Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !!
Come Stay in a Rain Forest Paradise. Choose an All Inclusive or Rental Only Package. All of our packages are personally customized for your needs and desires
Do you need to shut the madness of the world out for just a minute? Come and experience the reassuring serenity and wonder of this rare property.
Take a break from the woes of the world. Draw in a deep breath of fresh rainforest air. Rinse your troubles away in the Waterfalls.
Feel human again.
We are here for you. We will give you a soft landing.
Please read our reviews. ...... Family Vacationers, Honeymooners, & Other Enchanted Travelers
Rental Only Green Season Rates $215 - $ 240 per night
High Season Rates $230 - $475 per night
Special Summer Discounts $175 - $215
Come enjoy complete privacy on our 222 acre rain forest property where you will find the perfect combination of natural wonders, adventure & relaxation. If it is just the two of you, few places are more romantic than this tropical setting!
If you are an adventurous family, come introduce your children to the magic and wonder of the rainforest. Take back family memories that you will treasure forever.
The unique Rainforest Villa is located 1000 ft above Manual Antonio State Park. You are lifted up from the crowds & humidity into your own private tropical paradise. Choose tours from dozens of high adventure activities, or a sunset sail perhaps. At night you are lulled to sleep by a symphony of waterfalls that surround you.
Spend enticing nights under starry skies in the enchanting two story villa, surrounded by picturesque balconies and verandas. Immerse yourself in refreshing, secluded waterfalls encircled by forest-covered mountains that become entangled in the clouds. Hike trails that abound with astounding tropical flowers, birds, and butterflies. Picnic outside, overlooking the lively Naranjo River. Spend a relaxing day at the beach.
And just for the moment ....... leave all the stress & chaos behind.
Also Check out our: Honeymoon and All Inclusive Packages: 2 people/8 days/7 nights - $4500 per couple
Every aspect of your trip is completely customized. Additional (or fewer) days, can be pro-rated. We can make adjustments for your schedule & budget.
The All Inclusive package can include: Trail Guides, Gourmet Chefs, Masseuses, House Cleaning, Waterfall Swimming and Amazing Tours!
Please read our reviews to see for yourselves.
Don't Loose Your Special Week! Book Your Perfect Tropical Getaway Today!!
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Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events
No events allowed
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Except in Bedrooms
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Quepos
Located in El Cerro, a neighbourhood in Quepos, this villa is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge and Manuel Antonio Beach. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and rock climbing.
Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge - 3 min drive - 1.1 km
Playa Espadilla - 14 min drive - 4.9 km
Getting around
Quepos (XQP) - 11 min drive
Restaurants
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Bar - 8 min walk
Soda Sánchez - 14 min walk
El Ranchito - 4 min drive
El Gran Escape - 11 min walk
Runaway Grill - 8 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !!?
As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !! on 6 Aug 2026 start from AU$263, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-out at Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Just Read Our Reviews!!
Privacy Paradise Priceless
Don't Lose Your Dates !! located?
This family-friendly Quepos villa is located on the waterfront, within a 10-minute walk of Marina Pez Vela, Nahomi Park and Manuel Antonio Expeditions. Rancho Tipico don Juan and Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A hidden gem tucked away in the mountains. Jose was absolutely amazing and very knowledge about the area. we went on the night tour and waterfall tour with him and enjoyed every moment.Pete and Deb made sure we had everything we needed and welcomed us into their home.Quiet and relaxing.
Blayde N.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for all your kind remarks! It was truly a pleasure having you here. You have "Friends in the Forest now", and we all send you are warmest regards from Light of Dawn. 🤗
The home was perfectly situated in the jungle with limited access to amenities, but drivable. Internet access was reliable via starlink. I appreciated the electronic detox with the option to tap in if needed. Loved the night hike, waterfall tour and horseback riding offered by the host. I wouldn't suggest they coordinate 3rd part trips, things got a little weird, but I think we worked it out. I still owe the host 34 for some groceries they picked up, still waiting for a message in WA.
