Welcome to Manuel Antonio Tree House Villas
Manuel Antonio Tree House Villas is not just a place to stay — it’s an experience crafted with intention. Each villa is a living masterpiece, designed to inspire, soothe, and connect guests to the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest.
The project is the dream of Belong Costa Rica and its founder, Richard Bexon, who has over 20 years of experience in the luxury travel industry. After working closely with hotel and vacation home owners across the country, Richard consistently saw a disconnect between what travelers truly want, what developers build, and what the industry — and Costa Rica — actually need.
In 2023, the opportunity arose to acquire several lots within a private gated community in Manuel Antonio. The land was purchased from Jim Damalas, a long-time local resident, ecotourism pioneer, and the visionary behind the iconic Si Como No hotel. Thanks to a long-standing friendship between Richard and Jim, and a shared passion for sustainable tourism, Jim agreed to sell the land — with one heartfelt condition: the trees must remain untouched, and the project must honor his legacy.
Although Jim passed away in early 2025 before the project was completed, his spirit lives on through the forest — and now, one of the community’s streets proudly carries his name: Calle Damalas.
A Clear Vision, A Purposeful Build
From day one, the vision was to create tree house-style villas — fully immersed in the canopy, with a minimal environmental footprint, and a sense of adventure, playfulness, and architectural beauty.
The villas were designed in collaboration with Studio Anónima, with close creative direction from Belong Costa Rica. Construction began in September 2024, during one of the wettest months on record, which made progress slow and challenging. However, the full development is expected to be completed by March 2026.
More Than a Development: A Living Masterpiece in Progress
For Richard, this is far more than a real estate project — it’s the culmination of two decades of passion, learning, and connection. It’s a labor of love, and a tribute to everything Costa Rica represents: joy, sustainability, freedom, and adventure.
What Makes Us Different?
Unique villas among the trees: Elevated architecture, total privacy, and breathtaking views.
True environmental commitment: Every decision is made with sustainability at its core.
Prime location: Set within a private area of Manuel Antonio, near the National Park, beaches, and abundant wildlife.
Genuine hospitality: We welcome each guest as part of our community.
Richard is from the UK and has lived in Costa Rica for over 20 years, and was co-owner of Latin America's and Costa Rica's largest luxury travel company, Namu Travel Group or Costa Rican Vacations. His expertise extends to property development, operations, and sales across Costa Rica.
Richard Bexon
Founder
Carlos has worked with the team for over 10 years and ensures that the gardens look good, the pools are clean, and the monkeys behave themselves. Not behind Carlos will always be Zeus to Dog, the Villa mascot and animal spotter.
Carlos Ruiz
Gardening & Maintenence
Heidy runs the villas day-to-day and is the highlight of many people's stay. Heidy will go above and beyond to make your stay memorable. She has over 10 years working in luxury villas all throughout Costa Rica and is married to Carlos.
Heidy Hernandez
On-site Manager
MJ has over 15 years of working in Travel and hospitality in some of the country’s most iconic brands such as Costa Rican Vacations and Villa Buena Onda. She is a specialist in Hospitality Sales, Operations and Marketing.
Maria Jose Perez
Sales & Marketing
Santiago, a marketing intern, has collaborated with Investing Costa Rica and Karabi Villas. Throughout his internship, he has been characterized by his commitment, constant support, and availability to assist the team with any needs.
Santiago Pérez
Marketing
James, originally from Britain, has worked for Investing Costa Rica for over 2 years and has worked with Karabi Villas from the very start. During your stay he is at your disposal for whatever you may need and always available.
James Neale
Concierge
Our Team
Where Passion Meets Expertise
Meet the driving force behind the villas – a team of passionate visionaries dedicated to turning dreams into reality.