As the first of a two-part article on private residence clubs in Costa Rica, this piece will focus on clubs in the Northern and Central regions of the country.

Thanks in large part to its booming eco-tourism industry, Costa Rica—which is on track to emit zero net greenhouse gases by 2021—has become Central America’s most visited country, with 50 percent of its annual 1.9 million foreign visitors hailing from the US. Abundant national parks, volcanoes and beaches mean that even those typically more inclined to luxuriate poolside would be hard-pressed not to spend some time in the lush, tropical surroundings for which the country is known.

The Northern and Central parts of the country along the Pacific Coast have seen the most development, due in part to their proximity to 2 international airports, while the Southern part of the country remains a less-developed haven for eco-tourists and adventure-seekers. Still, luxury real estate developments dot Costa Rica from north to south, and those who fall in love with the country and want to set up a permanent vacation home will have plenty of options. If you’re not looking for a year-round home, private residence clubs, which offer the opportunity to own a property without the hassles of whole ownership and full-time property management, might be the perfect option for you.

Here, we take a look at some of the PRC offerings in the Northern and Central regions of Costa Rica.

Four Seasons Residence Club Costa Rica, Peninsula Papagayo

Located on the country’s north Pacific coast, only 30 minutes from Liberia’s international airport, the 2,300-acre Peninsula Papagayo is comprised of 15 miles of coastline, 31 distinct beaches, golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus and 500,000 acres of surrounding eco-parks. At the tip of the peninsula, the two- and three-bedroom ocean-view villas of the Four Seasons Residence Club Costa Rica feature large terraces and plantation style decor accented with indigenous wood finishes. A one-twelfth fraction of a three-bedroom villa is priced at $225,500 and entitles its owner to 21 nights of use per year. An equal share of a two-bedroom unit is $169,500. Owners may enjoy all that the highly lauded Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica has to offer, as well as exchange privileges at other Four Seasons Residence Clubs.

Ocotalito, Playa Ocotal

Located on a bluff overlooking the Papagayo Gulf and Pacific Ocean in Northern Costa Rica, the 4.9-acre, gated private community of Ocotalito has 36 villas spread throughout 12 three-story buildings. Of these, 26 three-bedroom, ocean-view villas are fractional ownership properties starting at $140,000 for 6 weeks of use per year. Owners have access to a Land Rover Defender (or like vehicle) for use during the course of their stay. The property also features a spa, an ocean-view restaurant and lounge, infinity pool, private clubhouse and beach access. Occupancy will be available in late 2008.

Jacó Beach Towers, Jacó Beach

The town of Jacó Beach has the reputation of being one of the liveliest and most developed beach towns on the Pacific Coast, with the number one attraction being a consistent beach break that draws surfers from all over the world. The Jacó Beach Towers, slated to break ground in June 2008, will feature 50 fractional condominiums and four town homes in a 10-story, beachfront tower. A one-fourth fraction runs between $125,000 and $400,0000 and entitles owners to 13 weeks of use annually. Property amenities include a pool and rooftop fitness center.