Lapa Rios, 83.6 overall
www.laparios.com
506-735-5130
On a 1,000-acre reserve on the Osa Peninsula, this property lets guests "rough it in luxury." The main attraction is the wildlife—monkeys, macaws—and "they're practically in your room." Guests proclaim the food "wonderful, especially the brownies." The owners arrange a variety of guided hikes, some led by scientists.
$$; 16 suites; pool, water sports, beach.

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