also available from several local restaurants. Your concierge is always a phone call or WhatsApp message away and will make everything easy for you.
We are proud of our Travelers Choice recognition by TripAdvisor where we are listed as #1 based on our service, our accommodations, the Tulemar Beach, and all the wildlife. We are great for families and friends, but we are also perfect (and popular) for couples!
Pura Vida,
Tulemar
Hello, world!
Gift Certificates Now Available!
Giving the gift of paradise is now easier than ever with gift certificates to Tulemar! Whether a wedding, birthday, holiday, or just because, there are plenty of reasons a gift certificate to Tulemar is the perfect gift for someone you love. It’s something they don’t already have There’s no wasteful gift wrap or bags Memories […]
Costa Rican Christmas Tamale Recipe
Tamales are a Christmas tradition in Costa Rica and a favorite amongst guests at Tulemar. These delicious and savory little guys can be found all throughout Costa Rica during the holidays — and sometimes even year-round, especially in touristy areas. If you can’t make the trek to Costa Rica for Christmas, but you’re craving this […]
Tulemar Gift Guide
Checking your list and realizing you’ve yet to buy the perfect gift for a special someone? The holidays have snuck up on us, too! Not to worry…Tulemar has you fully covered. From co-worker to co-habiter, we have the perfect gift guide so you can give the gift they really want. Why give the gift of […]
Turtle Release in Costa Rica
A fan favorite activity in Costa Rica is attending a baby sea turtle release. And it’s no surprise! The turtles are adorable, the activity is informative, and you get to help nature while enjoying sun, surf, and sand. What’s not to love? We recently had guests that wanted to attend a sea turtle release while […]
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