One of the most common questions when considering renting a beach villa is where it might be located. Should it be right on the beach or above the beach? Usually one assumes that all beach villa rentals must be right on the beach so that the high tide reaches your toes.  But consider another option: a luxury villa above the sand.

Renting beach villas that are not situated right on the beach do have some overall advantages. One of the most important is the increased privacy.  When ones beach villa rental is on the beach most likely you will have to tolerate the daytime visitors that will place themselves right in front and around you rental. You have no control of where they settle in the sand or who comes a bit too close to impinge on your vacation space.  Who knows if a group will bring a reggaeton sound system to stir up the sand or if curious outsiders are seeking easy marks.

This last point also brings in to consideration that of of security; vacation beach villas directly on the beach requires the vacationer to be much more conscious of not leaving valuable items outside where they could be an easy catch. Most beach villa rentals in Costa Rica have security measures, but one always has a habit of leaving certain things outside especially when at the beach.  And since one of the most important reasons for wanting a beach villa rental is to enjoy and relax to the utmost, a villa beyond the sand can provide a more relaxed state of mind.

Getting Altitude for Comfort

One of the most inviting aspects of  Manuel Antonio is the natural terrain that provides spectacular views and breezes. A hilly rock formation marks the entrance into the gorgeous Manuel Antonio beach and National Park. All along this route there are numerous wonderful hotels, restaurants, stores, language schools and luxury villa rentals.

The view that overlooks Manuel Antonio is spectacular. You can see the majestic formation of the national park and the rock island in front of what is known as first beach. Sunsets are fantastic. A beach villa rental from above the beach allows you to capture all of this. The sensations that such views offer is quite breathtaking allows you to breathe deeply relaxing into the rhythm of the natural beauty.

Additionally, beach villas above the sand and ocean can be a bit more comfortable while enjoying the outdoors. Usually a breeze, even at the hottest mid-day hours, will offer a feeling of reprieve from the deck from you upper beach villa rental.  Trust us, a breeze is important at both sunset and sunrise when the mosquitoes or “no-see-ums” feed. A simple breeze will help keep these biting bugs at bay.

The convenience of staying at a beach villa rental right on beach is great when one wants to pass as much time as possible in the sand and the tropical warm ocean water.  But that is not to say that beach villas above is inconvenient. Some have direct beach access – a short walk on groomed paths. Others have transport services to the beach. There are also motorbike and RTV rentals that facilitate access and also allow the freedom of exploration of the area.

Both beach villas in and above the sand are great options for a special vacation experience, but do take into consideration these pluses of a little altitude off the sand. Check out one of Manuel Antonio’s premium above the beach villas: Casa Las Ventanas.

Top Honeymoon Destinations

Manuel Antonio is an incredible niche of nature on the mid Pacific coast of Costa Rica; several coves of white sand beach surrounded by jungle-covered cliffs jut out to crystal blue-green tropical waters. Manuel Antonio is actually a national park, one of the most visited. This park encompasses beaches, awesome trails through forested terrain and a stunning waterfall. Wildlife  and vistas are prolific; Monkeys are like cats in Manuel Antonio park; they come up close searching for food, (please do not feed) let you observe them, but never too close for comfort. The rare three-toed sloth is a common site here as well as other tropical mammals that have become accustomed to the visiting humans. The snorkeling is absolutely incredible for water lovers. Experiencing all these wonders of nature truly fulfill Costa Rica as an ideal honeymoon location.

Surrounding the national park there are numerous hotels, cabañas, houses and villas for rent. Grand villas such as Casa Las Ventanas or smaller villas such as those Makanda Hotel by the Sea offers,  are truly the best way to enjoy your stay in Manuel Antonio and make this a top honeymoon destination. Staying at a villa will pamper you and allow you to fulfill your romantic newlywed dreams.

