Tucked within the lush, 1,000-acre tropical forest of Las Catalinas, Casa Chameleon feels like it’s been coaxed out of the jungle itself, a luxurious secret hiding in plain sight.
Perched on a hillside overlooking the bay, the hotel seems to hover between the earth and sea, as if caught in a perfect balance between nature and design. Each villa is a personal sanctuary, blending sleek, contemporary lines with the warmth of local craftsmanship.
Think handwoven textures, earthy tones, and materials that feel as if they were pulled straight from the forest around you. The result? A space that whispers comfort while showcasing the beauty of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
The villas spill out onto private terraces, where saltwater infinity pools blur the line between water and sky. From here, the ocean feels like it’s just within reach, shimmering in the distance, while the jungle hums with life. It’s a setting that invites both relaxation and awe, where the design feels less like an architectural feat and more like a natural extension of the landscape.
Inside, the décor is a carefully curated dance between modern elegance and rustic charm. Soft, neutral tones play against the vibrant greenery outside, while handcrafted details—a woven chair, a wooden accent—are a nod to the local artisans who shaped them. It’s as if each element has its own story to tell, adding depth to the villa’s understated luxury.
But Casa Chameleon isn’t just about staying still. Step out, and a thousand adventures await. By evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, you return to the soothing embrace of your villa, feeling like you’ve discovered a piece of paradise that exists just for you.
Top Takeaways
Location: Las Catalinas, Costa Rica
Address: Playa Danta, Potrero, Provincia de Guanacaste, Las Catalinas, Costa Rica
Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: It’s laid-back yet polished, with just the right mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind by your private plunge pool one minute and be zip-lining through the rainforest the next. The atmosphere is peaceful, intimate, and perfectly in sync with nature, making it easy to feel completely at ease while still soaking in Costa Rica’s wild beauty.
Food + Drink: At Casa Chameleon, dining is both intimate and unforgettable. Sentido Norte, led by Chef Jose Lopez, offers bold, authentic Costa Rican flavors with stunning ocean views. For a rustic experience, La Pampa Grill serves slow-cooked, sea-and-field-to-table dishes, while wine lovers can indulge at Grotto 12, a cozy wine cellar with global selections. For something truly special, The Green House offers private dining with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Amenities: Each villa comes with its own private saltwater plunge pool and a king-size bed dressed in soft, 480-thread count linens. Guests can relax on their private terrace or enjoy the fully stocked minibar, featuring local Costa Rican products and an in-room snack menu. With complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, Bluetooth speakers, and organic, locally made toiletries, comfort is a priority. Daily maid service and a 24-hour concierge ensure that every detail is covered, so guests can simply focus on enjoying their time.
Any personal neighborhood recs? Take a leisurely stroll through the charming, car-free town of Las Catalinas, where boutique shops and local cafés await. For those who love nature, hiking the surrounding trails is a must—each path unveils new layers of Costa Rica’s untamed beauty, offering both scenic views and peaceful solitude.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: The retractable fourth wall in the villas—it’s the perfect way to bring the sights and sounds of the jungle right into your space. Whether you’re lounging by your private plunge pool or falling asleep to the distant crash of waves, it’s a connection to nature that’s both immersive and luxurious.
What’s nearby? Las Catalinas is a hub for adventure, with ziplining, horseback riding, and birdwatching just minutes away. What really sets this destination apart is its impressive 50 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, ideal for thrill-seekers. The area also hosts popular triathlons, attracting athletes from all over. Just a short walk away, Danta Beach offers a tranquil escape, while Diamante Eco Adventure Park provides even more excitement with its zip lines and wildlife experiences.
Rooms: 21 rooms, suites and villas
Pricing: Starting from $1,000 per night.
Closest Airport: Liberia International Airport (LIR)
