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Incredible Views of the Pacific - Year round sunsets!

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The glorious view of the ever-changing Pacific Ocean.
Gorgeous views of the Whale's Tail (Ballena).
Enjoy magnificent, peaceful mornings . . .
Reflections in the infinity pool.
Pool

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6278.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Hot tub
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Gym

Explore the area

Map
Dominical
  • Playa Dominical
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Hacienda Baru
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Quepos (XQP)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Incredible Views of the Pacific - Year round sunsets!


Panoramica - the name says it all. Set upon a mountain-top over 2,100 feet (610m) above the Pacific Ocean, Panoramica is known far and wide for its stunning views of inland mountains (Mount Chirripo at 12,500 foot elevation to the east) and waterfalls (the Diamante Verde set of 10 waterfalls also to the east); and from Panama and the Osa Peninsula to the south and Dominical and Manuel Antonio to the north. Dominating everything are sweeping views of the vast and everchanging Pacific Ocean. Literally, nowhere else in Costa Rica do the mountains (with such immense grandeur, lush vegetation and abundant wildlife) come so close to the mighty Pacific. From 2,100 feet above sea level, one can see 60 miles across the Pacific and endless whitewater coastline, iconic costal features (Whale’s Tail, various headlands, off-shore park islands), year round sunsets, verdant forest and far reaching stretches of Costa Rica’s natural magic. Panoramica is in a uniquely spectacular location.

Costa Rica living is all about encountering nature in all its forms, and Panoramica makes the outdoors accessible from every room and every level. Flora and fauna of all kinds - soft breezes and rain, bright sunshine and dappled shade, clouds passing through the great room while you cook breakfast; morning birdsong, accompanied by howler monkeys in the distance; toucans flying from branch to branch and hummingbirds from flower to flower; hawks and kites soaring high above the treetops; the evening chorus of frogs and insects; and myriad stars splashed across the midnight sky—all this is part of the Panoramica experience.

The house is perfectly located to make exploring the glories of southwestern Costa Rica as simple as a series of easy day-trips. National Parks, wonderful beaches, picturesque towns and villages, gourmet restaurants; zip-lines, waterfalls, horseback riding, surfing, and many more of the country’s wonders and activities, are minutes away. And after a day of sightseeing, the cool breezes of Panoramica invite you to relax and view the year-round sunsets over drinks and quiet conversation before dinner.

The extensive exterior living space—which includes covered terraces, a palm-roofed palapa with its own kitchen, and a swimming pool which seems to float above the clouds—continually draw you outdoors. The house itself is a modern gloss on the comforts of Spanish colonial architecture. Warm wood ceilings and built-ins, ceramic tile floors, deep overhangs which shade the windows from the noontime sun, and an extensive collection of indigenous art and handcrafts combine to create the perfect balance of high style and human scale.

Upper level amenities include a covered dining terrace, great room and kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom with sunken shower. An efficiency apartment on the lower level adds another kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, creating a layout which can flexibly accommodate multi-generational groups with ease.

The house is air-conditioned, and includes excellent high-speed fiber optic wifi, a dishwasher, washer/dryer, ample closetry, and a batterie de cuisine to inspire your best culinary efforts.

Experience Panoramica. You’ll want to return again and again.

Property manager

Janet Bustrin or Steve Stubelt
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Minimum age to rent: 25
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
"No" children only b/c of steps/pool. Inquire.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
1. No smoking in the house or on the property. 2. Insure closing requirements are followed. 3. Please insure all ceiling fans are kept running.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ballena

Located in Ballena, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge and Marino Ballena National Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Sunset Surf Dominical - Day Lessons and Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and horse riding nearby.
Map
Dominical

What's nearby

  • Playa Dominical - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Hacienda Baru - 18 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding - 5 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Playa Dominicalito - 11 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls - 14 min drive - 12.7 km

Getting around

  • Quepos (XQP) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Scala - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Tortilla Flats - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante La Parcela - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Coco's Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Fuego Brew Company - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Incredible Views of the Pacific - Year round sunsets! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Incredible Views of the Pacific - Year round sunsets! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

Where is Incredible Views of the Pacific - Year round sunsets! located?