Imagine spending your honeymoon in ultimate luxury, coupled with all the amenities luxury villas offer for complete relaxation and quality time for the two of you.  Details such as a splendid kitchen to create and share tropical meals, or if you prefer – hire a professional chef to have gourmet cuisine under candle light. Not to mention a pool to cool off from the tropical sun and a Jacuzzi to warm up your hearts at night. There is no beating this quality of style for your top honeymoon destination.

Costa Rica Weddings

One of the most incredible aspects of Manuel Antonio are the breathtaking sunsets. What can be more romantic than being fully emerged in nature with all of the amenities at hand while capturing the tropical sunset in your hearts? There is a plethora of information related to Manuel Antonio online; Casa Las Ventanas‘ sister hotel, Makanda, offers full on-site weddings and wedding services.

Costa Rica is privileged with so many beautiful sites and activities; you could spend your honeymoon trying to capture as many as these experiences as possible. But what really makes for top honeymoon destinations is the ability to fully relax, smell the flowers and spend a romantic time together. That is why a villa is so great. No hassles, just good quality time together in  gorgeous surroundings.

There are other areas of Costa Rica that make for top honeymoon destinations like the southern Caribbean coast or the hot springs of Arenal volcano.  On the Caribbean you can rent a fully equipped house just a couple hundred feet from the beach.  At the hot springs in Arenal there are several spas where you can stay at the hot springs or rent an equipped cabin. Most places provide services to the springs, tours of the volcano and Lake Arenal. These two areas are my recommendations for the side trips within the country. Although, the sunsets at Casa Las Ventanas in Manuel Antonio truly  make for one of the top honeymoon destinations in Costa Rica. Click to review rates and reservations.

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? You are likely wondering about Costa Rica weather. And you’ll probably be surprised to know that the climate in the area can vary a great deal depending on which part of the country you’ll be visiting.  Because Costa Rica is located close to the equator, this part of the world receives quite a bit of rain. Although this is true, the Central Pacific area of the country will provide a pleasant experience for those that plan to visit, regardless of the time of year. Now, it’s important to note that as with any country in this particular region, there are excellent times to visit and there are other times when you may spend much of the time getting wet.

Weather in Costa Rica

There are roughly 4.5 million people that populate Central America, and in addition to that, this is an area that is a very popular tourist destination. One of the main reasons this area is extremely popular is because of the weather. Although throughout much of the year it does rain, this rain helps when it comes to keeping this country green with lush rainforests, which is one of the main attractions for the over 2 million tourists that visit each and every year. You will find that Costa Rica weather  will vary depending on the location you are visiting. For example, it is much cooler in the mountain interior. Either coast can be hot yet the rainy months vary; the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is typically drier during April, May, June and July when the Pacific coast can be deluged with rain.  Storms can hit both coasts of Costa Rica during the heaviest rains: September through November.  TRAVEL TIP: Click here > packing for rainy season.

Weather in the Central Pacific Area

Moving over to the Central Pacific area you’ll find that the temperatures and the weather are much cooler ranging in the areas of between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a temperature you will find pretty consistent throughout the year. During the rainy season, the temperature will still reach higher temps which increases humidity during those times of the year. You’ll find throughout the day time it is quite warm, but when night time rolls around, it does tend to cool off, making it very pleasant somewhere around the lower 60′s. Of course, this will all depend on where it is you are located.

Weather in Manuel Antonio

In Manuel Antonio, located on the Central Pacific coast, you’ll find the weather during the day is quite warm, most of the time settling right around 80 * F.  Surrounding towns, Jaco, Quepos, and Dominical, experience much of the same temperatures, so regardless of where it is you are located along the coastal region, you can expect much of the same weather and temps throughout. Be sure to inquire where you plan to stay that air-conditioning is available if higher temperatures affect you adversely.

If you plan to visit this jewel of Central America, you’ll find that Costa Rica weather is quite pleasing. Some of the best times of the year to visit Manuel Antonio will be in the months where there is little rainfall. These drier months, referred to as the dry season, are usually December, January, February and March. Costa Rica weather, however, can be a bit unpredictable. Pack accordingly. Overall, you’ll find that the weather really won’t be much of an issue. During the wetter months, typically rains arrive in the afternoons and unless a storm front has landed, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to get outside and enjoy yourself immensely. When Costa Rica weather turns inclement, the best place to be is snuggled up in a private luxury villa watching the show.

