My first time in Costa Rica and it was a pleasure. Russell, Scott, John and everyone at El Castillo were amazing. We spent Thanksgiving here and absolutely everything was wonderful. It was one of the best vacations that I have taken in a very long time. Waking up to toucans in the morning and coffee by the infinity pool overlooking the pacific is absolutely breath taking. We took their recommendations for the masage therapist, local places to eat, zip lining ..... you name it, you cant go wrong.. This is exactly the type of boutique environment that I love and they made our vacation special. The people of Costa Rica are very kind and genuine. We will definately be back and will bring friends to El Castillo. Thank you guys for a wonderful experience!!

My friend and I decided to go on a vacation from our vacation in Manuel Antonio to Ojochal. This hotel did not disappoint. We arrived just before sunset and quickly ordered a drink. The backside of the hotel completely opens up to an infinity pool that overlooks the ocean from a few hundred feet up. The sunset was one of the best I had ever seen. We quickly decided to stay for another night.

There are 5 rooms, I recommend one of the 2 suites, but all of the rooms have amazing views of the ocean down below and are very comfortable. The staff was very helpful and always there to talk to. John, the manager, even came out with us to dinner one night.

I can't recommend this enough if you are looking for a quiet get away from the more populated areas and really want to treat yourself. I will be telling my friends and family about his place. I wish I didn't have to leave.

Thanks to John, Will, Russell, and Scott!

from the moment we stepped out of our cab we knew we were in for a treat -- before even walking into the house you can see the infinity pool, extending out over the river and into the ocean. the design and staff make you feel instantly right at home. i am currently working in manuel antonio - a very heavily visited area by tourists, and had chosen to come here to Ojochal with my friend to get away for a bit - what turned into one night resulted in three as it was a complete paradise - not to mention incredible food at their restaurant Azul - try the moroccan chicken, you won't be sorry!! and huevos rancheros for breakfast (which you get to have poolside with the panorama view :)
be sure to get there in time for a sunset. they have impeccably picked music that is played throughout the casa - so in combination with a glass of wine and great company -- John, Russell Scott, Will, the chef - the whole staff/owner team are incredible and attentive -- and the unparalleled views,,,this will truly make for a memorable experience.
i hope to return soon!

First of all, this is the first time I have ever been motivated to write a TA review, but we loved this place. We were in CR for 10 days and stayed at some amazing properties (Xandari, Nayara, etc.). El Castillo was right up there with the best of them. It's a beautiful property (pretty small in terms of # of rooms), offering great, highly attentive service. Rooms were very well appointed, gorgeous views, infinity pool and a pretty "happening" bar and restaurant (Azul), serving excellent Mediterranean food. You will almost feel like family, as Scott, Russell, John and Will are perfect hosts. Stay here!