Winner of the 2015 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards “Top Hotels” in Costa Rica

 

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Crocodile Bay Resort is the winner of the coveted TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for “Top Hotels” in Costa Rica for the third consecutive year!

 

TV and Major Publications

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Mark Davis and Big Water Adventures film at Crocodile Bay Resort annually for their popular sport fishing show on The Outdoor Channel. Watch a video testimonial from Mark Davis here

Babe Winkelman

“This is much more than arguably the world’s best saltwater fishing. I’d recommend Crocodile Bay Resort to anyone purely on the merits of their exotic tropical setting, scenic beaches, and eco adventures”.

Babe Winkelman: Good Fishing

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David DiBenedetto.: Field & Stream

Costa Rica Field and Stream“Talented captains with dependable boats; an untapped sail fishery; scads of roosterfish with an inborn hostility to live bait and popping plugs.


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Robert Montgomery: ESPN/BASS Magazine

bassmaster“Crocodile Bay Resort is my favorite place for fishing, enjoying nature, and just plain relaxing in Costa Rica. Accommodations, meals, and service are first class, and the setting is a tropical paradise. I can’t wait to go back again.

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Steve Pennaz: North American Fisherman

fishing lineWe raised dozens of sailfish a day, tangled with roosterfish to 50 pounds and enjoyed the best in accommodations, scenery, and service. My recommendation? Fish Crocodile Bay Resort!”

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Flip Pallot: Walker’s Cay Chronicles

walkers“Crocodile Bay Resort is without question, one of my favorite fishing locations on the planet! Unsurpassed fishing combined with eco-activities for non-fisher folk, make Crocodile Bay Resort the perfect destination. I’m packed and ready to leave in the morning!”

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Rusty Chinnis, Outdoor-Travel Productions, Inc.

chinis“I wanted to write you and let you know how impressed I was with your operation at Crocodile Bay. As a traveling Outdoor Writer I have visited many Resorts in South and Central America. Few measure up to the standards you have set in Costa Rica. The rooms, service, grounds and most importantly the fishing are all first class. I landed my first, second and third sailfish on the fly my first day out, what an experience! I would gladly recommend Crocodile Bay to the most discriminating angler.”

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Bob Newman: Bob Newman’s Outdoor Zone

fishing lineI don’t return to many Resorts because I have to visit so many in my line of work. Crocodile Bay Resort is one of the handful I do return to. If you are planning a fishing trip for saltwater species, you must put Crocodile Bay Resort among the top five Resorts in the Northern Hemisphere.

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Mark Sosin: Saltwater Journal

fishing line“Crocodile Bay boasts exciting fishing for billfish, roosterfish, and dozens of other species along with spectacular eco-tours and premier accommodations in one of Costa Rica’s prettiest locations. You can’t ask for more. The comfortable accommodations of Crocodile Bay overlook some of Costa Rica’s best fishing opportunities for countless species that include roosterfish, sailfish, and cubera snapper. Add exciting eco-tours and you have the perfect spot for outdoor adventure at its best!”

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EspnHome to several ESPN Tournaments including the celebrity Sport Fishing classic featuring Robert Duvall

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fishing line“I have traveled the world for the past 20 years as the wife of a Major League Baseball player. During that time I have visited spas throughout the United States, Canada and Japan. I have found the Spa at Crocodile Bay Resort to be right up there with the best.”

Debbie Boggs, Wife of Wade Boggs,
Major League Baseball Hall of Famer

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Guest Testimonials

Costa Rica Fishing Marlin

Trapper Rudd of Cutthroat Anglers had this to say:

“Todd, Jeff,
Thanks a ton for the opportunity to come down. My family and I were blown away by the hospitality!! The entire staff was so polite and wonderful. My wife and children want to move there. The crew of Edgar, William and Francisco were the best “Big Game” crew I have ever fished with. Without their expertise in “teasing” and boat handling, this Blue Marlin could not have been landed on a fly rod. Edgar estimates the Marlin to weigh around 150 to 175. It was by far the strongest fish I have ever battled on a fly. Even big Tarpon cannot match the muscle-power of this magnificent blue water creature. I believe it took between 30 to 40 minutes to land it. Of course, it was released.”

