The top cities between Cancun and Manuel Antonio are Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Arenal Volcano National Park, San Jose, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Akumal, Granada, Valladolid, Tamarindo, and Mahahual. Playa del Carmen is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Cancun and 30 hours from Manuel Antonio.
Playa del Carmen is a Mexican coastal town located in Quintana Roo along the Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. The area is known for its stunning palm-lined beaches and thriving coral reefs, making it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy exploring the Quinta Avenida pedestrian thoroughfare which features an array of shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots ranging from laid-back bars to dance clubs.
Most popular city on this route
23 minutes off the main route, 3% of way to Manuel Antonio
Akumal is a beach resort located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico's Riviera Maya. The area boasts beautiful white sands, an abundant coral reef, and warm waters teeming with diverse marine life - particularly turtles. Additionally, visitors can explore nearby destinations such as Half Moon Bay and Yal-ku Lagoon for more swimming and snorkeling opportunities among colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and barracudas.
19% as popular as Playa del Carmen
29 minutes off the main route, 4% of way to Manuel Antonio
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Valladolid is a city situated in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, featuring magnificent colonial structures such as the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena and the baroque-style San Gervasio Cathedral. The town also boasts cultural landmarks like Casa de los Venados, housing traditional Mexican folk art and furnishings. Visitors can explore Cenote Zací or venture to underground cenotes Samulá and X'Kekén for a swim.
5% as popular as Playa del Carmen
57 minutes off the main route, 5% of way to Manuel Antonio
Tulum is a Mexican town located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It boasts well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city and beautiful beaches. The main attraction is El Castillo, a large stone structure situated atop a rocky cliff overlooking the turquoise sea. Additionally, visitors can explore Parque Nacional Tulum, which features mangroves and natural limestone sinkholes called cenotes.
48% as popular as Playa del Carmen
21 minutes off the main route, 5% of way to Manuel Antonio
Mahahual, a charming village located on the Costa Maya in Quintana Roo, Mexico, has transformed from a traditional fishing village into a thriving tourist hub. Despite some negative portrayals online, it's actually a highly recommended stop along the Quintana Roo coast. The area offers more than just tacky souvenir shops and gringo bars; it's filled with local businesses that contribute to the unique tourism experience.
5% as popular as Playa del Carmen
2 hours off the main route, 15% of way to Manuel Antonio
I'll never travel to Manuel Antonio without this trip planner again
Granada is a city in Nicaragua situated on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. It boasts numerous Spanish colonial landmarks that have stood the test of time despite pirate invasions. The main Central Park plaza is dominated by the Cathedral of Granada, which has a colorful and neoclassical facade dating back to 1583. Nearby, Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco is renowned for showcasing pre-Columbian statues.
7% as popular as Playa del Carmen
37 minutes off the main route, 76% of way to Manuel Antonio
Tamarindo, situated on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Guanacaste Province, is renowned for its rugged surfing beaches such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. The area to the north houses Playa Grande beach, which serves as a significant breeding ground for enormous leatherback turtles and constitutes part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge protects diverse fauna like howler monkeys and crocodiles in its estuary lined with mangroves.
5% as popular as Playa del Carmen
2 hours off the main route, 81% of way to Manuel Antonio
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal is a sprawling 29,700-acre forested national park that offers spectacular trails through the lava fields of an active volcano. Despite its ever-active nature from 1968 to 2010, the mountain still remains a remarkable sightseeing spot for tourists.
Pepe with Ecoterra tours took us on a private guided hike for breathtaking views. He knew so much about the volcano history, local flora and fauna and was an amazing guide. He was patient with us when we needed to rest and at the end of our hike he had cold beers/water/soda, fresh pineapple and cookies waiting for us in the shade.
The walking sticks he had were a lifesaver. Great tour guide - friendly, fun and knowledgeable
Karen Williamson — Google review
A “MUST VISIT” !!! Her amazing natural beauty is seen throughout our visit. My photos do not begin to capture the raw beauty available to the human eye. Seeing the waterfalls first from a far distance to eventually up close is a incredible memory. Remember when you take the 500 steps down that you must take the steps back up. Fortunately for me many levels of Resting areas. Also refreshments available along with multiple gift centers. A sign Warning yo use the bathroom services before you begin your journey down is a wise thought. Overall breathtaking experience!!
TravelingSolo23 — Google review
Exploring Parque Nacional Arenal was a serene experience, especially during the vocal walk. The tranquility of the surroundings made it a pleasant stroll. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the viewpoint that offers a stunning sight of the volcano. You have the option to either walk up to the viewpoint or conveniently drive if you have a vehicle. Whichever way you choose, the view is well worth the journey. A memorable spot for anyone seeking a tranquil escape and breathtaking vistas.
Vanessa Benavides — Google review
Incredible hike through the jungle and up the volcanic lava flow with boulders. Stunning close up view of the volcano and also of the lake down below. Easy walk except for the short walk through the Boulder field near the top. Lots of birds in the jungle. We loved this hike! I would highly recommend it!
Ernst Koehler — Google review
We hiked Parque National on our own and had a phenomenal time! There are two main portions to the park - a hike closer to the lava fields and the volcano (also, there’s a massive tree amidst this hike) and a second half closer to the lake. What an incredible experience. Would highly recommend. Wear solid hiking shoes please - we saw some ladies wearing sandals and those would not do well after a trudge in the mud.
Jonathan Ding — Google review
Small park but there was no one else there so it was quiet and beautiful. The trail is pretty simple if you’re going to the lake. Great views of the volcano from anywhere near by.
Michael — Google review
Overall pretty easy hike through one of Costa Rica's state park. During the off season and middle of the day the park is pretty empty. The cost is about $15 and allows for some beautiful views of the volcano at the halfway point once you walk across some lava stones.
NOTE: The large tree that this trail is know for must have been struck by lightening a few months ago and therefore is in several pieces. If you are an arborist, and this was one of your main reason for going then you might want to avoid this trail. Taking off one star due to the fact that the state park website doesn't let you know that the tree is now destroyed.
Kent Guthrie — Google review
Very cool place to do a self guided tour! Lots of signs with good info and a relatively easy hike. Got a little muddy in the rain but still not too hard.
Max Stephenson — Google review
Hopefully, you have a good guide to explain the history and geology of the volcano. Not a highlight of visiting LA Fortuna. They usually only let you hike to the base, and not very far up the mountain. There are viewing platforms for good views. Wear closed toe shoes, preferably hiking shoes or sneakers, if you don't mind the mild wear on the bottoms.
Kurt Monteiro — Google review
Gorgeous views and beautiful hike. Multiple trails to walk through with wildlife to watch along the way. Walked through all the trails and it was well worth it. Ticket included the Arenal lake trail with outlook tower.
Suzy — Google review
Highly recommend! The hike on the path to the Ceiba tree was strenuous largely due to it being extremely muddy, but we saw tons of wildlife along the way, including sloths, lizards of various types, toucans, many other birds and animals. Honestly, we saw more wildlife here than in the reserves we visited! The tree itself is truly majestic. The overview of the lava flows is breathtaking, and we caught it in the few minutes when the peak was out of the clouds the whole time we were there.
Lawrence A. Whitney — Google review
The view from the main point is good but you can probably get the same from out the park.
Less than 5 miles roundtrip. Something happened to the Ceiba tree, it was cut in half or maybe a natural disaster. The entry to this part of the park is currently closed, however, you can easily pass the stripe danger line and check out the tree. Entry is like 3$
Andres Herrera — Google review
The viewing deck has had great improvements from 5 years ago. There are pretty little spots for your Instagram pics. A new restaurant and bar is on top. It is a definite up hill walk if you have back, hip or leg issues like me. No cart was available to ride that day. Lovely view
Karen F Anderson — Google review
We loved this hike! We did the longest trail to have the best experience. Highly recommend to bring hiking shoes and bring water/snacks. The view is incredible and we would do it again! We had lunch at the cafeteria after our hike and the food was delicious.
Taylor Barsalo — Google review
Went on a guided tour of the grounds. Cool forest. Sad that you can't go up higher, but it's still beautiful.
The waterfall though is amazing! It has a nice eating area just above the falls.
Jessica Long — Google review
Very cool if you take your time to look for animals. Really good for birding but you're probably not going to see mammals other than coatis. Despite the weather report the clouds lifted somewhat after a few hours in the park.
Storm Borum — Google review
This is by far my favourite place in La Fortuna. The park trails will bring you through pine forests, plains, cattle farms, rainforests, waterfalls, hanging bridges and many more. The observatory, although a bit scary to climb, will give you a breathtaking view of the Arenal lake and volcano and Cerro Chato. All of that in about 2-4 hours depending on which trails you want to do.
You also have the option of doing the River Trails, which is the hardest one I have done in the area. Very steep, muddy and uneven terrain, with nothing really special at the end except for two river beds and the sense of pride and accomplishment you’ll get by finishing it.
This is a must if you are in the La Fortuna region!
Dominique Antonelli — Google review
Beautiful park with great trails. Definitely recommend trail #5 as it felt more tropical than the busy #4. Be prepared for mud on that trail.
Conrad Rygier — Google review
This was the least satisfying of the 6 National Parks / Reserves that we've visited during our time in Costa Rica.
It's very busy, like Manuel Antonio or Monteverde, but unlike the others this park does not have an extensive network of trails to absorb large numbers of visitors. This means you are never very far from a large tour group and you don't really get that sense of being somewhere wild or remote.
One of the trails is also used by cars, which means there are really on 6km walking trails.
There is no information centre.
There are decent views of Arenal and we did see a few Coatis, but we have seen more wildlife in and around La Fortuna, whilst walking on the quieter roads north of the town.
Not sure it's worth the effort / cost. The whole place feels a little abandoned and underfunded.
Bruce Learner — Google review
After the gate there is a large parking lot. We walked the overlook trail to the lava fields. The trail was mostly flat but there was a stairs case to the viewing point, which itself was very rocky. The wildlife was beautiful. 10/10
Jillian Henthorn — Google review
26% as popular as Playa del Carmen
1 hour off the main route, 85% of way to Manuel Antonio
La Fortuna is a small Costa Rican town located northwest of San José that serves as a gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park. The area features two volcanoes, with active Arenal Volcano possessing still-laced lava flows and hot springs dotting the thermal Tabacón River at its foot, while dormant Chato Volcano boasts rainforest trails leading to La Fortuna Waterfall and its natural pool.
21% as popular as Playa del Carmen
1 hour off the main route, 85% of way to Manuel Antonio
San José, the capital of Costa Rica and largest city in the province with the same name, is situated within San José Canton at the center of the country's Central Valley. Being a major transportation hub, it serves as a connecting point for public buses and small planes. Due to its location, those traveling from one place to another may have to pass back through the Central Valley in order to avoid certain mountain ranges.
14% as popular as Playa del Carmen
1 hour off the main route, 90% of way to Manuel Antonio
Best stops along Cancun to Manuel Antonio drive
The top stops along the way from Cancun to Manuel Antonio (with short detours) are Playa Akumal, Fortuna Waterfall, and Mr Sanchos Beach Club. Other popular stops include Paradise Beach, National Theater of Costa Rica, and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve.
Yal-Ku Cenote, also known as Cenote Akumal, is a large and shallow cenote located close to the sea, giving it the feel of an inlet rather than a traditional cenote. It's a popular spot for snorkeling due to its clear waters and abundant marine life, including fish and sea turtles. The lagoon offers paths and benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
PLEASE READ: You do not have to pay to access the cenote. You can walk in for free from the west side (must drive by car on the freeway) or you can swim in from the sea. Just wanted to make that clear.
This place charges a $300 pesos (or $14USD) fee to enter the lagoon from their property. We paid for it and it was worth the price for us. The amount of fish you see is INCREDIBLE! Big parrot fish munching on coral, electric blue fish, so many I don't have a name for. The best fish can be seen right where you get in the water, at the south tip.
We did not need life vests, you float just fine in the ocean water. Kids and those who tire while swimming should consider them though.
Bring a sun shirt to swim in and wear (no sunscreen is allowed in the cenote- ouch!). Wear very good sandals if you want to walk around at all, the ground is broken lava rock with really cool fossils everywhere you look.
I recommend swimming out to the north side, there's a sandy beach you can hang out on, and way fewer people so you can get those beautiful shots of nature. You can also access that side of the cenote by taking the private property trail I mentioned above :)
Jolee Evans — Google review
If you are looking for lots of fish and a variety of fish? Plus snorkelling in a safe environment? This is the place to go. We went twice during our trip because the access is so easy and we got to see more fish here than we normally see elsewhere. Best moment was being surrounded by a school of sardines. Just crazy!!!
The staff is very friendly and this the smaller, locally owned operation. $300 MXN per adult.
Freda Piskorik — Google review
Great place to snorkel with salt water fishes and other sea creatures! We loved it! Although it was rainy, it wasn't uncomfortable and it added to the experience in my opinion. It's a deep swim, so if you are not a strong swimmer, better take a life jacket instead of a life vest. Don't disturb the fishes please.
Hector Sanchez — Google review
My 17 year old daughter and I enjoyed the lagoon. Many fish, and great mangrove overhang to see huge schools of sardines. The corals are really no longer alive due to the volume of people that has been in this section of the coast, but the mix of salt and fresh waters still attracts a huge variety of fish. If you are new to snorkeling or new to visiting the Yucatan than this definitely is a great location to start in.
Michael Esakov — Google review
Our group had such a good time! Especially love how fun the zip line helpers are! The gentleman who took us through the caves was very funny. The whole experience was great! Definitely visit if you vacation nearby! Also, I love that they are an animal sanctuary!
Julie Krische Albin — Google review
Very clear, refreshing water. Snorkeling here was a great intro to the activity, but not much to see here underwater. The beauty is the cave itself.
Courtney Chanette — Google review
Clean, safe and very cool spot for snorkeling in Tulum! You will see a ton of fish and even a turtle or two.
This was a nice first stop on a day long cenote tour. Worth the visit
Diana Arena-Morris — Google review
This is a great place to visit. The lagoon is beautiful and full of fish. We visited it without a guided tour and I would recommend not to book a tour. You can easily get here by Taxi which is way cheaper and also the entrance fee is lower than what you have to pay in a guided tour.
Dimitri Sivolap — Google review
We booked through our hotel it was expensive and it was an okay experience. I’d definitely wouldn’t go back since it wasn’t enjoyable. When we went the water was murky not at all as you see in the catalog. We were rushed by the tour guide, didn’t enjoy it as much. I think it would’ve been more enjoyable had we been able to spend more time where the fishes were rather than swimming to murkier waters where there was like only 2 fishes.
CENOTE:
it was beautiful, however I was told to buy a waterproof case in advance by the hotel concierge so we could take our own photos in the water however we got told at the cenotes that we had to pay and they would take the pictures. Cenotes I would definitely do again. It is freezing water but it is always a great experience. Just feels rushed since there’s tour after tour waiting.
Mariela Santamaria — Google review
Great spot for easy snorkelling with lots of different fish. We used the entrance where you could take your own gear. The other entrance you had to hire a life vest. Not much shade unless you walked back towards the entrance.
Ian Dixon — Google review
Beautiful! We swam for a little in the lagoon. Tip: go early, right when it opens, so it’s less busy and the water isn’t cloudy. There are also hammocks to rest in, and wildlife such as cute wombat-looking creatures (quokkas??) and lizards! Life vests are also available to rent.
Aya EZ — Google review
A must visit lagoon to snorkel and see a lot of fish and maybe even turtles (if you are lucky).
The place is beautiful and the price to get in is good if you go directly there without buying a tour.
You will find several people, as they take groups from tours, but you can happily swim around a d see the amazing fish
Perfect to take Instagram pictures and short reels.
Bring snorkel equipment and water camera.
Myrna Villanueva — Google review
First recommendation is go there early. It gets very busy after 11 am. Tours start bringing people in and it is not big enough to accommodate everyone. There was traffic jam in it towards the end. All you need 1-1.5 hours in total to see some fishes and do snorkeling. After that it becomes repetitive in my opinion. There are no turtles but fishes. You can take your own life vest, fins, GoPro, snorkel set etc. or rent it from them. It costs $17 USD per person.
Mehmet Aygun — Google review
In the morning when we got there, it was beautiful and we saw hundreds of fish. It's a beautiful lagoon with hammocks to rest in the shade along the trails, a quaint restaurant to stop in, showerz, locker to rent, beautifully maintained vegetation and jungles.
Jolane Sundstrom — Google review
It was an amazing trip! The ruins, cenoté, and the lagoon snorkeling! All of it was a blast. Jarrod the guide was very informative and had a fun/great personality!
