The Lookout Inn Lodge

We stayed five nights at Lookout with our family, including our two young kids, ages three and six. It was a wonderful escape from busy tourist spots, with the beach, wildlife, and trails all close by. We saw three kinds of monkeys, macaws, coatis, iguanas, lizards, frogs, crabs, bats, and a tapir on or near the property. Our open-air treehouse room had great views, surrounded by lush rainforest. The pool was great for cooling off midday, and the short and long walking trails gave us plenty to explore. We enjoyed hanging out with other guests in the clean, comfortable main lodge where meals are served. The food was tasty and had good variety. Sunsets were lovely, too. Terry and Reid were excellent hosts, answering our questions and taking care of everything we needed. They even made our son a birthday cake. I highly recommend Lookout Inn.

We made it through the seven river crossings, though only two have bridges. They look intimidating, but were fine for us. You need a 4-wheel-drive SUV to get here, and rainy season could make the drive tricky. If bugs and animals aren’t your thing, this won’t suit you. Our open-air Cabana had no walls, and every morning brought the most beautiful sounds. Daylight came around 5 a.m., and by 5:15 monkeys were swinging by our room, sometimes right on top of it and jumping into the tree. Loved every second. Lookout Inn Lodge is a peaceful paradise, so come for the quiet, amazing food and coffee, wildlife all around, and wonderfully friendly staff. We saw incredible birds at the feeder, including scarlet Macaws, Toucans, and many others. A few monkeys also stole a banana or two. There was always something new to see. The inn runs on solar power. There’s a light in the room, but no outlet for a hair dryer or phone charger, and no fridge in the room. Bring a portable charger. Mine lasted almost all week, then I had to charge it in the kitchen area, where outlets are available during daylight hours. Paul is a wonderful chef, and the food he made for us was amazing. A few nights after dinner he brought up his guitar and sang. Lehia took special care of our room, and it was lovely to return to after breakfast. Kevin and Augustine kept everything clean and served meals, Puerto was always tidying the lovely grounds, and Christopher kept everything running smoothly as we came and went. Those six people made our vacation so pleasant. The inn had just been sold to a new owner and we were a little unsure, but we weren’t disappointed. I could go on about our perfect stay. If you want to get away from it all while visiting Costa Rica, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

My sister and I were lucky enough to stay in the “honeymoon suite,” a room without walls but with views all around. Just fantastic. Terry cooked dinner, and it was the best food in all of Costa Rica. Take the chance to kayak or canoe on the lagoon early. I was there alone, and it was unforgettable. They arrange guided trips into the park, which are a must. Reed takes care of everything, from extra hammocks to one of the best margaritas I’ve ever had. I have to come back.

The Boa's loved the PENTHOUSE suite!! The location is beautiful, and the food and staff were great. Terry and the team made it a wonderful stay in a lovely setting. There’s a social hour with cocktails every evening, which is a nice way to get to know the other guests.