Trapper Rudd
Owner & Guide
Cutthroat Anglers
Silverthorne, Colorado

www.fishcolorado.com

5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 4, 2012

The fishing was absolutely great and beyond what we expected! Fishing was only a part of it. The experience of hiking in the rainforest with Dennis who was so knowledgeable was amazing. We saw 4 species of monkeys, many birds and also many critters that live in the ground. Zip lining through the rainforest is a must as well as exploring the town of Puerto Jimenez. The waves at Precious Beach were very inviting and the water temperature perfect.
Ah yes, the spa is like stepping into a special world of relaxation with many choices of services.
Now I must gush about the food which was delicious and abundant! The best is the staff. They are amazing with their level of service and care for each guest. I loved their smiles everyday and they always made sure we had everything we needed.
I even took the time to relax on the hammock with my book and even enjoy a little nap.
I miss everyone there and can’t wait to plan a return trip.

Carla S
Phoenix, Arizona

 

5 of 5 stars Reviewed September 11, 2012

I am not sure how to thank everyone a Crocodile Bay for a ” Fantastic Trip . ” Hopefully you can forward this message on to the appropriate individuals. Bo, Todd, Anthony, German and the gang were great! Everything went of like clock work. The fishing was everything that one could ask for and more. My daughter caught a 50 lb Rooster, and I came in second not far behind with a 45-pound Rooster, and we split the duty on a 40-pound Rooster. I did manage to bet her out with a 25 lb red snapper and my 57 ” Barracuda. All of which will be seen in future article.

Sandy, Kree and I want to thank everyone for one of our most enjoyable vacations to date. I personally am looking forward to returning again and hopefully not in thirteen years.

Larry T
Valrico

Dave,

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!

We had an absolutely spectacular time at Crocodile Bay – unbelievable! Costa Rica is breathtakingly beautiful and everything about our trip was absolutely first rate. The CB staff couldn’t have been nicer if they’d tried – Olimpia, Flory, Maria, Jenny, Marcus, Erik, Dennis, Alberto and the rest of the crew were amazing. They truly embraced us as if we were family and made every part of our trip spectacular.

We zip-lined through the rain forest, fished for two days – the first day, Todd, Abby and Alex all caught sailfish! The next day it was my turn…wouldn’t you know it…the fish weren’t biting! Regardless, it was a wonderful day on the boat – Geovanni and Mauricio were fabulous – they tried hard to get us fish! We saw a whale and hundreds of dolphins…and more. One morning we went snorkeling with Dennis and Mauricio – very fun! The spa was exceptional – I’ve been to many spas from Vegas and Chicago to LA and NYC – they’ve got nothing on CB’s spa. The team there was top-shelf.

The resort is wonderful – we loved the pool and the grounds. We saw scarlet macaws, toucans, monkeys, crocodiles and more…without ever leaving the resort!

I can’t thank you enough – this was the absolute trip of a lifetime. Our kids both said that they’d be back (Alex – age 18 – is already planning his honeymoon there – and he doesn’t have a girlfriend!!).

The flight in was amazing – so beautiful. The country is lush; the people friendly, gracious and genuine; the food was delicious and the resort was spectacular. Our accommodations were fabulous! Thank you!!

The staff made a special Easter bunny cake for Todd’s birthday and set the table with party hats and balloons. They turned out the lights, lit the candles and had the whole resort (25 people or so) sing Happy Birthday to Todd. It was certainly a birthday to remember! Flory, Maria and Olimpia are a hoot! They are certainly keepers!

I can’t say enough…

I’m about 450 emails behind (in my inbox), so have to run. I’ll be in touch again, shortly!!!

Thank you for helping our family to build such special and amazing memories.

Nancy

Dear Crocodile Bay Resort,

Now that we are back from Costa Rica, I just wanted to send a quick note to let you know what an absolutely incredible time we had.

All our expectations were more than exceeded!! My wife, who was aprehensive regarding the whole trip, is now discussing making this an annual event and is contacting friends to join the fun.

While I know I am missing some by name the entire staff was fantastic! Todd, Ricardo, German and Melvin made the fishing a great experience! Alberto, Dennis, Karla, and Julio made the Eco experience wonderful! Jenny, Jacqulin and Floibeth made the food and drink wonderful! and Adopho and Markus made the transfers, even through Golfito, painless!!

Again, thanks to the entire Crocodile Bay family in making our week and experience we will never forget!

If you need to, feel free to use me as a reference.