Situated by the ocean, this holiday home is steps away from Playa Dominical and Playa Barú. Hacienda Baru and Sunset Surf Dominical - Day Lessons are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 71 out of 74 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 74 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 74 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 74 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 74 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jamie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice home
Beautiful view
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise
This was our second trip to this property in as many years. We had a wonderful time and can’t say enough good things about the property and hospitality. The manager, John, stopped to check on us a few times. Very friendly. The host, Janet, is very pleasant and hospitable as well. GREAT EXPERIENCE!!!
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tony R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Epic
The view is so incredible that we did not want to leave.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bryan K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay
View from property was very impressive. Everyone enjoyed themselves.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous Area of Costa Rica
We loved the area around the home and the activities and restaurants available. A more remote, less touristy area. The home is well provisioned and had all we needed. Views were amazing but we did not have the best weather so could not enjoy the pool or views as much as hoped. Getting to the home could be a challenge without the right vehicle but as suggested a 4x4 SUV is highly recommended. You would also need a 4x4 to visit the various activities and restaurants in the area. We rented a Suzuki Vitara which was fine for 4 adults and luggage. No problems getting around. We had one minor issue with the house which was fixed immediately even though it was New Years Eve. The host was very responsive to any emails I send. All in all highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

John G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
There are no words to describe this amazing place!!
My wife and I visited Panoramica, with pretty high expectations based on the VRBO website, the photos and the reviews. None of that lived up to the actual experience! We have traveled quite a bit around the world, and have literally never seen anything as beautiful as the views from the house! Even the fantastic pictures don’t do the view justice. We were mesmerized and never wanted to leave the house. Given the height, the weather changed every few minutes and it was amazing to watch the clouds roll in and out. The house itself was awesome - fully stocked with everything you would need to enjoy your stay. The swimming pool is fantastic too. As far as the road up to Panoramica, follow the suggestions! We had a large Toyota Prada and were very happy we did. We came up at night, and that was an experience - well worth it though when we woke up in the morning and saw the 180 degree view with clear blue skies. We’ll be coming back again soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic stay and amazing view!
The view, it is all about the view. Amazing! The home is great, very clean, and stocked with everything you will need. The home is at 2,000 feet at the top of the mountain, so the weather changes constantly as do the views. It takes about 15 minutes to get up and down the mountain. Probably the steepest road I have driven on. The first time up the road, at night, in the rain, was quite the experience. By the end of the week, I was getting inpatient with people driving slow on the road. Ha! You will think you are driving in the middle of nowhere, but you will be surprised at the amount of traffic you will encounter on the road, as well as the number of homes on the mountain. As suggested, definitely get a large 4x4. I strongly encourage going to Costa Rica during the off season. Every day we had beautiful weather for the first half of the day and some rain in the afternoon. Not once did we have to wear a poncho or even got wet. On three of our tours, we were the only participants. No crowds anywhere. We highly recommend Panoramic. We were celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary and the home helped make it a fantastic and memorable trip.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best ever 2nd stay!
This is our second stay. It was just as gorgeous as the last time!! The washer and dryer was relocated and we didn’t find it until the last day. Other than that it was perfect
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marc G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect
Gr8 place to relax and distress. House well stocked,everything works perfect.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our favorite place.
This was our third visit. We love it!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Denise R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heaven on Earth
Our stay at Panoramica was incredible. The pictures do not give you a sense of how large the property is or how amazing the grounds are. The wildlife just around the property itself was so cool. Monkeys, coati, a thousand different birds and a family of cane toads that came to swim in the pool each night. The house itself is small though you won't spend much time inside. The outdoor areas are phenomenal with very nice furniture. The house is VERY well-stocked. I have traveled to VRBOs in several countries and have never stayed at one that had literally every convenience, kitchen item, etc. like Panoramica does. The dirt road is nerve-wracking the first time but easy after that. The house is located in a fantastic area. We had excursions every day (waterfalls, hikes, boating etc.) and nothing was very far away. My only beef was not with the house but the weather (so just an FYI for those considering times). We went in April expecting sunshine and heat. It was very overcast and rained every single day out of 8 days. So we didn't get as much use out of the amazing pool as we would have liked as it was too cold most of the time. However, the overcast made excursions much more pleasant since we were not baking in the extreme sun. So, if you want to hike etc., I would go in April for sure. If you want to simply lounge at Panoramica, I would pick a month in the dry season instead of April which we were told is "transition".
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

