The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool
HOUSE DESCRIPTION New adventures, and the chance to reconnect with family, friends, and nature, the tropically inspired Casa Sundog offers the perfect setting for your Costa Rican adventure, tropically inspired indoor-outdoor open-plan spaces allow you the best of both worlds, experience luxury amongst nature here at Casa Sundog.
*** Please note that we want all of our guests to enjoy their stay at Casa Sundog. This home is located in a private, gated community with mainly full-time residents and families. There is a VERY STRICT no-noise policy outside between 10p-6a. This is not the house to host a party or event. This home is great for groups of adults and families who respect the neighbors and rules of the community. If you plan to bring a big group to have a party, or large event, or make excessive noise, please reserve another property as the noise will not be tolerated and you will be asked to leave without a refund.***
HIGHLIGHTS • Golf front property with nature views through the dry forest • Multiple family homes spread over 2 levels and 5 bedrooms. • Shaded outdoor living, dining and Bar terraces • Private terrace for every Bedroom with tropical hammock setting • Daily housekeeping services. Monday through Saturday 8-12pm • Mistaway built in mosquito system surrounds the home • Split AC units in every room • Heated Jacuzzi and Large pool • Corporate beach club membership for our guests to enjoy the HAcienda Pinilla beach club amenities • Concierge Team available to help you curate your experience
CASA SUNDOG SERVICE
• Having daily housekeeping is a great way to ensure that your stay is comfortable and stress-free. We provide DAILY HOUSEKEEPING AND BREAKFAST PREPARATION, You only need to supply the ingredients and we will fit into a schedule that best fits our groups' needs. You can enjoy your vacation without worrying about cleaning up after yourself or taking care of household tasks.
• The Beach club membership will give you access to all the amenities you need for a perfect day at the beach, including chairs, umbrellas, and a gym.
• Whether it is In house catering, sunset cruises, adventure tours or even tips to secluded beaches our Concierge team has the local knowledge to assist in planning your ultimate tropical vacation. Transportation to and from Liberia International Airport, the San Jose International Airport, or booking a rental car can also be arranged. We are available and on call 24/7
With all of these features, Rancho Alegre provides the perfect backdrop for a luxurious and relaxing vacation. Whether you're looking to spend your days lounging by the pool or hitting the waves, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable stay.
CASA SUNDOG DESIGN The design concept was to create an open-plan indoor-outdoor living space that allows a large family to enjoy both the open-air tropical climate and or retreat, to cool, air-conditioned spaces. This was achieved through the conscious use of extended shaded terraces adjacent to every living area throughout the home. Every room has individual cooling with personal split AC units and all bedrooms have double-lined blackout blinds.
Finished in early 2021. This luxury home consists of 5 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, 7 covered terraces, an indoor kitchen, an outdoor bar, indoor/outdoor dining, a Saltwater pool, and a Jacuzzi all set over 2 floors with a total of 5500sqft.
Whether it is retreating to privacy for your afternoon siesta on your personal hammock decking, watching a game at the poolside bar, or drinking cocktails in the jacuzzi jets, life is good at casa Sundog!
CASA SUNDOG LOCATION Set on the 2nd hole of the exclusive Hacienda Pinilla golf course there is an abundance of nature and privacy that surrounds the property. Howler monkeys, roaming deer and flying macaws are all daily sights from the poolside lounge.
Leaving the gated community it is just a short golf cart ride down to the beach club on the white sand of Playa Avellanas.
The house has a MistAway mosquito misting system installed that is programmed to automatically spray a very fine mist of a mild botanical insecticide through a nozzle circuit installed around your property. With just two or three short mists per day, mosquitoes and other annoying insects disappear from our property yard.
Whether it is In house catering, sunset cruises, adventure tours, or even tips to secluded beaches our team has the local knowledge to assist in planning the ultimate tropical experience. Transportation to and from Liberia International Airport, the San Jose International Airport, or booking a rental car can also be arranged. We are available and on-call 24/7 sa Sundog.
Our aim is to provide you with a hotel-like experience within a private Villa setting. We provide DAILY HOUSEKEEPING AND BREAKFAST PREPARATION, You only need to supply the ingredients and we will fit into a schedule that best fits our groups' needs.
HACIENDA PINILLA BEACH CLUB
We have a corporate membership for our guests to enjoy the exclusive Hacienda Pinilla beach club on Playa Avellanas.
The beach clubs infinity-edge pool looks over the white sand and famous waves of PLaya Avellanas . The Beach Club has something for everyone whether it's cocktails or fruit smoothies from the poolside Tiki Bar, relaxing in the poolside sunbeds, surfing any one of the world-class waves that line Playa Avellanas, working out in ocean view fitness center or relaxing with a massage in the wellness center, it’s the ultimate beach day!
*The beach club is closed for maintenance throughout the month of October
As a guest of Casa Sundog entry into the beach club is $10 which is then used as credit at the beach club bar and restaurant (only paid once per day and for ages 12+)
BEACHES With 3 miles of coastline within the 4500-acre ranch, there is always a corner, tidepool or wave to be found. Playa Mansita home of the JW Marriott hotel, is a beautiful flat water sandy bay enclosed by a reef lagoon, here you will find great snorkeling and beautiful tide pools at low tide Playa Langosta, world-class surfing, beach and river fishing. We believe Langosta to be the hidden gem of Hacienda Pinilla, the shaded palapas are a great spot for a beach day in the shade and your just a stroll and river crossing from the action of Playa Langosta and Tamarindo
Playa Avellanas, home to the Hacienda Pinilla Beach club and 6 World-class surf breaks including Little Hawaii, the Estero, dead tree and Lolas
JW MARRIOTT HOTEL Hacienda Pinilla is home to the JW Marriott hotel, as a guest of Casa Sundog you have access to the numerous restaurants on offer. You can also purchase a day pass for use of the hotel's pool which is the largest throughout Central America. The day pass gives you access to all of the hotel grounds and amenities.
GOLF COURSE 18 hole par 72 beachfront golf course ( the beachfront hole has an awesome sunset view on a secluded beach)
TENNIS COURTS 3 hard court tennis courts with an onsite instructor. private, semi-private and or group lessons are available. Kids camps and pickleball events are regular activities.
HORSE STABLES The best way to explore the 4500 ranch is by horseback. Tours are available at any time and can be customized to fit your group's needs, with rides from 30 mins to 2 hrs take you through the forest and out along the secluded beaches all here within the ranch.
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS With over 45 kilometers of trails throughout the ranch, forest, and coastline, Hacienda Pinilla is a great location for mountain biking. With natural scenic routes and rigorous trails for every type of bike rider, Hacienda Pinilla offers up adventure, challenge, and enjoyment for families, first-timers, experts, and everyone in between.
SURFING Hacienda Pinilla has to be one of the best locations in Costa Rica to base your surf trip. With 6 waves just on Playa Avellanas and private access to the beach breaks of Playa Langosta you don't even need to leave the ranch, but if you looking to explore the area, the famous Playa Negra reef breaks are just 10 minutes south and the river mouth and beach breaks of Tamarindo just 10 minutes to the north. You can get around by renting a car, renting our golf cart, renting bicycles, hiring a shuttle or taxi. Tamarindo, with its shopping, dining and nightlife is just 15 minutes away. The Daniel Oduber International Airport in the town of Liberia just an hour away. Hacienda Pinilla offers a free shuttle within the throughout the community during the peak season holidays. It runs every 30 minutes and requires notice 15 minutes ahead of your pick up time. There is a medical clinic within the Hacienda Pinilla community. Hide
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At Hacienda Pinilla we have a noise restriction after 10 pm. You can have moderate music after that time.
- Please ensure all doors and windows are securely locked whenever you leave the house.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2168930vb
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
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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
Tamarindo
Located in Tamarindo, this holiday home is in the city centre and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Tamarindo Beach and Conchal Beach. Las Baulas National Marine Park and Monkey Park are also worth visiting.
Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course - 11 min drive - 3.9 km
Playa Langosta - 12 min drive - 3.9 km
Playa Róbalo - 12 min drive - 3.9 km
Avellanas Beach - 16 min drive - 6.3 km
Getting around
Tamarindo (TNO) - 22 min drive
Restaurants
Baulas Snack Bar - 28 min drive
La Fontana, Ristorante Italiano - 28 min drive
Langosta Beach Club - 26 min drive
Restaurante Oceano - 28 min drive
Rum Bar - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool on 30 July 2026 start from NZ$1,238, 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.
Is The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The ultimate Family retreat. Daily housekeeping, beach club membership and outdoor grill by the pool located?
Located in Tamarindo, this beachfront holiday home is in the city centre and within 3 mi (5 km) of Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, Mansita Beach and Playa Róbalo. Playa Langosta and Avellanas Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Amazing house with great amenities and extremely helpful and kind service people. We loved our stay!
Caroline L.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 March 2026
Thank you so much Caroline for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the house, the amenities, and the service from our team.
It was truly a pleasure hosting you, and we’re so glad you had a wonderful stay. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back again in the future.
Pura Vida 🌴
Reservations & Concierge Team
Vida Pinilla
EVERYTHING was top notch. From the amenities to the service, couldn’t have asked for a better or more accommodating place and host.
Tommy W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 January 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words, Tommy! We’re thrilled to hear that everything—from the amenities to the service—met your expectations. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d love to welcome you back anytime!
Pura Vida! 🌴✨
Vida Pinilla
Everything about this property was wonderful. The house is beautiful and just as described. Communication with the hosts was easy and fast responses. We all had a wonderful time!
KAREN K.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 April 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words, Karen! We're so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay and that everything met your expectations. It was a pleasure hosting you and your group—come back anytime for another wonderful getaway! 🌴😊
Pura Vida,
Reservations & Concierge
This was a wonderful vacation. We cannot wait to return.
Kara H.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
We are here waiting for you to come back to enjoy the beach club, horse stable, golf, and our layout with a private pool and spacious. To make your trip memorable we are always here to help with anything we can. Pura Vida, Vida Pinilla Team
Our stay was amazing! The cleanliness was outstanding. The property was spacious and had everything we needed for our family of 10. Close to beaches and town. A wonderful setting.
Justin W.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 June 2024
Thank you so much Justin for your wonderful review! It's fantastic to know that the house and the community was perfect for your family. We hope to have you back and host you again :)
Pura Vida,
Reservations & Concierge team
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
YvetteU
25 January 2023
Great place to stay
The house was extremely beautiful. The only thing I would suggest is mirrors in the bedrooms and a better transportation system
YvetteU
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Thank you for your feedback, Yvette! We're thrilled to hear that you found the house extremely beautiful. Your suggestion regarding mirrors in the bedrooms is duly noted, and we appreciate your input. We'll take this into consideration as we continue to improve and enhance the amenities of our rental property.
Regarding the transportation system, we apologize if it did not meet your expectations. We understand the importance of convenient and efficient transportation options for our guests. We'll certainly review our current system and explore ways to make it more streamlined and convenient for future guests.
We truly value your feedback as it helps us identify areas where we can make improvements. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we'll take your suggestions to heart as we work to enhance the overall guest experience. If you have any further suggestions or if there's anything else we can assist you with, please don't hesitate to let us know. We appreciate your kind words about the house, and we hope to have the opportunity to host you again in the future.
Great stay and location. House was immaculate and Leandra our house keeper was wonderful. Everything about the house was perfect for our family. Totally safe and comfortable neighborhood and the property managers were so easy to work with. Would definitely stay here again!
Ian B.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 6 April 2024
Thank you Ian so much for your kind words and your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had an incredible experience during your stay in Casa Sundog and we're delighted that our team's and our housekeeper Leandra made your stay even more enjoyable. We hope to have you back and host you again :)
Pura Vida,
Reservations & Concierge team
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
KyleeF
6 November 2023
Casa Sundog
It was my first time vacationing to Costa Rica and needless to say this place was AMAZING!! It was so clean and had everything we needed. It was such a beautiful and comfortable place to stay and the backyard has an awesome pool & spa. I will definitely be staying here again!!
KyleeF
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
NinaK
10 April 2025
Perfecto
Many times we have stayed in sundog before and always has been the perfect place to go Everything in that house makes us happy. And the people that helps us. Thank you!!!
The house is wonderful and looks better than the photos. Super communicative and helpful hosts. Would absolutely recommend!
Robin M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Thank you Robin for giving us this review. We cannot wait to see you all again to enjoy more the area, the amenities, and the beaches within Hacienda Pinilla, and we would love to help with all as always to make you feel at home. Pura Vida, Vida Luxury Villas Team
They stay was as expected, nice, clean, great location. The beach club just changed their policy to 5 entry for adults (and it doesn't count towards food). The pool needs a little bit of freshening up and tile repair but is in pretty goood shape regardless. The hot tub needs to be fixed as well (currently it doesn't get hot but stays pool temp) but it's still a nice place to sit and relax in warm water.
James D.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 April 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review, James! We’re happy to hear you had a relaxing stay and enjoyed the location and overall experience. Just to clarify, the jacuzzi at the house doesn't have a heater and is designed to function with temperature water, it’s more of a warm soaking tub rather than a traditional hot tub.
We also appreciate your feedback regarding the pool tiles, and we’ll make sure to pass it along to the team for future maintenance improvements.
Hope to welcome you back soon!
Pura vida 🌿✨ The Vida Pinilla Team
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Micaela R.
10 July 2023
Beautiful Home
We had a wonderful time. The house is on a gorgeous location. Totally recommend. Thank you
This was our second stay at Casa Sundog and it was just as amazing as the first time. The house is incredible, the location is perfect, and Mergie (the on-site host) is awesome! If you’re lucky enough to find open dates for this house, do not hesitate to book - there is no better place to stay at Hacienda Pinilla!
Shaun H.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Shaun, thank you so much for this review it was wonderful having you back in Costa Rica and especially in Casa Sundog. We cannot wait to see you again and always for us will be a pleasure to assist in any way to make your trip as memorable as the first. The beaches, nature, and amenities within Hacienda Pinilla and our properties will be ready for your next vacation. Pura Vida, Vida Pinilla Team
House was amazing, even better in person. Very convenient to beach and other amenities. Joel and his team at Vida Pinillia are absolutely incredible. Can’t say enough about the management and hospitality. Will definitely be back and staying at one of there properties!
Blake M.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
We're truly grateful for your kind words about Joel and our team at Vida Pinillia. Providing exceptional management and hospitality is at the core of our mission, and we're delighted to hear that they made a positive impact on your stay.
Thank you for considering staying at one of our properties again in the future. We would love to welcome you back and provide you with another amazing experience
Welcoming, spacious and Leandra was the best. We wanted to take her home with us
Linda H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Thank you Linda for your review. We cannot wait to see you all again at Casa Sundog and have a relaxing time and have a great beach day, golf, or horseback riding in the stable within Hacienda Pinilla., we will be looking forward to see you, Pura Vida, Vida Pinilla Team
This property is gated and beautiful! I would definitely come back and stay here.
The property manager, Joel is very responsive to your needs and referrals.
Rent golf carts to get around the property for easy access to JW Marriott and Beach Club.
Jeanine F.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
We loved having Jeanine´s group in Casa Sundog. We know that with the amenities, the beaches within Hacienda Pinilla, and the nature around us, the had a great time. We cannot wait to see them again on their next visit. Pura Vida, Vida Luxury Villas/Vida Pinilla Team
This property was amazing. Leandra took great care of us and was so pleasant. Joel and the management team did a superb job of taking care of our needs, including transportation, helping with the catering service (which was also amazing). This was our best trip ever, and it was our 20th anniversary ladies golf trip!
Deborah I.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
We loved having Deborah´s group stay in Casa Sundog enjoying the beaches and amenities within Hacienda Pinilla. We trust they had the best time having a relaxing time in our luxury private house layout and we cannot wait for their next visit to explore the area or have a spa at-home service or just enjoy the magical sunsets here on our beautiful beaches. See you soon, Pura Vida, Vida Luxury Villas/Vida Pinilla Team
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Erik T.
