What Our Guests Say About Southern Drake Lodge
At Southern Drake Lodge, true luxury reveals itself through experience. Our guests consistently share thoughtful feedback about their time with us. They often mention the calm of our rainforest setting, the privacy of our suites, and the care shown by our team.
Rather than focusing on accolades alone, we value the stories our guests tell. These moments reflect seamless stays, meaningful connections, and unforgettable encounters with Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
A Reputation Built on Excellence
Guests frequently highlight:
- The comfort and privacy of our spacious, thoughtfully designed suites
- The peaceful atmosphere created by our rainforest and ocean surroundings
- Attentive, personalized service throughout their stay
- Easy access to Corcovado National Park, Caño Island, and Drake Bay experiences
We maintain a consistently high standard of hospitality. This commitment is reflected in the exceptional reviews we receive across trusted travel platforms.
Genuine Experiences, Thoughtfully Delivered
Guests visit Southern Drake Lodge for many reasons. Some celebrate honeymoons or special occasions. Others seek adventure or quiet immersion in nature. Many describe their stay as both restorative and enriching.
A number of guests return, while others recommend us to friends and family. Their trust means everything to us.
Trusted by Travellers Worldwide
Our reviews come from travellers across the globe who value authenticity, comfort, and personal service. Their feedback guides us as we continue refining every detail of the guest experience.
Experience It for Yourself
We invite you to discover why Southern Drake Lodge consistently earns outstanding reviews and heartfelt recommendations. Experience boutique luxury in Drake Bay, where thoughtful design, attentive service, and Costa Rica’s extraordinary wilderness come together.
Explore our guest reviews below and begin planning your stay.
EXCELLENTVerified Trip you won’t regret An unforgettable stay at SouthernDrake Lodge From the moment you arrive to the moment you (reluctantly) leave, Sue and Joe make you feel like part of the family. Their warmth and attention to detail create an atmosphere where nothing is ever too much trouble. The lodge itself is immaculate, with breathtaking views in every direction. Meals were outstanding — beautifully prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Huge thanks to Maria for delivering restaurant‑quality dishes every day. Whether you want to unwind by the pool while listening to the sounds of the jungle or head out on trails that lead to stunning, secluded beaches, this place has something for everyone. And if fishing is your passion, Joe’s knowledge and experience guarantee a unique and memorable adventure. If you’re considering a getaway, book your trip to SouthernDrake Lodge. You won’t regret it.Posted onVerified Can't say enough - Unique, incredible, amazing, wonderful etc etc...!!! I’ve just come back from an incredible trip to Southern Drake Lodge with my friends, it was amazing from the moment we arrived until we very sadly had to leave. I can honestly say it was one of the most memorable places I’ve ever stayed, jungle that wraps around the property, wildlife everywhere, and a sense of serenity that hits you instantly. We were privileged to spend our stay in the ocean view suite. It was spacious, beautifully put together, and gave us plenty of room to unwind and relax. We enjoyed many hours on the decking, where we had a front row seat of the jungle, taking in the awesome scenery, spotting birds, lounging in the hammock, and cooling off in the gorgeous infinity pool. Using the open aspect shower each morning was a truly exceptional start to the morning. The large bed was really comfortable, and we fell asleep each night to the sounds of the jungle and woke up to birds, monkeys and other creatures right outside our room. Wildlife moves freely around the lodge, it’s magical, as you really do feel at one with nature. Once we tore ourselves away from our room, the rest of lodge itself is designed with real sensitivity to the landscape. It is an absolute credit to the owners, Joe & Sue. They have truly built a dream property (by their own hand BTW), it’s an extraordinary place to stay and their hard work and passion for the lodge and guests are evident in every detail. Every morning we used the large outdoor pool; it was lovely and warm to get your lengths in! The surrounding garden and plants have all been beautifully landscaped and there are numerous seating areas to enjoy the outdoor spaces. The meals we had here was another highlight. The kitchen team delivers quality that rivals any good quality restaurant. I don’t eat meat and all my dietary needs were catered for without issue and tasted amazing. The quality was genuinely impressive, including the fresh Tuna, caught by Joe himself the day before. Bob and Rio the resident dogs are a great additional to the amazing team here, they too offer a warm welcome with a wagging tail and are also lovely and friendly. Southern Drake Lodge is an amazing place to spend some time. It feels much more than an hotel. If you’re looking for somewhere really special to stay, then I couldn’t recommend this place more. Having spent two weeks travelling through Panama & Costa Rica, Southern Drake Lodge was the clear favourite of the entire trip. I’m still amazed by how special it was and it’ll be a place where the experience will stay with me for a lifetime. To all at SDL - Thank you for an incredibly amazing time!!Posted onVerified Beautiful