Kura Boutique Hotel

Kura Boutique Hotel is a labor of love: owners Martin and Alejandra, an architect and a biologist, sought to bring to the Pacific coast of Costa Rica a level of boutique-hotel style and tropical-minimalist luxury that had never been seen here before. This is a glamorous hotel, with serious modern design and locally sourced materials from gray slate to teak wood. It’s not for kids, and frankly it’s not for solo travelers, either, or a relaxing getaway with your mom — Kura’s minimalist jungle suites have a seriously seductive edge.

The custom-built glass-encased rain showers, big enough for two, aren’t tucked away in the en suite bathrooms, but provocatively positioned within the open-plan living areas. Each unit features a private terrace with a double hammock, a custom-designed “floating bed” — it sounds romantic, and it is. They’ve put some thought into the details here, too. Each also comes with a Nespresso machine, a wine cellar, a set of binoculars for bird-watching, and a complimentary iPad and free wi-fi, should you feel inspired to post a set of envy-inducing photos out for your loved ones back home to see.

Kura Boutique Hotel is also a great place to disconnect. The location offers easy access to Marino Ballena national park, with its quiet beaches, otherworldly rock formations, and migrating pods of humpback whales. It’s an ideal spot to surf or scuba dive — or learn how to. Back at the hotel, go for a massage or feast on responsibly caught seafood prepared with herbs grown at the hotel’s greenhouse. Or just dip your feet into the saltwater infinity pool overlooking the ocean, preferably with a craft cocktail in hand. As the sun goes down, you’ll be glad you thought to book ahead.