“At the beach, life is different.  Time doesn’t move hour to hour but mood to moment.  We live by the currents, plan by the tides, and follow the sun.”

-Anonymous-

The ocean is an expansive vault of memories, a current that carries with it moments of footprints, castles, collected shells and sunsets.  The salty smell lingering in the air, the warmth of the beach radiating beneath our feet, each moment we share by the water is a gift to the senses.  To hear the laughter of our daughters as the waves wash over them, the sand on their faces and highlights of sunshine in their hair, is always humbling.  This is our life of fortune and beauty, where we are offered these brilliant opportunities to connect to nature and to each other.

Costa Rica is one of the most diverse and unique places we have ever visited, each turn offering up a new landscape, a new experience.  Tamarindo, our chosen beach destination, was no exception.  Located in the province of Guanacaste, on the North Pacific coast, this eclectic seaside town is known for a cultural richness in surf, nightlife and food.  One of the most accessible and developed locations in the area, eco-friendly Tamarindo is a hot spot for wave riders, locals and tourists in search of connection with the vibrant, laid back beach vibe.  Pura Vida.

A GATED SLICE OF SERENITY

On the edge of town, with its fingertip on the fringe of the crowds and crazy, lies the boutique hotel, Sirena Serena.  The private, secured gate is a doorway to calm, an opening into a world of serenity where one can recharge, removed from the hectic energy of Tamarindo’s shops, streets and shores.  Trailing vines and surfboards with hand-painted inspirational quotes, line the gravel walkway leading to the inner workings and rooms.  This is a hotel that defines escape, a place to be reacquainted with a level of service standard that is often lost in translation with much larger hotels.

A BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE

Sirena Serena has a strategic build meant to cater to relaxation, seclusion and retreat.  While this 6 room hotel only began welcoming guests at the end of 2016, it provides an atmosphere of a long standing member of society.  Meticulously chosen, colorful decor, combined with a layout that encourages connection, this hotel radiates comfort and welcome.   Needs of the guests are clearly at the forefront of their thoughts, and it is all in the little things.  An armoire near reception harbors items such as towels for the beach, yoga mats for savasana and umbrellas for an evening shower.  A bbq and a full scale kitchen, as well as a fire pit area, ensure that guests are able to easily enjoy a quiet night in.  These details and amenities also make Sirena Serena the ideal place to host a private retreat or extended family get together for 12-16 people.

A BOUTIQUE OASIS

A centerpiece of blues and aqua marine, the pool is an area to be enjoyed by all.  Cozy, padded lounge chairs beckon guests to pick up a book, soaking up the peace and quiet.  The wooden planks provide a natural, solid surface in which to set up a yoga mat.  With no lineups or mass of tourists in search of seating, the cool water of this quaintly appointed oasis provides a refreshing break from the heat and congestion of the outside world.

And there’s even a waterslide…..

SERENE SPACE TO CONNECT

The long wooden table beneath the covered patio is much more than a place to enjoy the included continental breakfast.  This is a hotel that offers a family style experience, mixing guests at a single table, understanding and valuing the importance of connection and conversation.   It is a place to plan your day over a morning coffee or swap stories, ideas and laughter with other guests.  It is a haven of impromptu yoga sessions and board games, a spot to share a bottle of wine in the evening, and even a moment to sit with the owners and learn the stories behind this beautiful space.

THE SUITE LIFE

We had the pleasure of staying in the Travel Suite, the largest of the 6 available rooms.  The Travel Suite is perfect for families (up to 5 people), with a bedroom that offers a single bunk bed, along with a second queen bed, a tv, and mini fridge.  To further enhance the chance to getaway, there is a separate living area with an additional tv and a futon, capable of being completely closed off from the bedroom.  The private, ensuite bath features locally made organic products, and a stand up shower.  The room has a safe to lock up valuables and complimentary wi-fi.

BOUTIQUE ADVENTURE

If you are looking for an experience as unique as the stay, you are in luck.  Not only are the owners passionate about the accommodations they provide, they own and operate Kelly’s Surf Shop, one of the most prominent and successful surf shops in Tamarindo.  Whether you are looking to rent a body board, try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, or you want to book a surf lesson, they are happy to ensure you have the best experience possible!

** Read about our Kelly’s Surf Experience HERE

** While a major portion of our stay was sponsored by the amazing folks at Sirena Serena, the words and opinions are, as always, my own.

To Sebastian and Jesslyn:  What you have created in Sirena Serena is the epitome of what we search for in an accommodation.  It is a place that truly caters to guests, a place to feel at home, and a place of authentic connection.  For your hospitality and attention to detail, for you warm smiles and the conversations over that amazing breakfast, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

Cheers,

Amy

PIN FOR LATER: