I stayed at Cabinas Jimenez for a total of 4 nights (interrupted by a 2-night excursion to Corcovado) in January 2013, and I was very impressed by this little hotel. I was travelling with 2 friends, and the staff were extremely helpful in organizing tours for us, as well as holding our bags when we went hiking for 3 days. We stayed in Cabina #4, which was small but comfortable (didn't spend much time in the room anyway), and although our room didn't have a view, it was just a few steps out our door to get to the water. The rooms were clean and well-kept: I was especially impressed at the maids' ability to clean up our mess the morning after we returned from our 3-day Corcovado hike (everything got quite muddy!). At night, I recommend turning the AC on for an hour or so to take some of the day's humidity out of the air, but after that the fans and windows are sufficient to keep the room comfortable.

The wifi was extremely useful for communicating with family back at home, and the internet speed was surprisingly fast (I've learned not to expect much when traveling). I also enjoyed the fact that it was not actually IN downtown Puerto Jimenez because it was extremely quiet and peaceful at night.

Although there's no restaurant in the hotel, it didn't matter to us because downtown Puerto Jimenez is just a short walk away, with the one of the closest restaurants being a fabulous pizzeria (this being said by a New Yorker and a bit of a pizza snob). As far as breakfast goes, we usually just satisfied ourselves with trail mix and granola bars, anyway, because we headed out pretty early each morning for our various tours.

The bottom line: a great and affordable hotel that works as a good home-base for Corcovado tours or even just wandering around in town.

We spend four nights here in total (with some nights elsewhere in between) in three different rooms, so this is a mixed review. To start with: all rooms are kept clean and tidy. They have a more-or-less hot water shower (electrical type, so sometimes not so hot) and a clean bathroom with a safety box. They also have small fridges. Beds and mattresses are of good quality. Some rooms are however very small (room no 5, “standard”). We had another room (no 4, “deluxe”) which had beds for 5 people (we were with 2, and paid only for a “standard” room). This rooms has some windows near the ceiling which cannot be covered, so if you are a light sleeper I would not advise this room. But then there was another room (more expensive, “poolside deluxe”): a very large beautiful and nice room, with a nice private terrace to sit in the evening. More expensive but to my opinion this really is worth it.
In addition to the rooms they also have a small pool (1 m depth) which is convenient to cool off in the evening. They also have free kayaks available (5, of which 1 or 2 for two persons) and free bikes (didn’t use it). There is internet coverage. A main drawbacks is that they do not offer breakfast, so you need to get it in the village (Monka is really nice). Some of the staff was very friendly and helpful, while others seemed to be happy to get rid of us as soon as possible, so also here some mixed feelings. They offer free luggage storage (great if you are going into the park). When we stayed some guests had a problem with theft from their rooms during the night, so be advised to use the safety boxes!

The cabians are just out of town (near the entrance of the town), but within easy walking distance of the town center. A ideal location for using the kayaks...


Overall, I would recommend this place. It’s a pity of the breakfast, but rooms are very good. I do find that the extra money for the poolside room is worth it if you are spending a relaxing day (e.g. after hiking in Corcovado), but if you are in for a short night before heading to the park I would advise a standard room. Personally I would not take the deluxe no4 room, as I have a hard time sleeping with the light…

Very beautiful setting and location. Very comfortable room. Nice people, both the owner and the staff. Have nothing to complain about.

It's also very convenient to walk around to watch the caimen, to do the kayaking, to watch dolphin, and book other tours such as chocolate farm tour, rainforest hiking, etc.

Price is also fair and affordable.

We stayed at Cabinas Jimenez for 4 nights and were more than happy with the place. Our room was small but comfortable with nice murals on the walls. Cleanliness, air-conditioning and shower were the best we had in Costa Rica. The location is unbeatable: at a peaceful beach with great views on the gulf; the services of the town are near, and it's just a small walk to the bus stop when going to Carate. The whole hotel area is beautiful and very well kept.

The owner and staff at Cabinas Jimenez are very friendly and professional. They gave us good advice on local services, activities and transport. The kayaks and bikes can be used without charge - we tried both and had a good time.