Hotel El Encanto

Mixed feelings about this property. Upon arrival, we were met with a reserved and aloof receptionist who would not give me a key to the room unless I provided my passport number which was in the car. Ok, it’s really hot, we’ve been driving all day, the gates locked so it’s not like we would run away- she decided she could bend this rule. The cottages were perfect, great bathrooms, air conditioning, fans, comfortable beds but with awful pillows. The grounds were also perfect and beautiful with two small swimming pools. What needs improvement is their customer service. They made a mistake with the number of beds in our room. Instead of comping us or apologizing, they had us wait not explaining what they are going to do and ask for an extra fee for the additional bed in the room. Not sure why that requires an extra fee. We were never given complimentary drinks as per their cards in the room, nor were we given two for one drinks during happy hour. I asked on two occasions before booking if the restaurant provides vegan breakfast and if they have vegan choices for dinner. The breakfast was by far the worst breakfast we had in Costa Rica. I was offered dry stale bread with thin slices of avocado and two slices of tomato. When asked if I could have rice and beans, I was given a strict NO without explanation. No rice and beans like all the other hotels. The fruit was delicious. We had dinner once there on our first night and the bean burger was soft and not tasty along with the other dishes so we decided not to eat there again. If visiting this area again, I would not stay here and probably stay in the Punta Uva area with better beaches, restaurants, more hotels to choose from and just more to do overall. This hotel has a lot going for it but the customer service and subpar food has made us think twice. Coffee only available after 7am even though tours start early in Costa Rica and you’re up at 4:30 or 5, and there is no coffee, and the breakfast we were given to go for our 5mile hike in the rainforest jungle was cheese and tomato sandwich even though I asked for a vegan breakfast. Again, I was give a strict NO to a vegan breakfast.

Suite sleeps 6 with A/C - walking distance to Cahuita NP. Restaurant was fabulous, serves fish and chicken with wonderful flavors. Happy hour from 5 to 6 with two for one cocktails wonderfully made by Conrad! Fun, laid-back stay. Comfortable beds manicured grounds very secure for guests and parking, two pools with outdoor shower. Very attentive staff that speak acceptable english. We are coming back soon! Colin N

We came for my 60th birthday. They gave me a lovely tropical bouquet! This place is nestled in beautiful gardens, wildlife, nice little pool, relaxing seating vignettes here and there. We looked forward to breakfast each morning - fresh fruit, homemade bread and jam and varied main choices like eggs, pancakes, veggie choice. Each room has a nice little outdoor seating area. Housekeeping service was daily, providing towels for pool and beach. Air conditioning was essential for us in August and they had it as well as a fan. It cooled the room down nicely. To top it all off, the service was impeccable here. Great attention to detail at this boutique hotel. Also, walking distance to town, Cahuita national Park, beach, restaurants and the grocery store.

This is a very nice place, for relaxing but also for exploring Cahuita and surroundings (10-15 min walk to the center and to the entrance of the national park). We had lodge 8 of which the entrance was a bit hidden so there was a bit more privacy when sitting on the accessory garden chairs and couche (with lights and fan!). The lodge itself was very cozy, the bath room / shower and the beds were good (the beds had a mosquito net). There were three types of towels available - for the bath room, for the swimming pool and for the beach. The garden and swimming pool area is very nicely arranged with swings and relaxing chairs, and you will even find some wildlife (we saw purple grasshoppers, blue frogs, iguanas, etc). There are two (rather small) pools with a different water temperature. Breakfast is good with always fresh fruit and toasts, and then a third item of choice (which could be pancakes, eggs, guacamole, etc). You can also have dinner in the restaurant (rather limited menu with local and international dishes). Coffee and cocktails (especially the home cocktail) are excellent (happy hour between 5-6 pm for a selection of cocktails!). Staff was very friendly throughout our stay. There is a laundry service and also free (and safe) parking when coming with the car.