The Coast Beachfront Hotel

The entrance of this homey property is through a gated parking area with a sign pointing guests to the front office. Two pet mascots, Buddy the cat, and Lily the dog, might be wandering around the grounds. A British manager is often based in the office and available for questions -- she runs the show for the actual owners who are Californians with the surname Cook. They share a long-time love for the area; the husband -- who has since passed away -- is said to have enjoyed swimming back and forth to the island in the distance, Isla el Capitan, for exercise. Through the years, the Cook family has maintained a steady business, gaining repeat visitors along the way -- some who stay for weeks at a time. 

This spot is a ideal for a DIY, simple vacation with the only sounds being of the waves, howler monkeys, and kids playing on the beach. A hallway winds around from the office to the front of the main building where there is a pool and a self-serve concierge desk with local information. This leads to a gated walking path that turns towards a few hammocks and a wide stretch of sand; the gate is locked for security. During the day, most guests are out enjoying the waves, coming back and forth to their units for food and drink. Sunsets with a beer on the hammock might turn into cooking on-site, or heading into town for restaurant dining. With so few neighbors, the ambiance remains quiet.

Case Cook is located in the growing coastal community of Tamarindo in northwest Nicoya Penisula, just over an hour's drive from Liberia International Airport. Roads in this part of the peninsula are paved (unlike many in other parts of the peninsula), so this is a good option for those who like a bit more modernity and convenience (and yes -- more commercialism). Guests are mostly drawn to this property due to its prime oceanfront location right on Playa Tamarindo. This part of the coast has beautiful views, great swimming and surf conditions (for beginners), and magical sunsets. It is only a 10- to15-minute walk to Tamarindo's downtown area, which has a thriving nightlife with lively restaurants and bars -- some that get quite rowdy. Guests can either walk along the beach or take the road -- either way, they will come home to a more peaceful environment than the main strip where many hotels are located.

Though Tamarindo is a surfing mecca, non-surfers need not worry as there are plenty of other activities like snorkeling, diving, and ATV and wildlife tours. Renting a car is not necessary, especially for those who want to save money. Area excursions come with transportation, and there is a shuttle service from Liberia International Airport for a reasonable rate. There is also a shuttle from San Jose International Airport but it will take longer -- about five hours -- and cost more money. Casa Cook has free parking in a gated lot next to the entrance.

There are only four units that can be reserved individually or as a whole for groups of up to 20. Each one is decorated with traditional, comfortable decor: picture wood accents, ceramic tile floors, and blue denim-like coverings on the beds and futons; the latter can feel dated to some. Each one also includes an A/C unit, flat-screen TV, living/dining area, and kitchen with basic appliances including a gas stove, refrigerator, and microwave oven. Spacious bathrooms have glass walk-in showers. 

Two cabinas are situated close to the beach with patios pointing towards the ocean. (They have easier access to hammocks.) There is one studio apartment, and another spacious casita with a large kitchen next to the pool. An upstairs unit called the Villa can be reserved only by special request.

iPod docks and hairdryers are available upon request only.

Casa Cook has the good fortune to be neighbors with popular (but not too popular) Playa Tamarindo. This direct beach access is far and away the standout feature, for guests of all ages. The ocean is warm and has steady (but safe) waves -- ideal for swimming and boogie boarding. Boogie boards are available for guests at no extra fee, and there are several surf schools based in the area, as well as stand up paddle board rentals (all are popular activities on this beach). There is plenty of sand on the wide beach to lay out the towels for sunbathing, or for enjoying picnics, mixed with long walks on the shore or horseback riding. Though this is the quieter end, Playa Tamarindo is popular with tourists and locals, and those who like people watching will enjoy the views. 

For those who want more tranquility, there’s an outdoor pool with sun loungers, as well as a few tables and chairs for BBQ'ing. A self-service concierge area is set up next to the pool offering local information. The manager in the front office can also arrange activities. At night, the property has 24-hour security.