La Ponderosa Latest News

LAND FOR SALE - DISCOVER CUERVITO DE PAVONES

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 21:51:21 GMT

YOUR SLICE OF PARADISE IN SOUTHERN COSTA RICA

Discover Cuervito de Pavones: Your Slice of Paradise in Southern Costa Rica

If you’ve been dreaming of owning land in Costa Rica, these Cuervito de Pavones estates offer a rare opportunity to secure property in one of the country’s most beautiful and peaceful regions. Located just 5 minutes to perfect surf at Pilon beaches, 10 minutes to local supermarkets and 15 to Pavones town center, these titled properties are a perfect blend of convenience, secluded natural beauty, and investment potential.

Imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views , surrounded by rolling green hills, where the sounds of nature replace the bustle of city life. These lots are more than just land—they’re the foundation for your dream home, private retreat, family estate, or even an equestrian paradise.

Why Cuervito de Pavones?

Ocean Views & Peaceful Surroundings – Perfect for those seeking tranquility with easy access to amenities.
Titled Properties – Secure ownership you can trust.
Public Road Access & Electricity – Ready for building your dream project.
Prime Location – close to surfing, fishing, supermarkets, and all the essentials.
Versatility – Ideal for private homes, family compounds, investments, or equestrian estates.

Available Properties

Lot 1 & Lot 2 (together): 22,084 m² (5.45 acres) – $199,000
Lot 3: 33,450 m² (8.26 acres) – $319,000
Lot 4: 15,343 m² (3.79 acres) – $195,000
Lot 5: 16,550 m² (4.08 acres) – $229,000
35-Acre Estate: 143,704 m² (35 acres) – $575,000

Each property offers its own unique character, whether you want manageable acreage for a cozy home or expansive land for farming, horses, or a private family retreat.

A Smart Investment in Costa Rica

Southern Costa Rica is rapidly gaining attention for its pristine beaches, uncrowded waves, and peaceful lifestyle. Land with this combination of ocean views, accessibility, and utilities is increasingly rare. Buying now means securing a piece of paradise while prices are still attractive.

�� These estates in Cuervito de Pavones are more than just land—it’s your chance to live the Costa Rican dream. Whether you envision a surf retreat, a quiet escape, or a family legacy property, these estates make it possible.

�� For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact us today!

Guided Tropical Adventure Activities

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 17:57:56 GMT

Pavones is where wild tropical beauty meets world-class surf. Whether you're chasing perfect waves, exploring untouched rainforest, or simply unwinding to the sounds of nature, Pavones offers a rare escape from the crowds and the pace of everyday life.

For guests looking to add a little adventure to their stay, one of our longtime local residents offers a variety of unforgettable guided experiences. Originally from Canada and now a proud member of the Pavones community for decades, her passion for the region's wildlife, culture, and hidden gems is truly infectious.

From rainforest walks and wildlife encounters to waterfalls, birdwatching, and local discoveries, her tours reveal the authentic magic of Pavones through the eyes of someone who knows and loves it deeply.

Tours are available in both English and Spanish. Browse her activity menu on this page and start planning your next tropical adventure. ��☀️��

Come for the surf, stay for the experience, and leave with memories that last a lifetime.

Santa Clara hill walk 1.5 hr

Alta Mira hike 4-5 hr

La Onda Hike 2-3 hr

Rio Coco beach walk 5 hr

Ocean swims 1 hr

Tide pools picnic 3 hr

Rio Claro river spa 3 hr

Stand Up paddle tour 1.5 hr

Yoga Class 1.5 hr

Golfo Dulce Boat Tours 5 hr

“for sure the longest [wave] I’ve ever had…can’t wait to come back” -Robby Naish

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 17:53:56 GMT

The Story Behind Robby Naish’s Costa Rica Surf Escape

Surfer Robby Naish visited Pavones, a famous destination for wave seekers.

Watch this well produced five minute video of Pavones.

“for sure the longest [wave] I’ve ever had…can’t wait to come back” -Robby Naish (La Ponderosa guest – May 2011)

2 minutes & 15 seconds

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 17:52:04 GMT

Surfing the Distance – Robby Naish Surfs Pavones, Costa Rica

The most frequent question asked by guests at the hotel is… “how long can you ride a wave here?”

Surfer Robby Naish and a Redbull film crew were guests at La Ponderosa in May of 2011. They used a GPS to measure the wave and produced this video of one ride. They show a map of the ride at the end of the video. This one ride lasts two minutes and fifteen seconds. The distance is over one kilometer.

Photogenic Pavones

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 17:47:13 GMT

Lily Mayfield has been visiting Pavones and photographing the residents, the many scenic spaces, and the local businesses for years.

Her series “de Pavones” was on display in 2012 in Chicago.

de Pavones Series

Artist Statement by Lily Mayfield

The photographs in this series reflect my interest in the rural surfing community of Pavones, Costa Rica, a small town home to the world’s second longest wave. Even with its attraction for surfers, Pavones remains a rural community, untouched by the typical chain hotels and restaurants you might expect to find in a tourist-driven Costa Rican town with views of the Pacific Ocean. There are many reasons for its protected state: its location near the southern tip of Costa Rica, far from the capitol city of San Jose; the dirt roads into and through Pavones discourage some less adventurous travelers; its lack of connection with the modern world. Until 2008, there were no phone lines, and thus no Internet in Pavones. Due to this recent introduction of modern technology, the town is changing rapidly.

My photographs of Pavones attempt to create a portrait of a place, focusing primarily on its people. I am interested in both the older locals who are a manifestation of the traditional way of life in a rural community, and the younger generation who more rapidly accept change and reflect these changes in their accessories and clothing. Through my continued visits to the community, I hope to create a document of an ever-changing rural surf town.

Pack Your Bags

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 17:45:13 GMT

Here is a list of things you may want to pack for your trip to Pavones.

Before packing check with your regional and international airlines for their baggage and surfboard fees and restrictions.

Cash Money in USD or colones. THERE ARE NO ATM’s in Pavones but everyone will take USD. Some things are cash only and if you don't have cash then you will have a long drive or do without.
Valid passport with at least 3 months remaining before expiring.
SHOES: For beach, river and tide pool exploring bring a sandal with good traction that won't take forever to dry. For walking on the gravel roads bring a closed toed shoe & socks.
Super-light weight ultra-casual clothes.
Small flashlight or headlamp with batteries, there are only a few street lights and it gets DARK.
Light rain jacket and/ or Umbrella.
Beach towel and/ or sarong.
Your favorite books or games for downtime. We also have a small selection available on-site for guests to borrow and enjoy during their stay.
Yoga clothes for warm weather if you would like to attend a yoga class.
Bathing suits and board shorts. 3 or more, so you always have a dry one.
Rash guard/ UV water shirt.
Sunscreen … high SPF, waterproof, sport type sunscreen. Also some after sun or sun burn treatment.
On some occasions you might want bug repellent. In our opinion a Natural Insect Repellent like Repel brand LEMON EUCALYPTUS or All Terrain Herbal Armor works fine.
Sun hats, sunglasses and one long sleeve shirt for sun.
One pair of pants/jeans if you want to horseback ride.
Any medications necessary for known medical conditions.
First-Aid … band-aids, itch cream, antiseptic for scrapes, headache or pain pills and allergy pills…
Motion sickness tablets for bumpy curvy roads, small planes or boat rides (if you are prone to motion sickness).
For surfers: travel ding-repair kit, extra fins, fin screws & leashes, tools for fins, warm water wax and booties (if you have sensitive feet).
For birdwatchers and wildlife observers: binoculars and pocket guide for Costa Rica wildlife.
Water bottle or thermos. In the dining room you will find a hot and cold purified, filtered water dispenser.
Beach bag or small backpack for excursions or shopping with ziploc bags for electronics.
La Ponderosa is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) destination, as we do not have a bar on-site. Each room is equipped with a mini-fridge for your convenience. We recommend picking up your favorite drinks at one of the local supermarkets and at the airport duty-free shop upon your arrival in Costa Rica.

Weather & Waves

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 18:12:06 GMT

One of the questions we hear most often is: “What will the weather and waves be like?” The honest answer is that tropical weather—and surf—is never an exact science. Forecasts can change quickly, and Mother Nature always has the final say. That said, every season in Pavones has something special to offer.

☀️ Dry Season (December – April)
This is generally our sunniest time of year on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. Expect warm temperatures, blue skies, spectacular sunsets, and relatively little rain. It's the perfect season for beach days, exploring the area, fishing, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the relaxed pace of tropical life.

�� Rainy Season (May – November)
Don't let the name fool you—rainy season doesn't mean it rains all day. Mornings are often sunny and beautiful, with showers more likely in the afternoon or evening. The rainforest comes alive, waterfalls flow stronger, wildlife is abundant, and the entire region turns a vibrant shade of green. It's also the season many surfers look forward to, thanks to more consistent swells and excellent wave conditions.

�� The Pavones Difference
Located on Costa Rica’s remote southern Pacific coast, Pavones enjoys warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 80–90°F (27–32°C). Some days are glassy and perfect, others are wild and dramatic—but that's part of what makes this place so special. Whether you're here to surf one of the world's longest left-hand waves, explore nature, or simply disconnect and recharge, every season offers its own unique experience.

The bottom line? If you're looking for certainty, the tropics may surprise you. But if you're looking for adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments, Pavones delivers all year long. ��☀️��

EATERIES, “SODAS” & RESTAURANTS IN THE PAVONES AREA

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 18:10:00 GMT

GOOGLE PAVONES RESTUARANTS

Buen Provecho! Enjoy! Bon Appetit! Bom proveito! Buon appetito!

Scarlet Macaws

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:49:10 GMT

Q: What is LOUD, BIG, BOLD, BEAUTIFUL AND COLORED LIKE A RAINBOW?

A: Scarlet Macaws flying over Pavones.

We owe every glimpse of these gorgeous birds to the efforts of The Ara Project.

Read an article by Dale Forbes about his work with the project on his birding blogs.

*photo of one by La Ponderosa’s pool