Jana G.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Dear guest,
We're glad that you enjoyed your vacation at Light of Dawn. We started working with you last Nov, helping you w/ all the details of your trip. This included many changes along the way; and as your plans altered, and I made those changes to accomodate your schedule as we went along.
We set up 7 different tours for you, in addition to a Private Chef for your family of 6, and yes, we were kind enough (as a courtesy), to go out and shop for one of your other dinners, so you could just relax with your family members one night.
If you read our views, we do this for all of our guests who request our services, because we understand all the many little things that can save our guests time, money, and disappointment. (People can lose so much vacation time trying to arrange things in a different country at the last minute).
Reservations fill up fast during High Season, and it is easy to miss doing activities that you may have been counting on. So we like to assist them as much as possible ahead of time, so they can just arrive, relax, and enjoy their time together.
All through the week, you repeatedly told us how much you appreciated all of the time and effort we put into helping you over those months to make this trip as enjoyable & seamless as it was.
You remarked about how one of your meals w/ Cleo the Chef, was "The Best meal that you have had in your entire life".
The only thing that got "weird" was that you decided that you did not want to go on one of the tours at the very last minute, without giving them any notice; and you refused to pay a nominal cancelation fee.
I explained to you that these tours are small, hard-working, family owned businesses, that depend on High Season to get by.
You still threw a fit and refused to pay them.
All tourists pay a deposit when booking tours in CR. As a courtesy, these companies do not require deposits from our guests because we have worked with them for 20 years, and they trust us.
There is a legal limit of spaces they can fill per tour, and they held these spots for you for many months. So as a matter of basIc business integrity .... I paid your fees for you. I guess that is what you meant by " I think we worked it out" ...?
How unfortunate and sad that you seem to have no sensitivity or emphathy for the people of a country who welcomed you so warmly.
Very isolated location — it’s impossible to get around by taxi; you need a vehicle (preferably a truck) to ensure transportation. We ended up without electricity one evening, so no Wi-Fi, and it was impossible to communicate with anyone since there are no nearby neighbors. It’s an ideal place for someone looking for a retreat, but definitely not for visiting Manuel Antonio — it’s too far away.
Linda B.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
I appreciate your frustration. In our defense, against our strong advice, you came without a car, even though we strongly advised against this (we are in a location where a car is really necessary).
We take extra care with all of our guests to explain things in great detail about our place, to be sure it is a good fit for them. I wrote you repeatedly attempting to communicate and got very little response from you. It was very perplexing. But when you arrived, I understood. No one in your group of 6 spoke English or Spanish, only French. And you resisted attempts to use a translator.
It seems that you never read any of the messages I sent to you. So it was very challenging for both of us. I had no idea that you did not speak English in the group, or I would have translated the messages in French for you. Technology has made such wonderful advances to make life easier. I encourage all travelers to get comfortable using translators as necessary.
We wish you all the best.
🥀
This is a huge place for a large group. You are literally in the rain forest. The owners have a very service oriented model and are quite helpful. Nature lovers dream. The waterfall is amazing. Dirt road to get to was an interesting dynamic we don't see here in the states.
Tim B.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Mar 2026
Oh gosh, you were the most remarkable family. We honestly enjoyed every minute with you.. You all had such a deep appreciation for nature and the secrets of the Rain Forest. It brightened our spirits, just being in your company and you will forever be welcomed as part of the Light of Dawn family.
💞
Wow, Wow, Wow! Beautiful, amazing, incredible, once in a lifetime experience. No way to describe what the time here was like you just have to go. From start to finish we were enthralled with this place. All around Costa Rica tourists were everywhere. Not here. We felt like we were the only people in the country. The house is situated right in the rain forest at the top of a mountain. Lush vegetation all around you. Views you cannot describe with words. The people who own it are wonderful and helpful. Our guided tour of the property was our favorite part of the trip with a visit to the waterfall. You will fall in love with Jose, the man who does the tour. I wish he could have been with us the entire trip! Not for people who want to party and not have a true Costa Rican experience though. This place is for a true adventurer.
