Entire home

Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area.

Photo gallery for Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area.

Your view, of the home, coming up the driveway.
Property video
You can't see as far as the views go!
From the Air you can see we sit in the Heart of the Rainforest!
Indoor pool house, with jacuzzi, massage table, weights, pool table, ping pong.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
6 bedrooms6 bathroomsSleeps 20437 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Nuevo Arenal/Tilaran
  • Lake Arenal
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Tenorio Volcano National Park
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Tabacon Hot Springs
    ‪46 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 20)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 4

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 6

1 Single Bed

6 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 5

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 6

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 7

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area.

Come stay at the rental home that offers the services of a fine hotel. The entire home, pool house, grounds, trails and amenities are EXCLUSIVELY for the use of your group for the duration of your stay. On site chef services, complete transport arrangements, great breakfast included in the rental rate, all tours can be arranged for you so that you spend your vacation having fun instead of trying to plan your next activity. Let us help you tailor your vacation to exactly what you want. We have been in the Lake Arenal area for 25+ years and can advise you and your special group on the tours that you will really enjoy and steer you clear of the tourist traps. Let us help you make the most of your vacation by offering our years of local experience and contacts. Take full advantage of having 'a friend in the area', right here at 'The Sunset'


Adventure at every turn.: Lake Arenal is the premier adventure spot in Costa Rica for windsurfing, canopy tours, lake fishing, boat tours, jungle hiking trails, quad rentals, kite surfing, horseback riding, kayaking, swimming in an extinct volcanic crater, spelunking and more. Enjoy the many adventures available or simply relax in our indoor glass pool/jacuzzi area with pool table and ping pong and enjoy the tranquility and majesty of your surroundings.

Tourism with a purpose.: In an effort to help the Costa Rican National Park system finance education, outreach and protection. Red Sunset of Guanacaste will devote a full 50% of each commission gained through our sales of adventure tours sold toward this goal. With the added benefit of specialized access to individuals in the tour system that make it all work. Tribal leaders, guides, and park directors.

What you can expect at 'The Sunset': Six beautifully appointed bedrooms featuring Costa Rican art, hand carved beds and doors with bathrooms en suite The entire property is a showcase of Costa Rican art, decorative tile, stone and craft work. Two of the bedrooms feature decorative fireplaces. The downstairs master suite bathroom features a hot tub built for two. Large library/ living room area with wrap-around couch, television, Roku, DVD, stereo. Large dining/presentation hall with a variety of available seating arrangements. Our unique indoor pool house features a divers pool, 4.5 feet on the shallow end, 10 ft deep on the deep end. 18x35 feet with attached jacuzzi heated on request. Featuring billiards, ping pong, weights, lounging areas. We live in the rainforest and nobody wants to swim in the rain, with our indoor pool house your group has access to all these amenities rain or shine, many groups hang out till the wee hours of the morning enjoying this incredible space, that is only offered by The Sunset!
All located in the "real rainforest" we aren't in a gated community or off the side of the road. We are easily accessed but just far enough removed that your stay will be in the "real Costa Rica", a 500 hundred acre preserve is to the east of us and several thousand acres of protected rainforest encompassing Tenorio National park is to our North and West. A spot of perfect peace and privacy with access to all the great activities and adventures this country has to offer.

Property manager

Patrick Hughes
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Breakfast included
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 1:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
You may smoke outside of course.
The base rate is for up to 4 guests. Additional guests pay a pro-rated nightly rate of $46.00 per night plus tax, with breakfast included, per person.
Spread out, enjoy all the space, go out on the deck at night and stare at the stars! Don't wander into the jungle at night.

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Arenal

Located in Arenal, this villa is in the mountains and on a lake. Baldi Hot Springs and Titoku Hot Springs are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit FlyZone Wakeboard School and Monteverde Frog Pond. Travelling with kids? Consider Wellness Park Costa Rica, or check out an event or a game at Tronadora Arena. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Nuevo Arenal/Tilaran

What's nearby

  • Lake Arenal - 18 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Tenorio Volcano National Park - 27 min drive - 11.4 km
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 40 min drive - 30.9 km
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 45 min drive - 33.3 km
  • Tabacon Hot Springs - 46 min drive - 36.8 km

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 105 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Café & Macadamia - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪El Corral - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Moya's Place - ‬6 min drive
  • Gutierrez Family Pizzería
  • ‪Soda La Macha - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool.