Alfred Herren — Google review
Great snorkeling spot! Lots of colorful fish with very clear visibility. Like another reviewer said, you can observe the halocline effect which is where fresh water and salt water become mixed and cause a distortion, very neat! It was 300 pesos to enter and 100 pesos for gear rentals. There are showers, bathrooms, and lockers available.
Playa Akumal is a well-known public beach with fantastic tourist amenities that offers visitors the opportunity to snorkel and swim with various species of sea turtles. The beach's coral reefs provide natural protection, creating a beautiful bay that serves as an ideal location for swimming. This unique beach is a favorite spot for different types of sea turtles due to its natural characteristics.
Stunning beach, here we swam with the turtles and manta ray!!! The cost is very reasonable for entry and the tours too, absolute must do especially for younger children as your within an enclosed area so much safer than heading out by boat to a reef
Ben King — Google review
There’s a parking lot nearby that you can pay for the day, or if you drive closer to the entrance you pay per hour. (I would recommend the lot that is for the day) A beautiful beach with a restaurant nearby and you can rent chairs if you’d like. Cost 120 pesos per person for the entry fee. Beware that every person will try to sell you on the snorkelling gear and tours to see the turtles, but you can bring your own stuff and swim along the borders in the water (they have areas marked off where you have to pay to swim) We didn’t see any turtles when we went but we saw some cool fish. They have nice bathrooms there.
Julaine Huard — Google review
It is not a public beach but a national park so the entrance fee is 120 peso per person. Plus you need to pay for parking 50 pesos all day or 20 peso per hour. If you enter through the restaurant Lol Ha, the entrance is free, but you need to consume there.
The facilities are great, toilet, lockers and shower. You can buy snorkeling with turtles for extra fee, there are a lot of people offering this service. We didn't like it because they emphasize the importance of conserving nature and the turtles, still if you pay, they will take groups of dozens of people to see them.
Now the beach is moderately full with sargasso. If you walk 100 meters towards the hotel, you can put your towel on the sand, it is much cleaner.
Nikoletta Szabo — Google review
Good spot for snorkeling but not via the paid tour. If you join one of the paid ones, you'll be crammed with a lot of folks in a small area which ruins the whole experience.
My recommendation - bring your own mask and swim to the buoys. Then keep swimming south along the rope. You have good chance to see rays, tortoises and schools of fish. The area in front of the resorts south from the beach has coral reefs close to the shore with lots of fish next to them.
The paid snorkeling tours in my mind ruin the whole experience.
Steve Zamek — Google review
Drive all the way inside, park on the Happy Turtle parking, it's also $100 pesos, just like the ones on the entrance. But here the walk is minimal.
Bring your own picnic, beach towels, just no glass containers. Restaurant with touristy prices is available.
Don't hire the guides on the entrance. Big companies. Pay your entrance on the ticket office to this National Park.
Once inside enjoy the clean dressing rooms, bathrooms and showers. Hire the local independent guides to swim with the turtles. $600 pesos. Please only apply SPF until after you finish your tour. Help protect the turtles.
Pro tip from my guide. Get there at 4pm. Take the tour. At that time most of the crowds are gone, and many more turtles come back to hang out.
Jorge Aguilar — Google review
120 pesos per person for entry . If you want to see turtles ok then go to Akumal . If you want a quiet beach avoid this one . We literally had people one foot away on left and two feet away on right and about 1000 people on the beach . Yes you do see some fish off the shore as you get in but there are many more beautiful beaches than this one . If you go bring water shoes as dead hard coral if about 5 feet from shoreline ouch . March. 4, 2022
Bertha Figueroa — Google review
Very beautiful beach!
I liked how they try to preserve the nature and still let you snorkel around.
We got to see a few turtles very closely and it was amazing!
Don't buy tickets of the guys standind on the road, they will get you the same service you can get by yourself for more money.
Tom Tsausho — Google review
Public beach with a few restaurants and shops.
Quaint area with small shops, restaurants and dive shops. Unfortunately everything is overpriced.
We wanted to have a drink at the beach bar/restaurant but they were charging $8CAD a beer. Food was overpriced too.
Checked out the souvenirs shops and a small wall 3D picture box was $50CAD.
It’s too bad they are gouging the tourists - that’s why the restaurants are empty.
Mikica J — Google review
Amazing snorkeling experience. You need to go on a tour to actually have a chance to see turtles and stingrays. We paid 400 pesos each for a private tour. Only get the tours at the beach, not before the entrance or at the car park. Tell those guides that you're only going to swim and not see turtles, otherwise they will try very hard to convince you and waste your time.
Make sure to drive to the end to park at the official parking lot and to save walking. There is one car park for 40 pesos per hour or 100 pesos for a full day. I carried on driving and found free parking.
Make sure to ask different tour guides as some were going to charge 650 pesos and that would be with a group! The tours give you money back if you don't see any turtles, but you're pretty guaranteed to see them. Try and go early, before 10am.
Entrance to the beach costs 120 pesos each.
Masud Anwar — Google review
Lots turtles in the water. We snorkled not even 10 minutes before spotting the first turtle. We also saw a couple of stingrays and fishes. You can rent snorkel gears and have a guide for your group for $ 20 US per person.
Jihye Bajkor — Google review
We visited here with an Airbnb snorkeling tour. You need to pay an entrance fee otherwise. Lockers are free to rent but require a 100 pesos deposit.
We saw a ton of turtles, sting ray and various fish! The beach vibe is super nice and the water is beautiful!
Anna He — Google review
We had such a great time with a beautiful and clean beach. Snorkeling with a turtle is a must activity to do!
Deelada Kasa — Google review
Stunning strip of beach. Unfortunately in the last few years has been hugely commercialised. Local rates are cheaper for those that can speak Spanish. Car park right outside the entrance to the beach so don’t stop until you get to the end as a LOT of locals will try to make you park in their car park, and even present themselves as officials to make you stop.
We paid for a local guide to take us around a set route, we got snorkel and goggle hire as well as life jackets.
Make sure to put sun tan lotion on at least an hour before arriving as you are not allowed to put it on fresh as it leaches into the water and affects the wildlife.
There are lockers available and I would recommend using them if you are going to leave any belongings unattended for any length of time.
A level of fitness is required to snorkel as sea currents and general swimming is tiring.
Robbie Torres-Howarth — Google review
I personally did not go on this tour but my wife did and she loved it. She doesn't even know how to swim but the guide took great care of her. We told him that my wife doesn't swim and he use a life ring to pull her along. He was telling her when to put her face into the water to see the turtles and fish.
For me, I sat at the Lol Ha restaurant with a Pina Colada and waited for her. We have no picture of anything under water but there's no shortage of those pictures from other reviewers. I do have a few from my activity though and I'll share those.
Kit Cheng — Google review
I swam with the turtles here.
Go early. I went in low season (early September 2023) and arrived before they even open. The car path to Akumal Beach is chained off with a guy guarding it. You should say that you're doing a tour with the Akumal Dive Centre (the Akumal Dive Shop is a different place). THEN you can drive in and access the parking lot that's right next to the beach.
Akumal Dive Centre opens at 8am. Keep that in mind for your travel time.
If you want to go for a tour to swim with the sea turtles, Akumal Dive Centre sells them for 700 MXN. You get a locker rental, life jacket, snorkel gear, and then they take you on a one-minute boat ride out with a guide for a small group of people.
During the tour, you can't take anything with you - leave everything in the locker, and the key to the locker you'll hang right by the central desk. No sunscreen of any kind allowed so buy a rash guard / sun shirt.
However, you can also just swim out to see the turtles for FREE without paying for anything once you know what you're doing. You can simply go to the end of the line of boats on the beach, use the anchor chains to move up and you'll come across white buoys that demarcate the area that you're allowed to swim up to WITHOUT a life jacket. I have done this after the tour and still found a couple of sea turtles that swam in past the border.
If you go over the white buoys, you're required to have a life jacket. The dive centre rents them out for less price than a tour. Then all you have to do is see where the people are bobbing in the sea together - most likely they're looking at a turtle. Just go swim up to that area.
Otherwise if you go later in the day, especially in high season, other tourists will have kicked up the sand and drastically lower visibility of the turtles.
When you get hungry, I recommend going to eat at La Buena Vida or La Lunita - about 5 minutes drive up the road into Bahia De La Media Luna (Half Moon Bay).
Leemarc Lao — Google review
This is such a lovely place to go snorkeling. GO EARLY! We were one of the first groups out and we saw 6 sea turtles, a pufferfish, some rays, chocolate sea stars, some coral, and various tropical fish like blue tang. By the time we got back to shore at around 9:30, the beach was packed.
Jessica Pan — Google review
You need to pay 100 pesos to get into the beach (they got different prices for nationals, you can pay by card too), and if you have a car or scooter parking is paid as well (200 pesos for a car, all day). The beach is beautiful but throughout the day there's an incredible amount of tours to go see the turtles so there's dozens of groups of people passing by at all times, and when you look at the ocean you can see hundreds of people at any point floating doing those tours (and we were not even in the "high season"), so if you want a quiet and chill place, this is not it. There's also a lot of tour operators at the entrance trying to get you to sign up for one, feels like the beach is being over exploited. Photos/videos were taken after 5pm when activity was almost over for the day.
Jose Rossi — Google review
Amazing experience seeing turtles and stingrays! Would highly recommend it. You do have to pay for parking and an entrance fee to the beach. We went on a private snorkelling tour for 400 pesos each. The tour guide was wonderful. I would recommend asking around about the price of the tours to find the cheapest one.
Siama Begum — Google review
Very nice beach. The challenge I found was that there are boats all along the beach. It makes it commercial and not bearing in mind what’s best for people coming to enjoy the beach and swimming. The other issue I had was the monopoly over snorkelling business and the rule that you have to pay to a guide to be able to snorkel and enjoy the turtles. Unless they were lying to me in order to lure me into paying a guide!! A Very misleading situation.
Ghassan Shamseddine — Google review
nice beach but got rocks here and there so the entry is a bit rocky.
Parking costs 100 per day (there are several spots, drive as close to the beach as you can). avoid parking at 40/hour unless you really intend to eat there or stay an actual hour
Get some snorkeling 🤿 before you come! Saw a 🐢!!
Illya Stepanskyy — Google review
The beach is a lovely spot and costs 120 pesos to enter. A car park is nearby with plenty of spaces and costs 40 pesos an hour. The beach itself has a reasonable amount of shade with palm trees.
If you want to see the turtles, you will have to pay for a guide to take you out there (as they have sectioned off the water so that you can only go out to the main areas where turtles are if you pay a guide unfortunately!). There are still areas to swim in but the water is quite stirred up with sand due to all the boats and swimmers and there are not so many fish to see. However, if you are lucky the occasional turtle does make an appearance closer to the beach outside of the guide only swim Zones.
If it weren't for the guide only swim zones, I would have given the beach 5 stars. I think it is a shame that they make you pay to go on the beach and then have to get hassled and haggle with various guides just to swim in the good areas. The guides typically cost between 400-600 pesos from what gathered there and you will have to wear jacket to do this.
Victoria Bentley — Google review
I was expecting better. I didn't get a chance to go out and snorkel and see the turtles unfortunately. The water was not clear and there were a lot of rocks which I cut myself on. Plus side, There is a life guard with first aid who cleaned it with alcohol and provided 2 Band-Aids. Mostly tours come here to snorkel with groups of tourists. There is a $7 charge to enter the park. Showers, bathroom and a locker in included. $100pesos for parking. It used to be a free public beach. Would not come back
Rob A — Google review
It’s crowded and chaos when we drive over there. People on the road side want to stop your vehicle to get your business. The access to the beach is US$7 for foreigners. We paid $40 each person to get a guide for turtles view. If you want to go on your own, you need rent life jacket, which is mandatory to swim to see turtles. Turtles are not far from shore (50meters). The park lot is private and charged $100MX.
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins is an ancient complex located in a wildlife refuge that was a significant pilgrimage site for Maya women to worship the goddess of fertility, Ixchel. The site dates back 1,500 years to the early-Classic period and consists of various structures that are thought to have been part of Ixchel's sanctuary. It was mandatory for all Mayan women to visit the site once in their lifetime and make an offering.
Was there about 10 years ago and had to go back. Largest group of Maya ruins on Cozumel. There are approximately a dozen structures and Maya roads that connect to the rest of the island. Entrance was $13 per person and I highly recommend having a tour guide! Miguel was our guide and was fantastic! He had many pictorials including maps and his knowledge was impressive. Plan on an hour and a half to two hours. Don't forget the sunscreen and bug repellent as you'll be in the middle of the Cozumel jungle. There are multiple gift shops at the entrance to purchase drinks, snacks, and gifts.
Silver Castaneda — Google review
Fantastic and interesting place. Highly recommend you visit and do get a guide. Well worth the $ 20 for a guide. Go in the morning when it's not hot nor humid. Take some bug spray for your clothes and bring water. You will pay twice to enter , but it still adds up to being only ten USA dollars total.
Bob Clark — Google review
Overall, this was a good tour. We chose this because we had a toddler and stroller with us. This was a fairly straightforward site. It took about 45 minutes to go through, and we had the option to hire a guide or walk the site alone. We hired the guide, and it was pretty insightful.
Frances Gummere — Google review
The Mayan ruins were incredible. Though not the largest, they were well preserved. The guide tested our knowledge of the culture and was surprised. He was easy to understand and pointed out and explained the site fully.
The entry onto the site was confusing, two separate fees, but well worth the money spent, as was the guide. Refreshments and souvenirs available for sale.
Local wildlife wander through the site, unperturbed by visitors.
Tim & Kate — Google review
What a cool spot! You do have to pay twice to get in, but it’s not much, and the money goes towards maintaining the place. We didn’t get a guide as we wanted to go our own pace, but they are there if you’d like them. The ruins have information plaques so you can read about the history of them. The pathways are nicely maintained and there is so much wildlife around. Tons of different flowers blooming, and so many iguanas and lizards! We even saw bright blue butterflies flying around. There are so many ruins and you walk through parts of the forest/jungle to get to them. It was a hot day, but really nice in the shade of the trees.
The shops are pretty nice too, with reasonable prices. Shoutout to Enrique, one of the shop owners, who gave me a cool pamphlet about the Mayan zodiacs and showed me which was mine (it was my birthday that day as well).
Victoria Vandenberghe — Google review
Short, quick tour stop on a cruise excursion. Would have loved more time to hear about all the buildings, culture and details of this Mayan site. Some really great views of what this once great city must have been like as well as very interesting insights into the Mayan society. Very worth spending some time with a guide here if you are interested in history, archeology or Mayan culture.
Angela Eborg — Google review
I was expecting Mayan pyramids similar to what you can find outside Playa del Carmen. These are much more modest, and most of the ruins date from between 1200 and 1600 AD. Nevertheless, this staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Also, the shop owners were super helpful, especially when I was looking for a black men’s T-shirt with the Mayan god, Ix Chel on it.
I echo the comments from other reviewers – bring mosquito spray! I was 100 yards down one shady path and my calves were covered in mosquitoes!
Otherwise, worth the visit. I visited on a scooter and the long drive was really pleasurable.
Rob Perica — Google review
Very good information from our Mayan decendant tour guide. It was a beautiful day to hike along the paths and walk the 500m to fertility temple too. Nice archeological park
Krista Morio — Google review
I liked it. We went with a tour group from the Carnival cruise Line. Several people went to the Mian ruins. Then lunch, then the beach snorkeling. I enjoyed listening to the tour guide discuss the history of the ruins. I recommend going. Two thumbs up.
Toby Trevett — Google review
This was part of a shore excursion. It was interesting and our tour guide was well educated about the Mayan ruins. Worth a visit if you make it to cozumel. LOTS of iguanas in all different sizes all over the place!
Jim Savage — Google review
Wow this place was amazing. A tour guide took us through and explained the history of the Mayans that were there. He was really nice and he will make you laugh too. Also we were there with tripping cool excursions. I strongly recommend them if you go on a cruise. They are also very funny and informative.
Debra Ovalle — Google review
I have been to several other of the big Mayan ruins, so I was not too sure what to expect here. Was I pleseantly surprised with this site. The importance to the Mayan beliefs of fertility and being born are clear here. In fact life and birth are so sacred here that it was never a site of human sacrifices as many of the other Mayan sites were. I recommend paying the $20 for your group to get a guided tour and then exploring on your own.
Mike St John — Google review
We went here on a tour as apart of our cruise . And we enjoyed here. We even had an incident with our youngest child and the staff and persons were so helpful. But it really showed a piece of history and how far our civilization has come.
Drink plenty water and keep hydrated.
Kareem Minnis — Google review
Last winter we went here and stopped on our bike ride around the island and it was even better than expected! A lot more to see and walk around and explore than I had imagined. So many awesome structures. I wish I had read up on it a bit more beforehand or even done a guided tour but that's usually not my jam. Would've been worth it had we started our bike ride earlier. If I went for a second visit I'd do the guided tour. Overall a great spot to check out.
John Vasholz — Google review
Extremely hot, bring a fan, water. Mosquito repellent is a MOST.
It is your genuine archeologic area! Beautiful area in the middle of a jungle. You are in contact with nature!!! It was a ceremonial site. Super peaceful and not too much traffic. Able to enjoy the place.
Dona S — Google review
Did a self guided tour of the ruins. It was incredibly hot and humid even in January so be sure to dress accordingly. The ground is rocky so wear good shoes! Seeing the ruins was a great experience. It had been many years since I had been to Mayan ruins on the mainland. These are smaller than some but still historically significant and worth experiencing.
Ivy — Google review
This was a fantastic site if you're into ecotourism or history. We visited this site on a small group excursion on Celebrity. The site was clean and well-maintained and our tour guide (Ared with Wild Tours) was fantastic and knowledgeable about the history of the site. Not only will you see a fantastic historical site, but also local wildlife to include many gray iguanas. 10/10 do recommend.
Jessica Winiarczyk — Google review
We visited the Ruins on January 1,2024. Went to the Ruins as an excursion from a cruise ship. Guide was super informed about the ruins and the Mayan culture. Very interesting place to visit, would go again! Make sure you look close and you might spot an iguana…..or 10!!
Kristin Lee — Google review
One of the ancient sites used by the Mayans for wedding ceremony and celebrating life. Make sure to opt for the guided tour as you are able to get more information about the site, the buildings, and aspects of the Mayan culture you can't get by reading the plaques.
The site saddly, while impressive, was damaged by a rancher who used dynamite at points to break down parts of the site for use elsewhere.
Luckily, the site still has lots of runs that still exist and can give you a glimpse into this ancient culture.
Adam Cook — Google review
Very interesting archeological site, pretty easy to get to and walk around. Probably spent around 1hr here.
Lots of beautiful birds and butterflies flying around.
You need cash for the entrance fee. dollars is ok.
Plenty of safe parking. Toilets and stores.
Mr.Worldwide — Google review
We have been to many of the ruins but this one has such energy that you will not find any where else. Had an amazing guide. We usually scuba dive in Cozumel but I think we will come back here and spend more time.
Reginald Vickers — Google review
Definitely an experience of a lifetime. Was only disappointed that we were with a group excursion from the cruise. From what I found out afterwards there was so much more to see that I would have loved to see. It was so fascinating to see and touch history. I will remember this forever.
Mr Sanchos Beach Club is a renowned beach bar located in Cozumel, offering an all-inclusive experience at an affordable price. It is a family-run establishment that boasts a 1,500 feet stretch of pristine beachfront and provides exceptional services to its visitors. Apart from sun loungers and access to pools, the club also offers delicious eats and unlimited drinks. The servers are always on hand to cater to your needs, ensuring you have a relaxing day out with your loved ones.
My husband and I stayed here for our 10 year anniversary and now I will recommend it to everyone I know. It was THE MOST incredible experience! All of the staff were so helpful and kind and went out of their way to make this a special experience for us. The food and drinks were delicious and the service was like nothing I’ve experienced before. I cannot say enough great things about Mr. Sancho’s. Thank you to the whole Mr. Sancho’s team for your dedication and hard work. This is a true VIP experience and we will definitely be back!
Abigail Norris — Google review
Property is beautiful and well maintained. Ivan, our server, was very attentive and made sure we had everything we needed during the day. Both my friend and I had massages at the spa - and we highly recommend both Bertha and Carmita as massage therapists.
The only thing we wished they'd offered as part of the package are towels - so remember to bring your own or pay extra to rent them.
We thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing day at Mr. Sanchos!
Pam Mccarthy — Google review
Our family came here for the day on one of our cruise stops. We had been to Montego Bay and Cayman Islands the 2 days prior to this stop and although the beaches were nice in those 2 areas, Mr. Sanchos was by far my favorite due to the service. Jane at the front desk was so sweet and our server Mani was the best! There are so many things to do and the cocktails were great. My only complaint was the food wasn't that great but everything else was perfect!
Jessica Olsen — Google review
Our family saw a Travel Blog supporting Mr. Sancho's Beach Club ALL Inclusive..NOT SUPPORTED By Carnival Cruise Lines as an off ship experience which is a very Dang (Superlatives Deleted) Shame...Yet still safe and easy to get to with the regulated taxi service from the ports and back...The staff at this all day hang out were 1000% above and beyond.. You must reserve your spot in advance and I recommend early arrival to get a great spot..Also a huge shout out to Chino Doroteo for going above and beyond as a guest server here..You sir are 100000% a great guy and I hope I have you again someday..On a sad note my daughter inadvertently left her pail of sand for her shell collection which was not recovered unfortunately...reached out to Mr. Sancho's however they weren't able to help unfortunately..but hey they are responsive none the less...The only other thing I was hoping for was a meet and greet with Mr. Sancho's himself for a photo op.. but my arrival wasn't on cue for this...GREAT JOB MR. SANCHO'S
Mark Parker — Google review
Sauri was our waiter, he was fantastic. We had our drinks and food so quick. We loved his service. Mr. Sanchos is a must see. The atmosphere was so great. We sat at a table just feet from the water. The facility is clean and beautiful.
They have cabs waiting for pick up. So if you were worried about getting back to your ship in time no worries. The cab drivers drive fast you'll get back in 10 to 13 minutes.
Melissa Stallings — Google review
I read reviews prior to reserving as my traveling group of 6 wanted to try out Mr Sancho’s. I was nervous that it was not a “Carnival excursion” available through our cruise. Some
Of the negative reviews made me more anxious but a went to be with my friends.
BOY! Am I glad I did!
My husband and I loved our afternoon and only wished it could have web longer.
True to reviews the beach is not wide and sandy but under blue skies and warm sun looking out over the Carribean we could not have been happier.
Each couple in our group rented a cabana and the staff moved assignments to keep us all in a group.
Our servers, Limbert and Saul were gracious and fun. Drinks were never empty for long. Food was delicious and quick to the table. When afternoon breezes started, Limbert tied our cabana curtains to keep them from blowing on us.
Rosa and Julie provided our massages in a separate designated cabana. A tub for feet was at the massage table to clean off sand. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed but Rosa took great care of me.
I also got a pedicure. Gel for $50. Nice job and something I didn’t have time for at home.
The pools were lovely but we were so comfortable in our cabana that we didn’t make use of them.
Thank Mr Sancho’s team for a memorable afternoon.
**our group rented a van service/taxi for the trip from port to Mr Sancho’s. $67 per couple got us round trip and our driver Jorje never left the parking lot.
If the mood changed he would drive us around the island, take us to a tequila distillery tour or back to port for shopping.
I don’t know the van service name but they were excellent and available at the port taxi area.
Marsha Kellum — Google review
Better to book in advance, as the place books up fast. Visited, from a carnival Cruise, me and a friend took last week. The place is beautiful and the staff are very friendly. All you can eat and drink for 1 price. Well worth the price and the visit. If ever I go another cruise and they Port near here. I'm definitely going back. We had an awesome day, and met lots of people from all over the US and Mexico. There is a short taxi ride from the port to here. Cost was $20.00. Our stay for the day was somewhere around $68.00 each. Well worth the price, for the crystal clear blue water, lots of activities around and of the all you can eat & drink. Who could beat that. 🏖🏊♀️🌊🚣♀️😍😁
Trudy Babin (MissKajunKitty) — Google review
What an amazing experience! Not only was it beautiful- scenery and their accommodations- it was an all around fantastic time! Diego, our server, went above and beyond. He made sure we were very hydrated with all the delicious beverages offered on the menu, and our tummies were happy. The food definitely shocked me with how good it was. We WILL be back!! Diego knocked it out of the park with his exceptional customer service!
Mary Crandall — Google review
We went on a Sunday and had a great time! The food was good (not as good as other locations in Cozumel but still good), the drinks were good, the service was good, and the beach was great! I recommend trying the tamarind margarita! We came from open to close to get our full $60 worth and it was well worth it. The biggest downside during our visit was that because it was Sunday, all of the shops were closed. We did come back the next day to check them out and we ended up purchasing a couple of souvenirs. I did end up getting sick after leaving this place but I don't think it had anything to do with the location itself and was more just my bad luck. I saw my first wild iguana outside in the parking lot of this place as well! I will definitely visit again on my next trip to Cozumel! It was a nice atmosphere and one of the better beach locations we visited while there.
Populist Hawk — Google review
Stopped by Cozumel and Mr. Sanchos on our first cruise on the Carnival Sunrise. Fun resort to hangout and relax. The staff at Mr. Sanchos was awesome and should be commended for their work. Our servers Jose and Amando were great. Also had fun getting my feet cleaned by fish, interesting experience. Was fun and it did tickle.
Randy Ming — Google review
We have been visiting Cozumel for decades. Good beaches are hard to find in Cozumel. Mr Sanchos has a great beach and waterfront. They are super easy to get to and from the cruise ports. The taxi drivers are union professionals running their routes on flat rates expect $20 each way with tips included. The drinks were very good. The swim up bars were fun. The massages were very professional and enjoyable and the cabanas were very romantic. The bathrooms were clean, especially the one behind the Spa.
Scott Malinowski — Google review
This was my first trip back to Mr. Sancho's since the pandemic. Friends and I booked a Carnival cruise with a stop in Cozumel. I made our reservation online 3 months before our trip because it is a popular resort and can be turned away if there are no day passes. The booking required $5 per person deposit, and I paid the remaining balance when I got there. We took a cab from the Playa for $17 one way and got there within 15 min.
I'd been to Mr. Sancho's 4 previous times and have never been disappointed. This was no different. The staff (Roberto and Audon) were awesome. They're friendly, funny, attentive, and considerate. To drink, I had the Mr. Sancho Special, which is a tamarindo margarita, coconut shrimp, and the nachos.
This was my friends' first time here, and they enjoyed having access to the pool and swim up bar after being out in the ocean.
If you're going to be in Cozumel, make a reservation at Mr. Sancho's. You can drink, eat, swim, be entertained, and shop in one place. ❤️
Cynthia Munoz — Google review
It was a great place. The food and drinks were so good. It was an all inclusive for 65.00. Beautiful water. The staff was on point with drinks. They never let your drink get empty before you had another one. The best place to go. I will return.
Latoria Wynn — Google review
Reserve in advance before they sell out. If they sell out, check back daily and chances are, spots open up.
For a family of 4, taxi from the International Cruise Terminal to Mr. Sancho's was $20 each way. Always had plenty of taxi's at both locations waiting to take you there or back.
Service was top notch to give you an experience to keep you coming back, that's for sure. Unlimited food, drinks, everything! Family friendly, fun and festive atmosphere. We look forward to going back on our future cruises.
If you smoke, they have an area off to the edge for the smokers.
Christopher Porter — Google review
During my visit to Mr. Sanchos Beach Club on a cruise stop, I appreciated the seamless check-in process after making a reservation. Our table on the sandy shores with a view of the beach and pool set a picturesque scene. The server, while friendly, seemed a bit stretched attending to multiple tables. Despite this, the food and drinks were excellent, though wait times were noticeable due to the high number of visitors.
While beach access was granted, the limited number of available chairs near the water and an abundance of tables on the sand impacted the overall beach experience. On a positive note, I witnessed a thoughtful gesture as a server assisted a visitor in a wheelchair designed for sand, exemplifying inclusivity.
The two pools in my vicinity were bustling, making it challenging to take a refreshing dip. The beach area, though enjoyable, lacked ample seating, and the few available seats were uncomfortably close to the water, resulting in occasional waves hitting them.
In summary, Mr. Sanchos Beach Club offers a pleasant experience with delicious food and decent service. However, potential overcrowding and a scarcity of beach chairs may require visitors to opt for tables with umbrellas instead of a beachside seat.
Court G (LAEngineer) — Google review
Magnificent beach club. Visited here for a great deal of time from a Carnival cruise. The staff was friendly and professional as we made it through the check-in process and throughout the visit. We were assigned our own server(s) (Sergio and Alex) for the duration of the visit. It's all-inclusive and there's a select menu of food and drinks to choose from. The beach here is really clean and the water is crystal clear. It has multiple pools, spa services (costs extra), locker rental, and several different attractions (ATV, horseback riding, water park area with inflatables, kayaking, parasailing, jet skis and more. All attractions cost extra and are reasonably priced. If I visit Cozumel again, I will definitely spend time at Mr. Sanchos Beach Club.
Emmy K (Emm) — Google review
$60 person for the day, and a $17 taxi ride to get there from the Carnival port. All you can eat and drink from their tasty menu, and the waiter assigned to you will bring you everything. Sit under a thatched roof umbrella, lounge on a beach chair, or hang out in the pool (2, one adult only) with the swim up bars. Bathrooms are constantly cleaned. There are a few vendors, but no one pestered us. Massages are extra $. Go online and reserve for just $5.
Neil B (Ninja Neil) — Google review
This place is amazing. The beach is caribbean bliss and they have great pools with swim up bars and a DJ. One of the pools is adult only. The service is top quality. Pops was our waiter and he was great!! I barely had to lift a finger. All the food was good and as much as you want. I can't believe this place was such a good price for what it was. I will definitely be back. We still need a picture with the mariachi band! 😂
Kelly — Google review
Definitely make reservations in advance. Great service and the food and drinks are excellent. Try the coconut shrimp! There is an adult-only pool with a swim-up bar. The pools got a bit filthy by the end of the day. Don't wait until 4 to do your shopping, all the shops close before then because the cruise ships have left. It was great to be there when they opened before the cruise ships where in port. I'd suggest planning your trip based on the cruise ship schedule. Great massages! The ocean was beautiful!
Lora Boller — Google review
We recently visited Mr Sanchos and loved it! Staff was very friendly and very attentive. We were just looking for a beach day and it was wonderful! Can’t beat the price for all you can eat and drink, plus the beautiful blue waters! Thank you Mr Sanchos!
Carolyn Fuller — Google review
We went on Friday, September 1st, 2023. It was all that we expected and more!! All inclusive food and drinks. We reserved online to make sure we had a spot, and I'm glad we did. That place got busy. We also brought our own snorkel masks, and that was the best thing to do, in my opinion. They do sell snorkel masks there if you need to purchase one. We did canoeing with a 10.00 deposit that we got back when we brought the canoe back. My son did the jet ski and had a blast. There is so much to do here!! Very safe, I never felt worried at all. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carrie Lynn — Google review
We had an amazing day at Mr. Sanchos! Our waiter, Hector, was awesome. The drinks were good as well. My son liked the waterpark. The floats are hard to get on. There was so much going on that I did not have enough time to enjoy everything. This place offers so much. I definitely want to go back!
Kristen Alley — Google review
We stopped by Mr Sancho’s during our cruise stop in Cozumel, Mexico. I’m glad we did. We enjoyed it a lot and the drinks were amazing. As soon as we arrived we were greeted by several people. The servers are very attentive and make sure food and drinks are always in your hand. We had a few servers but Eider really took time to make sure we were good at all times. I highly recommend coming here. We will definitely try to make it back in the future.
Armando Garcia — Google review
Mr Sanchos is a MUST if you're ever visiting cozumel. Whether you're on a cruise (especially if you're on a cruise) or if you're in cozumel for whatever reason. It's a fulfilled, warm, beautiful activity filled location. Also, let me not forget the food. There's so much of it. I plaid the all inclusive day pass and I think it was more than worth it. All the drinks and food we could eat. We got the massage and even went on d banana boat. Soooooo much fun. Food was good, drinks were as expected but servers were attentive and very nice. I loved my experience at this location. So many things to do. They had swim up pool bars that I didn't even get the chnace to try. I definitely will return. 10/10 for Mr Sanchos. My family and I (22 of us, loved spending the day here). I would recommend.
Davion Ferguson — Google review
I want to give it 5 stars purely on the service we received. Edgar found us around the resort and made sure the adults and children always had a drink and food if needed. Fantastic service. The drinks had good flavors but were not strong at all. I had 17 drinks that day and left almost sober. Idk if they water them down to stretch the bottles or what. Weather was too rough for the kids to use the Aquatic Park that day. It was shut down. But had fun none the less.
brandon stigler — Google review
We did the suite upgrade for the day and it was awesome! We were treated like royalty and they made it a special day for my wife's birthday!
The suite was large, had great A/C, huge shower with all drinks and food included. The staff was fantastic, weren't pushy but attentive. We were there from 8 AM to 6 PM to take full advantage of the suite. We didn't know it, but you can even stay overnight!
If/when we come back to Cozumel, we'll be back to Mr. Sancho's! Special thanks to Salvador and his crew!