Southern Drake Lodge Just back from an unforgettable stay at Southern Drake Lodge in Drake Bay, Costa Rica—and honestly, it exceeded every expectation. From the moment we arrived, the setting felt like something out of a nature documentary. Surrounded by lush rainforest the scenery alone is worth the trip. But what really made it special was the whole experience. The lodge itself is beautifully designed—comfortable, peaceful, and perfectly integrated into the environment. You fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle and wake up to birds and wildlife all around you. We spotted monkeys, colorful birds, and even more just steps from our room. The food deserves its own mention—fresh, varied, and consistently delicious. Every meal felt thoughtful and full of local flavor, with a level of quality you don’t always expect in such a remote location. What truly sets this place apart, though, is the atmosphere. It feels personal, relaxed, and genuinely welcoming—like you’re being let in on a hidden gem rather than just staying at a hotel. If you’re looking for somewhere that combines comfort, incredible nature, and a sense of escape, Southern Drake Lodge is something really special. Already dreaming about going back.Posted onVerified A unique experience in Drake We had a truly unforgettable stay. The place itself is absolutely incredible, but what makes it even more special is Jo, the owner, who welcomes you into his world with such authenticity. He is passionate about what he does and has a great sense of humor, which makes the whole experience even more enjoyable. It felt like a magical escape in the heart of the jungle. We stayed there with our children, and they instantly felt at home. The food was also exceptional—Maria, the chef, is fantastic, and her positive energy is contagious. We highly recommend this place!Posted onVerified Simply Wonderful! Words cannot do justice to our wonderful time at Southern Drake Lodge. Joe and Sue were the consummate hosts and really did go above and beyond in accommodating every request. Mostly, requests were not even required, as things were prepared, arranged, and taken care of before we could even think of them. The accommodation is an amazing oasis of luxury, and fantastic dining in the middle of the jungle. Food here really does need a special mention- it was simply superb! Maria, and Thai served us with masterpieces fit for any restaurant, anywhere. That they did so in the middle of the jungle often felt quite surreal, and is something I’ll never quite get my head around. We have so many amazing memories from just 5 nights here- from showering while watching a family of howler monkeys in the garden trees, to lazing in the hammock while staring up at the milky way. I could go on and on, but that would spoil your visit! If you are even remotely considering Southern Drake Lodge- DO IT, it’s an amazing place, run, and staffed by amazing people.. Thank you Joe and Sue for creating the most special and valuable family memories that will stay with us forever. Pura Vida..Posted onVerified Book this place if you can! Words cannot express how incredible this place is but here goes nothing. This is not your average boutique hotel experience. This is an expression of passion, heart, hard work and love. My family and I had the absolute privilege of staying here for a week - every single detail has been carefully considered. And I’m not exaggerating when I say details! details! details! From absolutely mouthwatering three course dinners, to high quality linens, to daily laundry and housekeeping , to the kindest and sweetest hosts ….(and I could go on and on) this place has truly set the bar so incredibly high I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to forget it. And that’s the point… you can’t! It’s been over a week since we’ve come home and we speak about the Lodge and its hosts everyday. We’re already planning our return. To Joe and Sue and their incredible team, thank you so much for welcoming us into your secret paradise - it was a dream, one that I am still processing. You’ve all left a lasting impression on our hearts, you feel more like friends and family to us now and I just want to say that you should all be so proud of yourselves. You’ve created something so uniquely special and unforgettable. Thank you thank you thank you. We cannot wait to come back!!! Thank you for being the beautiful people thank you are. Your care and love are palpable. You and your tribe and your lodge deserve to be celebrated. If you have the opportunity to stay here, spoil yourself don’t hesitate, you will never forget it!!!!!Posted onVerified A true gem! I was not expecting anything like this. Southern Drake Lodge amazed me from the moment our family of five arrived. The rooms are absolutely gorgeous — crafted with beautiful teak and granite, with stunning windows. Our suite had soaring high ceilings and the space felt so good just to be in. Every detail feels intentional and luxurious - and comfortable. The landscaping is equally gorgeous- lush, layered, and so beautifully maintained that simply walking the grounds is a pleasure in itself. Plus the pool, decks, hammocks, and hanging chairs… so relaxing. The meals were something else entirely. Rather than a buffet (which I had been imagining) each course was individually and masterfully plated and served — and all of it showcasing unique Costa Rican cuisine. Every bite was delicious, and every meal felt like a special occasion - a gift, truly. For our family, the experience went far beyond the lodge itself - exploring the trails, discovering the town and the beaches - all of it together made for an incredibly full and memorable stay. The owners, Joe and Sue Southern are extraordinarily kind, and attentive. It's quickly apparent that they make every single guest feel completely at home. When my son needed documents printed to take an online exam during our stay, Joe and Sue made it happen without hesitation. That kind of genuine hospitality is rare and unforgettable. And yes — the cocktails were absolutely delicious too! I'm in awe of what Sue and Joe are doing. I feel so grateful for our time with them. I left feeling inspired in an unforgettable kind of way - not only by this week, but by who they are as people. And I must say, I love love loved being around Bob the dog, who escorted us on trips to town. :-)Posted onVerified Book immediately! I cannot say enough about this place, I genuinely feel like I have left behind long lost friends which is a credit to the hospitality from Jo and Susanna Southern the owners of Southern Drake Lodge. I booked my reservation as a treat to myself last minute for 2 nights and after 5 minutes at the Southern Drake Lodge I was requesting 2 additional nights which was gratefully accommodated. Hospitality Not sure where to begin, the Southern Drake Lodge is absolutely beautiful in a stunning location designed and created by Jo himself a labor of his love clearly on display. However, what makes it even more special is the owners Jo and Susanna Southern’s hospitality. Both Jo and Susanna could not do enough for all guests, constantly on hand to make sure everyone is comfortable. Transport They had transport waiting for me on arrival and from the moment I entered Southern Drake Lodge I was blown away. Meals Thai and her crew in the kitchen created the most delicious breakfast and dinners I have ever had. The meals are served at a communal dining table for all guests to dine together, meals can be served in room if requested in advance. Rooms Every room has a different but beautiful view of the rainforest. Excursions Susanna went out of her way to organize my last minute diving and mangrove boat tour through Good Catch Costa Rica tour company who were amazing. I did not have to worry about anything. Solo traveling As a female traveling alone I felt completely comfortable and safe. Wildlife Every morning I was greeted with a wake up call from the local birds and howler monkeys. On most days you can see monkeys in the trees. Not to forget Bob, Rio and Gia (the two friendly rescue dogs and cat). Final note to say, this place is luxury with heart. I cannot wait to plan my next trip here and bring my Mum. Thank you Jo & Susanna.Posted onVerified The Aldred Family of 10 I took my Children and Grandchildren for spring Break 2026 to this beautiful peaceful lodge. It was a little architectural gem built by Jim and Sue. The food prepared by Maria was 5 stars. We highly recommend this as your spot visiting the Oso Peninsula. Donna aldredPosted onVerified Simply amazing It’s not possible to say enough good things about our stay here, we loved every second. The property has a beautiful jungle view within walking distance of the beach. Joe and Sue were incredible hosts (going above and beyond when we arrived unwell) Incredible food for breakfast and dinner every day! Always fresh and delicious Our rooms were cleaned every day and laundry was provided The hosts were so helpful in helping us arrange our time and activities. I’m so glad we extended our stay to 8 nights to truly enjoy everything drake bay and the property had to offer. Bob, Rio and gala 🐱🐶 were great company around the property. Thank you all for the most wonderful stay.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
EXCELLENTTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had the best time staying at Southern Drake Lodge. Sue and Joe are amazing hosts, welcomed us with open arms, and made us feel at home and comfortable in the jungle. The accommodations are beautiful and comfortable. We spent most of our days out on excursions, and made it back to hang and relax at the lodge in the afternoons. We enjoyed the pool(s), the hammocks, and just sitting and reading on the porches while watching the amazing tropical birds fly by. We adored their dogs and cat and it made us feel at home to have furry friends under foot. The food was sooo good. Maria, the dinner cook, is quite talented and a wonderful person. She had us licking our plates clean and kept us well fed. Louis cooked us breakfast, which was fairly simple but also delicious. Our kids aren’t picky, but they were ready to accommodate if so. We did snorkeling and a tour of Corcovado and got to see amazing sea life and jungle creatures. We also had a “chill” day, where we lounged a bit longer and did a neat local hike that Sue and Joe recommended. If you are heading to Drake Bay, this is the perfect spot, with the best hosts, in a spectacular location!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a truly unforgettable stay. The place itself is absolutely incredible, but what makes it even more special is Joe, the owner, who welcomes you into his world with such authenticity. He is passionate about what he does and has a great sense of humor, which makes the whole experience even more enjoyable. It felt like a magical escape in the heart of the jungle. We stayed there with our children, and they instantly felt at home. The food was also exceptional—Maria, the chef, is fantastic, and her positive energy is contagious. We highly recommend this place!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Susannah, Joe and the entire team at Southern Drake Lodge are absolutely amazing. Everything you could ask for is taken care of so you can simply enjoy your vacation on the Osa Peninsula. The breakfasts are made to order and the decadent dinners are 3 courses of freshly prepared, locally inspired and sourced for you every single evening. The lodge is nestled in the forest so every morning you wake up to the tranquil sounds of nature all around and fall asleep to the same lovely soundtrack: Birds, breeze and oceans waves in the distance. And if you're looking to venture out snorkeling or fishing or hiking the national park, their team of guides and planners create a schedule to fit your every need. Or if you don't want to do any of that, worry not, the pool is lovely and the balconies are massive so relaxed lounging is also on another level. My wife and I along with her mom and 2 brothers all stayed for a full week and leaving was so much harder than we'd all expected going into the vacation. That's all thanks for the great people and great space that is the Southern Drake lodge.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Words cannot express how incredible this place is but here goes nothing. This is not your average boutique hotel experience. This is an expression of passion, heart, hard work and love. My family and I had the absolute privilege of staying here for a week - every single detail has been carefully considered. And I’m not exaggerating when I say details! details! details! From absolutely mouthwatering three course dinners, to high quality linens, to daily laundry and housekeeping , to the kindest and sweetest hosts ….(and I could go on and on) this place has truly set the bar so incredibly high I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to forget it. And that’s the point… you can’t! It’s been over a week since we’ve come home and we speak about the Lodge and its hosts everyday. We’re already planning our return. To Joe and Sue and their incredible team, thank you so much for welcoming us into your secret paradise - it was a dream, one that I am still processing. You’ve all left a lasting impression on our hearts, you feel more like friends and family to us now and I just want to say that you should all be so proud of yourselves. You’ve created something so uniquely special and unforgettable. Thank you thank you thank you. We cannot wait to come back!!! Thank you for being the beautiful people thank you are. Your care and love are palpable. You and your tribe and your lodge deserve to be celebrated. If you have the opportunity to stay here, spoil yourself don’t hesitate, you will never forget it.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough about this place, I genuinely feel like I have left behind long lost friends which is a credit to the hospitality from Jo and Susanna Southern the owners of Southern Drake Lodge. I booked my reservation as a treat to myself last minute for 2 nights and after 5 minutes at the Southern Drake Lodge I was requesting 2 additional nights which was gratefully accommodated. Hospitality Not sure where to begin, the Southern Drake Lodge is absolutely beautiful in a stunning location designed and created by Jo himself a labor of his love clearly on display. However, what makes it even more special is the owners Jo and Susanna Southern’s hospitality. Both Jo and Susanna could not do enough for all guests, constantly on hand to make sure everyone is comfortable. Transport They had transport waiting for me on arrival and from the moment I entered Southern Drake Lodge I was blown away. Meals Thai and her crew in the kitchen created the most delicious breakfast and dinners I have ever had. The meals are served at a communal dining table for all guests to dine together, meals can be served in room if requested in advance. Rooms Every room has a different but beautiful view of the rainforest. Excursions Susanna went out of her way to organize my last minute diving and mangrove boat tour through Good Catch Costa Rica tour company who were amazing. I did not have to worry about anything. Solo traveling As a female traveling alone I felt completely comfortable and safe. Wildlife Every morning I was greeted with a wake up call from the local birds and howler monkeys. On most days you can see monkeys in the trees. Not to forget Bob, Rio and Gia (the two friendly rescue dogs and cat). Final note to say, this place is luxury with heart. I cannot wait to plan my next trip here and bring my Mum. I would not hesitate to book! Thank you Jo & Susanna.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My father and I had an absolutely splendid time at the Southern Drake Lodge. From Joe's humor and fishing stories to Susana's caring hospitality, we were blown away by the location, activities, food, and overall environment offered by the hotel. Special shoutouts to Thai, Maria, and the rest of the culinary crew, as well as Bob and Rio the dogs.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Southern Drake Lodge is an incredible place. Our room was spacious and gorgeous - we loved waking up to the howler monkeys and watching the variety of birds visit the tree right in-front of our balcony while we had coffee. The chef was wonderful - every meal was different and delicious. We were busy with many active outings during our stay and having daily included laundry service was such a welcome perk. We loved cooling off in the pool every day when we’d return. Sue was so warm, friendly, and welcoming. I’d highly recommend Southern Drake Lodge to anyone lucky enough to be traveling to Drake Bay.