Thanks again,

Jeff and Kadi Jensen

Crocodile Bay,

Ang and I had a wonderful time at Crocodile Bay. The resort was all that one could hope for and more. I have fished in Alaska, Canada, Florida just to name a few and I can honestly say that I have never been at a fishing resort that was run as well as Crocodile Bay. The minute we cleared immigrations we were taken care of. We never had to worry about what we were supposed to do or when we were supposed to do it. The tours were fun and educational. The resort workers were very friendly and helpful. The boats were very clean and the captains and mates did everything in their power to try and help us catch fish. The fish didn’t always cooperate but that is why they call it fishing and not just catching. I stepped off a boat after fishing all day and told Todd I wish I could find something to complain about but I jsut couldn’t come up with anything. We caught sails, dorado, and rooster fish for the first time in our lives and loved every minute of it. I probably won’t make it back in 2008 but I am almost positive you will see us again in early 2009. We went to Jamaica in Dec., Costa Rica in Jan. and just got back from the Dominican Republic. The best trip of them all was the trip to Croodile Bay.

Sincerely,
Dick Palmer

 

Dear Crocodile Bay Resort,
I just wanted to let you know that Crocodile Bay was very highly rated by DCX folks. We had a small group of 10 there and they said they would have rather come to the Osa Peninsula and Crocodile Bay for their entire stay in Costa Rica. These folks were Ultimate Car Dealers that got to go on this Ultimate Extension. They were at the Four Seasons in Guanacaste first. We also had some of them wanting to come down again on their own.

I think the reasons were that they had much more a feel of what Costa Rica is famous for in this location; tropical rain forests, abundance of wild life and great fishing. They all liked the intimate lodge feel as well.

Although Crocodile Bay was not used to incentive groups, they were extremely flexible and the management staff on site went above and beyond to accommodate all requests the pax had. Art Lamstein from the California office was great to work with.

Cynthia Ahlberg,
Meetings and Event Planner,
Carlson Marketing

Our guests love it and come back for more!

Feb, 2008

Crocodile Bay,

Ang and I had a wonderful time at Crocodile Bay. The resort was all that one could hope for and more. I have fished in Alaska, Canada, Florida just to name a few and I can honestly say that I have never been at a fishing resort that was run as well as Crocodile Bay. The minute we cleared immigrations we were taken care of. We never had to worry about what we were supposed to do or when we were supposed to do it. The tours were fun and educational. The resort workers were very friendly and helpful. The boats were very clean and the captains and mates did everything in their power to try and help us catch fish. The fish didn’t always cooperate but that is why they call it fishing and not just catching. I stepped off a boat after fishing all day and told Todd I wish I could find something to complain about but I jsut couldn’t come up with anything. We caught sails, dorado, and rooster fish for the first time in our lives and loved every minute of it. I probably won’t make it back in 2008 but I am almost positive you will see us again in early 2009. We went to Jamaica in Dec., Costa Rica in Jan. and just got back from the Dominican Republic. The best trip of them all was the trip to Croodile Bay.

Sincerely,
Dick Palmer

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

First, let me say what a great time we had! Everything was first rate. We were very impressed with Crocodile Bay and especially with the knowledge of all of our guides. As someone who travels a lot within the U.S., I can tell you that I have never stayed in any U.S. hotel or resort that had the attention to detail that Crocodile Bay’s house-keeping staff had. And the cooks, wait staff, bartenders and front office personnel were outstanding as well.

Thanks again for your help. Your responsiveness to our initial inquiries gave us the confidence to give Crocodile Bay a try (we were looking at another CR vacation outfit but too little too late on the info). And you continued to provide excellent customer service even after our contract was set. All in all, we rate this a 5 star vacation!!


Kenley Hetzel
Consumer Solutions Manager
Masterfoods USA
Highlands Ranch, CO

February 17, 2007

OLA!!
We are home from Costa Rica & what a wonderful trip – we
hope we’ll be returning next year (after all, I never made
it out to the chocolate plantation!).

Took Eco-tours into rain forest ; had ‘hands on’
experiences at the exotic animal rehab refuge (they recondition, care for and/or release birds & “exotic” animals confiscated from smuggling trades & mistreating owners); took a private tour of Botanical Gardens on the Osa Peninsula – at first glance our host seemed a reminder of our Earthchild days of the 60’s & 70’s, but he was an absolute whiz (and an inspiration considering the fete he accomplished in building a respected, dream inducing botanical site). He lives his passion and holds serious knowledge of botany & gardening. His compound & gardens look like something out of a movie set. The only way in & out is by small boat, so no roads (presume everything there was solar) so his work is a true challenge since you can’t just hop in the car & run to the store for potting soil, seeds or fertilizer).

– Our lodging was on the 2nd (top) floor – roomy bath &
main room, replete with much needed A/C . A large deck
looked right out into almond & Ylang-Ylang trees (which held
huge scarlet macaws, toucans & other exotics @ eye level for our enjoyment while sitting in oversized wood & leather
rocking chairs during cocktails or morning coffee).