Izac Adams — Google review
this place was so much fun. everyone was so nice and very respectful. i wanna give my favorite person pops/eric some recognition because he was the best person i met on this trip. he watched all of our stuff and engaged in our conversations with him. he is so sweet and i hope to see him again next time. tell pops savanna says hi!!🫶
savanna huebner — Google review
Me and my group friends was there 2 day ago. It was fantastic, fun, all you can eat and drinks included. Nice beach and water super clean. I want to thank you for Leo (Leonardo) he is amazing, friendly great service. Highly recommended.
Pinky Goodson — Google review
Beautiful all-inclusive beach club! Our waiter was amazing! Food was delicious and atmosphere was perfect! There were several activities available on the property from shopping to adventures to holding animals to live music to spas!
We had a great time! Would definitely go back and recommend to anyone interested in visiting Cozumel! It was a whole vibe!
Barbara McKinnie — Google review
We were on a Fury Catamaran excursion through our cruise line that took us to the beach club. Our family ranged in age from 7 to 70 and all of us had great fun! The beach was great, with fun inflatable slides and climbing toys. There were plenty of loungers for those who wanted them. The included margaritas and beers were free-flowing and passable. The only downside was that the kayaks were not in particularly good order and were not ready for easy use.
David Day — Google review
What an amazing experience! My first cruise and visit to Cozumel, Mexico. Mr. Sancho’s was delightful with outstanding customer service. Ask for Manuel aka “Tabasco” to serve you at the reservation and private table. Food is tasty and unlimited; the ocean is delightful and peaceful. Plenty to do; visit their website for more information. I will definitely be back! 🛳️🛳️🏝️👸🏽🙌🏾❤️💯✅
Loretta Walls — Google review
We had reservations for this place while our cruise was docked. With the reservations we got right in and we did the all inclusive so unlimited food and drinks. Everything was great and the service was excellent. I was not a fan of the salsa it tasted kinda like tomato sauce and the cheese dip was the kind they have at gas stations but other than that we loved it. There are ALOT of seats and tables so it’s kinda crowded but it was beautiful and the bathrooms were so clean!! We really enjoyed this place and if we ever travel here again we will be back!!
ABBY STONE — Google review
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4.5
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Carr. Costera Sur Km. 15, 77600 Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Palancar is a local beach with a relaxed atmosphere and a thatch-covered eatery. It has soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and sufficient facilities for comfort. Located just 20 minutes from the port, it provides seclusion while being easily accessible. The beach's main attraction is Palancar Gardens coral reef, which is one of the island's impressive and accessible diving spots.
My daughter and I were directed here during our cruise. There were 5 ships in port and when we got here, we were the 4th and 5th person here. I cannot even begin to describe the beauty and serene was!! The water is clear and beautiful! The staff was so so friendly and eager to please! This is truly a hidden gem and I highly recommend it to keep away from the tourist traps!! You can bet that this will be my go-to when I’m there again!! They asked us to pay $13 for the chairs and umbrella and to buy 2 drinks! Heck yeah!! Drinks were so good and we bought delicious food too! The coatimundis are super cute too!
E D — Google review
Very mixed on how I feel about here. First, from port of Cozumel, a taxi is $25 each way. Be sure to arrange a pick up time with your driver as this location is about 20 min away.
Pros. Inexpensive rentals. $10 for comfy chairs and umbrella. Beautiful view! Not overcrowded. I order chips, Guac, and salsa and it was so good!
Cons. I actually was weirded out by the amount of raccoons. I saw up to 15 and I also saw cats on the table. It made me question what the kitchen area was like. The beach is very rocky. I would suggest water shoes.
Jessica Speas — Google review
Best beach on the island. Food is good and It is not overpriced. Lots of wildlife walking around. Excellent trips to el Cielo from here. I love it and it’s quiet not a lot of kids.
Beautiful clear water and white sugary sand how can you not love that?
Only complaint is the road you come in on needs repair
Susan Torregrossa — Google review
Nice sandy beach, which means no fish to see. Rental for 2 chairs plus one umbrella is now $12. As someone else previously mentioned, the parking attendant asked us for tips before we even entered the facility. Who asks for tips before service! We told him "later", and we did tip him a couple dollars. This place wasn't really our destination in our bike trip, but it seemed a good stop after biking 12 miles for 70 minutes. We spent an hour here and biked an hour back to our cruise ship.
Minh Nguyen — Google review
They now charge $20 per person like everybody else does. When I asked they said new managers. I think it's a shame, because last time we spent well over $200 between 5 of us. I know not everyone does the same, but at least include some chairs or something for $20 per person.
Mark Hannah — Google review
Best beach in Cozumel! Water is clear and turquoise. Loved it! Food was delicious! From city centre to here only 300 pesos and there are always taxi around, way back we share it and way back was 400 pesos. Food was affordable, shrimp fajita was fresh. Pina colado is recommended! Not very crowded you need to spend 400 pesos inside, 150pesos for sunbed and sunblinds and you can pay with credit card.
Volkan Yılmaz — Google review
Free table on the beach if you order some food or drinks! We really loved seeing the animals here: raccoons, some other raccoon-like thing and peacock. They go around asking for food but are really cute and not a nuisance. Server was really nice and we got snorkelling tour for 30 usd
Alena Sukhina — Google review
We spent a day here while on a cruise. Perfect white sand beach with crystalline green water. We paid $10 for an umbrella, there was no entry charge. Nice service. Much better experience than paying for an expensive all-inclusive entry in the neighboring beach clubes.
M?rcio — Google review
The beach was beautiful, the water was completely clear, and the prices were excellent. It was pretty laid back and grabbing some front row seats to the ocean with an umbrella was easy (on a Thursday in September). Getting a cab to and from the spot was also easy — I would also recommend to friends that do not speak Spanish. There are no fish for snorkeling here. We took the ferry to Cozumel, spent half the day snorkeling at money bar, and spent the other half enjoying the beautiful beach and water here. It was great!
Zachariah Muhlenkamp — Google review
Wonderful experience. Definitely more waves than the other beaches on the west side of Cozumel. Good customer service. They do charge $20 PP but they’re at least not too pushy about you also needing to get food. The Cozumel raccoons that play under the deck are so cute. I think kids would love this!
Christina Krewson — Google review
Beatiful beach with crystal clear water.
Entry is free but you need to order stuff from the restaurant (at least 10$ per person). We ordered some food and it was good.
The parking guy asks for tip, and the beds cost extra.
Other then that it was really great.
Shirly Niego — Google review
This was a great spot. Especially if you want to avoid all the other BS of the other beach clubs. We came off the cruise ship and took a taxi to downtown Cozumel. Rented a scooter/moped and ended up at this spot after checking several others. Beautiful beach. Beautiful water. They have a few guys who guard the mopeds so I had no problem tipping them upon arrival. Paid $12 for two chairs and an umbrella. Aside from that, all we had to pay for was the drinks and food we consumed during our visit. Will definitely visit again on our next visit.
Wesley Leonhardt — Google review
The beach has not public access, you have to pay for all and the employees are very abusive with the prices, you must to consume to stay. We have seen the locals are racist with his people and other mexicans.
The beach is quiet and little deep, in the season that we were, there was many seaweeds on the beach's shoreline. Almost there aren't marine life for to do snorkeling, is much better Playa Azul, where there are many colorful fishes and reef, in north of the same island but is expensive also.
German Zarate — Google review
!!!BE AWARE!!! The beach was great and there were no complaints about the service until we asked for our check. There are a ton of pygmy raccoons, so be aware of unattended food (they are persistent). Our server wrote down the total in USD and it was $50 more than what the actual total was. Our bill was 2,517 pesos and he said he incorrectly wrote down the total ($205 vs $157 lol) and was insistent I pay quickly and included a 20% tip. I left a 10% tip and will not be attending this beach on our next trip. I don't appreciate trying to be taken advantage of due to our kindness. Be sure to check the receipt and convert to USD if that's how you're paying. They use 16 pesos to $1 USD.
Daniel Bosco — Google review
Wow. Not for me. We drove here and parked the car and were instantly being asked for tips from a man standing at our car door saying the parking lot is free but that we should tip him. Mind you, we parked our own car.
After that we walked to the entry where we were told that it was $20 usd per person. The $20 gets you entry, a welcome drink and a beach chair. We were told the money is not applied towards food/drinks and that those would be extra $.
I asked to walk inside to see if the entry fee was worth it. There were 4 other people inside. This was at 2pm Tuesday 12/19.
We left. Save your money.
De'Anna Winters — Google review
4.0
(448)
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5.0
(3780)
77687 Quintana Roo, Mexico
I'll never travel to Manuel Antonio without this trip planner again
Paradise Beach is a stunning coastal destination in Tulum, known for its pristine white sand, palm trees and clear turquoise waters. The area offers many casual dining options and sunbed rentals for visitors to relax and enjoy the view. It's also an ideal spot for snorkeling tours to see the local marine life, including Tortuga. While it can get crowded during the daytime, heading far left provides an opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view without any crowds.
Beautiful beach, take a snorkeling Tour to See Tortuga. It gets bit crowded at daytime. Beach Bars overpriced. Go far left to enjoy beautiful view
Massimiliano Magnini — Google review
Good place to go for the beach
it’s clean and A day bed with a table and umbrella will cost 300-500Pesos depending on the season
the beach is pretty clean here but be wary of the restaurant they have a service fee added to your bill which takes the place of a tip but all the waiters will want a tip
no tip bad service
Chad Lawrence — Google review
Beautiful water and sand. The Go Snorkeling was beautiful with clear water. Got to hang for the day and walk to different beaches and the ruins from here.
Kevin Markman — Google review
Great experience!! Beautiful beach with so much to do
Damien Love — Google review
A really nice beach located north of the Hotel Zone in Tulum. Parking is first-come-first-serve along a narrow beach lane so unless you show up early you'll probably need to pay around 100 MXN plus tip to a beach club attendant to be able to park. The beach itself is gorgeous and free to enter, if you choose there are chairs and sun loungers you can rent from a beach club, they are 100-200 pesos per day. Drinks are very reasonable, and tasty. The pina colada was the best I had in Quintana Roo. The water is nice though some sargasso is present and you'll notice it but it's not bad at all. The beach is swept of sargasso on regular basis, but you'll still notice some in the sand. Came back here for three days in a row, I guess we liked it.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Completely filled with sargazo, no cleaning, horrible smell. No sign of paradise at all.
This is Paraiso for the owners of hotels and beach clubs with the prices they give taking into account very poor condition of the sea and the beach. Shame!
Anikeyev92 — Google review
We had an awesome time. Parking wasn’t too bad nor expensive, there was plenty of parking available. The line to get to the beach was long ~45 min in the car waiting. @the beach we were approached to do a private or group snorkeling session and we chose the private for $~135 USD, we have never snorkeled before and weren’t really given directions, just told to follow the guide but we caught on quickly. It was awesome to see the turtles and sting rays. I wish we had a GoPro but unfortunately we didn’t, but if you do you’ll get some great footage. The food was a really good price, we got a mixture which was filet mingnon, shrimp, lobster and veggies for ~$40 (that being said do NOT go to Parole restaurant they wanted $200 for a small lobster tail)
Sarah Elizabeth — Google review
One of my favorite beaches in Tulum. Lots of restaurants to eat at and hang out at the beach. They offer parking, $200 pesos.
Cynthia Q — Google review
Nice beach but seaweed/sargassum makes it dirty and stinky. Riff in about 2 min by boat where you can find not colorful corals but swim with sea turtles and manta rays. No showers or changers at the beach
Bandi Koeck — Google review
It is used to be a beautiful Caribbean beach around 5 years ago. Now it is spoiled with sargassum. Apart from nature problems, in beach clubs like everywhere in Tulum tourists are seen as bags with money. Everything is overpriced and they try to scam you all time. The beach can be accessed with your own car , by scooter or bike. Even though it is a state natural reserve they are only private parkings that charge you 250 or 300 pesos a day. If you come by taxi be prepared to pay a fortune to go back. There is no bus or any ither public transportation. You are left with no choice. From February and till end of summer it is full of sargassum and no one cares to clean it. It is a pity that all private beach clubs and hotels do not take care of the beach and just use nature to put their business. I hope people will realize it and stop going for locals finally to realize that they are in charge of providing conditions for tourist. Tons of sargassum do not even let you approach the water. Instead of cleaning it , they came up with idea of taking you 50 meters away from the shore by boat for you to be able to enter the water. Xpu ha beach is much nicer experience.
Валентина Рогачева — Google review
The best beach I’ve visited in the area. Even in winter season you can enjoying visit it.
We were into a beach club with live music and amazing food but you can visit it for free.
Just remember carry on your own drinks 🍺 and food 🥘 is a touristic place and for that reason the prices are highest.
Victor Moreno — Google review
Nice beach. I was on private side . 500 pesos to spend in a day incluse bed toilette good food.
Nicolas Freyermuth — Google review
Beautiful beach, we went twice during our trip. The walk up and down the beach is beautiful and you can see ruins from the water.
Alexx Harley — Google review
A really lovely beach but you need to wait in line for the queue to enter and pay for the “national park” that the beach sits under. The queue can take as long as 45 mins and they only take exact cash (no change given) or card. The amount is 60.50 pesos which is not a lot but the queue can be long. It’s not a beach you can just turn up to. Parking is also 150 pesos.
Nimmi Patel — Google review
I really liked this beach club. Clean, attentive staff. The territory has everything you need for a great holiday. I recommend. The beach is clean without algae.
Victoria Kokhan — Google review
The beach is beautiful! The reason for three stars is that businesses have grabbed and exploited this beautiful area. Unfortunately, the local businesses charge to park your vehicle, and charge a minimum "consumption fee" to stay on "their" beach. Overall, prices are excessive for beverages and food!
Ångel I am who I am — Google review
Indeed a lovely beach. Located in the Tulum natural park is a semi wild beach with beautiful sand, shallow water and reef barrier good for snorkeling
Catalin Marica — Google review
Had a great time with the whole family. Kids loved the inflatables on the water and the food was yummy. Service was great!! Ask for Omar - so much fun and can’t wait to come back.
Located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve is a protected jungle preserve that offers guided boat tours, wildlife sightings, walkways and Mayan ruins. This natural treasure has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its diverse flora and fauna both on land and in the sea. The area comprises of various ecosystems including a rich coastline of the Mexican Caribbean.
Absolutely one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here you have the opportunity to see lots of wildlife like crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, turtles and more then 300 different species of birds. The turcoise water around Punta Allen is absolutely stunning!! Highly recommended visiting Sian Ka'an.
Matthijs van veen — Google review
We went there with a tour organized by the local community. The staff was super friendly and open to share thoughts.
On our boat trip we stopped on a beach that was full of littering. When talking with the tour guides they said that the place was completely abandoned by the administration. Even though they do their best to preserve it, it is only that much they can do.
I hope everyone who visits this place reports it to put some pressure on the admin. 🙏🏽
Irene Jim?nez — Google review
Give yourself a day to explore The Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka'an. Be forewarned that the dirt road/path is full of potholes. It takes a while to drive through the dirt road envelope by a heavy tropical forest, mangroves, lagoons, and marshes. There are many beaches to find and wildlifes to see.
Some areas are privately owned, but we found a little nice beach area that we were able to enjoy.
The drive to this reserve was 2 hours from Cancun, but we spent nearly a whole day here exploring and driving through the area and back.
Noreen Roberson — Google review
Amazing beautiful place. The drive to the pick up place (where we met our captains) is hell. 10 km by the most rocky jungle road took us around an hour but it’s so worth it. The nature is stunning. We saw 3 dolphins playing for 20 minutes! Lots of birds! No crocodiles or turtles for us but still amazing!!!
Scott Landon — Google review
This place is only for extremely patient people, that's for sure. To get there you need to either drive or go on a tour, but either way the trip is very long due to the fact that the road is not paved and it's EXTREMELY bumpy. So the driver is forced to go super slowly while the vehicle is shaking for 3 hours on the way there and 3 on the way back (from playa del carmen , a little les from tulum). It's worth doing it at least once though, because the lagoon is spectacular. You can see dolphins, turtles and manatees with their babies, in their natural habitat!
Danila Massara — Google review
You can skip it! 100 pesos entrance fee for a bad road which is mainly closed on both sites. Everything is private and the beaches plus the nature is full of plastic. I think mexicos beautiful nature is close to be past thing. Its sad but when you see what you can buy here in the supermarkets its not a surprise. Plus most of the people here just only think on profit and don't care about their nature.
Alexander Kiesche — Google review
Today 22 April 2023 it was world's earth day and we did a beach clean up in the Reserva Sian Ka'an.
We first stopped at the narrowest part, where at one side was the mangrove and at the other side the sea & beach.
