Fodor's Expert Review Almonds & Corals

Hidden in a beachfront jungle within the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Almonds & Corals features scattered bungalows raised on stilts and linked by boardwalks lighted by kerosene lamps. Each safari-style unit is protected by a peaked roof and enclosed in mosquito netting, and has beds, electric lamps, hammocks, and hot water. A fine three-meal restaurant is tucked into the greenery halfway down to the property's exquisite, secluded beach. The concept is quite luxurious for the Caribbean coast—even Wi-Fi is included—but the locale still provides that close-to-nature experience. Your wake-up call is provided by howler monkeys and chatty parrots. These folks also offer multiday packages that include round-trip transportation from San José. If asking for directions, note that local people know the place by its Spanish name, Almendros y Corales.