We have just returned from our second visit to Cristal Ballena this year. As returning guests, the staff treated us like family upon our arrival. They spared no effort to ensure that we were satisfied with our room which was comfortably furnished with a balcony which has a fantastic view of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. In the... more

Cristal Ballena is an impeccable resort. The grounds are beautiful and our corner suite (10) was amazing. The room overlooks the grounds, pool and ocean with 270 degree views. We had a car so getting around was never an issue. Dinner & breakfast were included it our rate. Never had a chance to eat breakfast because of excursions, but the... more

My new husband and I spent one night of our honeymoon here, on our way down to southern Osa, after having our wedding in Manuel Antonio. The Good: The grounds are stunning, well manicured with beautiful views. Our room was large and spotless. They even had champagne and fruit waiting for us when we arrived. We had a suite with... more

My husband & I stayed here for 2 nights. The room was fantastic & HUGE! Even the bed was huge. A/C was nice & cold. We had a balcony with a view of the ocean & even received a free welcome cocktail delivered to our room on the day we arrived. The whole hotel offers a great view since it's... more

Am leaving Cristal after a 2 night stay…disappointed in the experience and I would not give this a high recommendation. My last 4 night stay at Arenas del Mar puts this to shame. The grounds here are a high point…up on the mountain overlooking the expansive ocean. Virgin rain forest surrounding the hotel, you can feel this is a real... more

We stayed here for 4 wonderful nights and hated to leave! From the friendly welcome to the gorgeous room, excellent food and a staff that I can only call "the best", we just loved our stay here. At a small resort like this, the staff can maximize the "personal touch"- and they did, making you feel like a valued houseguest.... more

This is a beautiful hotel. Awesome view, very nicely furnished rooms, great pool, and very helpful and friendly staff. We wished we had scheduled more nights with them. more

Cristal Ballena is located in the south of Costa Rica in the Dominical area and on the Costa Ballena. It's kind of the "last frontier" of the country with incredible nature and at this time is still relatively isolated from tourists, although all that is changing fast. Cristal Ballena is two years old and the most luxurious hotel in the... more

Very well maintained hotel, closest to an upscale resort in the area. Did not have any problems with reservations, contacted hotel directly via email, it sometimes took a day or two to get back with me. Breakfast included with room rate, decent lunch and dinner but a bit pricey, Great pool and landscaping. Rooms are clean and large. Originally booked... more