Here we saw a crocodile and a manatee. As all volunteers came together we went to the actual place where the clean up was.
There were a lot of volunteers participating. We went with 7 persons of Infinity2diving from Tulum.
We gathered all together a lot of plastic garbage.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
This is an amazing natural reserve area where there is an abundance of wildlife, including manatee, dolphins, crocodiles and many species of birds. Among the birds that were present during the dry season, when we visited, were frigates, egrets, osprey, and pink spoonbills which were nesting at the time. Fauna include of course the mangrove (red and black), air plants and banana orchids (not in bloom but still interesting) This is a must see and even though the tours are expensive at around 150 usd per person, you will get more out of it with a guide. Theoretically having that guide would mean that the tour would be more eco friendly and cause less stress to the animals. There is an unfortunate tendency for the boat drivers to surround the animals, which must cause stress. Luckily right now there are a limited number of boats but sometimes they many arrive at once and there were a few times when i wanted to leave to give the animal more space. The Mexican government needs more oversight on the Form of rangers to curb some of the less desirable behaviours before it gets more out of hand.
Paul Taylor — Google review
Really sad to be giving this one star. The road here is absolutely ridiculous. Really. This is not hyperbole. You'll be lucky to get back with your car intact. But even if you do, it's 4 intensely nervous hours of driving through potholes that you will never get back. Even with a jeep it's just not worth it. And that's 4 hours just to get nowhere and back. Seriously, just say no. Plenty of other places to explore.
Arnon Cahen — Google review
A wonderful park which definitely deserves a visit. Make sure you get a good tour that takes you snorkelling to the reef
Elena Macciò — Google review
We love visiting the Sian Ka'an and have returned multiple times. Luis, Mirian and Daniel in the buffet restaurants take very good care of you and are attentive. Victor on the animation team leads very goof aqua gym sessions, paying attention to any injuries and giving advice rather than pushing you. Love this hotel!
Tony B — Google review
Turtles, crabs, dolphins, crocodiles and Coral reef. Bird Islands (mangrove Islands) and lots of beautiful scenery. I fully recommend visiting.
Marketa Koulova — Google review
2.5 stars. this is a conflicted review.
we had an amazing guide/captain who took care of us and tried his best to show us the marine animals in the lagoon. we saw a manatee, a stingray, a lot of birds, an underground cenote,and learned a lot of interesting facts. the floating river in the middle of the mangrove forest was amazing, especially because we were the only people there. overall, it’s a beautiful place to see and i would recommend a visit.
shame about all the plastic trash washed up on the otherwise beautiful beach. i didn’t understand why they’re even showing this to tourists. our guide told us that the trash comes from the island of cozumel and washes up on this side. they don’t clean it up and just leave it there while also maintaining an image of an ecological and protected biospheric reserve that doesn’t even have functioning toilets. there should be stricter laws regarding trash and pollution in the whole of yucatan, not just in e.g. tulum where they don’t allow plastic bottles anymore. but most of all, the constant development and construction of tourist resorts and hotels needs to stop. the road leading to the mayan ruins and sian ka’an was lined with half-finished construction zones. they should never have allowed cozumel or riviera maya to become the tourist hotspot it is today.
Eli Hythova — Google review
The road is serious business, not for whiners or delicate day trippers. It has protected this area by keeping out those people who don't appreciate life's journeys.
Danette Day — Google review
Amazing view, great spot for dolphins. Boat goes fast
Samuel Colassin — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place, we saw lots of animals.
Charlie Zhang — Google review
Amazing place, simply amazing. Brilliant management plan for tourism, fingers crossed that doesn't change. Pepe was an awesome guide, very knowledgeable and had an addictive level of enthusiasm. Would love to return in 20 years to see any changes
Adam Locker — Google review
The views are amazing but not that different from those you see in Tulum public beaches, but the road is in terrible conditions. You'd average 10-15 kmph and you're lucky if you don't get motion sickness...
Maya Chan Beach is an all-inclusive day resort that offers various water activities, comfortable sun loungers, and shower facilities. Additionally, there is a bar and buffet restaurant available to guests. The staff members are friendly and attentive, always willing to assist with anything needed. Visitors can enjoy the added convenience of having their own private hut for shade and reserved seating. The food served at Maya Chan Beach is exceptional, particularly the fish tacos which are highly recommended by guests.
This place was incredible. The service was top notch. I was literally laying out on a float in the water and one of the gentlemen brought me a replacement drink. The drinks were the best drinks I’ve had. I went down the list on the drink menu and EVERY SINGLE drink was delicious. The tacos were awesome. They have dogs there that are super cute and friendly.
Judith Martin — Google review
Oh my there aren't enough words to describe the staff and this little get away. We had two stops in Mexico on our cruise and Maya Chan is the only one I can say I truly loved. This place is outstanding!!! The staff is absolutely amazing and made our anniversary trip the best! The food was so fresh and delicious!!! The drinks were spot on and never ending. We had a little cabana area that was so relaxing and tranquil it lulled you to have a siesta after you ate. The staff made sure that you were back in plenty of time before your ship left. I will be back to Costa Maya and to Maya Chan. Cozumel has nothing on this little piece of paradise.
Sarah Tipton — Google review
We absolutely loved our time here! After a short walk we found staff that were awaiting our arrival to take us to the beach. The entire process was smooth and they explained the issues they were having with the seaweed and offered us a refund (of course we didn't take it). After checking in they then loaded us up and took us to the beach. The entire drive was around 20-30 minutes. Once at the beach we were welcomed and shown around. The dogs and cats there are great and all of the staff were so friendly. We were then shown our spot on the beach and began our stay. The service with drinks was amazing as there was always someone coming around seeing if you needed anything. The food was being prepared during the morning hours and was served at lunch time. They also showed us how to prepare guacamole which was really fun! Overall this place was fantastic and we can't wait to return! 1
Patrick — Google review
Absolutely do not miss an opportunity to visit here if in Costa Maya. I stumbled upon this while searching for day trips while on our cruise. SO glad we did it. The service was excellent and very accommodating. My daughter is a vegetarian and they prepared a special dish. The food and drinks were delicious. We've been talking about the fish, chicken and steak since we departed. Well, my daughter hasn't, but the other 3 of us have!
The palapas are a wonderful touch. A huge thank you to Maya Chan Beach for giving us a perfect experience!
Tim Darragh — Google review
We absolutely loved our time here! The service was amazing, all the employees seemed to really enjoy working there and wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of. If you reach for a water toy, an employee will literally run over and help you get it into the water. They were so helpful and always checking in on us. We even got our own private little hut to stay out of the sun, we enjoyed having our own reserved spot so we didn’t have to worry about saving chairs. The food was incredible, the best fish tacos I’ve ever had. The drinks were delicious and the employees had great drink recommendations. We will absolutely be going back!
Emily Seaton — Google review
We visited this beautiful place a couple of weeks ago. Although the water wasn't clear due to the recent storm, the staff and food made up for it. Manel, I think is her name, was absolutely amazing. The owners were so friendly and welcoming as well. When we first got there we started with the guacamole and then had the delicious tacos for lunch. We also had a massage that I would recommend everyone to add on this trip. Thank you again the owners and staff for making this an amazing experience.
Hilary Hill — Google review
My family & I spent the afternoon here during a cruise stop in Costa Maya. Maya Chan was very laid back & peaceful. The food was superb and the service was very friendly and fun. Our kids (ages 16, 15, and 10) had plenty to do on the beach and our private seating area was just right for us. I definitely recommend this place if you're looking for something low key and on the water.
Jenny Johnson — Google review
Nice spot. Amazing service! Beach a little small with lots of seagrass (they clean it throughout the stay) and some rocks inside water (caution). Food and drinks very enjoyable. Not far from cruise port but the street to get there is awful, never had such a bumpy ride and it takes around 30mins because of that.
Would come again! Service is the best!
Tom Seen — Google review
I would give them 10 stars if I could.
The staff and owners are incredibly friendly. The beach area is great as you get your own seating for the day. Smaller all inclusive which is great because you get dedicated service, wifi, kayaks, paddle boards, all the gear is included. Did was AWESOME, and the massages were a MUST DO. One of the best I have ever had. Per other reviews, yes there can be some seaweed, but they keep it very well managed. This is a must do if you are in the area. TRAVEL IS INCLUDED IN THE COST!
Ralph Browning — Google review
Amazing service and good food and drinks, overall super relaxing spot on our cruise. Would highly recommend. There was a lot of seaweed on the beach but they were very forthcoming with the situation and accommodated well. Quality massages for a very cheap price as well!
Casey McCool — Google review
When we arrived at the meeting point by the pyramid, we were offered a full refund due to excessive seaweed (sargassum) at Mayan Chan Beach. Management previously emailed the refund option to us but we were on a cruise and didn't notice. Waveringly we hopped on the bus for the 30 minute ride/back massage😉. The vehicle was very nice and the road was pretty bumpy but it was fun ride through Mahahual and then south along the coast.
The property flourishes with greenery and is enchanting in its beauty. They had a spot picked out for us which included two comfy chairs, a beach bed with a canopy right on the Caribbean Sea on the Mayan Coast.
The allure of our emplacement was only surpassed by the service we received. The chicos y chicas of Mayan Chan could not have been more attentive and engaging. The staff share in their responsibilities so requests were quickly and joyfully met.
The lunch served was fantastic as were the cocktails. The carnitas was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
This was an experience that we plan on repeating promptly and plentifully.
david allen — Google review
Wonderful little beach resort. Everything you would need for a relaxing day. They cater to the cruise lines and are very flexible about pickup and drop off times. Great value. David and Julieta are amazing hosts. Looking forward to next time.
Massages are available as well.
Steve Herron — Google review
Where to begin?!?!?! The whole group of people are exceptional! Luis was our server.... our drinks never ran dry! He was attentive, funny, perfect! Axel and Andi (the bartenders) mixed delicious drinks! They catered to our tastes and provided perfect recommendations. David was a great host and made us feel welcome! Hands down, our favorite person was Julie! She made us feel like family!
Our day was amazing! We ate our fill, drank to our hearts were content, relaxed in the comfy loungers and beach bed. We were so impressed that we have already secured our reservation for December 2024! You are missing out if you don't visit this slice of heaven!
topaz t — Google review
This is such a hidden gem. The staff are amazing and professional. We will be back! The ride to get to it is half the fun! They did let us know due to being on the other side the water right near the beach is not as clear as at the Port. They keep it natural. This was not a problem for us the water felt amazing! If you go to Costa Maya check out this place! The food alone is worth the money!
Sara Fulton — Google review
Amazing! So peaceful, beautiful, and serene. The water is gorgeous and pristine. The beach is picture perfect. They have everything you could possibly want for the perfect day in the ocean. They bring you drinks, chips, guacamole, and pico when you enter. They then bring you all the drinks you could possibly drink. The Mayan lunch was soooo good! The wait staff and owners were so kind and welcoming. It is a little bit of a drive but so worth it. Don't miss this place!
Andrew Dunsworth — Google review
We were a group of 18. They picked us up at the pyramid at Costa Maya and drove us to the beach. Greeted us with drinks when we arrived and took us to our cabana. Service and food was excellent. Brought drinks to you in the water. Everyone had a great time. At the end of the day they returned us to the port. Everyone loved the place and had a great time. Only downside is the water was tea colored as there is a river just north of the beach and the current moved the dark water south.
Leonard Gude — Google review
What a treasure! Best vacation day of my adult life, seriously. Small and family owned, all inclusive. The food was amazing, it wasn’t over crowded, every single person was attentive and accommodating. We felt so pampered! I will absolutely go back the first chance I get. I cannot brag on this experience enough, we just enjoyed every second of our day. Thank you to the owners and staff, we just love your crew and the way you make your guests feel at home.
Jennifer Jones — Google review
We just returned from visiting Maya Chan over spring break and had an amazing time. This is the PERFECT way to spend a day in port in Costa Maya. The team did a fantastic job from transportation, to check in at the resort, to impeccable service throughout the day. The location is the perfect location of rustic, with charm and a great view. The owner was onsite and checked in regularly. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting the port who wants something a little more authentic and more charming than staying in the port for shopping and the large pool area.
Patricia Jones — Google review
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5.0
(1904)
Carretera Mahahual - Xcalak Km. 6.5, 77976 Mahahual, Q.R., Mexico
Puerto Salvador Allende is a picturesque avenue adjacent to a lakefront that culminates at the eponymous pier. The thoroughfare features various dining establishments and watering holes along its length, making it an ideal spot for tourists and locals alike.
The Masaya Volcano National Park is a popular destination with active volcanoes, craters, and lava-formed tunnels. This park is located in Leon, known for its volcanic features and intellectual reputation due to the presence of museums and art galleries. The park's craters are considered as the gates of hell by Spaniards, with five craters comprising two volcanoes - Masaya and Nindiri. Among them, Crater Santiago remains highly active with red-hot lava bubbling inside.
The Islets of Granada is a group of 365 volcanic islets located off the coast of Granada. These serene islands are home to private residences and tourist accommodations, making it an attractive destination for travelers. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the different islands and learn about their unique history and ownership. One notable island was purchased by a veterinarian for the local monkey population to live in. The tours offer opportunities to observe the local wildlife, with monkeys occasionally boarding boats as one such experience.
A very nice boat ride to the isles of Granada lake.
Becky Buttons — Google review
Son 365 islas, el lugar es precioso hay islas privadas y también las hay turísticas, un sitio para ir a visitar en familia y compartir de una linda aventura.
(Translated by Google)
There are 365 islands, the place is beautiful, there are private islands and there are also tourist ones, a place to visit with the family and share a nice adventure.
Elizabeth Ramos — Google review
Nice boat trip out to the islands in Lake Nicaragua. Enjoyable with lots of flora and fauna particularly bats and monkeys to see!
CK Cheong — Google review
Es realmente hermosooo,en un tours privado,nos hicieron recorrido a las isletas,y nos dejaron por 3 horas en una pequeña iska con restoran y piscina,muy bonito
(Translated by Google)
It's really beautiful, in a private tour, they took us on a tour of the islets, and they left us for 3 hours in a small iska with a restaurant and pool, very nice
Gerardina Díaz — Google review
Hundreds of small Islands.
Some have hotels, monkeys, Bars…
Yossi Rubenstein — Google review
Beautiful islands off the coast of Granada. We took a boat tour to see the different islands and it is definitely recommended if you are anywhere near. Our favorite island was the one that a Veterinarian bought a long time ago in order for the local monkey population to live in. It was great learning about the history of the Islands and who owns which one. Will definitely love to do this tour again if we are ever back in Nicaragua.
Jose Carreiras — Google review
Great place to spend your vacations in Nicaragua. This is one of the most beautiful places in this country with a great variety of animals and plants.
Grethel Pavon (Gretch) — Google review
From our hostel we could book the tour for 15$ and it was great! We were the only two in the boat and our guide, Lorenzo was amazing, telling us about the islands and local wildlife. The hightlight was monkeys jumping aboard the ship, just an all around amazing experience.
Miro Zaugg — Google review
This is a really fun experience where you can explore Nicaraguas islands called “Isletas”. Some activity’s are fishing, kayaking, visiting the monkey island and get boat tours. Its around 45 minutes away from Managua the capital city of Nicaragua. Beautiful place to go 100% recomendad. Thank you for listening, have a nice day hope I can see you around in las isletas de granada one day.
Rod20 — Google review
Great place, did Kayak Tour with Vladmir Kayak and was great
Sean — Google review
4.7
(174)
•
4.5
(1945)
Nicaragua
12
Reserva Natural Ojo de Agua
Hotel
Sights & Landmarks
Wooded site with a natural swimming hole of volcanic-origin water amid native plants & wildlife.
An amazing place to spend half a day. Recommended to go early as it gets very busy with locals. The water is stunning and a great temperature for swimming on a hot day. It's $3 entry still which is great. If you walk up the hill there is a good viewpoint and howler monkeys. The trails aren't well marked however.
Michael Messenger — Google review
Paid $10 entry with $5 credit to spend at the bar. Lovely spot to chill and enjoy the rope swing. Best to arrive early to enjoy the sun while it is quiet.
Hollie Hudspith — Google review
We had fun here with the rope swing and refreshing water, but it felt like a cheap waterpark. I can imagine for someone who doesn’t spend time in clean lakes very often its a nice place but I wouldn’t return for $10.
Sam Raymond — Google review
really nice beautiful and chill place. Nice spot to jump to the pool. The water are fresh and cold and feel great. Everything around is lush green. Nice thing to do on Ometepe.
Eyal Roe — Google review
A beautiful pastoral place. Admission is $5 per person. There is an arranged parking lot, a restaurant and good service. The water is relatively cool, there is Tarzan, swings in the water and plenty of shade, the place was a bit crowded but there was room for everyone to sit.
Aviah Shochetman — Google review
Beautiful cold water pool with fun swing. The admission is $10 but they give you $5 credit towards the bar/restaurant (and the mojitos were super cheap!). Lovely place to spend a couple of hours cooling off.
Emily H — Google review
This the cleanest most natural place I have ever visited in my life. It is a freshwater spring from a volcanic mountain which has been cleverly dammed to create an Olympic sized fresh water pool with zero chemicals. It is located in a dense and verdant rainforest on the Island of Ometepi in Lago Nicaragua. You can only get to the island by ferry. If you are able to arrange the trip, it's a must. So very beautiful.
Ira Baker — Google review
Perfect place to get some refreshing. Entrance is $10, but you get $5 in return for food / drinks. There's a 45 minute walk too which takes through this small jungle, we saw some howler apes which was great but other than that the hike wasn't all to spectacular.
Michael Peeters — Google review
Way overpriced, feels like a scam the way they give you $5 credit for the bar but then the prices are very inflated and the food looked awful. We were shocked when they asked for $10 each for what is essentially a swim in a pool for max a few hours.
It’s nice water and a reasonable setting but busy and just not worth it when there is so much to see on the island.
Joseph Rose — Google review
Ojo de agua still remains as an excellent place to visit. The clear waters and surrounded by nature makes it excellent and refreshing. The fact that they allow you to bring your own drinks even of they do sell themselves is genius.
Erling Miranda — Google review
Great place to spend a couple of hours! Entrance was 5$ per person, and if you come in the morning 8am you probably be one of the only one there and that without any bugs!
And don’t forget to grab a fresh coconut, with or without the rum 🍹
Marcel Tornow — Google review
USA Traveler: My friend and I went here and had a wonderful time. Highly recommend! It's 10$ a person for a day pass. They have bathrooms at the parking lot but they also have showers and changing rooms closer to the "pool". It's apparently volcanic spring water, whatever it was was nice. There is a restaurant there and bar. Maybe a shop or two. Lots of chairs and tables to claim. We left our stuff out of sight for around 20 minutes and it appeared to be untouched. There's a rope to play on, swings in the pool, and a Tarzan swing to jump into the pool. No lifeguards. Wheelchair accessible to the pool. Some stairs that are wide going into the pool. The pool is surrounded by plants/jungle and even some go into the pool. Very cool! It was very shaded and so no sunscreen was needed.
Megan — Google review
Really nice and refreshing place. Very clean too. 10$ (5$ entrance + 5$ to consume). Recommended ❣️
Shackie Aziz — Google review
I loved this place!! We spent a good amount of our day here. The water is so cool and refreshing that you just don’t want to leave. My kids had so much fun and want to go back. This is one of the spots we will keep coming back to.
K I P — Google review
Beautiful place, relaxing
Natural volcanic water (not hot) pool, with clean relaxing area, chairs. 10$ Fee (getting 2 drinks for free). Free walking trail (35 min) on the mountain, with animal view.
תומר כהן Tomer M.Cohen — Google review
It's a cool place to relax but every time you pay for something at the bar they assume you don't want the change. Guys, you have to deserve your tips, not extort the money.
Also, the trail walk is not free - it costs $2. Big part of it leads through muddy banana fields - only animals we saw were birds, lizards and cows. Maybe there are monkeys sometimes - I don't know.
Tomasz Smiatacz — Google review
Beautiful spot to chill out and relax. Was a little busy but we had chairs to sit on. Some loud groups but to be expected! Great rope swing, cheap beers ($2.5) and chips $4
Sarah Bartle — Google review
Fun crisp refreshing natural spring water. Relaxing. Runs from under the nearby volcano. Large Iguanas or Howling monkeys surround you. $10 entry but it gives you a $5 drink. You choose. Great restaurant service. Food is brought to your lounge chairs or table. Incredible setting.
Yossi Polinger — Google review
The pool itself was nice and refreshing, but quite crowded with almost no place to sit (maybe because it was saturday) and the entrance fee is quite high for foreigners. When you go there don't miss out on the nature trails ! I was the only one there and saw so many monkeys, parrots, vultures and more :)
Jana — Google review
Don’t miss going there if you visit the island, some people take a ferry to come here and return same day!
Very nice natural water among the trees.
$10 entry with $5 back on food or drinks.
Changing rooms available, showers, playground and parking.
We enjoyed the Tarazan swing.
Food was good too but not the smoothie
Hussain Almoamen — Google review
Great spot to come to if you’re in Ometepe! You could easily spend a whole morning or afternoon here. It’s $10 entry but that gives you $5 to spend on food or drinks once inside. They have a great menu and plenty of drinks from coconuts to cocktails. The springs are stunning and so refreshing. Crystal clear!
Carys Reid-Davies — Google review
The most beautiful place on the island, a must visit. Costs $10 to enter which can be paid in cordobas and by card as well. This includes $5 to spend in the restaurant/bar. It’s just a short ride from the main road to the car park. The water is a nice refreshing temperature and there’s even a rope swing. Other than the insects it’s almost perfect. Staff are very nice as well. The food is average but it did come quickly.
Thomas Dicicco — Google review
Great place to cool down from the Nicaraguan heat. Fun little natural pool. Can spend about half day there. After reading other reviews, I did not try the restaurant.
Miriam G — Google review
Beautiful Nature! Water is sooo clean and refreshing! Very Very Very fun!👍Great spot to hang out with the family, Always finding something new and exciting!
CHICKEN !!! — Google review
Beautiful place to spend the day. $10 to enter but $5 towards a food voucher. Other people in the comments are saying food and things are cheaper on the island but this place has been made nice, safe , and relaxing. To me, it is SO worth it! Came here as a group of 4, we swam, had smoothies, played card games and watched some young local boys doing tricks off the rope swing. Must do on the island !
taylor ewing — Google review
Great place to relax and cool down from the heat.
It was $10 entrance but you get $5 back to spend on food and drinks.
We had lunch here which was lovely and the prices are reasonable.
Great facilities to change and shower.
Amie Bentley — Google review
The location was nice and not too crowded in the afternoon. Enough space around the clear pools to relax, but not a huge area.
The entrance was rather pricey though (including a mandatory 5$ voucher for food/drinks); the service at the bar/restaurant was very poor (very long waiting times to order and pay, many items on the menu weren't available).
Playa San Juan del Sur is a picturesque beach that boasts an attractive crescent shape and stunning views of the sunset. The location is dotted with oceanfront dining options, offering visitors excellent opportunities to savor delicious meals while enjoying the charming ambience. For those interested in exploring more, there's the Christ statue situated atop the nearby hills. The beach offers majestic scenic beauty with crystal clear water perfect for swimming or simply enjoying a stroll along its shores.
One of the most exotic fun filled bays to travel to in the world. It is a surfer's and fish eaters paradise. Plenty of wonderful beachside hotels, pubs and restaurants. Come from all over the world to relax, eat surf, fish, walk and party.
Yossi Polinger — Google review
Seulement beau au couché du soleil. L'eau est très froide avec des résidus sur le bord de l'eau, le sable est brun et l'eau semble sale. On ne sais pas baigné et peu de gens se baignait. Même pas le goût de mettre ta serviette sur le sable. Il fessait 38 degré celsius c'est décevant.
(Translated by Google)
Only beautiful at sunset. The water is very cold with residue on the water's edge, the sand is brown and the water appears dirty. We don't know how to bathe and few people bathe. You don't even want to put your towel on the sand. It was 38 degrees Celsius, which is disappointing.
Kathy Dickner — Google review
PSA to not believe everything you see in pics. Beach was dirty and water is gross. Don't go here if you only want beach and sea time. Total disappointment.
Great views of the beach if you go high up enough though. Town is your typical beach town (I enjoy beach towns so that was fine with me).
Sid D. — Google review
I was scammed in this area, don’t trust anybody here. The beach itself is quite unpleasant, maybe it looks nice at sunset with the boats, but I wouldn’t go swimming here.
Wade — Google review
Amazing place!
Jorge Venerio — Google review
truly an amazing place. so pretty. the water is great fun to play in tho u do need to watch out for sting rays
mollie christine — Google review
•November 2023• a beautiful beach with perfectly warm water and a great place to watch the sunset. Also some great waves to swim in.
Steven Theodore Windsor — Google review
Nous nous sommes jamais baignē là mais avons mangé dans plusieurs restaurants qui l'entoure. Mon enfant avait des cours de volleyball 🏐 deux fois semaine. Et plusieurs coucher de soleil que j'ai apprécié. C'est une jolie ville ❤️
(Translated by Google)
We never went swimming there but ate in several restaurants surrounding it. My child had volleyball lessons 🏐 twice a week. And several sunsets that I enjoyed. It's a pretty city ❤️
Claudia Wellington — Google review
Beach town vibes with a party atmosphere.
Frank dnb — Google review
Huge beautiful curved beachfront full of bars and restaurants but also easy to find privacy and get away from it all.
Mark Dimont — Google review
A beautiful sunrise and sunset - if you want a great spot with live music and free entertainment; walk down to the beach volleyball and sit on the bleachers to watch the sunset!
Grab a beer from the bar next door and enjoy!
Alex Dugal — Google review
There's definitely better beaches in the area, but it’s nice to watch the sunset. Everytime I came to this beach in the late afternoon, there was always volleyball games taking place on the beach and several people hanging out and drinking while waiting for sunset.
Janaye Graham — Google review
Beautiful views, water is amazing! The weather, restaurants, shops and street vendors make this alot of fun!!
Michael Carlson — Google review
One of the best places to visit in Nicaragua! Ambience is excellent! Great places to eat and to have fun! You must go to visit the christ statue up the hills.
Standard Flight — Google review
4.5
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4.0
(941)
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
14
Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio
National park
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Multiple volcanic peaks & craters in a national park, plus a famous light-blue river.
Overall a great experience. The entry fee was $12 per person if I remember correctly.
The park consists of approximately 3km out and 3km back trail. There are several important stops such as the waterfall which requires that you decend several hundred steps (then climb back to resume the trail) which is worth the view. When you get to the bottom of the stairs, you realize it was worthy the effort.
Towards the end of the trail, there is a point where two separate bodies of water mix to create the blue color the river is known for.
During our walk, we saw a bunch of wildlife including birds, wild turkeys, and a pit viper snake.
Overall 5-stars. I would definitely visit this place again.
Idris Guven — Google review
It was a long wait to get into the park after arriving around 9am. There was no shade and got quite hot standing in the sun. They only let so many people in at a time, which is nice for the hike not to get too crowded. The hike was pretty strenuous and parts were slippery. Didn’t see the volcano top, but the waterfall and rivers were a beautiful sight to see. We saw quite a bit of wildlife while on the tour too.
dominique cupa — Google review
Beautiful National Park. If you’re looking to go Rio Celeste Waterfalls with the blue water, make sure to come here. The Google Map stop showing Rio Celeste is incorrect - a few cars were lost in this journey and ended up here at the park.
Highly recommend purchasing tickets and booking time slot in advance. I would say the steps are more tolerable than La Fortuna waterfalls - it’s not as intense but a solid workout regardless.
You are not allowed to swim in the park, but the bridge up, you will see a spot to get in the water and cool off.
Zachariah Cherian — Google review
Make sure you go early. Rio Celeste is a must see but to get there you hike in about 1km then walk down a hundred or so stairs. After seeing the waterfall you can walk another 2km into the park which is definitely worth doing. You will eventually come to the end of the trail where the rivers mix and will then have to walk the 3km back out along the same trail. It gets very very busy by 10am.
Christopher Coady — Google review
Definitely worth the hike! And you must go all the way to the end to see the mixing of two waters. The waterfall is of course amazing but seeing two rivers mix like that was special. We were lucky because there were no rain before so to the water so very blue! Where your hiking shoes and be prepared to climb some stairs!
Jan Kocjan — Google review
The hikes are unmissable. We learned so much about Arenal and the nature is impressive. Don’t miss it!
Catarina Terenas — Google review
Fun hikes, I saw people of all ages walking the trails. It’s located in the cloud forest. The waterfall and the blue waters are so special, the locals tell the story that when God was painting the sky, he dipped the paint brush in this waters and that’s how the river got its color 💙🙂. There’s a lot to see… animals, birds, nature, the union of two rivers where the blue color waters are born.
There are some restaurants and stores outside the National park to get a refreshing natural juice after the hikes and also you can book other activities to do around there.
Marina — Google review
A breathtaking hike with a unique waterfall!
We saw lots of wildlife there and took beautiful pictures. In the rainy season it’s not crowded at all. Unfortunately I got stung by a bee there, but the staff was very helpful and kind and offered to treat it.
Keep in mind that you need an online-reservation before you can enter, which you can do right in front of the park but I would recommend to do it before that, especially if you travel during high season.
Milla Koch — Google review
The park is really beautiful we maintained they do not let food, cigarettes, vapes etc inside there’s a checkpoint for every bag so avoid those items. The trail to go to the waterfall is paved with stairs.
Outside the park there’s many shops to purchase drinks, food or souvenirs. I recommend getting there early since the park closes at 4pm and last admission is at 2pm.
You can’t go for a swim so be aware of that before getting to the park there’s a bridge and below there you can stop for a swim many locals and tourists.
Rameci Rivera — Google review
The official parking lot at the bottom of the hill is operated by the Red Cross and much easier than trying to park on the side of the road (the road is narrow and we saw two cars that had been hit). The shuttle can be slow.
Unfortunately the bridge was closed when we were there but we had an enjoyable walk non the less.
Animals can be hard to spot due to the dense forest but easy to hear.
The trails can be very muddy so be prepared.
Jeff Detmold — Google review
So worth the drive out to this place! We didn't end up going with a guided tour but we didn't end up needing one! Even though it was a cloudy day and had rained heavily for a few days the waterfall was still beyond gorgeous! Not as blue as the photos during the winter but still worth it none the less. WEAR GOOD SHOES! A portion of the path is paved but the many never ending steps down the the water fall are large and slippery. It is worth it to continue on with the hike to the end as well! You get to see where two rivers meet and where some natural minerals have created a almost middle line between both coloring rivers. Hike the whole thing if you go! You won't regret it!
Mandie — Google review
Visited a few days ago and it was an amazing experience. The whole round trip hike took my husband and I about 2.5hrs. It was well worth it for the views we got. There’s plenty of parking and there’s also a restaurant and local people selling fruits and coconut juice. I will say, the bathrooms were a little jank, but nothing too bad. There are many stairs to get to the waterfall, but there are lots of spots you can stop at along the way to take a breather. One of the locals there told us that the water doesn’t look as blue when it rains, so def try to go on day there’s no rain on the forecast. Although it was hot, you can’t feel it very much on the hike since you’re covered by all the foliage. I recommend going to the end of the hike so you can see the bubbling spots and the end where the two different colored rivers meet. You can’t go in the water like you’re able to at Arenal waterfall, however there is a pot outside of the park at you’re allowed to go into the beautiful blue water, search Tenorio free pool.
Elda — Google review
The main attraction of this national park is the famous waterfall. At times it's a beautiful bright blue color. During periods of heavy rainfall, the water turns muddy and is no longer blue. That's the condition it was in when I visited, but the sheer power and size of the waterfall was impressive to observe, even if the color wasn't perfect.
As many of the other reviews state, the hike to the waterfall is relatively short, but the terrain is challenging. Expect many rocks, lots of mud, and slippery terrain.
This is a national park, and the fact that you're in a rainforest needs to be respected. We went with a guide, and they explained very clearly that there are vipers and other venomous snakes present, poisonous frogs, and wild monkeys that can attack in packs of 10+ if you have food they want. You really do need to be careful, as we encountered a baby viper and a pack of monkeys during the hike, just like the guides predicted. This is not a bad thing. In fact, it speaks to how well the habitat is maintained.
I heard some guides and locals talking about how this waterfall is in the top 3 most visited sites in Costa Rica, and the sheer number of tourists visiting it is now overwhelming. 5 years ago, it was a much quieter park. Something to note if you visited a whole ago and expect it to be similar now - it is far more crowded.
Noah G — Google review
Rio Celeste is a must see… If there hasn’t been much rain. Too much rain dulls the beautiful blue colors of this river. The paths are well maintained but you should be in good physical condition to manage the steep paths. I highly suggest bringing a walking stick or two. A guide is not necessary, but you will see more wildlife if you hire one.
Michelle Ressell (Fiona3D) — Google review
The reviews for this amazing waterfall were so confusing. The booking process as well. But the trail and waterfalls were absolutely amazing. We saw an eyelash viper along the trail. Probably the most beautiful waterfall I’ve seen. Doable with a 4 and 8 year old if you just want to see the falls. I’ve been around a lot of CR and believe me you don’t have want to miss this if you have the chance! Pura Vida!
Ray Erins — Google review
You can only buy tickets online through SINAC Costa Rica website. You have to create an account to buy tickets & choose time of entry. We chose the first entry 8-8:40 A.M. We didn’t get a guide as we wanted to do the hike at our own pace…the trails are clearly marked with signage that explains the attractions. We completed the hike in 4 hours. Rating the hike as moderate. The park was beautiful & well maintained. We hiked different types of trails; paved paths, bridges, rocky trails, tree roots & some mud. The 250 stairs down to the waterfall are in good shape and dry as we went in February. The waterfall was as mesmerizing as I anticipated. The local legend story & the science behind the milky blue colour are equally fascinating. Expect rain in the rainforest…it rained on us for the first half hour. Use the bathroom before the hike as there are none inside the park…It would be nice if there’s one. Tips: Bring a light rain jacket, water & proper footwear. Parking is 2000 crc. Bags will be inspected at the park entrance. No cigarettes, vapes, single use plastics, food…
May E — Google review
Lovely experience. A true wonder. We did the whole hike and everything was perfect. We hiked it without a guide and glad we did it that way. We spent as much time as we wanted in each spot. Wear hiking shoes, poles were very helpful. Have a pan go for drizzle or rain. Go early am. Make reservations in advance. Number of people on the trail is very well controlled. 10 out of 10 experience!
Sunshine A — Google review
What a beautiful park.
This is the best bang for your buck when it comes to the park admission fee.
The trail is well maintained and fairly easy to walk. There are some steep sections on the way that may be hard depending on the shape you are in. The way back is downhill.
We didn't see any wildlife, unfortunately, and regret not hiring a guide.
This is a must-see.
You are not allowed to go in the beautiful water, but at about 1 km down the road, you will cross a small bridge.
That's the spot where you can go for a dip.
During rain or just after a rainfall, it would be a muddy trail, and likely, the water would be too polluted to render its natural beauty.
Don't miss this trail.
PS: we rented a scooter and rode from La Fortuna. Thankfully, we had clear skies, and everything was dry. I'm an experienced rider, so it wasn't too bad on the scooter.
However, it was very uncomfortable for my wife in the back.
The experience was priceless, though.
Julio Hernandez — Google review
Such an amazing area with Rio Celeste. We saw lots of birds, snacks, the Costa Rican raccoon, monkeys, and the cool waterfall. The hike is moderately challenging with a steep incline on the way in. There are about 200 steps down to the platform for the waterfalls. You can't swim there. There mosquitoes. So, where bug spray and long pants and shirt.
Jessica Long — Google review
we went in December and Just missed the rain as it started right after we hiked out! Perfect timing. I heard if it rains before you go, the water may be brown, but luckily for us it was very blue. The hike to the fall was beautiful. The funny thing is (and now I am learning its like this everywhere where instagram has made famous) is that there was a line to get down the stairs to the fall because everyone was getting their picture taken. But overall it was a nice day. Just remember to book you pass to enter BEFORE you get there online! It was a hassle to do once we got there because we did not do it ahead of time.
Shanna Sottosanto — Google review
Awesome hike! Go do it! Bring water and hit the earliest enterance by reservation. If you like the stair master at the gym this is for you 😀
Diamante Eco Adventure Park offers a thrilling experience with zipline rides through the forest canopy, tours of a butterfly house, and encounters with jaguars at the wildlife center. Visitors can enjoy an all-day excursion that includes ziplining with auto-brake feature, exploring the breathtaking animal sanctuary, and participating in a cultural experience to learn about chocolate and coffee. The park also offers a discovery pass for access to the animal sanctuary where knowledgeable guides provide insights into various amazing animals.
This place is great! Really fun, and the staff were all very friendly and helpful! I spent the entire day here. I did the Zipline course, viewed many gorgeous animals, and swam at the private beach! I also tried fresh, natural, traditionally made coffee and chocolate. All in all I had a wonderful time and I would definitely recommend it!
Janae Stafford — Google review
We had a great time at Diamante Eco Adventure Park!!! There is so much to do, you have to pick and choose. We did the Zipline which was the highlight of our vacation, the zoo, and the cultural experience. The zoo was excellent! The people working there were wonderful. They loved the animals and knew a lot about them. It’s definitely a place we would return to!
Jillian's Circus — Google review
Loved the Zipline portion of this adventure. The food on top of the hill was the best yet in Costa Rica. The chicken was good and the tuna pasta was great . Fried plantain yum.
The view was most spectacular from there.
The ride up via the bus or trucks to get to the zipline pavilions can be a bit scary for those not accustomed to hills.
My only negative was there was no one at the foot of the hill to give is the tour of the animal sanctuary and no instructions were given to wait. So please ask about each step of the process once you get to the hill and not be rushed .
Oliver Myrie — Google review
Had a lot of fun at the Diamante Eco Adventure Park! It was a great place to see animals, zipline, and spend the day in Costa Rica. We saw the promotional signs in the airport and decided to spend the day there. The website is easy to navigate and I had a few questions so I called and they were very helpful. Highly recommend if you're looking for an all-day activity. The Superman zipline is intense and I'm glad we did it.
Jason Blanchard — Google review
Purchased the all day adventure package. With this you can either zip line, ATV ride or take a horse ride. 2 of use took the zip lines while mom and older kid went ATV’ing. Everyone had a blast.
The all day pass entitles you to the buffet lunch which was really nice.
Animal sanctuary is very impressive. Make sure you go to the early morning sloth feed at 9:30. The one later, the sloths slept through.
Beach is wonderful and very beautiful. Kids loved paddle birding with mom while I kept watch from the shade.
The drive from tamarindo is an experience. An adventure in itself. Mountain driving to river crossing. A lot of fun.
Steven — Google review
We chose the all-day adventure pass, and we're so glad we did.
The park has a very "Jurassic Park" feel to it from the time you drive in the front gate, which immediately set the tone for adventure (minus the dinosaurs, thankfully).
The zip line was our first stop, though we were a bit nervous, since none of the six of us had ever ziplined before. The fact that we first had to step on a scale was a bit unnerving - who wants to give their weight to anyone? - but I quickly realized that they take safety very seriously and knowing our weights helped them make safer choices for us. We all had a blast in the zip lines and would have repeated them over and over if it had been an option. The only suggestion I have is for them to provide goggles for the Superman line; you go so fast that the wind causes your eyes to tear up and you can't see anything.
The last zip line dropped us off in the animal sanctuary, where we spent time looking at all the animals. It's obvious they care for their animals and have tried to create habitats for them that are "home-like".
Lunch was provided with our pass, and it was typical buffet food, nothing to write home about.
After lunch, we took the shuttle to the beach to enjoy some time in the water. Getting to hang out in the hammocks and take the kayaks out was a great way to end our day.
I've read other reviews that complained about long lines and such, but that wasn't our experience. Everything was very streamlined and efficient, but that could be because we went during the off-season.
Shawntel Wilson — Google review
We toured the Animal Sanctuary and Cultural Tour.
Animals - have very spacious and safe enclosures for each animal. You are able to get really close to animals. The feeding of Lucy and her companion sloth was so cool!!
We then went on the Cultural Tour and met Kevin!!! He was amazing at explaining the coffee making process, we also made Sugar Cain Juice and Chocolate right from the Coco beans.
Kevin was great!!!
Christy H — Google review
Wonderful family visit to the Animal Sanctuary, playground, farm and cultural centre.
Our kids loved and adults too. We got to see the Sloth and Jaquar feeding and were educated along the way as we visited the different animals from the experienced staff. I commend the shady stops where tables and chairs are set up to help reset, take a break and get out of the beaming sun at times.
Thank you for having us.
Dk Kk — Google review
This was an amazing day! Some of my group were afraid to do the Superman zipline (starts from a height of 80 stories), but those that braved it absolutely loved it and didn't regret trying.
The buffet meal was pretty good and the staff everywhere were terrific.
Best to book and arrive as early as possible to spend the entire day.
Brian Spain — Google review
This place is a fun way to spend the day day however small children and anyone with a fear of heights will find much less excitement. There is an animal park/zoo which the kids liked however I'm against Zoos in general especially big cats pacing. The turtles, crocodiles, snakes etc seem more reasonably content. There is a low ropes course that's good for about ages 4 and up. There was a free lunch buffet included in our price which was a nice touch. The zip lining was very fun and took about 2 hours But of course there are age and weight restrictions. Older kids would Lso appreciate the cultural talk. The beach was small but nice and had some relaxing hammocks. It hot and dusty but there were drink options & shuttles to help!
Adriana Laser — Google review
This was an incredible experience and one I’d recommend to anyone visiting the area. The staff are friendly and there’s a lot of entertainment options available for guests of all ages.
The cultural experience explores how sugar, coffee, and chocolate are produced, and you are able to taste all three.
The animals are very well taken care of and have neat personalities!
Adam Chubbuck — Google review
Awesome zip lining and culture park. It was our first time zip lining and we absolutely loved it. There are 5 different runs with one being the Superman where you lay flat and go 60mph for a mile. It was so much fun and the views are amazing. You end up in the sanctuary so you can hang with the sloths and toucan birds. We definitely want to do it again. It’s 2 minutes from Riu resort.
LMP — Google review
We did the animal sanctuary and it was a really enjoyable experience. The animal habitats were very well done and we loved getting to see the sloths feeding. Getting to be up close to the Toucans was really cool. I’ve been to a lot of zoos and animal sanctuaries in the USA and this was definitely a great place to see and learn about the animals who had been rescued.
We were there for 2hours. For the price I wish something else was included, like the botanical gardens or cultural experience, but overall I’m glad we went.
Michelle Smith — Google review
Was great. Did the cultural experience and was awesome. It comes with a discovery pass as well. The discovery brings you down the animal sanctuary.
All types of amazing animals and very knowledgeable guides throughout the sanctuary or zoo.
Book there to save on online fees.
Call them and tell them your group size and they will be V expecting you.
Couldn’t do it all in one day. Was able to come back the next day and finish.
No restaurant but a buffet that is pretty good. $16. The people there are very helpful and nice. Highly recommend for all ages.
Cultural experience we made our on coffee chocolate. Very good. Please tip.
They work hard
Kyle Cox — Google review
We did the zip lines, animal sanctuary and cultural experience. Amazing all day excursion! The ziplines were really fun and have an auto-brake feature. This was scary at first but once you get used to it, its no big deal. The animal sanctuary was breathtaking. The animals were so close and active. The enclosures were beautiful and it was easy to walk around. The cultural experience learning about chocolate and coffee was really cool. Seemed like everyone there was enjoying themselves.
wendy stanley — Google review
We had a great afternoon at Diamante Eco Adventure Park. Zip lining was awesome. There were lots of interesting critters for our toddler to see and learn about. Her fave was the butterflies and the toucans.
Convenient location to the Riu. A few minutes by free shuttle. Perfect off resort experience.
Hannah Hauser, LiVE Realty Group - Real Broker — Google review
Great experience! The zip lines are really exciting and well done. You end up at the bottom of the zip lines crossing a bridge across a pond with alligators. The animal exhibits have a good number of animals and a great variety. Highly recommend.
Chris Goodbaudy — Google review
Fun, all-day family experience!
Suggest early arrival as the waiting times at zip lines can get warm.
Do zip lines first, enjoy lunch, then head for animal sanctuary or beaches.
Animals well-loved, but please be kind to them…watched one family knock on capuchin’s glass until it rushed them in a rage. Late afternoon feedings at sanctuary get great caretaker and animal interactions.
Lunch buffet tastes great!
SouTex Traveler — Google review
The ecological adventure park was very worth the hype and we had a great experience. While the place is most certainly catered towards families but the animals were great to look at and the zip line was a lot of fun. (Mind you weight limit exists at 280 lbs so if you’re a chunky monkey be aware you won’t be able to dabble)
Helder Toste — Google review
This was a lot of fun! Of course, you are charged tourist prices. $90 after taxes makes for a pretty expensive zip line given that it only takes an hour to do the 4 lines. However, the Superman line was one of the greatest experiences of my life as you are hundreds of feet off the ground and have a spectacular view of the area.
Zack — Google review
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RIU Hotel 350 east, Guanacaste Province, Playa Matapalo, 50503, Costa Rica
Tamarindo, situated on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Guanacaste Province, is renowned for its rugged surfing beaches such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. The area to the north houses Playa Grande beach, which serves as a significant breeding ground for enormous leatherback turtles and constitutes part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge protects diverse fauna like howler monkeys and crocodiles in its estuary lined with mangroves.
5% as popular as Playa del Carmen
2 hours off the main route, 81% of way to Manuel Antonio
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious escape with picturesque volcano views and an impressive selection of 25 geothermal pools. Guests can indulge in the spa's relaxing treatments or enjoy complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant. The well-maintained rooms offer a clean stay, while some balconies may require attention to ensure complete closure. However, guests can unwind and soak in the numerous pools, including one open 24/7 upon request from reception.
Wow... Great experience! There must be at least 20 different hot spring pools here, all different sizes and temperatures. We loved the warm water waterslides and the dinner buffet was good!
Yeah, it's a bit pricey for the day pass, but it was worth it. I've never been to a place like this one.
Jeff O. — Google review
This place was great pools are right outside and they keep one of the pools open 24 hours each night just need to ask reception which one. Breakfast is included which is always a plus. The entire place is clean, rooms are clean which is of course acceptable. Only thing I had a problem with was the balcony window didn't close well and the person in the room next to us kept smoking out there and the smoke got in our room and that was really annoying but other than that we loved the place! we will definitely be back!
animegrl610 — Google review
I came on a tour bus. Stayed for 2 hours. Lockers and showers are convenient. However to get to the hot springs the cars intersect with the path to the hot springs so you're dodging cars to and from the locker and the multiple hot springs. Poor setup.
The hot springs were good. Lots of room. Brought my towel instead of paying.
Dinner was not great. The steak was red and chewy. The salad was great. Main dishes not so much. The guava drink was enjoyable.
Oscar Aviles — Google review
I did a day trip here. I didn't spend the night. The hot springs are absolutely phenomenal. The separate pools offer something for everyone. The place is very clean, the staff were friendly.
The lunch buffet wasn't great. Simple enough fare, chicken, pulled pork, rice, fruit as long as it was watermelon or pineapple. Even the fruit was not really up to the standard I've learned in Costa Rica.
Chris Gross — Google review
We had a great time at the baldy Hot springs. They have a ton of different pools with different temperatures. And the place is done really well. Very clean. And although it rains all the times the canopies and the rain covers do a good job of covering you if you do not want to get wet. The water slides are also pretty fun. There is one that is a little more intense than the rest, and need to get past around a little bit.
Wesley Winsor — Google review
We've been here for day passes to the pools twice over the past 18 months. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides.
Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks (and maybe food?) Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left.
The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants.
We did not stay at the hotel, so I cannot opine on the rooms and accommodations. But all staff that we encountered were courteous and friendly.
We would definitely go back a third time if in La Fortuna again.
Jared Miles — Google review
These hot pools were amazing! The temperatures were all different, which made it really nice. The natural steam room was very cool. The price is about $45 per person, but if you're there all day, it would be worth it. There is plenty for adults and kids. I would recommend you visit if you're in the area.
Chory_MuthaFucken_B — Google review
It was a beautiful, reasonably priced hot spring. It’s fun to wander and test out the different pools, they also have paths through the trees that are fun to explore at night. The bars closer to the entrance have less costly drinks. Use the slides at your own risk-they are absolutely fun and absolutely painful if you’re over age 30.
Emily Lammers — Google review
We went to the Hot springs and dinner.
The pools are great. Not crowded even though there is no reservation required.
Dinner was a buffet and very average. You are only paying about $20 and the non alcoholic drinks are unlimited but was still a little disappointing considering the rest of the place. Drinks at the pool bars were more than $10 each.
Jane Stone — Google review
We visited Bali Hot Springs as part of a tour package and it was a relaxing way to spend the end of an awesome day. The buffet had a great selection and we didn't leave hungry. Eating with a view of the Volcano in the background was great. After eating we made our way to the springs which were heated by the volcano. The temperatures are different by pool and get warmer the higher you go. The top pool was hot tub hot and the lower pools were more "summer pool" hot. We had a couple of drinks and found ourselves very relaxed for our return trip.
Chris Campbell — Google review
I would not recommend staying here. The room was clean, but the sink smelled like rotten eggs (sulfur), no hot water in shower (even after maintenance came), AC made noise all night. One of the hot springs made our bathing suits smell. This resort offers day passes for people not staying on property so it can get very crowded. We got massages to be able to use private springs but there wasn’t any water in the springs? Drinks are $20 a piece. I would not stay at this resort again. For $500 I expect better plumbing. I was actually ready for my vacation to end.