2/10 Terrible

Beth L.

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy
The owner is a nightmare… you may want to steer clear!
We arrived at 5 pm on a Monday after traveling from Miami a total of 11 hours between flights and driving. When we arrived to the VRBO it was filthy… towels outside everywhere, beds unmade, and to top if off, there was no key left outside under the mat. We reached out to the Property Manager, John, who admitted he totally “forgot” we were coming. Now it was almost dark, and raining, but he drove 40 minutes to open the house. The next day the cleaning crew arrived at 8:30 am, and were at the property until 5:30 pm… a total of 9 hours. We felt that the least the owner could do was comp us 2 days and the cleaning fee, but all she was willing to do was give us $450. As the vacation proceeded, she advised us that we were “scammers” and that she was going to call the Costa Rican police… even though we paid for our stay in its entirety. Janet, the owner, continued to verbally abuse us throughout the vacation, putting a very terrible feeling on a very expensive trip! A few additional things to note: We booked this home for its proximity to Playa Dominical (supposedly a 3 minute walk) accordingly the owner’s comments. This was important as our son likes to surf there. It is actually a 30 minute drive to that beach. Next she indicates her square footage is 3000 square feet. We are Realtors in the U.S, and at most this house is 1300-1400 square feet on the inside. The mountain you must drive up to get to the house is treacherous! We got stuck on several occasions.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Judith G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Great Getaway
If your are looking at this listing, press book now! This house is better than pictured. The view is to die for. The house and the furnishings are all in excellent condition. But you’ll spend all your time outside. Ok, it’s true, that trip up the mountain is daunting, but very manageable. We planned daily activities early in the day so that we could be home for dinners and pool time and to avoid driving in the dark. The Jolly Roger was an almost daily stop for wings and a few beers. The house is in a great location for exploring. We went to Manuel Antonio National Park, took a ride with Jungle ATV tours, and visited Nauyaca Waterfall and Alturas Sactuary. I would not hesitate to come back.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Stay
First stay in Costa Rica. Amazing view and amazing hosts. We will return here again!!
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

christian r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best view in Dominical/Uvita area!
As every other review states, the drive up the mountain is a little terrifying the first time, but after 2 or 3 trips you barely even think about it. But the destination is well worth the initial fear....and if all the other reviewers and I have made that drive, you can too! Once you get to the house you will instinctually skip going inside the house and you will immediately make your way to the balcony and/or pool area to take in the most incredible view of the Pacific and more specifically, the coast along the 'Whale Tail' and surrounding area. As my friend (who lives in New York City) said upon arrival, "I have never experienced this level of quiet." The only sounds you will hear are the vast array of birds surrounding you, and the occasional group of Howler Monkeys passing through the nearby trees. As for the house...besides the obviously incredible view from the pool, there are great views from the upper balcony, the living room area, the kitchen, the master bedroom, and the lower suite. The kitchen was beautiful and pretty much had everything we needed. The bathrooms were nice and clean and had plenty of towels and linens. The beds were very comfortable. There were AC units in both bedrooms we used, and the living room as well, but being that the house is atop the mountain, the air is cooler here than any other place we've ever rented in Dominical, and we barely even turned them on. The owner, Janet, communicated well whenever I had a question. This is a cant-miss!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Property
This property is amazing. As other reviews have said, the pictures don't do it justice. We spent many days just hanging around the pool relaxing and enjoying the views. If you are looking for your own private resort in Costa Rica, book this property!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely stunning view
The pictures do not do this place justice. It takes your breath away every time you look at it. We had a few storms and the property manager was very prompt to come and handle our water outage. The neighborhood is super safe and secluded with a guard at the gate. Everyone was super friendly. There were restaurants near by which was nice. I would love to visit this property again.
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Taylor F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Views! Photos Don’t Do Justice!
This house is amazing! The views are the best we have ever seen. The property is gorgeous. Highly recommend, you will not be disappointed. Be sure to get a 4x4 vehicle!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
Panoramica is the best stay in Costa Rica. Great base to work from to see all the local sites. The house is hands down wonderful. I can’t recommend any more highly We saw a ton of wildlife just at the house alone.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ashley C., Rocklin, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hidden Gem
This place is even more amazing in person. Wow, what a hidden gem and we are so grateful that we got to share the experience with family and friends. Thank you for allowing us to stay at your fabulous property! Pura Vida
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heidi B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pictures don’t do it Justice
For my first trip to Costa Rica, this stay absolutely set the tone. It was a little tricky getting there, but it was all worth it! I have never been to a more beautiful place! The views were absolutely breathtaking! It was close enough to the essentials like restaurants and grocery stores. If you don’t wanna go into town, just stop by the Jolly Roger for some phenomenal burgers and wings. We ate at the Sibu Cafe and Scala the last day and the food and vibes were amazing! Alexa’s Market had everything you could need. The best part of all they are all located on the mountain. I will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leisha D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Panoramica Perfecto
Beautiful house and pool. Gorgeous views. You have to drive up a mountain to get there, but you get used to it after a few times. Air conditioned. We loved it.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dennis O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Even better than the pics...
We loved our stay. Communication prior to our visit was on point, John checked in on us to be sure we had everything we needed, the place was immaculate when we arrived. We spent several days just hanging out by the pool enjoying the view. It was so nice we didn't want to leave. The ride up the mountain was a fun part of the adventure, we had 4x4 (absolutely necessary) so it made it easy. Alamo rental met us at the Quepos airport and they could not have been nicer, we highly recommend. We've already recommended Panoramica to friends and we will be back. This home is a one of a kind, special place.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding
Truly exceptional. The views are out of this world and exceeded all expectations. Because the house is so high up the weather is always perfect and at least 10 degrees cooler than at the bottom of the mountain. The AC’s work great but we barely used them and only at night! House is equipped with everything you could possibly need and has beautiful landscaping all around. Our stay was perfect and I would 100% come back here! The drive up is rough and steep! Make sure to get a 4x4 vehicle (be aware you have to switch your car into 4x4 mode) and read the instructions on how to get to the house!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katherine E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
stunning
This house/property is ideal for a getaway where you want privacy, downtime, natural beauty and yet still have access to loads of fun things to do. The info guide that is provided is the best I have ever seen - our experience was heightened by using the recommendations included. Chef Reinier cooked 3 meals for us that were amazing, we used Jorge at Manuel Antonio, Enrique and Humberto and Santa Lucia Falls and loved the Jungle ATV tour. The house is equipped with everything you could possibly need, the pool is amazing - everything was just great. The road to the house, as many have described, is CRAZY. Our flight got in late and so we arrived 15 minutes after sundown, and just as suggested, arriving after dark is a terrible idea! We had a HiLux which allowed going up and down the road - or hamburguesa alley as we called it - doable.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Hosted by Janet Bustrin or Steve Stubelt

Host profile image
We have been in love with Costa Rica since 2000. We looked for 14 years to find this gem - Panoramica. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Why they chose this property

Every visitor, contractor - anyone who comes to Panoramica exclaims about the view, the pool, the accommodations. We're not bragging or over-exaggerating, it's just true.

What makes this property unique

The view, the pool, the experience.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests