Fodor's Expert Review Laguna Lodge

Laguna is the largest of the Tortuguero lodges, with a mix of concrete and wood buildings spread out over 12 acres of grounds on a thin sliver of land between the ocean and the first canal inland, and it hums with activity. Jam-packed package tours begin in San José and embark from boats at Caño Blanco, north of Siquirres. Rooms have wood floors and paneling and tiled bathrooms. The property includes a butterfly garden and a small network of trails through secondary forest. Set meal times can be restricting, but allow you to grab and go with buffet style dining at the open-air restaurant that extends out over the canal. The combo reception–gift shop–meeting room building seems to have sprung straight from the mind of Gaudí.