In spite of the millions of tourist that visit Costa Rica annually, many have to ask the question: Where is Costa Rica?  The easy description is this: Costa Rica is a narrow stretch of land, part of which connects North America with South America; it is one of five countries to make up Central America.  Located south of  Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and bordering Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south.

What makes Costa Rica special? This idyllic country is renowned for its rain forest and beaches. On the eastern coast is the Caribbean Sea while the western coast harbors the Pacific Ocean. With spectacular beaches on both sides of Costa Rica, none is more so than Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is located on the central, western coast of of Costa Rica. The Pacific Ocean in these parts is the color of blue that appears in dreams. The warm currents of the Pacific make this beach one of the most active in a variety of water sports. People from all over the world enjoy these beaches for vacations making it a tourist hotspot. From activities, including sports, to discovering virgin beaches it’s all an essential part of Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio is also surrounded by picturesque mountain settings and if you are fortunate to stay in a location, such as Casa

Luxury Accommodations: Casa Las Ventanas

Las Ventanas villa, you will appreciate the expansive decks looking out to the Pacific ocean. As you sit contemplating the surrounding beauty you will likely determine that the answer to where is Costa Rica? is right where you are: in heavenly paradise.

Get Active!

Hiking, camping and trekking trails are in abundance for those who find their bliss in solitude. Several of the local beaches are filled with activities including surf, beach volleyball tournaments, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, deep sea fishing, fly fishing or just chartering a boat for an open ocean trip. And then there are the quiet little coves, void of noise, save the sound of the ocean.

The tourist influx also ensures a vibrant nightlife, camp fires and beach parties, as well as a plethora of first rate restaurants and with more daytime activities than a monkey can shake a tree at. At any time throughout the year there is plenty to do to entertain yourself throughout your day and once the sun sinks into the Pacific.

Unique, too,  the coastline is home to the Manuel Antonio National Park which is located on a small peninsula. This park is world renown and dedicated to productive activities of preservation and studies of all wildlife.  A photographer’s dream, it is one of the most picturesque coastlines in the country with a plethora of flora and fauna living free in their natural habitat.  If you need to ask, “Where is Costa Rica?” we suggest you visit us and discover it is right here, in Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast boasts of having truly breathtaking beaches which tourists from all over the country and the globe love to visit. What better way to enjoy this scenic patch of heaven on earth than to live in a luxurious vacation villa that will make your stay enjoyably first-class and one-of-a-kind.

Manuel Antonio: Panorama in Costa Rica

Famed to be a very exclusive area in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio was once just a village with a national park, known as the Manuel Antonio National Park. Because of this park’s extraordinary beauty and scenic views, it quickly gained popularity, prompting the rise of hotels and resorts which now pepper the area. Soon, swarms of tourists started flocking the area, and who wouldn’t?  The place is decorated with stunning beaches here and there, virgin islands offshore, thick and lush rainforest, and colorful flora and fauna. Today, a line-up of activities will surely make your vacation action-filled with several underwater activities, park tours, treks, forest exploration, and a lot more exciting itineraries.

Best Vacation Villa: Casa Las Ventanas

A vacation villa located amidst the jungle of Manuel Antonio is Casa Las Ventanas (House of Windows) perched right among the treetops of the rainforest. As the name suggests, staying in this villa will provide you a visual delight as the walls are all lined with windows, giving you an easy and extensive access to the panoramic views that surround the villa.

The modern design of this vacation villa is the creation of its owner, an design architect who has lived in Manuel Antonio for many years. Casa Las Ventanas was initially a luxurious private home for the owner and his wife, but what started as a very detailed, first-class private home morphed into becoming a popular vacation villa that provides unparalleled accommodation to all its satisfied vacationers.

With its 7,000-sq. ft. area, four bedrooms, and elegant bathrooms, this vacation villa accommodates four couples in spacious rooms that include king-sized beds. Staying in each room is a delight, as it boasts of exquisite details and quality furnishings. The rooms abound with privacy, and are for adults’ accommodation only.

The exterior of this vacation villa is as luxurious as its interior, revealing a tropical ambiance created by its wide deck, infinity pool, and jacuzzi. Since the villa is perched amidst a rainforest, a visual delight of diversified flora and fauna surrounds Casa Las Ventanas, offering a 180-degree view of the forest as well as the Pacific Ocean’s sunrises and sunsets. What could be more breathtaking than waking up to seeing the vast expanse of the ocean and the ethereal sunrise just right outside your bedroom deck?

Holiday trips should be unforgettable and perfect. What better way to make the most out of your stay in Manuel Antonio than to stay in a top-of-the-line accommodation, a vacation villa that has made the vacations of hundreds of couples ultra-relaxing and luxurious.

Casa Las Ventanas promises to make your Manuel Antonio vacation exceptional, and we look forward to accommodating you in our vacation villa. A magical and incomparable vacation is within your reach. Make your reservation now!

Luxury Accommadations: Casa Las Ventanas

Think azure skies, lush forests, sparkling sands and exotic wildlife. Think luxury accommodations, first rate service at your fingertips, views to die for, and elegant tranquility.

How could this not sound like a perfect vacation? Casa Las Ventanas in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica offers you all this and more to ensure you have a great adventure with all the trappings of a luxury holiday.

Manuel Antonio is like paradise on earth, rated as Costa Rica’s # 1 beach destination and # 2 for its national park. The bio-diversity of its rainforest is astounding and you are never far away from a glimpse of the exotic wildlife. Forbes listed it among the world’s 12 most beautiful national parks in 2011.

The competitive spirit in you will compel you to try out the World Class Sport Fishing in the local port town of Quepos. You can get your adrenaline going with a zip line or white water rafting, or if you are really after a calm and blissful holiday, then immerse yourself in animal and bird watching and fit in a leisurely hike up and down the trails of the forest.

Stunning Surroundings

Casa Las Ventanas is an adults only luxury villa vacation rental and is nestled within a private reserve against the lush rainforest of the Manuel Antonio National Park and comes with complete privacy, security, top of the line amenities and concierge services.

Guests of the villa also have complete access to the same owner’s luxury boutique hotel that is also within the reserve. Stroll down a trail that leads to a secluded beach cove where you can explore indigenous artifacts and tide pools or lazily swim and sunbathe. Watch the glorious sunsets of the Pacific Ocean on the beach or from the privacy and comfort of Casa Las Ventanas’ balconies and deck.

The villa can accommodate up to 8 adults with 4 bedroom suites , each with its own elegant bathroom; each suite is appointed with king-sized beds and quality linens. The architectural details and furnishings reflect elegant and stylish tastes and retractable glass walls ensure stunning panoramic views to the rainforest and ocean.

The stunning kitchen is a gourmet chef’s dream, fitted with the best appliances and cookware, and if it better suits, you could even have a private chef cook you up a special meal, enjoy private catering or visit the owner’s Makanda Sunset Bar & Grill restaurant.

Everything You Need in a Luxury Villa

Costa Rica Vacation Villa

If you want to curl up and watch a movie, go to the media room with a projection T.V. and surround sound or the sitting room with a plasma TV and numerous cable and satellite channels. If you’re the kind that just can’t get rid of that itch to stay connected to the outside world, there’s a desktop computer station, and Wireless Internet connectivity throughout the villa.

Other features include a private gym, a tranquil infinity pool and Jacuzzi, ocean-view decks, a covered 2 car garage, central air-conditioning, washer and dryer, BBQ Grill and a remote-controlled gas fireplace. Additionally, concierge services like personal chef, personal shopping services, daily housekeeping and in-home spa treatments are available for an additional fee.

Transportation and tours can also be arranged so you can take advantage of everything this destination has to offer, like, fishing Charters, zip Line, white water rafting, kayaking, bird watching, horseback riding, butterfly farm and vanilla and jungle tours.

Costa Rica Culture

Elegance & Style

If you want to experience a bit of the culture of Costa Rica, Easter Week is a good time to do it and you could start your vacation in one of the nearest big cities like San Jose. Costa Ricans value tradition, and during Easter, many families join religious celebrations that include masses and processions.

You could also include a pilgrimage to the Basilica de los Angeles in Cartago city, in honour of the Virgin of the Angels. During this holiday many people walk to the city from all parts of the country. After all of that you could end it with a stay in the tranquil luxury accommodations of Casa Las Ventanas in Manuel Antonio!

Casa Las Ventanas is ideal for you and your group during Easter holiday or Spring Break: party on the beach or indulge in great adventures in the jungle. The town also has several clubs and restaurants, so nature lovers and party lovers will find something to delight in. Check out the rates and reservations page for details on securing this luxury accommodations for your Costa Rica vacation.

Where is Costa Rica is a question many people ask. It is part of Central America, a narrow stretch of land that connects North America with South America and is renowned for its natural beauty, prolific wildlife and tropical rainforests. Looking for one of the best Spring Break 2012 destinations? Consider Costa Rica and Manuel Antonio specifically…and here’s why:

One of the unique aspects of Costa Rica is her diversity not only on a bio level but also in relationship to the various weather patterns, landscapes and beaches. Flanked on either side of the country by vast oceans, Costa Rica’s eastern coast sports the Caribbean Sea while the western coast harbors the Pacific Ocean, locals and tourists frequent the beaches on both sides.

Manuel Antonio Serves it Up!

Surf Manuel Antonio

Many Costa Rica beaches are renowned destinations for their pristine and exotic location; none more so than Manuel Antonio. The Pacific Ocean in these parts is the color of blue that appears in dreams. The warm currents of the Pacific makes hanging at the beach at Manuel Antonio one of the most unique in a variety of ocean related activities.

People from all over the world, including students on spring break 2012, and those who live in Costa Rica enjoy these beaches for vacation holidays year round. From small intimate coves to wide, and white, expansive beaches it’s all an essential part of Manuel Antonio.

Considered a premier Costa Rica destination, Manuel Antonio is surrounded by picturesque rain-forested mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Activities include a plethora of water sports, such as surfing, deep sea fishing, diving, sailing, and for land lubbers: hiking, zip-lining, horse-back riding…the list is long!

Throughout Manuel Antonio, for those looking for active spring break 2012 destinations, will find many options to participate in… to relieve the pressures of academia. Take your pick from surf tournaments, beach volleyball tournaments, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, deep sea fishing, fly fishing or just chartering a boat for an open ocean trip. Or simply kick back and enjoy doing little.

Party and Observe

The tourist influx also ensures a vibrant nightlife with camp fires and beach parties along Manuel Antonio’s beaches. The entire coastline is like an endless  big party once the sun sets in to the Pacific. Additionally, there is a wide variety of restaurants, bars and dance clubs.

Wildlife Protected

Also a great draw as a destination for 2012 spring break students is the infamous Manuel Antonio National Park which is located on a small peninsula this park is dedicated to productive activities of preservation and studies of the area wildlife and marine water-life. It is one of the most picturesque coastlines in the country with a plethora of natural flora and fauna living  in their natural habitat. The sloth, raccoon and a variety of monkeys are in abundance. The only precaution you need to take is to keep your belongings under observation or else they may become lost to these inquisitive primates.

Luxury Villa: A Place to Call Home on Vacation

Vacation Villa

Families, students and adults in search of spring break  2012 destinations for the Easter and spring break holidays will not be disappointed in Manuel Antonio.  And if having a home away holiday rental in a villa appeals, Casa Las Ventanas will set you apart from the clutter of tourists.

Well appointed, our private villa sleeps 8 adults (must be over 21 years) with 4 master suites and baths. An infinity pool, outdoor Jacuzzi and BBQ area lends itself to the perfect spring break 2012 destinations getaway. View the rest of luxuryvillasa site for details.

For many intrepid travelers, a vacation represents great adventure. There are as varied types of adventure as there are villages around the planet. Often the seemingly simple task of selecting an exotic location provides adventure in just getting there. Others find the thrill by immersing themselves in different cultures, or climbing a mother of a mountain, or foraging for gastronomically unique cuisine (think: Anthony Bourdain).

Wild Times Adventure Vacation

In many of the most vividly beautiful and mild-mannered places, such as Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, you will find the perfect adventure vacation to suit and surpass all expectations.  For those who seek adrenalin pumping activities, here’s a short list of things available to do in Manuel Antonio and the surrounding Quepos area that make for a great adventure vacation:

Great Adventure

• Whitewater rafting
• Deep sea fishing
• Surfing
• Ocean kayaking
• Ultralight flights
• Canopy zipline

To make certain your adventure vacation includes top-notch services, staff and equipment, Casa Las Ventanas‘ concierge services can recommend and arrange the best service and tour operators throughout the country.

Outdoor Adventures of a More Gentle Nature

For those in search of  a vacation albeit a little less strenuous, the natural beauty of Costa Rica serves up unforgettable outdoor adventures.  In August this year (2011) Forbes listed Manuel Antonio National Park as one of the “‘worlds most beautiful National Parks.”  We couldn’t agree more!

Local Color

There is so much to discover in this bio-diverse tropical rain forest.  From mangrove tours, estuary kayaking, horse-back riding on the beach, sunset Catamaran cruise, sailing, hiking tours with an experienced naturalist…there’s enough to see, and do, to make your trip to Costa Rica a truly great adventure.

The owners of Casa Las Ventanas luxury villa look forward to sharing with you their not-so-little luxury piece of paradise. Our goal is to help  make your next great adventure a memorable one.

One of the most popular places for vacationers, rated number one for best beaches in Costa Rica, is Manuel Antonio. And nestled within the tropical jungle treetops is a luxurious holiday rental, Casa Las Ventanas (translates to: house of windows).

This, however, is not simply a holiday house for rent; it is a luxurious villa with a modern design built with great attention to detail. Walls of windows, extensive decking and patios bring the tropical landscape within reach while providing all the amenities discerning guests require for an excessively high level of comfort.

Built by its owner, an award winning architectural designer, Casa Las Ventanas‘ construction was completed in February 2007.  Initially created as a private home for the owner and his wife, Jules, they incorporated every detail imaginable to afford the lifestyle to which they had become accustomed.  As their own travels often take them to other locations around the globe, they decided to make their jungle estate available as a holiday rental for others to enjoy.

Luxury in the Jungle

Casa Las Ventanas, a seven thousand sq. ft., four bedroom, four and half bath luxury rental home  accommodates up to four couples (with 4 king sized beds) and is available  as a vacation rental for adults only. Every room of this holiday villa luxuriates with quality finishes, fine detail and exquisite furnishings. Privacy abounds with each of the bedroom suites, replete with  individual baths.

Outside, the tropical splendor of this holiday rental with its expansive decking, an infinity pool and Jacuzzi, is revealed. Situated on a hillside within the rain forest, a rich bio-diversity of flora and fauna surrounds the villa. And with 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, incomparable sunsets dazzle.

In addition to all that our holiday rental Casa Las Ventanas offers, there is much to see and do in the Manuel Antonio area. From the port town of Quepos to the National Park inside Manuel Antonio there is a wide range of activities to indulge and entertain yourself with. That’s what vacations are for, right? Engaging in new places and different experiences. See the list of Manuel Antonio activities we can arrange for you when you become a guest.

We look forward to having you visit as a guest at our Casa Las Ventanas holiday rental. It is a very special place.