Soulmate House (left), 2 min to Garza Beach.

A short distance from scuba diving, surfing, and more, this welcoming vacation home lets you experience it all. Jump into your car and make short work of the 10-minute drive to Playa Pelada or the 8-minute drive to Nosara Biological Reserve (and enjoy the property's convenient onsite parking in the meantime).

After you return, you can unwind by the communal pool or sip a drink in the garden; you may also like the deck or patio and BBQ grill. As for the great indoors, you can come inside and enjoy the free WiFi and cable/satellite TV.

A dining area, air conditioning, and a desk are featured at this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental. Bathroom amenities include a hair dryer, towels, and toilet paper. Prepare a home-cooked meal in the kitchen, complete with an oven, a stovetop, and a refrigerator, as well as a coffee maker, an electric kettle, and a microwave. And because there's a washer and dryer, you can go a bit lighter on your packing.