About Us

Built On A Love For The Ocean.
And The Beauty Of Uncomplicated Living.

Soulara didn’t begin with a corporate boardroom or a cookie-cutter hospitality blueprint. It started with a genuine passion for the raw beauty of Costa Rica, a deep connection to the healing power of the sea, and a clear vision of what travel should actually feel like.We believe that the best journeys aren’t about excess. They are about space, clarity, and finding a peaceful place to land.

We took a bold leap of faith to transform this property into an approachable, pristine haven where the noise of the world slows down and the natural rhythm of Sámara takes over.This isn't just a place to stay; it’s a personal dream built to be your modern sanctuary by the sea.

OUR STORY

The Call Of The Ocean

For me, that connection started early. From a young age, the waves created a sense of peace I couldn't find anywhere else. The ocean is ever-changing—calm and serene one moment, powerful and wild the next. That rhythm has mirrored my own journey through life, constantly reminding me to embrace change and find the beauty in every single moment.

Falling For Costa Rica

I have been fortunate enough to sink my feet into the sand of beaches all over the world. But in 2017, traveling along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast changed everything. It deepened my love for the ocean and introduced me to the true meaning of the Pura Vida lifestyle. It’s all about enjoying the journey—whether you are exploring hidden trails or simply soaking in the sun by the sea. From that very first trip, I became passionate about sharing the magic of Costa Rica with everyone I knew. I began dreaming of a day when I could build a small piece of paradise in the country that stole my heart.

From A Bold Dream To Reality

My dreams turned into research, and my research turned into a wild leap of faith. In 2024, some might have called me crazy—and honestly, they weren't entirely wrong. I found myself taking a massive plunge, investing in a property completely sight unseen to build something meaningful. While most people thought navigating a project like this from afar was a wild idea, my trusted sidekicks, Mykayla and Skip, cheered it on. Together, we took the leap as a family, rolled up our sleeves, and began the transformation of what is known today as Soulara.

The Vision For Soulara

Soulara was created for every traveler who values peace, clarity, and the beauty of uncomplicated living. We didn’t design this 35-room boutique hotel to be an overcomplicated, pretentious resort. Instead, we built an attainable sanctuary right where the jungle meets the sea. Our mission is to give you a pristine, modern, and beautifully simple space to return to—a home base where the noise of the world drops away, the ocean breeze takes over, and you can truly immerse yourself in the authentic rhythm of Sámara. Whether you are here to seek out coastal adventures or completely surrender to deep relaxation, we are here to help you tailor your perfect escape. We cannot wait to host you at Soulara and welcome you to your new sanctuary by the sea.

— Jodi Bendrien

MEET OUR STAFF

Great stays aren’t just defined by beautiful spaces; they are built by the people who welcome you into them. We are a family-owned team bound together by a shared love for Sámara, a passion for genuine hospitality, and a commitment to making your time in Costa Rica completely seamless.