The Resort & Local Activities
Gardens and Wildlife
Stroll through La Ponderosa's lush, well-established tropical gardens, home to a diverse collection of palms, flowering plants, and fruit trees. The gardens provide an excellent opportunity to observe Costa Rica's incredible wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, parrots, scarlet macaws and iguanas—all in their natural habitat.
Pool
Relax in La Ponderosa's tropical salt water swimming pool, featuring a spacious ocean-view terrace and comfortable lounge chairs. The pool's gentle beach-style entry is perfect for children and makes it easy for guests of all ages to enjoy a refreshing swim.
Indoor Recreation
Guests can relax beyond their rooms in our spacious screened-in game room, complete with ceiling fans to keep the tropical breeze flowing. Enjoy a friendly game of ping-pong or foosball, browse the book exchange library, challenge family and friends with board games, or simply unwind in the comfortable lounge seating. It's the perfect place to escape the midday sun or spend a relaxing rainy afternoon.
Surfing
Wake up to the sound of waves breaking and experience why La Ponderosa is a favorite among surfers. Designed by surfers for surfers, our beachfront location offers the perfect balance of easy access to world-class waves and a peaceful retreat to relax between sessions.
Pavones is home to one of the longest left-hand waves in the world. You can also take a short boat ride across Golfo Dulce to Matapalo to surf its renowned right-hand point breaks or head south to the beach breaks of Punta Banco.
Our location places you just minutes from the Pavones point break to the north and the beach break to the south, making it easy to explore the area's best surf.
Whether you're catching your first wave or chasing the perfect ride, we can connect you with experienced surf instructors and local guides for all skill levels. Surfboard rentals are available on-site, and Pavones has well-stocked surf shops and reliable ding repair services to keep you in the water.
Everything you need for an unforgettable surf trip is right here in Pavones.
Massage
Treat yourself to a massage in our private thatched-roof massage hut, nestled in a peaceful tropical garden. Surrounded by lush greenery, it's the perfect setting to unwind, rejuvenate, and enhance your stay at La Ponderosa.
River Walks
Cool off with a scenic walk in the nearby river, either on your own or with a local guide. It's the perfect activity for a hot day and offers an excellent opportunity to experience the area's natural beauty while spotting wildlife in its tropical habitat.
Trail Running, Hiking & Beach Training
Discover the natural beauty of Pavones through its scenic roads, quiet beaches, and rolling hills. Whether you're trail running, hiking, or enjoying a beach workout, you'll be surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, spectacular ocean views, and abundant wildlife. From leisurely walks to challenging hill climbs, there's something for every fitness level.
Bird Watching
Whether you're an experienced birder or simply enjoy watching wildlife, Pavones is a wonderful destination for birdwatching. La Ponderosa's lush tropical gardens are an excellent place to observe many of the area's colorful species. More than 270 bird species have been recorded in the region, including tanagers, trogons, honeycreepers, toucans, hummingbirds, manakins, and the magnificent scarlet macaw.
Tide Pool Exploring and Beach Combing
As the tide recedes, clear tide pools reveal a fascinating underwater world waiting to be explored. Discover colorful fish, crabs, sea stars, sea urchins, and other marine life that become concentrated among the coastal rocks. Some of the larger pools are even deep enough for a refreshing snorkel.
With miles of unspoiled coastline to explore, beachcombing is another favorite pastime. Search for unique shells, tumbled stones, driftwood, and other natural treasures while enjoying the ever-changing beauty of the Pacific shoreline.
Beach
Have fun riding the waves with our boogie boards, available to rent at the hotel. Just steps from La Ponderosa, the wide sandy beach provides the perfect place to play in the surf, making it a favorite activity for both kids and adults.
SUNSETS
Unwind and take in breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from our peaceful tropical beach. It's the perfect place to relax at the end of the day as the evening air cools to a comfortable temperature and the sweet fragrance of blooming tropical flowers drifts through the breeze, creating an unforgettable sunset experience.
