If you're the kind of person who's always looking for the next 'in the know' escape, head to Mal Pais, a picturesque surfing village tucked away on the edge of the rainforest in Costa Rica. Situated right at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula on the west coast of the country, Mal Pais is a wannabe Robinson Crusoe's dream. Think huge, sweeping beaches, great surf and lush rainforests lining the shore. Dot a few hospitable beach bars and restaurants along the coastline and back in the rainforest and you've got holiday perfection. And the best bit? It's totally undiscovered. With very little development and lying sufficiently off the beaten path, Mal Pais has escaped becoming overrun by tourists and thus retains an authentic Central American feel.
The rainforests provide trails for mountain biking and walking when you fancy a break from the surf or lying on the stunning beaches. This really is one of Costa Rica's best-kept secrets and one of the best beach escapes in the world, made even better when you have the superb surf on hand to enjoy.
For accommodation, we recommend the wonderful Blue Jay Eco Lodge, a series of beautiful wooden cabins, built high in the jungle canopy right near the beach. At this height you awake to see the Pacific Ocean rolling in, just beyond the lush tropical foliage. With packs of howler monkeys and a variety of other wildlife in the area you will awake to the sounds and sights of some stunning creatures. It's a stay like no other.
The lodges are serviced by an excellent restaurant and the staff will help you organise excursions in the area - anything from surf lessons to deep sea fishing. An outstanding place to stay and one that was flagged by US travel bible Fodors as one of the top 10 places to stay in the world.