Toni H.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Apr 2026
Well, it was truly a joy having you here. You were a breath of fresh air, in the middle of a very busy High Season. Some people complain that Costa Rica has become too commercialized, or they prefer that type of setting. And then there are people like yourselves, who seek out and appreciate the true wonders of this magnificent country. People who love nature and love discovering the secrets of the Rain Forest. And people who take the time to meet and appreciate the real people of Costa Rica, their culture, and their warm hearted "Pura Vida" spirit for life. We are so fortunate to have some of these local individuals as our partners here at Light of Dawn. They loved you as well and took great pleasure in being your guide while you were with us. Your spirit of adventure, and kind participation brightened our day. We are so glad that you found us, and would welcome you back any time!
Best to you, from your Friends in the Forest!
Deborah was a real pleasure to work with. And Jose was a great toyr guide.
Chris L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jan 2026
Yes we are very fortunate to have him as a guide and partner. He grew up in this area and people really appreciate his knowledge as he shows them the secrets of the Rain Forest. He does the Guided Nature Tour with Waterfall Swimming (Complimentary with your stay); and a discounted price to our guests for the Jungle Night Tour, Horseback Riding through Ancient Trails Tour, and a Gold & Treasure Hunting Tour for Children.
All of these take place on enchanting Light of Dawn property. We are glad that you enjoyed it. It was very nice having your family here!
We just wrapped up our stay with the light of dawn, near Quepos, and it was absolutely fantastic. The home itself was beautiful, peaceful, and exactly what we needed.Deborah and Peter went above and beyond—every adventure they helped plan for us went without a single issue. Everything was seamless, well-organized, and stress-free, which made the whole experience that much better. The location of the property is perfect! You’re tucked away from the hustle of the busy beaches, but close enough to any adventures you’ll choose. Jose, their property manager, is in a class of his own! He met us at the house the morning after arriving to give us a private tour of the 228 acres, that this gated house sets on. His knowledge about everything Costa Rica is incredible. And I must mention, the tour took us to a private waterfall with an absolutely stunning view, and a swimming hole perfect for anyone of any age! This trip was the perfect way to hit the reset button, and we’re already talking about coming back. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a similar experience—you won’t be disappointed!
Aaron C.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Well gosh, having you and your sons here was an absolute joy for us. You were so easy going and enjoyable to work with! It is so great how the whole week came together. We fit in everything you hoped for!
The fishing trip pictures were wonderful. You visualized your sons being able to bring in (catch and release) sailfish; and that is exactly what materialized! In abundance!
We are so glad we could assist you in creating these memories that you will share
with your sons, always.
Warm regards from Light of Dawn. 💟
I cannot say enough about this magical place. The hosts were some of the kindest and most welcoming people we have met. The house and grounds were pure beauty. The organization of all the events made our trip seamless. Thank you for sharing yourselves and your place. Pura Vida
Meegan R.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Jan 2026
What a lovely family, raising 2 terrific young men. It was so nice to see them glowing with excitement. You all fit here like a glove and it was honestly a joy to have you! Best wishes from your friends at Light of Dawn!
🌴
Verified
8/10 Good
Vincent James A.
20 Jan 2026
Liked: Location
Disliked: Check-in, listing accuracy
Deborah is very welcoming, friendly, and knowledgeable. She is a bit inefficient in communications, though.The house is quaint, and feels like you are on the set of some tropical Hollywood romance.It is extremely quiet and peaceful and private at night.The biggest standout feature is the private guided access to the waterfall. Yes, it really looks like the photos and is the ideal “swimming hole”
Vincent James A.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jan 2026
It was very nice having both of you. You are quite adventurous! We are so sorry that we temporarily lost contact with you during a problem with one of the local transformers in the area. It temporarily effected our Wifi connection. Disappointing, as you can see from all of reviews, the comfort of our guests and the ease and enjoyment of there vacation here is of the utmost importance to us. We want people to be able to arrive, relax and enjoy their time together.
I'm glad that you enjoyed our place. I love your description "like being on the set of a Tropical Romance"
That's a great description for Light of Dawn!
💞
Remote little house in the rainforest :) was cozy and quiet, the perfect getaway. Definitely need 4wd to drive up the road.
Raurie M.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Dec 2025
You two were really fun, and so adventurous! 4 wheel drive is always a good idea on Costa Rica, because the roads are different than the US.
This is true mostly in during the wet Rainy Season. However, we are just now entering the dry High Season. During these months, many people do come up without 4 wheel. Pura Vida!
Beatiful old house in the rainforest on a large jungle property
Ariel S.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec 2025
It was wonderful having you and your lovely family here at Light of Dawn!
Pura Vida (pure life)
Verified
8/10 Good
Dustin W.
17 Nov 2025
Liked: Check-in, communication, location
The property is amazing. Take the tour to the waterfall. It is magical. It is a bit of a hike, but well worth it.
Dustin W.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov 2025
You guys were really wonderful to have at Light of Dawn rainforest. The High Season is filling up so fast; but you were the first to group to kick it off, and we thought that you were so refreshing.
Come again any time!
🌴😎🌴
We've used VRBO many times and I have to say, these were the best hosts we have ever met! Our flights were delayed and we panicked about check in and the activities we booked with our hosts.We got in touch with them and they seriously could not have been more helpful and accommodating.They rearranged our tours to offer us more time to rest on arrival and planned everything to convenience us as much as possible.They stayed in contact with us for the whole journey. We even were able to book the Chef dinner for our arrival night so we wouldn't have to cook.Cleo and her family made the most delish dinner (please know the food is fresh and made with available local ingredients).Our host brought us fresh eggs and even went to the store to see if she could find espresso even though we didn't ask.If you are looking fwd to experiencing Quepos, and seeing how locals live, this is the place.We were among the most friendly people in the most beautiful place.Everyone we met felt like family.Jose took us on a day & night tour and horseback ride, and is the loveliest person!We did a marvelous job of communicating even though we don't speak the language.He went out of his way to find a snake for my daughter.The house had everything we needed.This is a home not a resort;a peaceful place to unwind and connect with nature. Even the rain was welcome.Great place to disconnect and be present.The house was spacious and also warm and inviting.We would definitely stay here again!! xo
Matt F.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed description of your time here. It is just so nice when we have people here who really appreciate the presence and cadence of the rainforest. It's not for everyone, but for those who love nature, love exploring, love serenity, and love meeting the warm hearted people of another culture ... it is just perfect. We are so glad you found us, and send all our best, from your friends at Light of Dawn! 🥰
Super attentive host, high level of communication. Home is beautiful and tropical in the middle of the rainforest! Driving up at night was VERY scary, we recommend a 4x4, but once we drove back down in the morning it wasn't so bad. This home is deep in the forest, be ready for an off road experience! Home and property is worth it! Especially for a large family/ group. We saw more critters and birds there than in some parks. 100% recommend this place for an unforgettable stay.
ARADHANA S.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Dec 2025
Sometimes in life, people unexpectly appear in your path who are uniquely special. You can see it in their eyes, in the warmth of their heart, and the measured wisdom of their actions. This was such a family. And I am grateful to have connected with them at such a time as this. Pura Vida my friends.
🌺
This house in the jungle was a highlight of our tour throughout the country. It was more than just a home we stayed at- it was a jungle experience. We loved the private waterfall and the tour through the property. We ended up canceling our plans one day to hang out more there on the property. The host and guide were wonderful to work with.
RandC W.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug 2025
Thank you for your very kind words. You were so easy to work with! And we love so much when guests realize that they have come upon an enchanted forest with magical waterfalls, right in their grasp! It's a well kept secret and you found it!
Pura Vida ... pure life. 🌴
Stayed with family for 5 nights and didn’t want to leave. Property is very isolated and in the thick of the rainforest which is just what we were looking for. Wake up to birds chirping and the distant sound of the river flowing nearby. Deborah/owner was awesome and so was Jose. Would love to come back some day.
