Special Stay: Isla Chiquita, Costa Rica

Last updated on May 23, 2025

Isla Chiquita is exactly the type of stay we adore – luxurious yet down-to-earth, immersed in nature, and beautifully tailored for both kids and adults.

Nestled on its own island just off the Nicoya Peninsula, this glamping resort was a case of love at first sight, making it one of our standout experiences in Costa Rica. And we even saw bioluminescence there, which was a perfect cherry to an already incredible cake!

Here’s a full review of Isla Chiquita and what to expect from your visit.

Highlights

• The bioluminescence tour – a pure bucket list experience.
• Stylish, luxurious tents that blend perfectly with the lush environment.
• Spotting howler monkeys from our balcony.
• Exceptional massages in a stunning hillside location.
• Delicious à la carte breakfasts with fresh fruit, pastries, juice, and made-to-order mains.

Best bits for kids

• Kids’ play area with a climbing frame, swings and cornhole.
• Smaller paddling pool, ideal for younger children.
• Kayaking and SUP hire, perfect for adventurous little explorers.

Best bits for grown-ups

• Poolside relaxation with a picturesque jungle setting, hot tub, and a daily happy hour at the pool bar.
• Laidback, barefoot luxury vibes, making parenting that little bit easier.
• Plenty of relaxation points, complete with hammocks and loungers throughout the resort.

Good to know

• The pool, though beautiful, is relatively small, but remember you can also swim in the ocean.
• Your only option for food is the resort’s restaurants and the meals do add up. Make sure to factor that into the cost of your stay (the food is great though!)

Style and vibe

From the moment we stepped ashore, Isla Chiquita was clearly special. The blend of stylish luxury tents and natural beauty creates a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Thoughtful touches like hammocks overlooking the ocean, stylish décor within each tent, and well designed communal areas give the resort a boutique, upscale camping vibe. It’s intimate, inviting, and feels very connected to its stunning natural surroundings. You can’t help but relax.

Location

Isla Chiquita is on Isla Jesuita, an island it shares with just one other resort (a much more low-key campground). It’s just off the mainland near Paquera where the ferry from Puntarenas arrives. You park your car at Punta Cuchillos (less than 5 minutes from the ferry terminal) and take a water taxi from there to Isla Chiquita, which again takes less than 5 minutes. The taxi is arranged by the resort, and your car is kept safe at Punta Cuchillos. Alternatively, you can get a private boat transfer direct from Puntarenas or other parts of the mainland – or even take a helicopter!

It’s a perfect place to include on a Costa Rica road trip where you’re taking the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera (just like we did).

Rooms

Our luxurious safari-style tent was stylishly furnished and perfectly comfortable, nailing the glamping vibe. The spacious balcony provided lush jungle views and wildlife sightings.

We had a two double bed tent suite, which you can also get as a king-suite. And there are some more luxury options available, including ocean-view suites with AC and plunge pools. Plus there are two extra large suites – a family suite for up to six guests, and a super luxury panoramic suite with 360 views and a hot tub.

Facilities

The picturesque pool area is a lovely spot to relax, complete with a paddling pool, hot tub, and palapa-style pool bar with daily happy hour. There are also plenty of thoughtfully positioned relaxation areas throughout the resort  – think hammocks and cosy lounge seating, perfect for soaking up the scenery. Beside the pool, there’s a small kids’ play area and a shaded cornhole game zone.

There’s a kiosk to hire water sports equipment for kayaking and SUP adventures (included in the price of your stay). It’s best to do this in the morning when the water is at its most calm.

The massage area deserves special mention for its breathtaking location, set high on the hillside with panoramic ocean views – an unforgettable treat.

Food and drink

Isla Chiquita has two restaurants – Donde Tia Nora and Harry’s Bar. Both are beside the water with al fresco seating and a relaxed vibe. Choose from fresh fish, classic Costa Rican dishes and other more international fare. There’s something for everyone, including fussy children and vegetarians like us.

Breakfasts are particularly special, offering à la carte main dishes alongside fresh fruit, bread, and juices, and served overlooking the ocean and jungle.

The pool bar is also perfect for enjoying cocktails while watching the kids splash around.

Things to do nearby

Isla Chiquita can arrange various excursions like fishing trips, snorkelling and sunset boat rides. The nighttime bioluminescence tour is a must. This is one of the best places to see bioluminescence in Costa Rica, and so long as the moon isn’t too bright, you should be able to see some. We were all completely enchanted by it. Plus, going out on a boat ride in the dark was a fun experience in itself, and we also spotted jumping needlefish and rays. The kids loved toasting marshmallows beforehand.

We found plenty of joy simply exploring the island, kayaking, paddleboarding, and soaking up the peaceful vibes.

Do we recommend it?

Isla Chiquita is one of the most special places we’ve ever stayed. I loved the whole style of the resort and the barefoot luxury vibe. It’s really nailed the essence of glamping, creating a way to get your outdoor adventure fix, but with plenty of creature comforts. It was one of my favourite stops in Costa Rica.

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