– Crocodile Bay’s 1 yr old spa is in a low sprawling
building right on the compound. Faint scents of clean
exotic herbs & flowers wafted through its rooms & I could’ve
sworn I was in a posh Palm Springs Resort inside. The decor
is high end tasteful with a hint of tropics. They had a
complete menu of treatments, massages, etc…but Mark only opted for an upper body massage & I fell asleep during a facial – I am such a hick!.

– Cuisine @ Crocodile Bay resort’s worthy of the very
best U.S. restaurants – local & Cuban specialties, beautiful
fruits & salads…3 squares a day if you wanted it (drink &
food was all part of package)… we just had trouble
deciding what to select for dinner each night. We can
always get steak, prime rib & rack of lamb @ home, so
usually it was one of 4 or 5 fresh (off the daily charter
boats) fish…grilled – Ahi/Tuna, Wahoo/Ono, Snapper,
Corvina/Sea Bass, Marlin, Dorado/Mahi-Mahi, Seviche (mixed
fresh seafoods “cooked” in lime & spices), or perhaps
grilled prawns or seafood bisque?…all prepared in a large
spotless kitchen by trained chefs in their immaculate white
uniforms & tall chef’s hats. If you even hesitated at a
dish, they would immediately appear to explain (in very good
English) its ingredients, preparation… or even ask you if
you wished something else (the only time we hesitated was
merely to decide how to try EVERYthing – the buffet setup
for breakfast & dinner allows a wide range – from a healthy
weight conscious approach to sheer indulgent gluttony!

– Other lodge services were 5 star too – friendly &
attentive without being pretentious. Seems that even if you
“thought” you wanted something, it instantly appeared. The
lodge is US owned but staffed mostly with locals or Ticos
(native Costa Ricans) from other areas, with a few
Internationalities thrown in. English is easily understood
by all staff we encountered. Service is friendly &
efficient…in other words if I swam up to the pool bar &
took a seat, the bartender was already muddling the mint
leaves for my refreshing (and authentic) Cuban Mojito (or if
it was Mark, they had blackberries in the blender ready to
make him a Blackberry Colada)….and speaking of the
beautiful pool with a rock waterfall (hot tub was at the top
of the “volcano” of course!), we should mention the 1st day
there no one was in the pool when we heard a splish-splash & saw a 2′ long “Jesus Christ Lizard” (Basilisk) running on
his back legs full speed across the surface of the deep end!
Apparently named because they “walk on water” this guy
appeared more than once around the pool, but didn’t pose any threat to anyone – he merely showed up for a daily ration of pineapple rind from anyone who might supply it…like having the Nature/Discovery channel without even touching a TV dial.

– Charter fishing is with the lodge’s own service – the
best of fishing gear (according to both Audie & “Marco”) –
all boats were nearly brand new Boston Whalers with
professional Capt & mate (who thankfully spoke
English)….and yes, Mark’s catches included Sailfish,
Dorado, Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish (a shaker), Big Eye
Tuna, Bonita, and a huge Moray Eel (also a shaker, only the
mate cut the line far away from its needle-like fangs). All
but the snapper were released (and that grilled snapper WAS delicious @ dinnertime!). In our ventures across the Golfo Dulce (Sweet Gulf) we also saw lots of reef fish, “regular” dolphins (could almost touch them from the boat), spinner dolphins, marlin, various types of sea turtles & manta rays jumping…there’s probably more I just can’t remember right now.

I visited a few local artisans, although there’s very
little to the old gold mining town of Puerto Jimenez. Town
itself consists of a few dirt roads & makes a lot of places
in Mexico look posh. Only the small airstrip is “paved”
(and even that is chip seal…and located right along the
wall of the local cemetery). As soon as each NatureAir
plane lands – there are several in & out daily, the airstrip
is filled with kids on bikes & dogs….so much for TSA
standards! We both love the views & experience of small
plane flight, but be prepared to bump a little in & out of
San Jose while climbing over the mountains – and likewise be
prepared to enjoy the sights of the coastline as you
approach the gulf to land – from the plane we could even see dolphins chasing after the boats!