Relaxation
Relaxation comes naturally at La Ponderosa. Spend your days just steps from the beach, where you can swim, stroll the shoreline, or simply watch the waves roll in. Lounge by the pool with a good book, soak in the peaceful tropical surroundings, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage. Whether you prefer quiet moments by the ocean or a leisurely afternoon poolside, you'll find the perfect place to unwind.
Sports AND RECREATION
Enjoy our small outdoor basketball half-court nestled in the tropical gardens of La Ponderosa. It’s the perfect spot for a quick game with family or friends, a self-guided yoga session surrounded by fresh tropical air, or a bodyweight training workout to stay active during your stay. Whether you’re looking to move, stretch, or simply enjoy the outdoors, this peaceful garden space offers a great place to relax and recharge.
LOCAL CHOCOLATE MAKING
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican cacao through a hands-on chocolate-making experience using locally grown cacao. Learn about the process of transforming cacao into delicious chocolate while working with locally sourced ingredients and time-honored techniques.
This interactive cooking experience lets you create your own chocolate treats while connecting with the local culture and appreciating the incredible journey from tropical cacao tree to finished chocolate. Perfect for families, couples, and chocolate lovers of all ages.
Nature Tours
Explore the incredible biodiversity and natural beauty of Pavones with the help of knowledgeable local nature guides. We can connect you with experienced guides who will help you discover hidden gems, learn about the tropical ecosystem, and spot the amazing wildlife that makes this region so unique.
From lush jungle trails and coastal habitats to the many species of plants, birds, and animals found throughout the area, a guided nature tour offers a deeper connection to the wild beauty of southern Costa Rica.
Horseback riding
Experience the beauty of Pavones from a different perspective with a guided horseback ride through the rainforest or along the beach. A local horseman will lead you on a memorable journey through tropical landscapes, offering a unique way to explore the area's natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.
LOCAL Yoga STUDIOS
Find balance and relaxation during your stay with yoga classes available in Pavones. Local yoga studios offer both scheduled drop-in classes and private instruction, making it easy to enjoy a practice that fits your schedule and experience level.
Whether you are looking to start your day with movement, unwind after a surf session, or simply reconnect with yourself in a peaceful tropical setting, yoga is a wonderful addition to your La Ponderosa experience.
Fishing
Experience the incredible fishing opportunities of Pavones, whether you prefer to cast your own line from the beach and river mouth or head out on the water with a local fisherman aboard a traditional panga. Explore the rich waters of Golfo Dulce and the surrounding coastline while learning from experienced local captains who know the best spots.
Bring your own gear or arrange a local fishing trip for a memorable Costa Rican adventure.
Fishing photo courtesy of the captain.
Boat Trip
Experience the beauty of Golfo Dulce aboard a local fisherman's traditional panga. Enjoy a scenic boat tour through one of the world's most biodiverse tropical fjords, where you may spot sea turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and—during the season—even majestic humpback whales.
cycling
Explore Pavones at a relaxed pace with our beach cruiser-style bicycles available for rent. Ride along quiet coastal roads, take in spectacular ocean views, and discover the beauty of the surrounding area at your own speed. With miles of scenic roads to explore, cycling is a wonderful way to experience the tropical landscapes, beaches, and local community of Pavones.
Bring your own bike or rent one locally and enjoy the freedom to explore this beautiful coastal region by two wheels. Whether you’re taking a leisurely ride through town, heading out for a scenic adventure, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, cycling is a great way to experience the laid-back lifestyle of Pavones.
LOCAL ATV (Quad) RENTALS
Explore the rugged beauty of Pavones and the surrounding area with locally available all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rentals. Two local shops offer ATVs for rent, providing a fun way to discover back roads and natural landscapes of southern Costa Rica.
Dining
Enjoy delicious meals at La Ponderosa's on-site dining room, available for purchase individually or as part of a meal package. Our open-air setting provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes surrounded by the beauty of the tropics.
Pavones also offers a variety of locally owned restaurants featuring Costa Rican, Italian, North American, and vegetarian cuisine. These charming open-air eateries focus on fresh ingredients and take pride in preparing each meal with care. With a welcoming, casual atmosphere and the friendly community spirit of Pavones, dining here is more than just a meal—it's a chance to connect with the local culture and often run into familiar faces along the way.