Is Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area. pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area.?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area.?

Checkout is at 1:00 PM.

Where is Simply the best, incredible views,pool,delicious food and a friend in the area. located?

This family-friendly Arenal villa is located on a lake, 0.6 mi (1 km) from Lake Arenal, and within 9 mi (15 km) of FlyZone Wakeboard School and Tenorio Volcano National Park. Venado Caves and Catarata Morpho Azul are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 273 out of 279 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 279 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 279 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 279 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 279 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Wendy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!!!

My family and I had the BEST time!!! Patrick was awesome. He helped with arranging any tours we wanted, pointed us on where to eat, and where to go if we needed anything. The house was unbelievable. Plenty of space for the seven of us, gorgeous views...everthing we could ask for. And the daily breakfasts were sooooo good. I can't say enough good things about Patrick and the Red Sunset. It is truly the best!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Splendid!

We wish we would have spent more time at Patrick's place. The breakfast was the best we had in Costa Rica. This place has everything you need to explore the La Fortuna area.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

BigLudsBBQ Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It truly is the best place to stay. We had a family group of 12 stay for 5 nights. It was perfect. Everyone had their own room & bathroom, a huge kitchen & dinning room. Amazing views of Lake Arenal from every room in the house. We all loved the indoor pool, ping pong, pool table, and foosball. The absolute best part of our stay was Patrick & his wife Alisa. We had a full, homemade breakfast every morning. It was fabulous. That was so nice to be able to just wake up and leave no dishes no cooking nothing. Each morning was a different breakfast and just as amazing as the day before. Thank you for taking care of us. Every activity and restaurant you suggested was perfect. We loved our stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cameron G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Villa in Paradise

Perched atop a hill, overlooking Lake Arenal and a lush valley, this estate was exactly what we were looking for. It is large enough to accommodate your party of up to 20 people, although we enjoyed having the entire place to our family of four to explore. The ornate details throughout the home remind you that this is authentic Latin American architecture. The pool house is nice and includes a deep pool, jacuzzi, weights, and table games. The property is expensive and you can take a nice hike around the perimeter, surrounded by jungle of course. Lastly, Patrick is awesome and arranged all of the excursions during our stay. The included breakfast is fantastic. I'll definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Kirit P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

Excellent views, breakfast and dinner made to our request was very nice. Great omlettes and local traditional dinner.Hot water was not working for first floor bathrooms but I am sure the host will fix that. The host is great and provided everything we asked for.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Allison S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Nice Place to Stay

The house was great for our needs. You can fit in a lot of people and it is a clean house. Breakfast (which is included) was excellent. Patrick made our dinner one night and it was also very good. He also knows all the excursions and sights to see and tells you about them and sets everything up for you. Hunter was a big help and very nice to talk to. The only downside was the fact that it rained a lot and was very windy--but you are in the rainforest. As soon as you travel away from the house to go to an excursion the weather clears up! There are quite a few restaurants in the area and we enjoyed them immensely.Thank you Patrick and family for a great time!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karl S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

The property is in a beautiful location. Patrick is knowledgeable and helpful, he is very accommodating welcoming. Breakfast was so good. The stay was great and Costa Rica is gorgeous! I would certainly stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marci K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful house & great host

We have stayed ar over 20 rental properties. And this one was by far the best! The house and grounds are beautiful. Patrick is an amazing host! We ended up with a flat tire and he arranged to have it taken into town to be repaired.The daily breakfast provided were also amazing and different every day!I can’t recommend this property enough!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

We had an incredible time at this property! Patrick, his family and the staff were wonderful!!! We hope to someday return.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Afshin F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A must book

It was a very unique and great experience you won't get at other places in terms of location, view, and accommodation. Patrick is a great host and I would definitely recommend this stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay at the Red Sunset.

The family loved this home. It was clean and the cook came and made a fabulous breakfast every day except Sunday. The teens loved it here as well. Note the pool is not heated but if you’ve swam in a lake before I would say it’s cold at 1st but once accustomed it it quite refreshing. Rooms were great and we were offered to have those cleaned by Mar the cook. She cleaned up the kitchen and ran and put away dishes while cleaning the main living area. Patrick met us as we came in and we kept in touch by what’s app messaging. About an hour drive to La Fortuna on a very windy road (like the road to Hana) so if you get carsick that could be a factor.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mandy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Patrick and the staff were great. Patrick went above and beyond to book activities and gave great recommendations for places to eat and shop. So helpful. The morning breakfasts were a highlight of our trip. We would recommend this place to anyone traveling to Costa Rica.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views

The whole area is just wonderful! The house was so beautiful. All the extra touches like hand painted tiles throughout, an extensive library of local creatures that may be seen and even a spotting scope. This is Costa Rica, so be aware that when you find a house gecko in the house it brings you good luck. We were very lucky! We loved it. We even spotted a red eyed tree frog on the patio!The birds around are amazing… most we have never seen before. Many, Many humming birds and butterflies. The leaf cutter ants are amazing and they are all around the grounds working busily. We heard Howlers but never saw them. Went on a night hike up the road and spotted a vine snake, frogs and lizards. And a pit viper! Patrick was instrumental in helping us plan our adventures. Very willing and had loads of ideas for what our group was interested in. Air conditioning in the bedrooms was very much appreciated. Breakfasts were AMAZING and served with a smile. Wonderful stay and great house!If you have never been to Costa Rica before, be aware that all but the main roads are potholed gravel at the best and two track at the worst. And curvy. Very, very, curvy!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Darryl P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easy, enjoyable, comfortable

The property itself is wonderful for a family vacation. Ample room for everyone with the library/entertainment area, the dining room, deck, covered swimming pool and hot tub and every room with its own bathroom. Patrick couldn't have been more helpful. It was like having your own Concierge. Very helpful coming up with activities and and recommendations. The staff were friendly and took care of everything. The breakfasts delicious and large. It all worked flawlessly.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

reba b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Place

My husband and I went here for our Anniversary and we were not disappointed. Everyone from Patrick, his wife, the housekeeper made us feel welcome. The drivers were like family by the end of the day, Miguel and Luis are the best! Patrick was a great help suggesting and helping plan our tours. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy yourself.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Don D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean, Pool/Hot Tub, Bedrooms for All

The Red Sunset in Guanacaste was a perfect stay. From first choosing this beautiful home to driving up it was wonderful. Patrick met us at the door full of information and support of us enjoying Costa Rica. Being in the mountains was a treat. There was plenty to do at the house to keep us in fun mode, no matter the weather.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matt H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply the best is right!

Our group of 9 had a great trip thanks to Patrick and his team! The property and house are beautiful, a wonderful oasis to relax in the rainforest. The daily fresh cooked breakfast was the perfect start and exceeded our expectations. Miguel, such a great guy and driver helped us get to any adventure we wanted and made sure everything went smooth. Patrick is a great chef and we had the best tres leche cake for dessert. We highly recommend this home and would not hesitate to book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rosie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning Inside & Out!!

This property did NOT disappoint … it was absolutely STUNNING inside and outside!!! The surrounding with its lovely flora and fauna were as beautiful as the inside of this home. Artistic touches everywhere throughout the home, from the unique floor and wall tiles with embedded tropical animals to the carved wood doors with exotic animal themes to the antiques and collections throughout the home. The library was memorizing and the pool house a total blast for the whole family with several activies to choose from: pool, billiards, ping pong, jacuzzi. We stayed here with family members, A group of 11 of us with room for several more. The views from each od the rooms were lovely and from the upper story bedrooms it was simply STUNNING… 180 view of the rainforest!! And to top it all off was the INCREDIBLE breakfasts served with so much care and attention each morning. It made it so easy to then go out and explore with a full stomach :). Can’t WAIT to return again with family. Patrick, his wife and crew went above and beyond in every way to make us feel at home. Patrick even helped pull out ur car when we pulled into the driveway incorrectly and got stuck. And they even made breakfast for us to go since the day we left was such an early take off. Thanks a million!!!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

The house and grounds were exactly as described. We all enjoyed the house, the area, views from the patio and especially the breakfasts! Sitting on the patio in the mornings with a cup of coffee while enjoying the view and peaceful quiet was sublime.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Spencer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Scenic and fun stay near Lake Arenal

The house is in a beautiful location. We enjoyed the pool and hot tub and breakfast was really nice. Patrick recommended some great activities that were perfect for our family and helped set up all the bookings. I would highly recommend staying here!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gillian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Luxury in the rainforest

Patrick was the ultimate host, nothing was too much for him! The house was comfortable and the breakfasts varied and delightful. AC was nice but the mountain breezes cooled things off nicely too. Pool and hot tub were amazing! You will nott be sorry if you book here!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elorie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

See you in the new year!

We were unable to stay due the Liberia airport closure. We were still in Canada. Patrick kept in contact with us during the entire process including 5 redirected/cancelled flights. He offered several suggestions for us and was as always, very helpful. We have stayed before, and will be back! Pura Vida!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbi I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing host and beautiful home

My daughter and I, stayed at this home and it was exactly as described. Patrick was very communicative, hospitable and took care of arranging all of our excursions. His wife and housekeeping staff prepared an amazing breakfast each day, and always ensured that we had everything we needed to make our trip perfect. Miguel was our driver for the week and he was phenomenal!! He accompanied us to every excursion to ensure that we were comfortable and was available anytime we needed assistance. He also pointed out several interesting things and animals. I highly recommend this home. Patrick will ensure that your trip is more than you could have initially expected.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shaina W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home and Wonderful experience

Our stay at this home was amazing. Patrick, the host, made it so easy. He scheduled a car to pick all 15 of us up from the airport and had a delicious Costa Rican dinner ready. All the food that was made for us was delicious! He gave us suggestions for excursions and booked anything that needed reservations. The house is beautiful with so many unique details. The views of the lake are breathtaking. The house was very clean. The pool and hot tub were great to go in after a long day of traveling. Looking back at the trip we would have spent longer here than the resort we went to afterwards.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra G. R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun stay for the entire family!

This house and property were HUGE, with great views of the volcano and surrounding area, and had room for everyone in my large group! It was fun and quirky and just right. The breakfast was spectacular each morning. Patrick was the perfect host and helped us with terrific advice on activities and even made reservations for us. This house is definitely a "do-again!"
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Patrick Hughes

Host profile image
Patrick Hughes: Is the head cook, bottle washer and buck stop at “The Sunset”. If you need something special, out of the ordinary, corresponding to a birthday, celebration etc. talk to him and it will happen. He also promises to coordinate your chosen activities, meals and transportation to make your stay enjoyable, hassle free and unforgettable.

Why they chose this property

A one bedroom , one bath home that we rebuilt from the ground up, a complete renovation, ending with 6 bedrooms and 6 en suite bathrooms, 26 acres of rain forest, high atop a hill, near the town of Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica. An absolutely breathtaking view overlooking nearly the entire Lake Arenal valley and on clear days a perfect view of frequently erupting Volcano Arenal, all within minutes of some of the worlds premier adventure activities and natural treasures, was more than enough to convince the Hughes family to risk a move to the beautiful and nearly undiscovered gem of Lake Arenal, Costa Rica. So we took the risk and bought the property, then the work began. A complete renovation turning it into labor of love where we wanted to be and knew others would love as well!

What makes this property unique

'The Sunset' Luxury Guesthouse has six beautifully appointed bedrooms, bathrooms en suite featuring Costa Rican art throughout. With a gourmet kitchen, large shared library/TV room, dining hall, wi-fi, and laundry . Guests enjoy a large, indoor, swimming pool with attached jacuzzi and gymnasium, with pool table and ping pong table.
A frequent question we receive is why we have a "indoor pool house" true it is unique to the area and the only enclosed pool house around. The reason is simple "people just do not go swimming in the rain". We want our guests to enjoy every aspect of their stay and no matter how gorgeous an outside pool is in sunny weather, we are realists that understand that when it rains you aren't going to go swimming outside. So with our unique indoor pool, guest groups can and do enjoy swimming, the jacuzzi, workout area, ping pong and billiards, till the wee hours if they like, under roof and protected from a sudden downpour, guests just love it and we are the only ones that offer it.
We strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions and put out world class meals for your group to enjoy.
We do everything we can to ease your transition in to paradise and are on hand, yet non obtrusive and no more than a phone call away to come over and help arrange the vacation that you REALLY want! We can set up all activities up for you, so you have one less thing to worry about and so much more time to enjoy!
'The Sunset' Guesthouse is for singles, couples, families, corporate groups and all those that know how to travel well.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests