Esterillos Oeste: The Last Stop on Our Ecotourism Trip to Costa Rica

During our stay in Esterillos Oeste, we were fortunate to book a room at Hotel La Dolce Vita, a delightfil little spot situated right on the beach. The hotel’s location couldn’t have been more ideal. To access the beach, all we had to do was walk past the small pool and head through a gate on one side of the property. In just a few steps, we were standing on the sandy shoreline, with the ocean stretching out before us. It was a tranquil and picturesque setup that made it easy to enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

On the other side of the hotel, a different experience awaited. Exiting from that direction put us on the path to town, making it simple to explore the area and get a feel for the local community. The dual access to both the beach and the town added a lot of convenience and charm to our stay.

I made friends with the local kitties by saving them some of the eggs I got for breakfast.

I spent some time walking along the beach, letting the soft sand shift beneath my feet with each step. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was both powerful and soothing, creating a rhythmic backdrop that felt almost meditative. As I strolled, I took in the beauty of my surroundings—the wide expanse of the ocean stretching to the horizon, the occasional flock of seabirds flying overhead, and the way the sunlight shimmered on the water’s surface.

The beach itself had a raw, untouched quality that made it feel serene and peaceful. I noticed small details along the way, like seashells scattered in the sand and driftwood washed up on the shore. A gentle breeze carried the salty scent of the ocean, and I could feel it brushing against my face as I walked.

Though the surf was too rough to me for swimming, it didn’t take away from the experience. In fact, it added to the dramatic atmosphere of the beach, making it feel alive and dynamic. Walking along the shoreline gave me time to reflect, appreciate the moment, and feel connected to the natural beauty of Esterillos Oeste. It was a simple yet memorable part of my trip.

As I wandered through the town of Esterillos Oeste, I couldn’t help but notice the fascinating variety of plants that added to its vibrant and tropical atmosphere. Lush greenery seemed to be everywhere, spilling out of yards and lining the streets. I saw told trees and flowers bursting with bright colors like pinks, purples, and yellows.

Some houses had small but beautiful gardens filled with a mix of local plants and flowers, creating a welcoming and lively feel. I came across vivid hibiscus blooms, their petals so vibrant they seemed almost unreal, and bougainvillea vines climbing up fences and walls, adding pops of color to the town. In some spots, I noticed towering banana plants and other fruit trees, their broad leaves creating natural canopies that provided much-needed shade.

Even the plants growing wild along the roadsides were captivating, with intricate patterns and shapes that hinted at the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. Walking through the town felt like strolling through a living, breathing garden, where nature seamlessly blended into everyday life. The plants added so much character and beauty to the town, making my exploration feel like a sensory treat.

As I wandered through the town of Esterillos Oeste, I not only noticed fascinating plants but also encountered a variety of animals that made the area feel lively and connected to nature. Birds were everywhere, flitting between the trees and filling the air with their calls. I spotted bright tropical species perched on branches, their vibrant colors standing out against the lush greenery. Occasionally, I saw tiny lizards darting across walls and pathways, blending into the environment with their quick movements.

The local cats, of course, were my favorite companions. Some lounged in sunny spots, while others watched curiously as I passed by. A few even approached me, likely recognizing me as their breakfast friend from earlier in the day. Their playful and relaxed demeanor added a sense of warmth to the town’s atmosphere.

I also saw dogs here and there, some wandering freely and others resting outside homes, enjoying the shade. They seemed content, adding to the overall laid-back vibe of Esterillos Oeste. In the quieter parts of town, I even heard the rustling of leaves and wondered if there were other small creatures, like iguanas or frogs, hidden among the plants.

The blend of vibrant plant life and the presence of so many animals made my walk through Esterillos Oeste feel like a small adventure, a reminder of how beautifully intertwined life and nature are in Costa Rica. It was a peaceful and enriching experience to simply observe and appreciate the everyday wonders of this coastal town.

We followed the parade and it ended at a football field.