The Howler Monkey Hotel, located in the serene town of Cabuya, Costa Rica, offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle. Nestled along the unspoilt coastline, guests enjoy a prime seafront location with direct beach access and the soothing symphony of the sea and jungle wildlife. The hotel's proximity to charming local restaurants, convenient stores, and natural parks like Cabo Blanco makes it an ideal spot for exploration and adventure.
Guests are welcomed into cozy bungalows that provide comfort with private bathrooms and kitchens, allowing for a homely stay. Despite the rustic charm being a highlight, some accommodations would benefit from refreshing and repairs, as noted by a few visitors. The hotel maintains good cleanliness standards overall, although some areas, particularly the kitchen and bathrooms, could use improvement.
A standout feature of the Howler Monkey Hotel is the exceptional hospitality provided by the owner, Jim, and his attentive staff. Jim's warmth, wealth of local knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond create a memorable and welcoming experience for guests. The well-maintained pool set amidst a lush garden further enhances the serene atmosphere, allowing guests to relax while spotting local wildlife.
Families are particularly drawn to the hotel's intimate setting, enjoying unique opportunities like breakfasting with howler monkeys—a treat for children and nature enthusiasts. Despite mixed reviews on the comfort of the beds, with some needing updates, the overall experience at the Howler Monkey Hotel is one of comfort, relaxation, and connection with nature, making it a delightful getaway.
Categories
Pool
This hotel provides a swimming pool for guests to enjoy during their stay.
Outdoor Pool
Small
This hotel offers a unique experience with its proximity to wildlife. It is a charming option for nature lovers.
Outdoor Pool
Search results indicate that Howler Monkey Hotel features an outdoor pool.
Family
Sustainability Journey
Business
Cheap
Gym
Tennis
Yoga
Room Types
Bungalow - Beach FrontWooden chalet-style bungalows have a porch with a hammock and barbecue facilities. There is free Wi-Fi and a seating area. Bungalows have a bathroom with a shower and a kitchen and dining area.
The bungalows have a small terrace on the 2nd floor.
Please note that the price is based on 4 adults (see Hotel Policies).
Bungalow - Beach FrontGuests will have a special experience as the bungalow features a pool with a view. This bungalow consists of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator and kitchenware in the kitchen. The bungalow also offers a barbecue. The bungalow provides a washing machine, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit offers 4 beds.
Bungalow - Beach FrontThis bungalow offers a pool with a view. Featuring 1 bedroom, this bungalow offers 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower, a seating area and terrace where you can relax. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator and kitchenware in the kitchen. The bungalow also has a barbecue. Among the room amenities are a washing machine, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker as well as a patio and sea views. The unit has 4 beds.
Small BungalowThis bungalow's standout feature is the pool with a view. The bungalow has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator and kitchenware in the kitchen. The bungalow also features a barbecue. Among the room amenities are a washing machine, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker as well as an outdoor dining area and sea views. The unit has 1 bed.
Budget Double RoomThe unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Review Summaries
Location
Nestled in the idyllic town of Cabuya, the Howler Monkey Hotel is a tranquil retreat boasting a prime seafront location, surrounded by the lush embrace of the jungle. From its remarkable position along the unspoilt Costa Rican shoreline, guests enjoy direct access to the beach, often serenaded by the soothing sounds of the sea and local wildlife. The hotel offers a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a secluded escape away from the crowds.
Located near a selection of charming restaurants and convenient stores, the hotel strikes a balance between seclusion and accessibility. Its proximity to many beautiful beaches and natural parks, such as Cabo Blanco, makes it an ideal spot for exploration and adventure. Visitors can relish views of the Pacific while being enveloped by the vibrant sounds and sights of the surrounding jungle.
This hidden gem provides a unique blend of serenity and strategic location, offering easy access to other destinations like Sta Elena, Malpaís, and Montezuma. Howler Monkey Hotel is truly a place where the authentic life of Costa Rica’s coast can be experienced, offering a retreat in a setting that promises to recharge and captivate.
Rooms
Nestled in a serene setting, the Howler Monkey Hotel offers a charming, rustic retreat that exudes comfort and coziness. Many visitors appreciate the simplicity of the lodge, describing it as a small gem and highlighting its neat, cozy atmosphere. Rooms, often referred to as cabinas or bungalows, come with spacious layouts, complete with private bathrooms and kitchens. These features contribute to a sense of convenience and homeliness, particularly appreciated by guests seeking a peaceful getaway.
The accommodations, while largely clean and comfortable, do present varying degrees of upkeep. While some cottages delight guests with their cuteness and cozy vibes, others suggest the need for refreshing and minor repairs. Specific concerns include small room sizes, uneven surfaces, and some reports of less comfortable mattresses. Enhancements such as mosquito nets and interior updates could add further comfort to the space.
Facilities such as kitchens are deemed adequately equipped for guests' needs, allowing for self-catering experiences. Despite occasional critiques regarding older furnishings and structural tilting, the overall sentiment leans toward satisfaction with the hotel's rustic and authentic charm.
In addition to its tangible aspects, a standout feature of the Howler Monkey Hotel is the helpfulness and friendliness of its staff, propelling guest experiences toward an enjoyable and memorable stay.
Beds
At Howler Monkey Hotel, guests have experienced a mix of feedback concerning the beds. Some guests found certain mattresses to be good and the beds comfortable and clean, contributing to a restful night's sleep alongside the charming hospitality and breathtaking ocean views. The inviting sleeping quarters come with effective ceiling fans, providing comfort during warmer nights. However, some beds were noted as uncomfortable and worn out, indicating a need for updates in certain areas. While overall, the cleanliness and some aspects of the comfort level have been appreciated, the facilities could benefit from modernizing to enhance the guest experience further.
Cleanliness
Nestled in a tranquil setting, Howler Monkey Hotel offers guests a simple yet charming experience, with cleanliness highlighted as a strong point in many aspects. Visitors have praised the rooms for being fresh and clean, providing a comfortable and cozy atmosphere. The bungalows, described as rustic but cute, consistently meet cleanliness standards, offering everything necessary for a pleasant stay.
The common areas, although dated, maintain satisfactory cleanliness, and the pool is often noted for being refreshing and clean. Guests appreciate the daily maintenance, which includes clearing leaves from the pool and providing room cleaning services as needed.
Despite these positive aspects, it is clear that the hotel faces challenges with some facilities. The kitchen and bathrooms are in need of significant renovation, often criticized for lackluster cleanliness and maintenance. Issues such as limescale and insects have been noted, indicating areas where hygiene standards could be improved. The photos advertised do not always match the current state of the property, with some areas appearing rather neglected.
Overall, while the Howler Monkey Hotel provides a serene setting with clean and comfortable accommodations, potential travelers should be aware that certain areas of the property may not meet expectations in terms of cleanliness and upkeep.
Staff
Visitors to the Howler Monkey Hotel frequently highlight the warmth and exceptional service provided by the staff, especially the owner, Jim. Guests universally describe Jim as kind, attentive, and a wealth of local knowledge, always happy to share insights about the country, its culture, and its natural wonders. His friendliness and helpful demeanor make guests feel welcomed and at ease, and he often goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, offering flexible check-out times and room upgrades when possible. Additionally, Jim is noted for being approachable and available to assist with any inquiries, from restaurant recommendations to travel advice. The staff complements this exceptional service with friendliness and attentiveness, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Overall, Jim and his team create a memorable experience for guests, emphasizing hospitality and personal connection.
Pool
Set amidst a stunning garden, the Howler Monkey Hotel offers guests a delightful pool experience that enhances the tranquility of a beachside vacation. Many visitors commend the pool for its refreshing quality and ample size, providing an ideal spot for cooling off in the tropical heat. It is widely praised for being meticulously clean and clear, with regular maintenance ensuring a pristine swimming environment free from debris.
Guests often highlight the unique experience of spotting local wildlife, such as monkeys, swinging above them while enjoying the pool. This adds an element of excitement and connection with the surrounding ecosystem, further complemented by the lush flora and fauna. Direct access to the beach from the pool area underscores the property's appeal as a peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
While most reviews focus on the positive attributes of the pool, there are occasional remarks about maintenance needs and the pool being unavailable upon arrival due to ongoing cleaning or filling. Nevertheless, the overall consensus reflects a sense of satisfaction, with the pool described as a great, refreshing, and delightful feature of this idyllic getaway.
Family
The Howler Monkey Hotel offers a charming and welcoming environment for families, nestled in beautiful natural surroundings. One highlight of the stay is the presence of three adorable dogs, adding a touch of warmth and delight to the experience. Children will enjoy the unique opportunity to have breakfast alongside a family of howler monkeys, creating memorable moments immersed in nature. The setting is both family-friendly and intimate, making it a perfect retreat for families and honeymooners alike. The cabins provide ample space for families, ensuring comfort and convenience. For those seeking a quiet escape, this hotel proves to be an ideal spot. Kids can also enjoy educational experiences, such as learning about endangered frogs, making the visit both enjoyable and enriching.
FAQ
Yes, Howler Monkey Hotel has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Howler Monkey Hotel.
No, Howler Monkey Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Howler Monkey Hotel.
