PRO/CON - Exactly in the Middle. NOT Amazing. NOT Horrible.
Intro: This was our last hotel stop during a 1 week tour through Costa Rica. My gf and I picked this hotel because it was ranked number #1 on Tripadvisor (not the best choice as ranking does not necessarily imply "best" hotel).
Overall, the hotel is very basic and will meet the needs of the average traveller. There are no frills or luxurious add-ons. Full details of the Pros and Cons are described below.
PRO
-Staff is helpful, happy, and bilingual (e.g. speaks English).
-Condition of estate - Hotel premises is clean, safe, and well-kept
-Discounts available if you pay cash
-Impeccable ocean view from nearly any room
-Very inexpensive! Great for the budget traveller!
CON
-Location is NOT NEAR THE BEACH. The hotel is located at the top of a mountain which is only reached via a windy, gravel road. Do NOT expect to leave the hotel and instantly step onto the beach. We drove back and forth each time from our room to the restaurants and the beach.
-Wildlife. If you have an aversion to animals, this is not for you. There was a large spider, various lizards, dragonflies, and a wild possum all encountered during our stay. We particularly didn't mind this wildlife interaction as it was expected in Costa Rica. But don't be surprised to see tiny lizards scurrying in your bedroom and shower
-Breakfast. Super weak. Nothing but yogurt/fruit/granola. This was the ONLY hotel of the 4 hotels we've stayed at in Costa Rica that did NOT cook the typical Costa Rican breakfast. They note this in the website. However, just know that this breakfast does not follow the norm that you may encounter at other hotels (e.g. - eggs, meat, rice/beans, sweets, breads, etc.)
TIPS
-Be aware that this is a significant distance from the beach via foot.
-Not all rooms have A/C
CONCLUSION
-An average hotel with good service. If I'm on a budget and looking just for a place to lay my head for a low cost - I'd pick this place.
But if I'm expecting animal-free rooms, a short walk to the beach, and a hearty breakfast...I'd spend a little more money and go elsewhere.
Feel free to message if you have any questions and of course, safe travels! Pura Vida! :)
- Also Known As:
- Aparthotel Vista Pacifico Hotel
- Aparthotel Vista Pacifico Jaco
- Aparthotel Vista Pacifico Hotel Jaco
- Aparthotel Vista Pacifico Costa Rica/Jaco
