The hype
Travelers love the 'private island' novelty and the staff's warmth, but the food bill at checkout often comes as a shock.
Isla Chiquita Gampling
$200-350/ night
Book this if You want the bragging rights of a private island stay without the Four Seasons price tag, and you're okay with 'camping lite' to get it.
Why People Love It
- The bioluminescence tour is a legitimate bucket-list experience right off the dock
- Glamping tents have real king beds and en-suite bathrooms (no walking to a communal block)
- Complimentary water taxi makes you feel like a Bond villain arriving at your lair
Quick Take: It’s a fantastic island escape as long as you understand that 'glamping' still involves humidity, bugs, and thin canvas walls.
Reviewed by @byoliviahaley: I felt like a castaway in the best way possible. Taking the boat over set the tone immediately. My tent was pure luxury, but having a private pool on the deck and monkeys swinging in the trees above made this stay unforgettable. It’s the perfect disconnect.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Noise travels through canvas — you will hear the ferry horn, the generator, and your neighbors' conversations.
- You want to kayak in bioluminescent water without a 2-hour bus ride
- You're a couple seeking a romantic disconnect but refuse to sleep on the ground
- You don't mind a steep uphill walk to get the best ocean views
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily service is thorough; staff sweeps sand and refreshes towels reliably.
- Bathroom hygiene: Surprisingly modern and spotless for a tent; double vanities and proper flushing toilets.
- Maintenance: Canvas is well-kept, though salt air causes quick wear on metal fixtures (zippers, faucets).
- Linens & towels: Crisp white linens that feel hotel-grade, not camping-grade.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze, occasional whiff of diesel from the ferry if the wind turns.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Paquera ferry horn (runs nearby)
- Electric generator hum (near lower tents)
- Howler monkeys at 5 AM
Before you book
Good to know
- You park for free at the 'Punta Cuchillos' lot on the mainland, then take their free panga boat over.
- Raccoons are professional thieves here; never leave snacks or toiletries unlocked in your tent.
- The bioluminescence is best seen during a New Moon; check the lunar calendar before booking.
What to pack
- Headlamp/Flashlight (paths are dimly lit to protect turtles/wildlife)
- Water shoes (essential for the rocky beach and kayaking)
- Dry bag (for the boat transfer and water sports)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Tent 17 (or high-numbered Premium tents) for the best unobstructed ocean views, though it's a hike up
- Premium Ocean View with A/C and Plunge Pool for the only true 'luxury' experience on the property
Rooms to avoid
- Lower-numbered tents near the service area/generator if you are sensitive to mechanical hums
- Standard Tent Suites if you cannot sleep without A/C (they only have fans)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a tent located higher up on the hill for the best ocean views and privacy. Please ensure I am as far away from the generator and service areas as possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there A/C in the tents?
Only in specific categories. You must book a 'With A/C' room type; the standard tents rely on ceiling fans and cross-breezes.
How do I get there from San José?
Drive ~1.5 hours to Puntarenas, take the ferry to Paquera (70 mins), drive 10 mins to Punta Cuchillos parking, then take the hotel's 10-min boat.
Is the food expensive?
Yes. Expect US prices ($20-$30 entrees) plus tax/service. Since you can't easily leave, budget accordingly.
Are there bugs?
Yes, it's a tropical island. Mosquitoes are present (especially green season), and ants/crabs will visit if you leave food out.
Is the beach swimmable?
It's calm (gulf water), but rocky and tidal. It's better for kayaking/SUP than traditional swimming; use the pool for dipping.
Is there WiFi?
Yes, and it's surprisingly decent (often Starlink), but can be spotty during storms. Good enough for emails, risky for Zoom.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the bioluminescence tour for your first night; if weather cancels it, you have backup nights to reschedule.
- ✨
The 'Symbiosis Trail' hike on the island is free and offers great views—do it at sunrise to beat the heat.
- ✨
Buy your ferry tickets online (Naviera Tambor) in advance; the line at the port can be hours long.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'arrival experience' involves a wet landing or a wobbly dock depending on the tide—dress for agility.
💡You can hear the neighbors unzip their tent if they are close by.
💡The pool is quite small—think 'large jacuzzi' rather than 'resort lap pool'.
💡There are no TVs in the rooms, forcing you to actually talk to your partner.
💡The water taxi stops running at night, so you are effectively stranded on the island after dinner.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Isla Chiquita Gampling is located and what's nearby.