I often walked out of the 45 acre compound, through the
gate (with a golf umbrella borrowed from the lodge for
shade) & took a dirt road to an ocean beach about 3+ miles
away – Playa Preciosa ..isolated with a few rustic thatched
cabanas (for some reason I was hearing old Jimmy Buffet
tunes in my head!)…pure & beautiful with just a couple of
well-hidden “resorts” (which we’d call “bed & breakfasts for
the naturalist soul”). I usually saw 2 or 3 kinds of
monkeys (including howlers), lots of exotic birds, herds of
odd Brahma cattle (thankfully fenced – some had huge horns!) and many many butterflies (even several of the famed big, Blue Morphos). I was joined in my travels by 2 local dogs – one hound & the other a Samoyed mix – I called them Thelma & Louise. They’d run a little ahead & dutifully look back over their shoulders to make sure I was following (HOT & HUMID even @ 8AM – walks there are not for wussies!). Occasionally the dogs would disappear & I’d find them sitting in & drinking from deep pools in the creeks we
crossed. Once we got to Playa Preciosa towards the far end
of the beach they were in & out of the ocean & up under the Cabanas before I could even get my feet wet!

Our journey both coming & going included 1 night in Costa
Rica’s capital, San Jose…it’s almost as high as the
Klamath Falls basin & surrounded by lush green mountain
ranges…a LOVELY climate there – mid to high 70s with
slight breeze & humidity is less than Portland even though
it’s very tropical. On the way home, our driver, Carlos,
apologized that he couldn’t actually check us into the Hotel
Cariari Melia; but he could only drop us off with our bags
to the bellhops in front “due to security”…seems they were
having a summit of all the Presidents of Central American
countries there that day ! We were not inconvenienced at
all (told Carlos that had it been the US, we wouldn’t have
even be allowed to stay @ same hotel!) – but it WAS
interesting to see how they do security & secret service
down there…and we never did catch a glance of Mr. Ortega!

Kay Doolittle

Wednesday Jan 24, 2007

I would like to thank you for a wonderful time spent last week at your resort. All of the staff was excellent. I was with the Ferguson group Lee Kline. The trip was definitely a trip of a life time. Thanks to all and I would like for Todd to see this and to let him know that German and Erick were and probably are the best crew he has. In talking with the 12 men that were there with us German and Erick definitely did the best job and I am coming back every year just to be on their boat. Their hospitality and ability to land a sail fish on a boat with a broken rod was just incredible. Wonderful job. Please let them know how much they were appreciated.

Thanks again.

Randy L. Laguna, Vice President
Merit Sprinkler Company, Inc.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Dear Rick and Dave,

We are back from our trip to Crocodile Bay Resort and wanted to tell you both that we had an absolutely incredible visit!

From the minute we were met in San Jose the CBR staff did everything possible to see that our every wish was granted.

The resort was fabulous…the perfect blend of Costa Rica “elegant rustic” and lavish ambience. The beer was always ice cold, the drinks perfectly mixed, and the food delicious! We won’t even try to describe the decadence of the desserts or the spa!

As for the fishing…CBR’s reason for being…it was awesome. We arrived at the resort about 9:30 a.m. Met with a luscious fruit smoothie (rum optional), check-in went without a hitch and by 10:15 we were on a boat with our very accomplished and accommodating captain, Leandro, for some inshore Rooster fishing. Catch (and release) for the day? Seven very respectable Roosters and three needle fish. Imagine Carol’s delight when Capt. Leandro pronounced her Rooster the day’s big win at an estimated weight of 45-50 lbs.! (See attached photo.) I had a couple of impressive contenders, but clearly she was the big winner on Day 1.

Costa Rica Fishing

Day 2 found us heading off shore. Although I missed a strike by a majestic Marlin, a 60-70 lb. tuna was a great “consolation” prize. (See attached photo.) Capt. Melvin and our mate Marisco saw to it that we had a great day on the water and that we didn’t come home empty handed. That night we enjoyed our catch courtesy of the wizardry of CBR’s very accomplished chef.

Day 3, and our final day of fishing, found us off shore again with Capt. Melvin. This time, though the billfish remained elusive, our catch included more tuna and several beautiful and feisty Dorado, providing more fodder for the larder as fresh-caught Mahi. (See yet more attached photos.)

Costa Rica FIshing

All in all it was a fabulous trip on and off the water. We’re already planning a return trip and are telling all our friends about the special allure of Crocodile Bay Resort.

Warm regards and our thanks to both of you,
Capt. Bob and Carol Owens

Costa Rica

I just wanted to touch base with you after our trip to Crocodile Bay, Costa Rica. As always your planning and itinerary were perfect just like my previous visits to Costa Rica. Everyone at Crocodile Bay did all they could and more to make sure that my wife and two daughters had the trip of a lifetime! We went fishing, snorkeling, and explored the rain forest during our stay. My wife and daughters even got a couple of the girls that worked at the Resort to take them shopping one afternoon in the village and then came back to enjoy the new spa! We only wish we could have stayed a lifetime!

It was a great spring break vacation and I would recommend it to any of your clients that would like to take their families to Costa Rica to experience an area of the country where development has not spoiled the pristine beauty of country.

Regards,
Charlie Payne

“We recently had the great fortune to go to your resort in Costa Rica. I am writing to let you know that our experience, from start to finish was FANTASTIC!!!” >>MORE

“The luck continues for me here. Perhaps my best day fishing anywhere in the world- and i have fished hawaii venezuela, ghana africa and ascension island. For today the costa rican slam- 20 lb. Dorado, 150# yellowfin tuna, 100 lb. Sailfish, 225 lb. Blue marlin, and the crème de la crème, a 450 lb. Blue marlin.

Andy Fanter
Valley Center, KS

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“the most complete fishing and touring service anywhere! That includes all of the smiling, friendly, captains, touring and Resort staff.

The boats are well maintained and clean. Food and beverage rate at least a 10.

Charles Arndt,
Fin & Feather Safarie

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“wait ‘til our friends see the pictures and hear the stories. We will have to make plans to return with many ohters.
Great fishing, service & accommodations

Bruce & Sharon Sauger

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“Crocodile Bay Resort is one of the most unique fishing and eco-tour destinations I’ve ever visited. First class service, first class fishing & first class flora & fauna right outside the Resort’s well-appointed rooms. Crocodile Bay Resort has it all, including my five star rating, which few Resorts have ever earned. I’m already planning my trip in 2002!”

” At 63 I had never been sailfishing before and the people at Crocodile Bay Resort gave me everything I needed to make a dream come true. A great staff that make you feel right at home- one of the family. The food, rooms, boats, and gear are all top notch. The walk and ride on our escorted trip into the rain forest was a great way to see what’s inside that wall of green thats all around you. The air is so clean you can see forever. Oh! and now I can say I’ve caught a Sailfish, Roosterfish, Dorado, Jack Corvell and many more! Thank You!”

–– Don Baker
Newark CA

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To: Crocodile Bay Resort Owner and Staff — April 16, 2003

I am writing to say we had a great time for our first of what will many future trips to Costa Rica via Crocidle!!

Your Resort facilities were very inviting the carved hard woods and doors used really set off the ambience of the rooms and Resort. All your office staff, especially Elizabeth and Eric made for a personable experience. I can’t say enough about your staff. They were always attentive making every effort to see that my wife and I were having a great time.

Your Chef Maurice has an outstanding personality and his cuisine was always exceptional and beautifully presented. My wife really enjoyed the fresh flowers on her plate and at the table everyday.

Your use of native flower and the Chanel #5 fragrant trees interspersed in the landscape around the Resort was spectacular and truly added a finale touch to the tropical paradise setting of your Resort. The young lady tending the poolside bar presented her tropical drinks artistically and was very talented with her palm leaf weaving of grasshoppers etc..

Your boats, captains, and deck hands always seemed to be working to see that we had a great time and that our tackle was set up properly so as not to have any line, hook, or knot failure. We raised and released many sails on fly and 15# test light tackle. I even landed a 120 + lb. sailfish, tail hooked on light tackle in in what turned out to be over one hour fight. Todd your boat coordinator checked in with us everyday to tend to our request for the up coming fishing day, he was very helpful and attentive.

My wife enjoyed her rainforest, and beach horse riding tour. She found Johnny very knowledge about the flora and fauna of the local rainforest and mangrove species as well as the many medicinal benefits of the forest plants. She commented that they saw more animals birds and flowers in your tours then we saw in the gondola rainforest canopy tour we took near San Jose.

We had the good fortune of touring Costa Rica from Puerto Jimenez in the south to Flamingo Beach resort in the north, and to the east to the Atlantic rain forest. We found Crocodile Bay and the Martino to be most to our liking and we will be back next year and every year we are able.

While staying in San Jose we stayed at the Hotel Spa Resort Martino for three nights I can’t say enough about this incredibly beautiful and exceptionally well done hotel and staff. While staying we toured to the volcano Poas and the Lapaz Butterfly & Waterfall Gardens (C.R. Tel 506-394-3349 www.waterfallgardens.com.) for reservations. This Tour takes from 9 AM until about 4 PM. Also one should tour the Zoo across the street from the Martino to view plants, tropical birds and animals. This Zoo can be seen in about two to three hours. Tickets for the Zoo are $4.00 US when bought at the hotel desk.

Again thank you! And big thank you to Xenia Mena of Costa Rica Travel Web.!

