If you looked up “Exclusive” in the Webster Dictionary you might find a picture of the Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. The moment you enter the property, it’s nothing but exclusive. It’s perfect hillside perch, let me stress the word perfect, that overlooks the Pacific Ocean on one side and a calm bay on the other gives every seat, lounger, hammock and even your bed a fabulous view.
Our direct flight from Miami to Liberia had no delays and the flight was pleasant. Only hiccup is AA lost our luggage and Tim and I only had one place to shop, the Four Seasons Boutiques…… no where else to shop. Thank god for Travel Insurance. Most expensive bathing suit, cover up and sundress I’ve ever purchased.
Our Villa was nestled high on the cliff side with amazing views of the sea. It had three bedrooms, which included two Master Suites, one that was separate and very private, while the other was attached to the villa with a full kitchen, laundry area, large living room and dining area with a large deck that included loungers and outdoor dining table. The two buildings where attached by a covered lounging area with a private plunge pool. Every view was magical and at the villa was wonderfully furnished.
Arrival Day: Lounged in the Villa and our private plunge pool, then walked around the resort to get a feel of the place. We ate dinner at Bahia, which is where we are breakfast daily as well. The service was incredible and so was the food. Every server knew our names and introduced themselves as soon as they approached our table. They also knew our schedule of events which is great because they all give you a little hint of what to expect or just some added information.
Day Two: We chartered a full day fishing boat on Wasabi 35’ and set sail around 8 am. This was a spectacular day. Not 
only did we catch some amazing big fish, like a 48lb Red Snapper, Mahi Mahi, a Barracuda (can’t eat it, but what a fun catch) and smaller tunas, but we saw a family of Humpback whales breaching and playing in the water. We saw a school of huge dolphins, playing in the wake of our boat. Sea Rays that were flying out of the water and spinning. We were told it is mating season and the males do it to show off for the ladies. Tons of sea turtles and bird life. It was seriously better than watching Jacques Cousteau (All those young-ens ones will have to look him up).
Day Three: We decided to take a tour through the mangroves on water bikes. Yes, I said water bikes. They are pretty cool. It was great workout since the sun was hot and it took 20 minutes to bike to the Mangroves for shade. Once we were in the shade it was fine. Sadly, both paths in the mangroves were obstructed by fallen trees so our tour was short but pretty for what we could see. Also, our guide took some great group photos of us and promised to send them, but he didn’t so my pictures will have to do.
The nature center at the Papagayo Explorers Club is wonderful and so very interesting. If you have children or are into bugs, snakes, butterflies, birdwatching, hiking, biking, etc., this is the place for you. I loved looking into the telescopes on bugs and spiders, it was fascinating. They also have an amazing golf course which looked challenging, but we didn’t golf on this vacation. Maybe next time.
Later that day we joined the Rum and Chocolate tasting which is another no cost amenity the hotel offers. It was yummy and educational. Although, we didn’t really like the Rum but we did like the chocolate.
Day Four: Today we decided to take a private boat for beach BBQ, snorkeling, swimming and sub wing-ing (I’ll get to that in a moment). On the Alcyone we had the best crew and the best guide. He was very informative and funny. He taught us a lot about the land, sea and politics of Costa Rica and all about the Pura Vida slogan meaning Pure Life or Simple Life, the Ticos (Costa Ricans) use it daily and practice this daily as their way of life. To sum it up it means to have relaxed attitude towards life, no matter the circumstance.
The snorkeling wasn’t great but okay although following giant sea turtles was the best. Loved watching them eat and come up for air. The water and the air were the same temperature, yet again perfect.
The BBQ on the beach was awesome. They had a canopy set up with a table for four and more food than any four people could eat. They had 3 entrees, grilled
fish, chicken and beef plus four different sides. All cooked to perfection. The beach area was private, and they hung hammocks for us, and had chairs set under the tree by the water and a whole basket of beach toys.
After lunch and some down time in the hammocks and beach we ventured out to learn the SubWing Snorkel. At first, I was leery and thought it was just another toy for young people but our guide confidence me to give it a try. It was so incredibly fun, I felt like I was 12 again. You hold on the wings between the ropes and just dip your wrist down and you fly under the water at 2.5 miles per hour with a scuba mask on and when you want air you flip your wrist up and you surface like a mermaid and take a breathe and dip down again. You can also twist the wings, one up and one down, while under water and you spin, like a 12-year-old mermaid. It was freeing and fun. If you ever get a chance to try it, DO IT!
Day Five: Well we woke to rain and the forecast for the day was rain all day. So, we all went to the spa and it was, again, fabulous. Incredible spa, and talented staff.
Dinner was at Anejo and the service and food was out of this world.
The locals have such pride and open hearts for their home, and they love sharing their stories with you and truley love having you visit. The resort is pricey but worth every dime. You will never have a complaint and if you do, it’s probably because you’re just cranky.