Our early days at Casa Roja, restoring the lodge and settling into life on the Osa Peninsula, were filled with encounters that deepened our appreciation for the region’s history and folklore. One of the most intriguing stories we came across was the belief—held by many locals—that Sir Francis Drake buried treasure on Isla Violin. In fact, it’s safe to say that more people we’ve spoken to believe in the treasure than don’t. The island, a remote and mysterious landmass tucked within the Sierpe River estuary, has drawn fortune seekers for generations.
Lime from Isla Violin.
One of the most memorable encounters we had was with two men who dedicated over a year of their lives to searching for the treasure. Fresh out of the Vietnam War, they set up camp on Isla Violin in the early 1970s, determined to find Drake’s legendary gold. They described a grueling experience—tents disintegrating from the relentless humidity and insects, survival in an environment far harsher than anything they had imagined. Back then, before high-tech outdoor gear, they faced the jungle with only the basics. As they told their story decades later, now in their sixties and long retired in the U.S., they reminisced fondly about their adventure, despite leaving empty-handed.
Isla Violin across from Casa Roja.
Hearing their stories, we couldn’t help but wonder how many others had spent years and fortunes chasing the dream of discovering hidden treasure. The sheer dedication, time, and resources poured into the search make it a story worthy of a documentary—or at the very least, a book. We encouraged them to document their experiences, knowing that their journey, like so many others, is a testament to the enduring power of myth, adventure, and the allure of the unknown.
Whether the treasure exists or not, Isla Violin remains one of the most intriguing places in Costa Rica. A land of legend, mystery, and untamed wilderness, it continues to captivate those who hear its story. If nothing else, the hunt itself has become part of the region’s identity, an unbroken thread connecting past explorers with modern-day adventurers.
