Private Schools Near Playa Ostional
Here’s an overview of the top Playa Ostional private schools and what they offer:
Casa de las Estrellas
Location: Playa Garza (35 mins from Ostional)
Grades: Preschool to 6th
School Year: September-July (U.S. Calendar)
IB Program: No
Tuition: Contact for details
Casa de las Estrellas is inspired by Waldorf education, emphasizing nature, creativity, and hands-on learning. Children engage in activities like gardening and woodworking, promoting a holistic development approach.
Del Mar Academy
Location: Playa Pelada (20 mins from Ostional)
Grades: Preschool to 12th
School Year: September-July (U.S. Calendar)
Accreditation: MEP + IB World School
IB Program: Yes
Tuition: $12,000-$16,500/year
Del Mar Academy integrates Montessori philosophy in the early years and IB in high school. The school emphasizes bilingual education, environmental stewardship, and project-based learning.
Elimar High School
Location: Nosara (20 mins from Ostional)
Grades: Preschool to 6th
School Year: February-November (Costa Rican Calendar)
Accreditation: MEP
IB Program: No
Tuition: Contact for details
Elimar High School provides a bilingual education with a Montessori foundation. The curriculum focuses on technology integration and cultural values for future academic success.
HomeschoolBeach Nosara (HSBN)
Location: Playa Guiones (20 mins from Ostional)
Grades: Ages 8-13
School Year: Flexible
IB Program: No
Tuition: Contact for details
HSBN offers an eco-friendly, hands-on curriculum ideal for short-term visitors and permanent residents. The focus is on critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development.
Thrive School
Location: San Juanillo (15 mins from Ostional)
Grades: Preschool to 12th
School Year: October-August (modified U.S. Calendar)
Accreditation: Oak Meadow
IB Program: No
Tuition: Contact for details
Thrive School offers flexible, student-led learning inspired by Montessori and Waldorf philosophies. It combines digital and experiential learning with a focus on self-discovery.
Private Schools Worth the Commute
If you’re willing to drive a bit further from Playa Ostional, the following schools offer exceptional education:
CPI School – Flamingo Beach
Distance from Ostional: ~1.5 hours
Curriculum: Language immersion, academic focus
Languages: English and Spanish
Grades: Preschool to 12th
CPI School offers a strong bilingual program with cultural exchanges and extracurricular activities, perfect for expatriate families seeking English-Spanish proficiency.
Tide Academy – Tamarindo
Distance from Ostional: ~1.5 hours
Curriculum: U.S.-based, personalized learning
Languages: English (Spanish as a second language)
Grades: 1-12
Tide Academy specializes in personalized education for students with flexible schedules, offering small class sizes and project-based learning.
Homeschooling Options Near Playa Ostional
For families seeking more flexibility, homeschooling is a popular option in the Playa Ostional region.
1. Costa Rica Homeschooling Laws
Homeschooling is legal in Costa Rica but not regulated by the government. Parents have the freedom to design their curriculum or follow established international programs.
2. Online Montessori and Waldorf Curriculums
Families can choose online Montessori or Waldorf curriculums to guide their homeschooling efforts. Programs like North American Montessori Center and Christopherus Homeschool Resources offer structured approaches to hands-on learning.
3. Local Homeschooling Networks
The Playa Ostional area has a strong community of homeschooling families. Many organize group lessons, social events, and outdoor learning experiences, making homeschooling an engaging and collaborative experience.
4. Learning in Nature
Playa Ostional’s environment offers endless educational opportunities. Homeschooling families often incorporate marine biology, ecology, and sustainability into their daily lessons, fostering a deep connection with nature.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Playa Ostional Private Schools
Families moving to Playa Ostional have diverse educational options, from structured Montessori and Waldorf schools to flexible homeschooling programs. Schools like Del Mar Academy and Casa de las Estrellas provide excellent, holistic education, while local homeschooling communities offer a personalized approach to learning.
No matter which option you choose, Playa Ostional’s natural beauty and community-centered lifestyle create a unique and enriching learning environment for children.
