
Punta Islita Open Air Art Museum
A unique open-air art museum set against breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, blending sculpture with stunning coastal landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Punta Islita Open Air Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique open-air art museum set against breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, blending sculpture with stunning coastal landscapes.
"Have a drink, enjoy the view, skip the food."

🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond the museum and accessing nearby beaches like Playa Coyote.
🍹 Enjoy the Drinks
Pina Coladas and Bamboo cocktails are highly recommended; they're a highlight!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ocean Views & Art Installations
Throughout the grounds
Stunning Pacific vistas meet unique open-air sculptures, creating a visually captivating experience.

Playa Coyote Beach
Short drive from the museum
A laid-back beach with good surfing conditions and a relaxed vibe, perfect for a day trip.

Upscale Resort Ambiance
Hotel grounds (verify access)
Experience a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere with access to pools, hammocks, and chairs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Transportation
Hotel Status & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hotel Punta Islita!
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond the museum and accessing nearby beaches like Playa Coyote.
🍹 Enjoy the Drinks
Pina Coladas and Bamboo cocktails are highly recommended; they're a highlight!
🍽️ Skip the Food, Enjoy the View
Food portions are small and pricey; consider eating elsewhere and just enjoying drinks and scenery.
💰 Pool Access Fee
If not a guest, expect a fee (around $70) to use the pool and grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond the museum and accessing nearby beaches like Playa Coyote.
🍹 Enjoy the Drinks
Pina Coladas and Bamboo cocktails are highly recommended; they're a highlight!
🍽️ Skip the Food, Enjoy the View
Food portions are small and pricey; consider eating elsewhere and just enjoying drinks and scenery.
💰 Pool Access Fee
If not a guest, expect a fee (around $70) to use the pool and grounds.
🏄♀️ Surfboard Rentals Available
Rent a surfboard for a reasonable price and enjoy the good waves at the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning ocean views and unique open-air art installations at Punta Islita, often highlighting the relaxed, upscale ambiance and excellent drinks. However, many find the food overpriced with small portions, and access to hotel amenities can be restricted or costly for non-guests. The drive can also be challenging.
"We drove out for the day to eat at the club and go to the beach. The view is beautiful but the drive is tough and frankly there are better beaches elsewhere. The drinks were great and you are allowed to eat there without a room number but you have to pay $70 to use the pool if you are not a guest. The food is just ok and small portions at a large price."
Mindy Hull
"It's amazing that you can buy some food and use their pool, hammocks, chairs and grounds! The vibe here is great, I felt like I was at an upscale resort in Hawaii, but it was so laid back. You can also rent a surfboard for $30 - the surfing was actually pretty good."
Graham Garvin
"The hotel is CLOSED- no restaurant too- chat gpt says until JN 2026. We got here unaware of it so posting to avoid others do the same. There is a supermarket at the town."
Marcosls2015
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way to reach Punta Islita is by renting a car, as public transportation is limited in the area. The drive can be challenging, but it offers the most flexibility to explore the region and nearby attractions like Samara and Playa Carrillo.
Visiting without a car means you'll be reliant on the hotel's services or limited local options. It's advisable to arrange transportation in advance or be prepared for limited mobility.
The drive to Punta Islita can be tough, with some reviews mentioning challenging roads. It's best to have a reliable vehicle, preferably a 4x4, especially during the rainy season.
While not widely available, inquire with the hotel about any shuttle services or local taxi arrangements. However, a rental car is generally preferred for exploring the area.
Ride-sharing apps are not commonly mentioned or reliable in this more remote area. It's best to rely on pre-booked taxis or a rental car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the art installations is generally part of the hotel grounds. Access to the pool and restaurant facilities for non-guests may require a day pass or minimum spend, which can be around $70.
The open-air art installations are typically accessible during daylight hours as they are part of the hotel's grounds. It's best to confirm with the hotel if you are not a guest.
Yes, some reviews indicate you can purchase food and use the pool, hammocks, chairs, and grounds without a room number, though there might be a fee.
Access to Playa Coyote beach itself is generally free. Any fees would be associated with amenities or services offered by nearby establishments.
Recent information suggests the hotel may be closed for renovations until mid-2026. It's crucial to verify the current operational status before your visit, as this impacts restaurant and facility access.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air art installations against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean offer stunning photographic opportunities. The late afternoon light provides a beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the hotel management or local authorities regarding any restrictions on drone photography within the property or surrounding areas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, you may need to seek permission from the hotel management.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and art installations. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting in the surrounding areas.
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers the best light for photography, creating a warm and dramatic atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews are mixed. While some find the food good, many describe it as overpriced bar food with small portions, suggesting you might get better value at local sodas.
Yes, local 'sodas' (small, casual restaurants) in nearby towns like Samara or even a cervicheria at Playa Coyote offer more authentic and budget-friendly meals.
The alcoholic drinks, particularly the Pina Colada and Bamboo, are highly praised and recommended by visitors.
Some reviews suggest that non-guests can eat at the restaurant, but it's essential to confirm this and any associated fees or minimum spends.
Expect American high prices for food, with portions being small. Drinks are also on the higher end but are considered worth it by many.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Road Trippers & Explorers
Don't miss the opportunity to explore other coastal towns like Samara and Playa Carrillo. Having a vehicle allows you to be spontaneous and discover less-trafficked spots. Pack accordingly for beach activities and be prepared for potentially challenging road conditions, especially if traveling during the rainy season.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
While the hotel's status might affect some amenities, the art itself is the main draw. Consider visiting in the late afternoon for the best light, which enhances the visual appeal of the installations. It's a peaceful escape that combines cultural appreciation with the beauty of Costa Rica's coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art and Scenery
While the hotel itself may be undergoing renovations, the art installations and the surrounding grounds often remain accessible, offering a distinct artistic journey. The drive to Punta Islita is part of the adventure, winding through scenic routes that hint at the beauty to come. Remember to check the current status of hotel facilities if you plan to utilize them.
For the best experience, consider visiting during the golden hour before sunset. The light casts a magical glow on the sculptures and the ocean, enhancing the artistic impact and providing incredible photo opportunities. It’s a destination that appeals to art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a peaceful retreat with a creative twist.
Beach Hopping and Local Flavors
For a more comprehensive beach experience, consider venturing to Samara and Playa Carrillo. These popular destinations offer different vibes, from the lively Samara with its amenities to the calmer, picturesque Playa Carrillo. Having a rental car is highly recommended to easily hop between these coastal gems and discover hidden coves.
When it comes to dining, local 'sodas' are the way to go for authentic and affordable Costa Rican cuisine. While the restaurant at Punta Islita might offer convenience and great drinks, many travelers find the food quality doesn't match the high prices. Exploring local eateries in nearby towns will give you a true taste of the region without breaking the bank.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit