Olas Verdes Hotel is a beautiful and remote property located within a short walk of a great surfing beach. The hotel's staff is exceptional, friendly and always accommodating, making guests feel welcomed and appreciated throughout their stay. The made-to-order breakfasts are a standout with a variety of options available and excellent quality dishes. The rooms are comfortable and spacious with lovely balconies and well-equipped kitchenettes. The pool is a highlight for many guests with ample seating options and easy access to the nearby beach. Overall, Olas Verdes Hotel is highly recommended for its exceptional staff, enjoyable atmosphere and stunning location surrounded by nature.
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs is celebrated for its unique and tranquil setting, nestled amidst the lush rainforests near the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. The resort offers an authentic escape, surrounded by vibrant gardens and breathtaking views, providing a serene getaway ideal for families and nature enthusiasts. While accessing the resort requires navigating challenging unpaved roads, guests often find the peaceful environment well worth the effort.
Guests frequently praise the breakfast at the resort for its quality and variety, with authentic Costa Rican dishes and fresh fruit receiving special mention. The complimentary breakfast adds value to the stay, contributing positively to the overall experience, despite occasional suggestions for improvement in variety. Dinner is also regarded as enjoyable, with tasty dishes and exceptional service noted by many. Although some guests feel the menu could offer more value, the convenience of dining on-site remains appreciated.
The accommodations are consistently lauded for their spaciousness, comfort, and cleanliness. Visitors enjoy staying in large chalets and individual cottages that provide privacy and a rustic charm amidst lush surroundings. Attention to cleanliness is evident throughout the resort, with well-maintained grounds and facilities that enhance the overall appeal. The friendly and attentive staff further contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, providing excellent service that leaves a positive impact on guests.
The spa is a highlight of the resort, offering top-notch treatments such as massages and volcanic mud baths that are both unique and invigorating. Guests appreciate the tranquil ambiance of the hot springs and natural sauna, adding to the resort's relaxing offerings. The pools, especially the volcanically heated hot springs, are highly regarded for their soothing properties and are a favorite among families.
Families find the resort to be an ideal destination, with numerous attractions such as the butterfly garden, miniature horses, and a dinopark captivating young visitors. Activities like ziplining and horseback riding enhance the family-friendly atmosphere, making it a memorable vacation spot. Despite some logistical challenges, the resort promises an engaging experience that families look forward to revisiting.
Overall, Blue River Resort & Hot Springs stands out as a captivating destination for guests seeking relaxation, adventure, and a genuine connection with nature. Whether enjoying a romantic retreat or a family getaway, the resort offers a comforting and enjoyable escape amidst beautiful surroundings.
Mikado Natural Lodge is a hidden gem tucked away in the dry forest of Guanacaste, offering a peaceful environment surrounded by beautiful trees, birds and monkeys. Despite the bumpy and uneven dirt roads leading to the property, guests can appreciate the hidden oasis in the mountains, close to beautiful and less touristy beaches. The lodge boasts beautiful and exceptionally stylish rooms with soundproofing to ensure a peaceful stay and guests can indulge in luxury ocean front cabanas and lovely bungalows with a very nice and clean style, comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms. The staff, especially Lolo the owner/manager, received high praise from guests for their exceptional hospitality, kindness and attentiveness. The infinity pool is a huge highlight for many guests with its well-maintained and tasteful surroundings. Mikado Natural Lodge is an oasis in the forest, surrounded by pure nature with individual jungle houses that make for a unique and unforgettable stay.
The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa, is a stunning and luxurious resort located on a beautiful, secluded beach with lush vegetation and wildlife. Guests raved about the quality of the breakfast buffet and praised the dining options and quality, although some had issues with reservations and variety. The spacious and clean rooms received positive reviews with the exception of some small issues that were quickly addressed by the efficient and friendly staff. The resort's cleanliness is outstanding with strict adherence to COVID measures. The staff is a standout feature, praised for their attentiveness, friendliness and exceptional service throughout the resort. The pool area is a highlight with multiple large swimming pools and lush tropical vegetation surrounding it. The beach is truly spectacular, described by guests as one of the best swimming beaches in Costa Rica. The resort is also family-friendly, offering a variety of activities for children. For golf enthusiasts, the resort boasts a lovely golf course that is maintained in pristine condition, although some guests found it to be overpriced. Overall, The Westin Reserva Conchal is a luxurious and exceptional resort that exceeded guests' expectations and provided a superb vacation experience.
The Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport boasts an enviable location that garners consistent praise from guests, appreciated for its proximity to Liberia Airport and other key amenities. The hotel provides clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations, making it a top pick for travelers in transit or exploring nearby attractions. The friendly and efficient staff further enhance the guest experience, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout their stay.
Guests frequently commend the hotel for its excellent cleanliness, extending from the rooms to all common areas, including a well-maintained pool and gym. The hotel's fitness facilities are highlighted for their quality and convenience, adding value to the overall guest experience. The pool area is particularly favored for its cleanliness and relaxing environment, making it a hit among families and other visitors.
The hotel's breakfast offerings receive favorable reviews for their quality and variety, though some guests find it a bit pricey. Dinner experiences are generally positive with specific dishes and desserts garnering high praise, but service inconsistency and food pricing are noted areas for improvement. On the other hand, the beds are almost universally praised for their comfort, significantly contributing to a restful stay.
For business travelers, the hotel proves to be a reliable choice with large desks in rooms, accessible printing facilities and a free shuttle service that heightens convenience. The provision of free and generally strong WiFi is appreciated, though coverage could be more consistent in certain areas. The hotel maintains its four-star rating through high-quality service, well-maintained facilities and excellent amenities that align well with guest expectations.
Overall, the Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport is a solid and practical choice for travelers seeking a comfortable, convenient and clean hotel experience, particularly those needing quick access to Liberia Airport.
This luxurious 5-star resort is located right in front of the sandy Tamarindo Beach and offers a large outdoor free form pool surrounded by palm trees and sunbeds, refined and comfortable rooms and suites, signature wellness treatments, as well as various activities and sports at and around the beach, providing a relaxing yet fun-filled place for all guests.
Summary of reviews
The JW Marriott Guanacaste Beach Resort is a highly recommended hotel with exceptional staff who are friendly, attentive and go above and beyond to meet guests' needs. The bilingual team is always willing to help and provide excellent service. The pool is a standout feature of the hotel with guests praising its beauty and great features. It is open 24/7 and a complimentary shuttle service is provided to a nearby beach club. While some guests suggested improvements in maintenance and concerns about crowding with children, overall, the pool is considered nice and beautiful. Guests found the pool to be heavenly and divine.
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, promises a generally impressive and memorable stay, predominantly highlighted by its beautiful and secluded location in Papagayo Bay. Guests often appreciate the captivating views and tranquil seaside setting, which provide an ideal retreat for relaxation and picturesque walks.
The resort's facilities are well-regarded, especially the luxurious and clean rooms, many of which offer stunning ocean views. The comfortable beds and stylish design, complete with details like rainfall showers, contribute to a highly enjoyable accommodation experience, although occasional minor maintenance issues and obstructed views were noted.
The hotel's dining aspects earn mostly positive feedback. The breakfast buffet is praised for its variety and quality, albeit with some critiques about occasional cold food and long lines during peak times. Dinner options are widely appreciated for their diversity and taste with guests particularly enjoying the à la carte and themed restaurants. However, securing a table can be a logistical challenge during busy periods and there were a few comments about limited poolside and room service food options.
Cleanliness at the resort is generally commended with many guests describing the premises as impeccably maintained. While there were isolated reports of cleanliness issues, such as unclean beds and hallways, the overall sentiment towards the hotel's upkeep is favorable.
The staff at Planet Hollywood Costa Rica stand out for their exceptional service and friendliness, often going above and beyond to ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Guests frequently mention the animation team and the personalized service provided by the staff, which significantly enhances their stay.
The spa also receives high marks for its relaxing environment and excellent treatments, despite occasional issues with the steam room. The pool area is another highlight, providing a fun and well-maintained environment, although guests noted early closures and quickly occupied chairs as minor drawbacks.
The beach, on the other hand, has mixed reviews. While some appreciate the unique black sand and calm atmosphere, others feel it lacks in maintenance and ideal conditions for swimming. The beach's appearance, likened more to a lake, may not meet all visitors' expectations for a coastal experience.
Overall, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica delivers a highly rated, all-inclusive experience with excellent food, attentive service and a delightful atmosphere. While there are minor areas for improvement, the resort stands out as an attractive destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and luxury, particularly benefiting from the amenities and convenience offered by its star class services.
Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive is celebrated for its idyllic beachfront location surrounded by majestic mountains and cliffs, offering guests beautiful vistas and serene surroundings. The resort is conveniently situated near the town of Coco, with easy beach access and well-maintained grounds featuring multiple inviting pools that enhance relaxation. While the beach is noted as smaller, guests enjoy the quiet and beautiful atmosphere, making it perfect for family trips and nature lovers.
The resort's dining experiences receive high praise, particularly the breakfast buffet, which impresses guests with its diverse offerings and quality. Made-to-order omelettes, breakfast samosas, a variety of healthy options, and fresh ingredients make breakfast a standout feature. Lunch and dinner, particularly at the Arenal and Papagayo buffets, are appreciated for their fresh and flavorful dishes, although some wish for more seafood options and improved seating arrangements at à la carte restaurants.
Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with effective air conditioning and thoughtful amenities like clothes drying racks. Despite these positive aspects, the room decor is considered dated, with maintenance issues such as non-draining sinks and malfunctioning fridges being pointed out. Cleanliness in rooms has occasionally been a concern, although the staff are recognized for their diligent efforts amid challenging conditions.
Staff at Riu Palace Costa Rica contribute significantly to the positive guest experience, renowned for their friendliness and attentiveness. Exceptional service from bartenders like Felipe and Chris enhances the overall hospitality, making guests feel welcome and cared for, often described as akin to family.
The pool areas are a highlight with five well-maintained options, a swim-up bar, and a children's pool area, providing guests with ample choice and ensuring no overcrowding. The cleanliness and warmth of the pools, along with stunning views and comfortable seating areas, make the poolside experience exceptional.
While WiFi availability is appreciated, its reliability and strength could be improved, as connectivity challenges are frequently noted. In contrast, beds receive mixed reviews, with guests noting firmness and a need for pillow upgrades to enhance comfort.
Overall, while the resort is acclaimed for its excellent service, picturesque surroundings, and culinary delights, some critiques suggest the experience falls slightly short of five-star luxury due to room interiors and bedding concerns. Nevertheless, the Riu Palace Costa Rica offers a fabulous all-inclusive experience in the vibrant Guanacaste region, providing relaxation, adventure, and consistently strong service, making it a top choice for a memorable holiday.
Hacienda La Pacífica Eco-Lodge is located conveniently along the Pan-American Highway, making it an ideal stopover for travelers, especially those arriving from Liberia Airport. Surrounded by natural beauty, it offers a peaceful retreat with abundant wildlife, making it a top choice for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Its strategic location provides easy access to significant attractions and activities, such as Palo Verde National Park and water rafting adventures, while offering a tranquil escape in a beautifully maintained setting.
The lodge's dining experience is highly praised, with breakfast frequently mentioned as a standout feature due to its generous and delicious offerings. The on-site restaurant is equally commendable, offering top-notch, varied cuisine, including traditional Costa Rican dishes. Guests appreciate the friendly and attentive service, which contributes to the overall pleasant dining atmosphere. Although some find the cost of dinner on the higher side, the excellent taste and quality justify the expense.
Accommodation at Hacienda La Pacífica Eco-Lodge boasts spacious rooms integrated beautifully into the lush surroundings. Guests enjoy the comfort, cleanliness, and rustic charm enhanced by wildlife sightings. While some accommodations show signs of aging, the lodge offers a range of room types, including cozy cabins and full-suite bungalows, which consistently receive positive feedback for their design and amenities. The property's serene gardens and swimming pool further elevate the guest experience, offering spots perfect for relaxation.
Hacienda La Pacífica is also renowned for its exceptional service, with staff consistently described as friendly and accommodating. Their dedication to guest satisfaction is evident, from facilitating late check-ins to arranging transport, enhancing the overall hospitality. The pool area is another highlight, known for its size and cleanliness, set amidst a tranquil garden that enriches the visitor's experience.
Families find the lodge particularly appealing, benefiting from spacious accommodations and family-friendly amenities. Children enjoy interacting with local wildlife and exploring the expansive grounds, adding to the overall family-oriented atmosphere. Substantive praise goes to the restaurant and the shaded playground, which further cater to family needs.
While the lodge offers a comfortable stay, some guests note room conditions and bedding could improve, particularly regarding mattress comfort. However, the eco-lodge maintains high standards of cleanliness across its premises. Overall, Hacienda La Pacífica Eco-Lodge is a recommended destination for those seeking a serene, nature-rich retreat with impressive hospitality and dining experiences.
Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive stands out for its prime beachfront location, offering guests stunning ocean views and close proximity to both nature and the vibrant town center of Tamarindo. The resort is well-maintained with modern infrastructure, ensuring comfort and convenience. Guests particularly appreciate the ease of access to key amenities such as the lobby, restaurants, pool and beach.
The breakfast experience is highly rated with a generous variety of options and notable highlights like the omelette bar. Although it ends a bit early for some guests and lacks certain items, the overall setting is clean and cozy, enhancing the morning meal.
Dinner options receive mixed feedback with the Japanese restaurant being the standout for its quality sushi and dining experience. However, general dining, particularly at the Italian restaurant, has faced criticism for lack of variety and flavor. Despite some issues with food and service, the continuous cleaning of the pool and rooms maintains a positive aspect.
Rooms are spacious, clean and well-furnished, often praised for their scenic balconies. Daily cleaning services enhance the comfort, despite some reports of outdated features and occasional maintenance problems. The hotel's overall facilities are kept clean and contribute to a pleasant stay.
The staff at Occidental Tamarindo are frequently noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, especially in the dining areas and front desk. While the majority of the team members offer exceptional service, occasional lapses in reception service and check-in efficiency are noted.
The Wi-Fi service, however, is a common area of concern with frequent reports of poor connectivity and limited coverage throughout the property. Similarly, the gym and spa receive mixed reviews; while the spa services are generally appreciated, the gym faces criticism for broken equipment and availability issues.
The pool area is a highlight for many guests, being described as beautiful, clean and family-friendly. The beach complements this experience by providing a serene and picturesque spot, despite having some rocky patches that can limit swimming activities.
Family-friendliness is a prominent feature with many guests recommending the resort for family vacations due to its relaxing and inclusive environment. Bedding quality receives mixed feedback with many guests finding the beds comfortable, but others noting issues with cleanliness and maintenance.
Overall, while Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive garners praise for its location, cleanliness and friendly staff, it could benefit from enhancements in dining variety, Wi-Fi connectivity and upgrading certain facilities to fully meet its five-star rating expectations.
Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde, nestled in lush surroundings near Samara, Costa Rica, promises a serene escape amidst a beautiful jungle setting. Guests find the hotel to be a peaceful haven, away from the bustling tourist areas, with accommodations amidst superb vegetation and abundant wildlife. The tranquil location, though slightly removed from the town's amenities, offers a little piece of paradise for relaxation, enhanced by access to a private beach and a pleasant pool.
Breakfast at the hotel is a standout feature, served poolside with a focus on quality and attentive service. Guests enjoy freshly made-to-order options with generous portions, particularly praising the delicious pancakes. This typical Costa Rican breakfast offers great value for money and sets a delightful tone for the day.
The accommodations at Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde blend nature with comfort through nicely furnished bungalows and cabins. Guests appreciate the spacious, air-conditioned rooms, complete with verandas for relaxation in a picturesque tropical garden setting. Cleanliness is consistently highlighted, with attentive staff maintaining high standards throughout the stay. Under the management of charming French owners, guests receive impeccable service, ensuring a pleasant hotel experience.
The staff at Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde are known for their outstanding hospitality, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The team's dedication to maintaining the hotel shines through, offering professional service and accommodating guests in multiple languages.
The pool is another feature that garners praise, providing a clean, cool, and refreshing spot for relaxation. The design, including a waterfall, adds to its charm, making it an inviting area for unwinding. The well-maintained pool area further enhances the overall aesthetic of the hotel, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
In summary, Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde combines tranquil natural surroundings, excellent breakfast offerings, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service to create a cherished retreat in Costa Rica, providing guests with great value and a memorable experience.