Darren F.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2025
What a lovely family. They were such a close group, enjoying life together. All of them had a natural beauty of their own, and they shared a keen interest in the secrets of the rain forest. it was a pleasure to have them here!
This property is truly a gem nestled in the rain forest and was a serene experience. You literally have the jungle to yourself. Deborah was great and made sure we had what we needed for our stay. Jose was also amazing and gave us a guided tour of the property and we swam in the waterfall. If you want privacy and an authentic rain forest experience, this is it. I'd love to go back and spend more time there exploring and taking it all in.
Brad H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 June 2025
Thank you so much for your kind comments. It was wonderful to have you here. It is really such a magical place and we love be able to share it with people like yourselves who appreciate its natural beauty.
Pura Vida!
We love to hike and this place has great trails and hikes. The nearby river is gorgeous and the trees and flowers are spectacular. Jose’s night hike was a lot of fun for the whole family. We’ve rented a hundred vacation homes and Pete and Deborah were the most communicative and helpful of any place we’ve stayed. The house is beautiful and clean. It can get a little hot at night in the rooms but they supply lots of fans which work well. We loved everything about our stay..
B Z.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! I know that you have traveled a lot, so to regard our service and property so highly means a lot to us. Your family was delightful and so adventourous! It was a joy to have you. 💞
Great place to stay, went with a group of friends, Debra was an excellent host, very accommodating and hospitable, she helped us book several excursions and made sure we got there on time, it does take about 25 minutes to drive to town but has cool scenic views on the way, house and property are nice, would certainly recommend this place over some boring hotel
Houston P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words!
Yes, it is quite different than the usual hotel experience, isn't it? Even in the nicest resort, there are still people on the other side of the wall, right? Here you are offered complete privacy with the sound of birds and waterfalls lulling you to sleep. Please come back any time!
What a stunning location and home! We felt like we were staying in a botantical garden and nature preserve! We should have planned for a longer visit - definitely would consider another stay here.
Charles M.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 May 2023
Even with your short stay, we enjoyed having you very much, and would welcome you back anytime! Thank you for your comments that paint such a nice picture! Pura Vida from Light od Dawn
Delightful place to stay, property and scenery beautiful. Deborah and Jose are amazing. Cleo, our chef, is a gem.
Definitely need your own transportation as shuttles are expensive due to location of property.
I’m still blown away by the beauty of the property! After experiencing the busyness of the beach area, this more remote location was definitely our preference. There are beautiful hikes on the property, and the bonus was the waterfall/swimming hole. We enjoyed an evening hike with Jose who knew so much about the plants and animals native to Costa Rica. Our tour with Jose was a highlight! It is a good 15-20 minute drive on rough terrain but well worth the views from the house. And Deborah was so incredibly helpful with planning excursions.She made that entire process very easy.
Kimberly L.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Dec 2025
How kind of you to leave such a detailed review. It is so helpful for travelers to hear from other guests about there experiences here at Light of Dawn. It was really a pleasure having you. You have friends in the forest now!
Pura Vida
🌴
About the host
Hosted by Edgar Chacon
The magical, privately owned property is rented out to Luz de Alba (Light of Dawn). It is Costa Rican company who employ local help, including fabulous chefs from the area who cook mouth watering tropical delicateness customized personally for you alone. They are involved in various local projects to help protect and promote the Rain Forest.
Why they chose this property
It is the closest places to Paradise. Only a few hours flight from US. Out of the hurricane zone. English is widely spoken. The property is conveniently located within a half hour of town, the Park, the beaches, and the airport. CR is only 9 degrees from the equator. The property is normally 10 cooler than in town, so most people find it refreshing at the end of a hot day. Heat and humidity can sometimes range in the 90's down below.
What makes this property unique
Your own private rainforest - like having a National Park without the tourists. One of the most varied collections of tropical flowers as you will see in one place. Your absolute privacy is guaranteed.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests