Villas Alturas

There isn't a proper lobby or reception desk at Villas Alturas -- instead guests walk over a cute wooden pedestrian bridge in a garden, into the restaurant, where staff offers laid-back but friendly assistance at the bar or a table. It's easy to get distracted from the paperwork by the monkeys that hang out in a nearby tree, snatching an occasional banana from a hanging bunch. Most of the activity in this boutique property centers around the swimming pool and adjacent restaurant. Views of the Pacific Ocean and Whale's Tale (an almost two-mile sandbar that resembles the shape of a whale's tail) are stunning, especially on sunny days. Nature guidebooks and a pair of binoculars are displayed on a table next to a display of a whale's jawbone.

The Villas with the best ocean views are built directly next to the pool, while a second building near the parking lot houses Villas with interrupted ocean views. A hand-painted mural of the property's name and a monkey and a toucan resting on a branch, are displayed on a Villa's exterior wall. Thanks to the neighboring rain forest and wildlife sanctuary, animals are regularly spotted and the area is secluded and quiet. Overall, the atmosphere is chic but kid-friendly, and service is helpful. 

For nature lovers, it's hard to beat Villas Alturas location directly next to Villas Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. But the property is a little difficult to get to: the turnoff is well signed on busy Route 34, but the steep and unpaved road that leads to the hotel requires a four-wheel drive. It can be a bit much to battle every day for guests who plan on doing a lot of exploring. Expect a 20-minute drive to Uvita Beach and 12 minutes to Dominical Beach. San Jose International Airport is about a three-hour drive on paved and tolled roads. Manuel Antonio National Park takes around 50 minutes to reach via car. Parking at the hotel is free and plentiful. 

There are seven Villas on the property, divided into spacious one- or two-bedroom units. Each comes standard with a full kitchen and cooking gear, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and living room. Decor is simple but attractive in tones of brown and orange with tile floors and natural wood furniture. Tropical print throw pillows add a splash of color to the couches. Balconies are furnished with leather rocking chairs, tables and chairs, and colorful hammocks. Stainless steel appliances look luxe and a wooden island divides the kitchen from the living room area. Art includes paintings of whales and hummingbirds. Nice-size bathrooms feature a large shower, single pedestal sink, and built-in shelves that hold white towels. As at many Costa Rican hotels, toilet tissue should be thrown in the trash instead of the toilet. Housekeeping is provided daily. 

Villas next to the pool have the best views of the ocean. Those built next to the parking lot have better rain forest views but interrupted vistas of the water. Cleanliness and noise aren't issues here and the rooms were renovated in 2014.

An unexpected highlight at Villas Restaurant is the on-site restaurant and bar, which serves mostly organic ingredients and offers vegetarian fare, plus yummy guacamole, pastas, and fish. The free breakfast is made-to-order and includes guests' choice of pancakes with fresh fruit, create-your-own omelet, and a breakfast sandwich option. Fruity cocktails can be ordered by the pool. It's not enormous, but has a tiled whale's tail on the bottom and offers enough sun loungers and umbrellas for guests who want to lounge. Nearby binoculars, telescope, and board games provide on-site entertainment. Guests can borrow free umbrellas, beach chairs, and boogie boards if they're driving to one of the nearby beaches. Wi-Fi is free and fast throughout the property. 

Staff is helpful in arranging excursions and tours. In-room spa services and corporate events can be arranged.