Peter & Patsy Margiotta

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Elizabeth: I want to personally thank you and the entire CBL staff for the wonderful display of hospitality shown both me personally and our Hunter Banks group during our stay last week. The dedication displayed and willingness of the CBL to accommodate is perhaps unparalleled in this day and age of travel.
I look forward with anticipation to my next trip. Regards,

Edwin M. Waleryszak

“How to say THANK YOU!!!?

For ….. sails on a fly ….. Macaws mating in tree tops ….. Holler monkeys awakening you from a dream ….. roosters in the surf sparing with diving frigate birds over boiling bait ….. three fingered sloths ….. butterflies galore ….. broaching whales ….. parrots squawking a wakeup call ….. toucans heading west in the sunset ….. and an orchid paradise.

Your staff is outstanding, demonstrating a rarely seen enthusiasm toward their guests enjoyment, ensuring an adventure of a lifetime both in angling and experiencing the habitat of Costa Rica. Jeanette and I have never enjoyed a vacation more! Your staff and Resort provided us with material for a lifetime of dreams. Crocodile Bay Resort is a proud achievement of your vision and hard work. Again, thank you!!”

Ted & Jeanette Olson

 

http://www.caranx.net/index.htm
Press
Orvis Travel – Field Reports
Costa Rica’s Crocodile Bay Resort
Mike Quartararo

The flight to Puerto Jiminez, Costa Rica, the location of Crocodile Bay, goes from San Jose over the Talamanca mountains, across a landscape where coffee plants stripe the countryside towards the Pacific wild coast. The verdant scenery is intriguing, but your attention quickly turns to the expanse of the Pacific and dreams of a great fishery.

Crocodile Bay Resort is less than a mile from the airstrip that serves the Osa Penninsula and we quickly arrived to find a cold drink waiting and the guides standing by in the boats. My friend Carrie and I headed straight for the dock.

By 11:30 a.m., I was hooked up with a 120 lb. Pacific sailfish. The impact of the take and acrobatics of that first hooked sailfish are unforgettable. Later we landed dorado and yellowfin tuna on conventional gear, and that night enjoyed the distinct pleasure of having the yellowfin served as sashimi and ceviche.

Day two offshore we immediately hit a school of dorado at the mouth of the Gulfo Dulce and Carrie was catching them as fast as she could get a line into the water. I grabbed my 10 wt Trident TL rigged with sinking 10 wt Wonderline and cast a blue and white deceiver behind the stern into the mass of turquoise torpedos. After two strips I was into a fish and the action continued as I played and landed dorado in the 5-15 lb. range. Later, as I cast to what seemed to be a bigger dorado, I hooked the best fish of the trip on a fly. It jumped and tail walked for a full 45 minutes, but finally, due to the exceptional drag system on my Vortex reel, I landed a 40 lb. bull dorado.

The inshore fishing in the Gilfo Dulce is extremely rich and, since it’s a large, remote body of water, we fished for two days without seeing another boat. Schools of 30 dolphins cruised by, acres of baitfish were chased by bonito and we spotted a 100 lb plus sailfish inshore. We also encountered roosterfish, a brute of a fighter who makes spirited jumps, and one memorable day had great fun catching five fish in the 30-45 lb range and one 55 lb. fish on the fly. To make things even more interesting, there was great inshore fishing for snook, snapper and Pacific jack, and more.

The rich wildlife and rainforest equaled the fishing. This remote corner of Costa Rica has been called the “most ecologically intense place on Earth” and the “richest forest on Central America.” Crocodile Bay is not far from Corcovado National Park, a true wilderness where jaguar tracks can be seen on the beach and flocks of macaws are among the 400 species of birds. It’s one of the most interesting places in Central America to trek in the rainforest or kayak along the mangrove estuaries where crocodiles, monkeys and sea turtles are common sights. Carrie and I went out with Tom Hutton, a local guide, and spotted toucans, scarlet macaws, trogons and a host of colorful tropical birds. Anyone with an interest in nature has to take some of these tours in addition to fishing.

Crocodile Bay Resort is less than a year old and is beautiful. The rooms are spacious and air conditioned. The pool and jacuzzi fit right into the landscape. The meals were excellent, featuring local cuisine. The staff, including the fishing crews were attentive and fun. It’s definitely Orvis quality and I highly recommend it. I’d go back in a flash.

http://www.orvis.com

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More 2006 Testimonials From Our Guest-Book at Crocodile Bay Resort!

Jan 14/06
To the entire staff at Crocodile Bay-Thank you for making this week so special for my dad and me. We caught a lot of fish, saw amazing wildlife, met terrific people and had a wonderful time! We’ll see you soon!

