On our first visit to Casa Blanca in 2011, we felt as if we had stumbled into paradise, perched above the ocean to capture Pacific breezes and postcard views, and perfectly chic in its concrete- and glass-constructed simplicity. Seven years later, that initial sense of discovering paradise has not diminished. Quite the contrary. Every time we return, the property is even more spectacular as the landscaping grows more lush with hibiscus, bougainvillea, and seemingly dozens of varieties of succulents. And if your timing is right, you can even eat bananas right off the trees. Just as noteworthy is how well-tended the whole property is: the house, the pool, the outdoor living areas are all in excellent condition, thanks to Davie and Lizbeth, the absolutely incredible caretakers of the villa. Casa Blanca feels like a home with a history, not an anonymous rental house.
Days at Casa Blanca start with the sun rising over the jungle, hearing the birds and maybe the howler monkeys. Padding down the concrete stairs to slide open the front wall of glass and let the dawn air in, make the coffee, and greet Bruno after his long night's work. Bruno is the house dog and about as endearing as they come. Whatever happens after coffee—a hike/run in the hills behind the house, a trip to the beach, an excursion to Cabo Blanco, or just an ATV run into town for another watermelon and some more beer to supplement the pool-time snacks—it’s imperative to be home in time for sunset. The view from the upper deck is utterly breathtaking and not to be missed.
Things to know: the bedrooms are all well-proportioned, air-conditioned, and have very comfortable beds. The master bath is ensuite, with a large walk-in shower, double sinks, and a view of the jungle that’s hard to believe. The second full bath is situated between the jungle view and ocean view bedrooms and is easily sharable—also with a large shower and double sinks. Downstairs, accessible from the fourth bedroom and from the patio, is a half bath. There is an outdoor shower just outside this bath, and another outdoor shower upstairs outside the master. The kitchen is stocked for people who like to cook—high quality pots, pans and appliances. (We put the juicer and the blender to good use daily.) Be sure to take advantage of the jungle swing in mid-afternoon. It offers some welcome shade as you nap or stare into the hills. And I probably don’t need to say that the pool is glorious, but the pool IS glorious—always the right temperature whatever the time of day. The road to get up to Casa Blanca requires 4WD and is private and remote, but still just a short drive to town. We find that ATV’s are the way to go, and super fun.
And one more thing… in addition to being wonderful hosts, Davie and Lizbeth are fantastic cooks, and will prepare and serve lovely meals. We choose to stay home for dinner almost every night—they’re that good, and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.