
1 / 26Imagine waking to the gentle rhythm of the Pacific, the scent of tropical blossoms carried on a soft breeze. This exceptional Matapalo estate, priced at USD 449,000, offers a rare opportunity to embrace the quintessential Costa Rican lifestyle or cultivate a thriving rental income. Spanning a generous 1,500 square meters, the property presents a harmonious blend of private living and guest accommodations. The main residence, a comfortable 100 square meters, features two well-appointed bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing a serene sanctuary. Complementing this, a spacious 81 square meter carport includes a separate guest suite with its own kitchen, perfect for visiting friends or extended family. Beyond these, two newly constructed, self-contained apartments, each measuring 37 square meters, offer additional versatility. A sparkling pool, complete with an inviting deck and convenient bathhouse, provides a refreshing oasis for relaxation and enjoyment. With a total of four bedrooms and two bathrooms across its various structures, this meticulously designed property, encompassing 278.7 square meters of construction, delivers an unparalleled blend of comfort and income potential in a coveted coastal setting.
This expansive property encompasses 278.7 square meters of construction across 1500 square meters of land. The main residence offers two bedrooms and a single bathroom, providing comfortable living space. Complementing the main house are three distinct rental units, including a guest bedroom with a private kitchen. Two additional, newly constructed apartments each span 400 square feet, enhancing the property's income potential.
The outdoor area is a true highlight, featuring a refreshing swimming pool, an inviting pool deck, and a dedicated bathhouse. The property is fully fenced and gated, ensuring privacy and security. A substantial 875 square foot carport provides ample covered parking. This versatile estate is strategically located just one kilometer from the pristine beaches of Playa Matapalo, known for excellent fishing and surfing.
Practical amenities are well-addressed, with the property offering convenient access to local infrastructure. Its position near the highway facilitates easy advertisement for vacation rentals, while an underpass provides direct, safe access to Matapalo's local shops and restaurants. This configuration allows for flexible ownership, with the option to acquire the main house, guest house, and carport separately from the two new apartments and pool.
Discover the allure of Matapalo, Quepos, Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a micro-location that truly embodies the essence of Pura Vida. This charming beach town offers a refreshing alternative to more bustling tourist hubs, presenting an authentic local experience with less traffic and a more relaxed pace of life. For those looking to buy property in Costa Rica, Matapalo provides an ideal setting for both tranquil living and savvy investment. The community character here is defined by its welcoming atmosphere and convenient access to daily essentials. Supermarkets, local restaurants, and a hardware store are all within easy reach, fostering a self-sufficient lifestyle.
The property's proximity to Playa Matapalo is a significant draw. Just a short journey down a paved country road, this pristine, undeveloped beach is famed for its excellent fishing, consistent surf breaks, and shaded white sands perfect for leisurely afternoons. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean and spending your days enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific coast. This area’s microclimate is typically warm and humid, characteristic of the Costa Ballena, offering lush tropical surroundings year-round.
Matapalo’s strategic location also places it within reasonable proximity to larger centers. While offering a peaceful retreat, it’s not far from the vibrant hub of Quepos and the globally recognized Manuel Antonio National Park, celebrated for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife. This pairing of a working fishing port with world-famous national-park beaches minutes away offers a unique blend of local culture and world-class natural attractions. For those considering real estate Dominical Costa Rica or property Uvita, Matapalo presents an equally compelling option, providing a more intimate community feel without sacrificing access to regional amenities. The lifestyle here caters to a diverse range of aspirations, from surfing and retirement to remote work or establishing a successful vacation rental business. The ease of access from the main highway, coupled with an underpass directly into town, ensures seamless connectivity while preserving the area’s tranquil ambiance. This makes it an exceptional choice for those seeking Costa Ballena homes that promise both serenity and potential for growth.
Explore more about this area on our regional guide page.
This Matapalo estate offers compelling investment potential, particularly for those seeking a blend of personal enjoyment and income generation. The property, featuring a main residence and three additional rental units, is well-suited for both short-term vacation rentals and longer-term leases. Its strategic location, a mere kilometer from the undeveloped beach and directly off the main highway, enhances its appeal to tourists. While specific regional price-per-square-meter data varies, this offering, at $1,611 per square meter of construction, presents an attractive entry point into the Costa Rican real estate market, especially considering the included income-generating structures.
The ideal buyer for this property is an individual or family looking for a primary or secondary residence with built-in revenue streams, or an investor keen on capitalizing on Costa Rica's burgeoning tourism sector. The ability to sell portions of the property separately provides a unique exit strategy, allowing for flexible future development or divestment. Costa Rica's stable political climate, growing tourism, and increasing desirability among North American expatriates make this an opportune moment to invest. The Matapalo area, known for its authentic local character and proximity to pristine beaches, offers a less saturated market compared to more established tourist hubs, suggesting strong appreciation potential.
Model rental income for this property with our rental income calculator.
Ownership of this property is structured as fee simple, granting you full and clear title. Foreign buyers enjoy the same ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens, ensuring a straightforward acquisition process. Estimated closing costs typically range between 2% and 4% of the purchase price. Annual property taxes are remarkably low, assessed at 0.25% of the registered value. Furthermore, with a purchase price exceeding $150,000, this investment makes you eligible to apply for an investor visa, facilitating your residency in Costa Rica. These clear legal frameworks and favorable tax conditions provide a secure and appealing environment for international buyers.
Review title types and due diligence in our fee simple vs concession guide.
The allure of Matapalo extends far beyond its physical beauty and practical amenities; it offers a profound lifestyle transformation for those seeking a more authentic and fulfilling existence. Imagine waking each day to the gentle symphony of tropical birds, the air fresh with the scent of the ocean, and the promise of adventure or tranquility just moments away. This isn't merely a place to live; it's a philosophy, a conscious decision to embrace a slower pace, prioritize connection with nature, and immerse oneself in a vibrant, welcoming community. For buyers aspiring to escape the relentless demands of urban life, Matapalo provides a sanctuary where stress melts away, replaced by the rhythm of the tides and the warmth of the sun. The absence of overwhelming tourist crowds means that daily interactions are genuine, fostering a sense of belonging that is often elusive in more commercialized destinations. Here, neighbors become friends, local shopkeepers know your name, and the shared appreciation for this slice of paradise creates an immediate bond. The lifestyle in Matapalo is inherently active and outdoor-oriented. The pristine Playa Matapalo, a mere kilometer from your doorstep, becomes an extension of your backyard. Picture morning strolls along the uncrowded white sands, the gentle waves inviting you for a refreshing swim, or perhaps an exhilarating surf session as the sun rises. For the avid angler, the rich waters off Matapalo promise bountiful catches, transforming a hobby into a daily ritual. Evenings might involve gathering with friends for a fresh seafood dinner at a local restaurant, the flavors enhanced by the day's adventures and the company of good conversation. This property, with its flexible layout and multiple living spaces, perfectly caters to a variety of buyer aspirations within this idyllic setting. For those dreaming of a permanent relocation, the main house offers a comfortable and private retreat, allowing them to fully integrate into the Matapalo community. The additional rental units, whether utilized for long-term tenants or vacationers, provide not only a significant income stream but also the opportunity to share the magic of Matapalo with others, fostering a sense of hospitality and connection. For the entrepreneur, the property’s prime highway frontage and proximity to the beach present an unparalleled opportunity to establish a thriving vacation rental business, capitalizing on the growing demand for authentic Costa Rican experiences. The ability to live on-site while managing rentals offers an ideal work-life balance, where business blends seamlessly with the relaxed pace of coastal living. Imagine greeting guests, sharing local insights, and watching them fall in love with the very lifestyle you've embraced. Furthermore, the option to purchase the property in parts allows for tailored investment strategies. A buyer focused solely on a personal retreat might opt for the main house, guest house, and carport, enjoying a more intimate and manageable property. Conversely, those with a stronger entrepreneurial drive might acquire the two new apartments and the pool area, immediately stepping into a ready-made income-generating venture. This flexibility speaks to the diverse aspirations of individuals drawn to Matapalo – from those seeking a peaceful retirement haven to ambitious investors looking to tap into Costa Rica's booming tourism market. Ultimately, Matapalo offers a unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit, making it an irresistible destination for anyone yearning for a life less ordinary. It's a place where the simple pleasures of nature are cherished, where community thrives, and where the dream of a tropical paradise becomes an attainable reality. Owning a piece of this extraordinary locale is not just an investment in real estate; it's an investment in a richer, more vibrant way of life.
Matapalo, Quepos, Puntarenas
Quepos, Puntarenas
Principal broker

In Costa Rica since 2004