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been all over Costa Rica. I have visited at least nine times in the last few years. After about the third visit we realized everything we wanted was in the Drake Bay area. Now we know that the best place to stay in the Drake Bay area is Southern Drake Bay Lodge. Best food. Great accommodations. Great owners. Everything is so accessible in the Drake Bay area and you are within minutes of the city, the ocean, or exploring the rivers and other adventures all around. Couldn't recommend Southern Drake Bay Lodge more.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the most beautiful places I have ever been to, and I have truly traveled to many places… Wonderful owners, great service, and everything else was amazing.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family group of 6 had a wonderful stay, occupying 2 of the suites. The property and suites are gorgeous. This is a small, boutique lodge, with very personalized service from the owners. The food, particularly, the dinners, was outstanding, by far the best food in Drake Bay! Highly recommended.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
EXCELLENTVerified Probablemente uno de los mejores alojamientos en los que me he hospedado.Joe y Sue nos hicieron sentir muy cómodos, Ellie, la chef es divertida y tiene una mano excepcional para la cocina, Kairo mantiene el jardín bellísimo, y el resto del equipo hacen que sea un sitio de ensueño.El entorno de Drake/Corcovado es espectscular, lleno de animales y vegetación, bastantes actividades incluso en temporada baja. De verdad que es una joya.Posted onVerified Joe and Sue were amazing hosts! We arrived in the evening and immediately had an activity plannend early next morning. But breakfast was already prepared and was waiting for us in the fridge so we didn’t have to go with an empty stomach. They proactively arranged the taxis for us, another thing we didn’t not have to worry about.Joe and Sue are very lovely people with an amazing property and location. In the morning we did activities and in the afternoon we enjoyed the large swimming pool.Also a big shoutout to Ellie, she is the cook who made amazing 3 course dinners every evening for us. Definitely recommend this place!Posted onVerified Un grand merci à Susannah et Joe pour leur accueil, leur service et leur disponibilité.Nous avons été enchanté par le cadre, une nature luxuriante grandement mise en valeur grâce au domaine.Tout est beau et bien pensé pour que vous vous sentiez comme à la maison, le tout plongé au coeur de la nature et des animaux.La cuisine est excellente grâce à la magie d’Eli, qui a su nous concocter des plats très savoureux.Le petit déjeuner est également très bon et très copieux, merci Joe !Susannah est au petit soin pour vous rendre le séjour le plus agréable possible.Le cadre est idyllique : la piscine, les plantes, le bar, la décoration .. le tout avec vue !C’est avec certitude que nous reviendrons séjourner ici.Posted onVerified Our stay at Southern Drake Lodge was the highlight of our first trip to Costa Rica. Joe and Susannah are incredible hosts. No detail is missed—food is delicious, they had everything prepared to make us feel welcome including helping us to organize tours and outings. They even arranged for a cake surprise for my birthday. Honestly we didn’t want to leave! The property itself is beautifully and thoughtfully designed with native plants and animals all around. If you are headed to Drake Bay, this is the place to stay!Posted onVerified This was the last stop of our trip and I don’t think we could have stayed at a better place. Sue and Joe were so helpful and welcoming to their lodge. The place was so beautiful, the pictures don’t even do it justice. I’m so glad we stayed here, it was the perfect place to visit for our goodbye to Costa Rica.Posted onVerified Elsa, Sue and Joe were fantastic. Best place we stayed in Costa Rica, the photos don’t do the stay justice. The travel by car wasn’t as bad as initially thought, so don’t be put off by this! The cabin was perfect. Utterly. No complaints.Posted onVerified Sue’s communication regarding the drive from San Jose to the last hour and a half of dirt roads left us full of anticipation! When we arrived the place was incredible views, the property and surrounding were all just amazing. Elsa greeted us and showed us around with such a warm welcome. Joe and my husband hit it off as they love to talk (especially about the construction of the property). We can’t forget to mention the entertainment from Bob, Rio and Gala. We just wish we got up when Bob was letting us know there was a tapir knocking down a banana tree! We can’t say enough about this trip and how amazing it was! Thank you Sue and Joe! I’m sure we will be back!Posted onVerified I loved my time in Southern Drake Lodge! I was travelling solo and felt really looked after. Joe and Sue’s place is awesome and they go above and beyond to create a great, relaxed atmosphere and camaraderie. The room and amenities are as described and more! Everything is very clean and well kept and one can see a lot of thought goes into details which made my stay just awesome.Posted onVerified Ein sehr schönes Airbnb, die Gastgeber sind super freundlich. Helfen dir immer wenn du was brauchst, geben dir super Ratschläge und organisieren vieles. Schade, dass wir nur ein paar Tage da waren. Man fühlt sich gleich wie zuhause. Danke an Susannah und Joe 🫶🏼Posted onVerified Stunningly beautiful setting, super comfortable cabin/apartments, and the perfect combination (for us) of privacy and common spaces.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more