Tropical Pickle: Dominical, Costa Rica

Tucked between the lush rainforest and the rhythmic waves of the Pacific, Villas Río Mar offers an eco-luxury experience that feels both grounded and indulgent. Mornings begin with the soft calls of tropical birds and sunlight filtering through palm fronds. Step out onto your private terrace with a fresh cup of Costa Rican coffee, greeted by mountain breezes and the scent of blooming hibiscus.

The hotel’s dedicated staff delivers warm, attentive service with the ease and kindness that defines pura vida. Whether it’s a pre-ordered breakfast ready after your morning play session or insider tips for your offsite adventures, the team is present, but never intrusive.

Each day flows between play and pause, pickleball on covered, lighted courts, a dip in the pool under the trees, and leisurely meals at the on-site Crocodile Grill & Bar, one of Dominical’s best-kept culinary secrets. The menu is a fusion of Costa Rican freshness and international comfort—think local grilled fish, garden-fresh salads, and ice-cold craft beers or smoothies after a match.

Evenings at Río Mar slow into sunset swims, starlit dinners, and jungle sounds that hum you to sleep. Whether you're here to dial up your game or wind down from the everyday, the rhythm of this place makes it easy to do both.

Far from the crowded resorts and cookie-cutter tourist hubs, Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific Coast is where the wild jungle meets the rhythm of the sea. Here, lush mountains cascade into golden beaches, howler monkeys call from the trees, and waterfalls hide just off the roadside. This region—stretching from Manuel Antonio to the Osa Peninsula—is beloved for its raw beauty, biodiversity, and deep connection to place.

Life moves slower here. The towns of Dominical, Uvita, and Ojochal each offer their own charm: surfer-friendly shores, locally owned cafés and artisan shops, fresh ceviche stands, and community markets. It’s a place where flip-flops are formal wear, and your best day might be spent chasing waterfalls or spotting whales in the bay.

What makes this area truly special is its lack of commercialized tourism. Instead of all-inclusives, you'll find eco-lodges tucked in the hills, beach bonfires with locals, and a warm, welcoming vibe that invites you to stay a little longer.

Whether you're here to play, explore, or just breathe differently, the Southern Pacific coast offers an authentic Costa Rica experience, untamed, unforgettable, and deeply restorative.

This isn’t your average pickleball getaway.

Tropical Pickle retreats are thoughtfully curated to balance competitive play with meaningful connection, cultural immersion, and the kind of experiences that stay with you long after your paddle is packed away. We handle all the logistics—so you can fully drop in, show up for your game, and soak in the beauty of Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific coast.

With a blend of play, movement, relaxation, and adventure, every part of this retreat is designed to nourish your body, lift your spirit, and leave you feeling more alive and connected to yourself, your people, and the world around you.

Your experience includes:

• 🛏 5 nights lodging at Villas Río Mar (air-conditioning, private terrace, daily housekeeping)

• 🚐 Ground transport: SJO ⇆ Dominical + all local shuttles for listed activities

• 🥗 Meals: Daily breakfast + one additional chef-prepared meal per day 

• 🏓 Coached pickleball sessions

• 💪 Group movemeng classes

• 🎨 Art workshop (includes materials + 1 drink)

• 💃 Salsa class + night out in town (transport & venue cover)

• 🐋 Whale-watching & snorkel tour (boat, guide, gear, lunch)

• 🏆 Community tournament day: court rental, coordination, and prizes

• 🔥 Sunset beach bonfire setup + ceviche bar & refreshments

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 On-site host team + dedicated concierge

• ✅ All taxes & service charges on inclusions