Elizabeth Neuhoff, Chicago & Bob Russell
Missouri

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Jan 15/06
Once again a great time! Fishing, eco-touring, swimming, the staff are exceptional and the food was high quality!! Thanks for the memories.

Frank and Cindy Todisco

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Feb 6/06
What a great four days-loads of sails and marlins too, absolutely the most dedicated staff around. Will be making the trip twice a year now.

Ed Fasthook from Bronx, NY

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Feb 10/06
We had a great trip. First time ever bill fishing. Landed a few nice ones and lost a few nice ones. I caught my first rooster- fish about 50lbs. We enjoyed all the wonderful staff, everyone from hotel, bar, restaurant, and more. This was our first trip/visit to Crocodile Bay and we are planning on returning in the near future. We hope to bring family/friends with us so they can enjoy the best time ever, like ourselves. Thanks to All of the Staff at Crocodile Bay for a wonderful time ever!

Tim and Penny Mallory
Seattle, Washington

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Feb 2006

Our third year here has been better than ever! Service by all 150 staff is impeccable, making us feel right at home. We have formed a wonderful kinship with all the smiling, always helpful personnel, whom could not be more accommodating. Brian was the ultimate chief eco- tour manager; his bright smile made our days! Richard fished for sailfish five days off shore, catching 44 sailfish and I caught 3 sailfish, my first! Now I know what all the fuss is about, extremely exciting!!!

We finally met the owner of this very fine establishment, a gentle and warm- hearted man full of charisma and genuine caring demeanor.

Judith and Richard Schram

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Feb 26/06
The warmth of the staff and expert instruction of guides (Alberto especially) made the 7-day stay one we would recommend to anyone. The special touches-flowers on our porch, the delicious drinks and wide offering of dishes at all the meals, plus the treasured beauty made this week colorful, fragrant, tasty, hard to end! Thanks to all who gave us warm smiles and greetings and good service. God Bless!

Paul and Carol Brouha

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Feb 27/06
We thank you so much for giving us the ‘job’ of relaxing! We found a perfect balance of exciting fishing and spectacular eco-touring. Surfing! Monkeys and 50 new species of birds in just one day. Danilo was a huge success for us, as was Alberto. Carlos, the driver, was helpful and charming as well. As for the house staff…thank you all-

Judy and Lee Rusconi, Eureka, Ga.

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March 7/06
We came not knowing what to expect, hoped for a lot, and had our hopes surpassed. The fishing was fun with an experienced and friendly captain and 1st mate. Better still, they love to fish too, so they worked hard to get us into those beautiful sailfish!

Thanks Victor & Steven

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March 7/06

We surfed, mountain biked, horseback riding and snorkeled too. All of the guides were knowledgeable and fun. Thanks Brian, Danilo and Hilo ( if anyway gets a chance, ask for these guys!)

Kan & Nicole Mercer

P.S. Thanks to all for taking such great care of us (esp. Todd!)

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March 8/06
Our first, but not last, trip to Crocodile Bay. We were very impressed, not only with the beautiful facility, the fantastic food, the fishing and eco-tours, but the staff was absolutely fantastic! John caught his first sailfish and I caught a Dorado…..-A big one !
(To me, anyhow!) The zip-line was thrilling and interesting. I’m sure the pictures won’t do this place justice, but we intend to tell everyone we know! We will send them pictures…..and they can’t stop us! Thanks for a fabulous week!

John and Sharon Ludell
Concord, North Carolina, USA

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March 9/06
What a wonderful time! Your staff really made our kids feel at home. For a 10 and 7 year old, not knowing what they were coming into, they were so sad to leave. We will be back and hopefully some friends from Orange County California will be with us. Thank you again for the great fishing, eco-tours and experiences.

Scott, Laurie, Alyssa, and Brian McIvor

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March 20/06
The best resort in all of Central America. The best staff is your greatest asset. Wonderful attitudes. A credit to your Country!
Ken Cashin
Tallahassee, Fl.

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May 2/06

Had a fantastic vacation! The beauty of the country was only exceeded by the hospitality of everyone on the staff. Great Job! Will highly recommend your organization.
Walt and Susan Dill

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June 23/06
Crocodile Bay is AWESOME! We had a great time fishing and enjoying the other activities. All the people were so nice. Thanks for an awesome vacation!

Love,
Paula and Scott Nice
Stephanie, Greg and Scott Wieland

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June 29/06
Great time, first roosterfish and my wife and son got their sailfish. Fabulous! We´ll be back!!! Love you Ticos!!

Chris, Shannon, Trevor & Zach Johnson
San Diego, CA.

Did I forget to mention the FOOD!? Excellent!!