19 December 2023
True Costa Experience
Have visited Casa Sun Dog multiple times in the past five years and will continue visiting this home away from home location! Absolutely beautiful home with superior service. Location is perfect to all things - beach, fishing, golfing, Tamarindo, or just relaxing by the pool in a very private back yard! An amazing experience every time we visit!
The Stay was for all of our family around the world all meeting in Costa Rica for 10 days.
Family flying back home thinking it was the best trip of our lives.
Thank you to everyone at the Villa we are just blown away by how great it was.
Shaun C.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 August 2023
Thank you for this amazing review. We are very happy to know you all had the best trip and the Vida Pinilla team will be here ready to help with anything you need for your next visit to come to summer paradise enjoying the private pool, nature, beaches, and amenities within Hacienda Pinilla. See you again in the near future, Pura Vida, Vida Luxury Villas/Vida Pinilla Team
My experience with Joel and the home was amazing! Me and my friends loved everything 10/10 & I agree with the previous reviews, the house is better in person. the host, housekeepers everything were great ; very responsive and left very satisfied. Already planning our return!
Latisha J.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Latisha, thank you for taking the time to give us this great review. We cannot wait to see you all again to enjoy more the amenities such as the beach club and horse stable, as well as the beaches with the amazing sunsets within Hacienda Pinilla, Pura Vida, Vida Pinilla Team
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
EsmeraldaR
30 March 2024
Extraordinary experience
The house was amazing, we love the pool with the BBQ in perfect conditions.
Our kids enjoy the playroom and their room.
The house was clean everyday of the week.
We will come back for another visit.
Casa sundog exceeded our expectations! Similar to other reviews, the pictures do not do it justice. There was way more room than expected and the house was in wonderful condition. Joel and his team were exceptional and took care of all of our needs. The location was perfect and we had three families and everyone had plenty of room and enjoyed the home tremendously. Thank you for a wonderful vacation!
courtney c.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 April 2024
Thank you Courtney for taking the time to give us a nice review. It was a pleasure to have you stay in Casa Sundog! Looking forward to host you again :)
Pura Vida,
Reservations & Concierge Team
Wow experience…. House is beautiful and has everything you might need. The Hosts were marvelous in arranging for trips, shuttles, golf carts, restaurants, etc. Liandra who came each morning to clean etc was the best ever! Don’t hesitate to book this one!
Deborah G.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
We're happy to hear that you found the house beautiful and well-equipped with everything you needed. Our goal is to provide our guests with a seamless and enjoyable stay, and we're glad that we could meet your expectations.
We're thrilled that our hosts were able to enhance your experience by assisting you with arranging trips, shuttles, golf carts, restaurant reservations, and more. We understand the importance of convenience and ensuring that our guests have a stress-free vacation, and we're glad that our team was able to help make that happen.
We're also delighted to hear that Leandra provided exceptional service and made your stay even more enjoyable. We will be sure to pass along your kind words to her.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
KristaK
27 December 2024
Mrs
The house itself couldn’t have been any more perfect for our crowd. Dunia went above and beyond our expectations too. Joel also. Quick to respond to any of our needs. It was my 70th bday and it turned out perfect. Thank you Pura Vida
Casa Sundog was an amazing home that provided our large group of 8 with plenty of space and high end amenities. We especially enjoyed the well appointed kitchen, outdoor dining, pool and bar area. Our daily cleaning lady, Leandra, was delightful, hard working and a joy to have around. Our host was extremely helpful with arranging chef services, transportation, zip line excursion, and golf tee times.
We can't wait to return to Costa Rica and Casa Sundog!
Mike P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2023
Mike, thank you for your words in your review. We cannot wait to see you all again to have a great time at the beaches within Hacienda Pinilla and enjoy our great layout with a private pool and a quiet time that makes your vacation also relaxing and enjoyable, Pura Vida, Vida Pinilla
About the host
Hosted by Joel Martino, www.vidapinilla.com
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests