Nestled in an idyllic location on the Golfo Dulce backed by pristine rainforest, Playa Cativo is one of the most exclusive places to stay in the Osa Peninsula. This boutique lodge offers the most creature comforts of all in the region, but its wide choice of activities give it a universal appeal, with families, wildlife enthusiasts and also honeymooners all catered for here. All seven rooms are elegantly furnished and feature ocean views. They are cooled by ceiling fans as with all wildlife lodges in the peninsula, but we love the extra touches as such as complimentary WiFi that reaches the rooms, king-sized beds with fine linens and outdoor rain showers. Onsite, guests have complimentary use of the kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling equipment (the calm beach is just steps away at the end of the lodge’s manicured gardens) and there are a number of forest trails to be explored. A good range of external tours can also be arranged to make the most of your time in the region. These include night tours in the rainforest, guided hikes in the Piedras Blancas National Park and bird watching tours (all from $32 per person), as well as snorkelling tours further out into the Golfo Dulce and mangroves kayaking along the Esquinas river.