A Place of Refuge for Animals and Humans
ABOUT
Santuario Vista Mar is a small farm near Pavones, Costa Rica, which offers refuge to animals in need as well as humans seeking connection to nature, art, food, culture, and of course, animals. Right now we offer tours of the farm as well as longer stays for volunteers. Our volunteers help with daily animal care, projects on the farm, and preparing our dogs for adoption. We are currently creating space to offer stays to individuals who would like to experience the area and the animals on their own terms.
LOCATION
Punta Banco is a tranquil coastal village surrounded by lush rainforests and pristine beaches. It offers a peaceful escape where visitors can spot diverse wildlife, walk for miles on an empty beach and watch the sunset with the locals. Punta Banco is 15 minutes south of Pavones' famous left-hand wave, a favorite of surfers from around the world. The farm is located in the hills above Punta Banco, a quick 5 minute drive or a brisk 30-40 minute walk up hill.
OUR MISSION
Hi! My name is Haley, and Santuario Vista Mar is my home. In 2022, I built a house and started rescuing animals in need of medical attention, shelter, and love. Today, we have dogs, cats, goats, pigs, horses, cows, and chickens. We’ve planted hundreds of fruit trees on what was once empty pasture and created beautiful trails throughout the pasture and the lush jungle that we’re lucky to have on the property. Our focus is on educating and assisting the community to reduce the number of strays, helping with emergency rescues and offering transportation from our small town to the nearest veterinary clinic.
In addition to the important work that we do, inviting both locals and visitors to interact with our animals has made a positive impact on this small community. Our animals provide the best type of therapy, and spending time with them instantly eases any stress you may have brought with you from the "real world". As a vegan, having the space to not only rescue farmed animals but to also welcome guests and share with them the intelligence and personalities of each one, is a dream come true. I'm looking forward to being able to share this little paradise with more people in 2025. I hope to see you soon!
Become a Volunteer
We offer volunteer stays for a minimum of 2 weeks in a shared house. Volunteering with us involves feeding and medicating , cleaning, gardening, and of course, offering companionship to the animals. Contact us for more info!
Foster or Adopt
You can join us in the rewarding work of rescuing animals in need and helping them find forever homes through fostering or adopting. Your support here plays a crucial role in giving these animals a second chance at a happy life. Without fosters and adoptions we cannot take in new rescues.
Community Outreach
Do you work in the veterinary field? As we grow, we would love to welcome animal experts to visit our community to offer checkups and basic medical treatment like vaccines and deworming to people who normally would not prioritize their pets or cannot afford it.
GALLERY
THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
Waterfall Hike
Hike with locals through the Guaymi Indigenous Reservation to visit a secluded waterfall.
Horseback Tours
Go with a local and their well cared for horses on a tour of the mountains or the beach.
Visit a Local Artisan
Take a short walk and visit our local craftsman at his home in Vista de Mar, where he will share with you his beautiful natural fiber bags, hats and jewelery.
Art Classes
Join a local artist for an intimate class, and take home a one of a kind souvenir. Some examples of classes are pen and ink, watercolor and acryclic painting, macrame and ceramics.
Local Market
Visit the Pavones Market on Saturday, try yummy foods and see local artisans at work. There you will find jewelry, paintings, natural beauty products, clothing, home decor, indigenous bags, hats and clothing, hot food, desserts, organic produce and more!
Chocolate Making Workshop
From bean to bar, learn all about the superfood and how locals turn raw cacao into delicious 70% chocolate bars.
TESTIMONIALS
