Testimonials
Google Reviews
This place is the shit, Maxine who runs it is an amazingly cool hybrid human she is 1 part concierge 1 part entertainer/hostess. (Honestly still not doing her justice).
The property itself is breathtaking, the views are breathtaking. It’s just amazing.
Probably gonna just buy it and keep it for my self.
But then Maxine wouldn’t be there and the place would not be same.
We recently attended a retreat in Costa Rica at a remarkable private property called Punta Gabriela, and it was an unforgettable experience—made truly exceptional by our host, Maxine Gomez. From the moment we arrived, the hostess, Maxine’s warmth, thoughtfulness, and extraordinary attention to detail set the tone for an experience that was both restorative and inspiring.
Perched on a lush hillside with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the estate was a tranquil sanctuary, beautifully integrated into the surrounding rainforest. Every element of the property reflected Maxine’s refined taste and deep care—from the elegant, eco-conscious design to the inviting open spaces that welcomed connection with nature.
Maxine ensured that each of us felt seen and supported. She anticipated needs before they were expressed, creating an atmosphere of comfort and ease that allowed us to fully relax and be present. Whether arranging a peaceful yoga session or coordinating a blissful spa treatment, her efforts were always personal and perfectly timed. Her ability to strike the right balance between structure and freedom gave the retreat a natural, effortless flow.
The culinary experience was another highlight, thanks to the incredibly talented Chef Paige, whose meals were vibrant, nourishing, and customized with care. Maxine worked closely with Paige to ensure that every dietary need was met thoughtfully and deliciously. Each meal was a celebration—colorful, flavorful, and infused with local ingredients and creativity.
Maxine also encouraged us to connect with the local community, which added a beautiful dimension to our stay. When we visited the nearby town, we were met with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. Exploring the lively ferias, we delighted in fresh produce, handmade crafts, and the joyful rhythm of Costa Rican life. These moments of cultural connection made the experience feel deeply rooted and authentic.
Adventures like hiking to hidden waterfalls offered a peaceful thrill, but what stayed with us most was the way Maxine made us feel—not just accommodated but truly cared for. Her dedication to creating a meaningful, personal, and unforgettable retreat was evident in every interaction, every detail, and every thoughtful gesture.
Maxine’s heart and hospitality transformed a beautiful setting into something extraordinary. We returned home renewed, inspired, and incredibly grateful. For anyone seeking a retreat that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit—with a host who leads with grace, intention, and authenticity—we wholeheartedly recommend Punta Gabriela and the exceptional experience that Maxine curates.
xo Lori & Evan
Staying at this beachfront jungle resort was nothing short of magical. From the moment I arrived, I felt completely reset—welcomed into an environment where luxury is beautifully simple, deeply personal, and incredibly refreshing.
I stayed in Villa 1, which featured a private pool and jacuzzi—perfect for soaking in the peaceful jungle surroundings. The sunset views were absolutely unbelievable, painting the sky with colors I’ll never forget.
The resort strikes the perfect balance between intimacy and warmth. It felt exclusive and serene, yet had a grounded, family-like vibe that made it easy to relax and feel at home. Being so close to waterfalls and immersed in nature only added to the enchantment.
If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind, reconnect, and enjoy understated luxury in a breathtaking natural setting, this is it.
The room & accommodations are amazing, the food is outstanding, the views are incredible, and the Hostess with the mostess goes above and far beyond. Can’t wait to go back.
Tripadvisor Reviews
Our Reviews
Amazing trip, amazing house, amazing hosts and staff!
We spent a full week at Punta Gabriela over the Christmas and New Year holiday and I can’t say enough about what an incredible trip it was. The property, the hosts and the staff were some of the best I have come across in my travels. No ask was too big or too small to accommodate and the adventures we booked through them were top notch! Will definitely plan to return to Punta Gabriela if we are lucky enough to have the opportunity to.
Outstanding Week at Punta Gabriela
The property is beautiful. Great ocean views and the suites are luxurious. German the chef and manager was the best. Great food every day.
Jesse and Karen were welcoming and made the stay feel like you were at home.
Would love to come back again some time.
Pure love & magic
So grateful to have experienced the pristine magic that Punta Gabriela has to offer and I will spend countless words convincing people to experience it in their lifetime. I cannot imagine a better way to absorb the essence of pura vida than through the lens of this magical jungle paradise.
Every detail of the stay & property was oozing with love and intention that immediately opens the heartspace and changes you as a person. The nature. The views. The flowers. The food. The fluffy pillows. The furry friends. The warm smiles and pure hearts. Every detail is set to provide the most loving and pure experience imaginable, and they will put every effort in to help cultivate your dream vacation, whatever you want that to look like.
I truly cannot express my gratitude for every member of the Punta Gabriela family in enriching and being a part of our experience, I feel like I left Costa Rica with family and I’m already longing for my next visit. I cannot wait to see this beautiful corner of Earth and beautiful people again. Thank you, thank you, thank you Punta Gabriela familia. Mucho amor ❤️
Come for the views, leave feeling like family
We have traveled to a lot of beautiful places in the world, but this place is definitely a small piece of heaven. Jessie and his staff make you feel like family. We used every room on this property with family ages 5-75 and everyone was amazed by the views, food, rooms and service. Just an overall amazing experience. Pictures don’t do it justice – you have to go! Truly a magical place. 5 star accommodations and service.
Family Vacation of a lifetime
Dominical is the cutest hippy town in the Manual Antonio area. The Punta Gabriela is just 3min from Dominical which has just about everything; grocery store, yoga, surfing, souvenir shopping, brewery, and helado.
Punta Gabriela is ultimate living on the cliff overlooking the ocean. The staff took amazing care of us, and the little niños we had with us. The kids will remember this as the time of their lives. We went out on a boat, arranged by Punta Gabriela, ATV from the Villas, and ziplined. Every day, German made breakfast for the entire family working around dietary restrictions and preferences. They did all the shopping, even for snacks and other drinks & alcohol that we wanted during our stay. We stayed over NYE and Jesse, Minor, and staff arranged an amazing fireworks display from the helipad. I’ll say there wasn’t a request or ask that anyone had that the staff wasn’t already ahead of and already addressed. After renting the entire place for our extended family, we’re looking forward to returning with the just the 4 of our immediate family to enjoy again. Loved it and couldn’t be happier.
Easy, Peaceful and Relaxing
This was my third trip to Costa Rica and because of Jessie and Karen at Punta Gabriella, I won’t stay anywhere else.
As a retired five star hotelier, I have very high expectations when traveling. Punta Gabriella has always provided a first class experience.
Take your friends, family or coworkers… it’s so easy when you have Jessie n Karen handling everything from airport transfers to amazing excursions to five star dining!
Just book your flight and go!
A week in paradise
Absolute lovely stay at Punta Gabriela. Great views, awesome staff and Jesse / Karen / Karena super helpful in all requests we had.
Amazing location, incredible food, great accommodations, and really interested hosts to make your stay perfect
We have just returned from our stay at Punta Gabriela and we already miss it. There is something really special about being so high up in the mountains overlooking the ocean amongst all of the nature on the property. Considering a blend of hospitality, location, amenities, and adventure options this is a sure win for your group or family.
Starting with the staff on site, as this is what will make your stay here more beneficial, you are taken care of. They brought our bags down to our villa, they cooked as many delicious meals as we asked for, they had the property in immaculate condition, and they made us feel like we are at a 5-star resort. The hosts on the property are Karen and Jesse and they for sure will go out of their way to guarantee you have the best time. The leader of the staff is definitely the Chef German but he was aided by Rider and several others on site to make it a fully complete experience. Before arrival, Jesse was easy to communicate with to start planning and asking questions. During the stay, they were both very hands on and extremely helpful to ensuring we had the best time.
The rooms were so cool. Essentially, they were villas for each couple or family. This worked out great as we could spend time with our group but had the option to get away with some private space which typically isn’t the case in a short-term rental. The rooms were all outfitted with very comfortable bedding, hot showers, working toilets, and great air conditioners!! Very comfortable and cozy overall. Our group had 14 people and there was enough room for a few more.
On our trip, the hosts helped us arrange many adventures and thrills. While at Punta Gabriela we were able to use the ATV trucks, the huge pool, hot tub, ping pong table, ring game, cable tv for the thanksgiving football games. Oh yes, they actually cooked us a real thanksgiving dinner which was totally over the top. Also, the hosts were able to help secure our adventure guide who took us on the ATV tour along with some extreme waterfalls to explore. We also zip lined, river rafted, did a monkey tour, and saw the whale tail in a natural reserve.
Bottom Line: If you are going to Costa Rica, stay here!!
Best family vacation
Hey Jesse,
Just wanted to drop you a quick note thanking you, Karen and your entire team for being such welcoming and gracious hosts. Your property is amazing, as is the country you live in. PG was an incredible home base for us and the girls enjoyed every bit of it, which is what it’s all about. One of my goals is to have a place in CR one day, and this trip continued to reinforce that desire.
Thanks again for everything. We really appreciate you all going above and beyond for us and sharing your lovely property (and jungle animals / insects / reptiles) with us. Herman and minor, and the supporting staff, were allstars and a pleasure to be around.
Will come see you again sometime in the near future.
Cheers!
Andy
One of the top vacations I have ever taken!
Punta Gabriela was an amazing place to stay, and we will definitely return. My two granddaughters, age 8 and 11, were with us and there were plenty of things to do to entertain them….waterfall hikes, zip lining and swimming at the beach and on the property. The chef made us many meals, mostly breakfast and dinner, and they were all outstanding. The rest of the staff was helpful and friendly…it was like staying with family!! Definitely one of the top vacations I have taken!
Absolute Paradise/Surreal Resort!!!
This was my second stay at Punta Gabriella and the best word to describes this place is absolutely SURREAL. This resort is so spectacular, it is both beautiful, calm and tranquil, with a tantalizing yet cool vibe. It’s meticulously design and absolutely breath taken views of the Pacific Ocean and jungle, along with exotic animals seen at various time willmake you never want to leave the property. The people who own it and the staff there are wonderful, you feel at home and very comfortable. They are very warm, accommodating and friendly. This is a very unique resort and experience. I feel like it’s the best combination of the mediterranean islands and the tropics of the Exumas/Bahama.
Most unique way to visit Costa Rica!!!!
Most Beautiful Resort in Costa Rica!
I had the best stay at Punta Gabriela! It was my first time in Costa Rica but the owners really made me feel at home. Not only are the views absolutely breathtaking but the vibe of the entire resort is what I imagine heaven to be like! I will definitely be coming back in the future this resort is my new found happy place.
Our core values are dedicated to giving you the best service in paradise. Our team delivers the most outstanding personalized experience possible. We work hard to maintain our values and deep commitment to each of our guests.
Important Links
Contact Information
- Reservations: 1-(786) 239-5101
- maxine.puntagabriela@gmail.com
- 506-8802-6521
- 64RX+XW Dominicalito, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
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