Kelly McClure — Google review
Baldi Hot Springs is one of the best hot spring hotels in La Fortuna. The rooms are large and comfortable. They come with a small patio deck. The plants and foliage are well appointed on the property and add privacy in an otherwise large hotel. The hotel is right off the highway and very easy to find. They boast 25 pools on the property and include a kids area with water slides for kids. We did come during slow season so we didn't see too many kids which was nice and relaxing for us. But it is family friendly for those wondering. The hotel room we got came with a rather large closet, armoire, dresser, mini fridge, and bar. There is also a super cute vanity. Inside the bathroom was a little tight. Definitely not enough room for two people to be in there comfortably. The bathroom had a slight paint smell and also a slight sulfur smell but it wouldn't deter us from coming back. The shower came with a large deep tub in our room. So I would recommend anyone with knee or balance issues might want to request a different bathroom set up. The king size bed was nice for me and my husband and it was on the firmer side but not uncomfortable. We had house keeping daily and enjoyed the little towel characters they left on the bed each day. The property has several bars throughout and a few restaurants. Breakfast is included if you stay on site and it was different each morning. We stayed for 3 nights and enjoyed 3 breakfast. They also offer day passes for hot spring use if you choose not to stay in site and you can eat at the restaurants for extra cost. This property is not all inclusive. The staff was all very friendly and would say hello every time we passed them. I loved our visit. The pools all had something cool to them. I loved the ones that had the little day beds. Some were hotter than others and some were cold. There was a steam sauna and a spa as well. I would recommend it to everyone!
Karina Cecilia — Google review
This is truly an amazing experience that I’d highly recommend anyone check out when visiting the area! I believe there are 25 pools/saunas/hot tubs, and they get hotter as you go up the resort. A select few are even cool if you need to take a break from all of the heat. Everything was super clean and it was easy to navigate. One of the employees even loaded us up in his golf cart to give us a tour of the facility prior to paying. If you need food or drinks, they’ve got restaurants and bars available, but they also allow you to leave and come back as long as you have your wristband. We easily spent all day here, and would happy visit again! For the price, you really can’t get much better for “luxury” hot springs (but if it is a bit pricey for your group, there are free hot springs on the way to Arenal. They’re also amazing, but purely natural - not resort style, so wear water shoes to protect your feet).
Christian Prescott — Google review
We purchased a day pass to use the hot springs. It was well worth it, several hot and cool pools are situated on site. The natural hot sauna was incredible. Highly recommend going to pools where both hot and cool pools exist. Switching between them was really nice. The kids section in Baldi is small but well designed, it will keep the kids entertained. Overall was pleasantly surprised by the size of this hot springs resort
Nirupan N. — Google review
Location and the room was great, gorgeous views. But the staff was not pleasant. The price for the drinks and food was very high. For the price of a nights stay was $500/night and in my opinion not worth it. There are many other places in Costa Rica with beautiful hot springs. I paid for a night stay and then an hour after check out stayed around the hotel and asked to dry my clothes and they would not allow since it was past check out. For the cost to stay I would expect better service.
amanda ellis — Google review
A very well maintained and clean resort. Food is reasonably priced and good. There are several swimming pools and they are quite clean.
Only, improvement point I can think of is- bars should either not give drinking straws, if they do then they should be a bit longer than they are now.
Dushyant Sethi — Google review
I came to just visit the springs with a day pass and thought it was great, very well worth it. Total entry for myself (no time limit for the hot springs) plus locker rental and 1hr buffet dinner was under $80 which I think was reasonable. Facilities were very clean, spacious, and welcoming. There may be an extra fee for towels so I recommend to bring your own. Be prepared the walk to the further springs and the buffet area is on an upwards incline - not hard to walk but may be difficult for elderly/physically impaired.
Dina Goodger — Google review
This place is pretty cool. They have like 25 pools or something crazy. Swim up bars, hot pools, cool pools, party pools, pools with slides, pools for kids. It just goes on and on. Oh also, a steam/sauna area. So much fun.
Food was medicore at best. Drinks are pricey. Entry is pricey....but still worth it!
Christine Protz — Google review
It is a nice and clean place. The resort is well maintained and has a lot of pool options. I would recommend going there for sure. The only thing I didn't like was the amount of time we waited at an empty bar to get a drink with servers looking at us but not approaching to see what we want until 15 min later. It may be a thing to not bother you so much as I noticed that a few times but it is nice to get that first drink quick.
mehafroozs — Google review
Stayed a little over a week in May, Rooms are huge, great A/C, spacious balconies--a little dark inside but probably due to the wall colors and lighting. Wifi was also fine--I brought a laptop and used it daily, didn't have issues. Didn't use video though, so not sure if that would've pushed it. Breakfast buffet was delicious, so many options--seating area is open air with a lot of shade. So many pools, all heated, range of temperatures. It feels nice and secluded because of all the landscaping and tall palm trees throughout the resort. Large parking lot for overnight and day stays. Resort is in a pretty central location--feel like mostly everything we drove to was under 20 minutes. About 2.5 hour drive from San Jose airport area--roads are windy but all paved, and speed limit is pretty low. But it was a nice drive over--nice views of different towns and rolling hills/farms.
Connie Jung — Google review
We enjoyed our overnight. They had one pool open 24 hrs for guests which was great. We enjoyed the pools even more after dark. The free welcome drink was a nice touch.
The only reason why I had to give 4 stars instead of 5 was that our suite, in the furthest most building, overlooked a construction site so it had no view at all except for a green screen and it was noisy during the day. We were not warned of this when we made our reservation or during check-in.
Jenny L — Google review
Purchased a day pass and spent a relaxing five hours at this luxurious hot springs resort. $44 pp + about $15 in a la carte food. I wish we had purchased the included lunch option. There are countless hot pools (25?), many of them with waterfalls. The staff were friendly. My teenage daughter did not like the big water slide - ouch. Overall we had a great time here. The free hot springs at Choylin is an amazing alternative for those who are nimble and adventurous.
Burton Filstrup — Google review
We didn’t stay at the resort so I can’t review the rooms. We did spend the afternoon at the hot springs though. So many pools you feel like you can’t even hit them all. Varying temperatures in each pool if you find some are too hot.
My kids loved the waterslides. They particularly liked the funnel slide.
The afternoon included dinner which was delicious. Rice and beans, chicken/pork/beef, salad and desserts.
Ben DeRoo — Google review
We got a day pass with lunch included. There were many pools and we were delighted that each pool had a sign that listed its temperature. There are some thermal pools that have cool water pools nearby. At night, the colorful lights on the waterfall tower were spectacular! There were shallow pools with built-in lounges and a swim-up bar in another. The design is certainly well thought out. The customer service was stellar! As you walk around, when staff pass by, they always verbally acknowledge you. BUT the lunch buffet was pretty horrible. The pork in BBQ sauce was tasty, but I nearly broke a tooth because it was so tough. The rolls were stale and dry. The mashed potatoes were obviously instant and way too salty. The veggies were cooked to death, the chicken was dust, the pasta was mush, and both sauces, red and white, were watery and insipid. Desserts were your typical jello-like cheesecake and a fruit sponge with more whipped cream than cake. The best thing we ate was the fresh pineapple. It was sweet and delicious. DO NOT pay $22 for lunch. Leave, eat, and come back. Trust me.
Tena Jackson — Google review
What a fun place to relax! The varying water temps of each pool was really fun. It’s an excellent place to take kids. We were in the off season, so it was not crowded at all, but the water slides were not available because of this, I think. We had a pretty good lunch that was included in our price, and though pricier than a restaurant nearby, the convenience of having it in the park was great. And the food was decent. We did the day pass, so we didn’t stay in the resort , but speaking for the pools itself , I’d definitely recommend to anyone with kids staying in the area.
Emily Price — Google review
Great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides. Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks. Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left. The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants. Fair warning, the slides lead to super shallow waters, you'll end up regretting it.
Anthony M — Google review
Went here on a day pass. If you're tired of trekking or just need a break from the jungle this is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some drinks in a really unique hot springs/waterpark. Entry fee for the day and drink prices are a little on the high side $47 to enter, around $8 for a beer. That said it is a totally unique experience. I think they have 14 hot spring fed pools. 5 or 6 of those have swim up bars. Parking can be tough for day pass visitors. You have to park along the road outside of the hotel property and it can get crowded. Another fun and unique experience in Costa Rica.
Joe Pickell — Google review
Very over priced. Drink prices are outrageous. They sell day passes and over the holidays it was packed with people. They don’t sell Imperial beer but they sell imports. How can you not have Imperial in Costa Rica? Our room was located backed up to a construction tarp. We paid extra for a large family suite with balcony. Never did anyone mention construction. They did not care when we complained. Not even a free meal. There are a ton of pools on property. Property is large and well manicured, so it’s not all bad. But it’s like Disneyland with bad customer service. It’s very commercial feeling. I would not stay here again. The staff was nice at the main restaurant and around the resort. The buffet is very bad and mainly for day pass guests I suppose. The breakfast buffet is included and was pretty good. Property is very large and required tons of walking up hill. So if you’re out of shape this would be very difficult. Also not fun with hot and tired kids.
Nicole Dalesandro — Google review
the hot springs are great. they are large areas that are more public. on certain nights you can have whole areas to yourselves. The bar at the top is stupidly expensive while the bars further down the hot waterfalls are less expensive.. there is a nice sauna and several cold pools to do small cold plunges. You can have a great experience starting from the top and working your way down. If you want cheap drinks and good hot springs you can do Los Lagos but the experience is a little different.
Alan Jacobson — Google review
Too hot for me. Would be nicer if air temp wasn't 95 degrees. Would be great in much cooler weather. Thought the price to get I was fair. Can be hard to find three chairs together unless you get there early. Food and drinks were average.l, avoid the pizza. Was awful. Thought the staff and bartenders could've been nicer
A Warner — Google review
Not entirely what I was expecting, but made the best of it. We went in the evening around 5pm for a day pass (which costs the same as if you went in the morning - no evening rate). My initial reaction and feeling was Disney Land meets all inclusive. Many of the pools had swim up bars, one pool had water slides for kids, and there was a separate kids water park area. Not our jam, was looking for a more tranquil thermal pool experience which you can apparently find at other hot springs resorts. We went on a recommendation from a friend, but could have done more research ourselves prior to going. We did end up enjoying ourselves a bit more once it got dark and the pools started clearing out, at one point we had a large thermal pool to ourselves, but could hear loud music coming from another pool/part of the resort. All in all we enjoyed being in the warmth of the hot springs but would have enjoyed a different environment. Might be suitable for you if you have kids and are looking for the best of both worlds. I myself was looking for a more relaxing, spa like experience.
Ashley Mitton — Google review
We went there and got a day pass⭐️. Food was absolutely fantastic. Best bruschetta and salad I ever had! Beautiful interior. We did not stay at the hotel we did this for the experience. The water pools are gorgeous with nice design. One thing that needs imposter the directions how to get from pool to pool to find different temperatures and what benefits they carry. Me and my daughter loved it ! Thank you
Dominika Staniewicz — Google review
It was truly an amazing experience when visiting La fortuna. Definitely won of the highlights to go visit and relax in Costa Rica. The place has roughly 25 different pools with a few slides available for kids / adults. Be mindful to experience a few whiplashes from the slide!
Dannie Nguyen — Google review
Went last year with my family. Very good location, had an amazing welcome drink, breakfast is DELICIOUS and rooms, bathrooms, public areas are well kept and super clean. Funny name too (I have a weird sense of humor) and I love the statue of the lady in the front 😂
Will be going back!
Stacy Peng — Google review
We stayed one night at this location, breakfast was included and it was pretty good with a wide selection of food to choose from. We had a nice sized room that was in a quiet location. There are multiple pools at this resort and at night the lights look nice when you are bathing. I suggest to book way in advance because prices can go up quickly. Will definitely come back one day.
Nestled within a lush tropical forest, the Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that boasts a 70-meter cascade into an inviting pool. Visitors can explore the diverse plant life and beautiful orchids and butterflies along the segmented walkway, and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe. While not particularly challenging, those with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the series of stairs leading to the bottom of the waterfall.
So first off $18 to enter which trust me is worth every dime. Then it’s 500 steps down. Those go pretty quick and there’s a few vantage points to take pictures on your way down. Once down there is a benched area to sit and change if you like but no shelter the changing rooms and showers are at the top before the steps. The rocks are slick and the water is very refreshing. The current for the waterfall is strong. But it’s nice and plenty of rocks to take pictures. But if you wanna hang out and enjoy the water the small pool to the left is where you wanna be.
Desirae Ande — Google review
Beautiful place with beautiful view to enjoy with friends and family. National pay 9$ foreigners pay $18. It's about 500 steps to go to the waterfall but there's many chairs on the way so that you can rest if you are tired. You can swim if you want water is 🥶. I really enjoy my visit.
Christina Bertrand — Google review
Be prepared for a hike up and down 500 steps! Take it at your own pace, you can do it! They have motivational quotes along the way that tell you how many steps you have left.
Bring water shoes and a towel if you decide to take a dip in the water. Its rocky near the falls and the swimming hole you can see fish swimming around.
Take time to look at all the flowers around you they're beautiful. They also have an orchid path you can walk, unfortunately for us none were in bloom at the time.
Christina Ibar — Google review
A great waterfall and a great workout!
We have visited twice now, and this majestic waterfall is always worth it. Plus it's great cardio coming back up the 500 stairs!
We went at a crowded time, so get there earlier if you want less people.
We brought plenty of water, water shoes and quick dry towels, all of which make the experience more enjoyable.
The water is chilly but refreshing!
Avoid going too far to the right side. There is danger of rocks falling. And don't get too close to the falls, there is a lifeguard there, but you can tell it's likely a strong under current.
Diana Chaloux - LaCerte — Google review
Beautiful waterfall with a swimming area at the bottom. I loved seeing the plant diversity. The walk to the bottom is a series of stairs, thought not the most difficult hike, it would be hard for those with mobility issues and your calves may feel it the next day. There is a segmented walk for orchids and butterflies. The cafe at the start has a decent selection of drinks and food.
Timothy Torres — Google review
This was a nice morning hike, though expensive, in my opinion. ($18/ person). Many people swim in the stream. The water is cool and refreshing. Note, there are 500 stair steps down and of course back up. We 60 plus did it easily.
Jean Robinson — Google review
The walk up and down is not as bad as everyone makes it sound! You can do it! I swear! If you're visiting for a few days, watch the forecast and try to choose a cooler day. We were there in July, and def a cooler day made a huge difference!
We're not really in shape people but we did just fine. I can't believe we almost skipped this place because everyone made it sound so grueling.
Everyone mentions the 500 steps because it's on signs along the way! So it's very fresh in their minds and they're saying it because they're proud of themselves.
The stairway is well designed. It's very easy to pass people who need a break. So you don't feel pressured when *you* need a break. There are seats at a few spots.
I think it took us 10 - 15 min to go down and maybe 30 to go up. Our kid went up in like 20 min. We took it extra easy. Honestly, you can do it.
Def worth the visit! It's a very impressive waterfall!
Suruchi K — Google review
Lots of stairs so if you have mobility issues, will be a challange. Nice waterfall with a few different swimming holes. Not to busy on our cloudy day visit. I'm sure some days it is crazy. A decent stop some other falls maybe more impressive.
grant I — Google review
Well worth the admission cost! Takes about 15 minutes to hike down and 30 to 40 to hike back up. 500 steps/600m. Take your time! The water is chilly, but refreshing. Great photo ops. Beautiful to see up close. Highly recommend. There's a spot just past the waterfall that's safer to swim in than at the base too.
April & Rich Moncrief — Google review
Beautiful waterfall that was worth all the steps, even going back up! Definitely not an activity for anyone with mobility issues. They have changing rooms and lockers available once you pay the entrance fee. Recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel and some kind of waterproof shoes. Lots of sharp rocks to scramble over to get down to the water. Current very strong near the waterfall itself, but there were people swimming in the river on the other side, this part might be better for smaller kids or those who are not strong swimmers.
Karoline Bowman — Google review
This is worth the $18 entry price. Yes there are 500 steps but don't be intimidated by that. There are plenty of places to rest.
Once at the waterfall you can swim right up next to it but be warned, the current is very strong! Super cool experience though.
After the waterfall, go down a few more steps and enjoy a calm river experience. You can relax in the cool water which should be a welcomed change from the heat!
Mike Green — Google review
Breathtaking and amazing. Super cool and beautiful and chill. Can go swimming there as well. Also they have lots of cute fish as well. Super easy hike up and down 500+ steps. Also the restaurant inside was surprisingly really really good. They had this roasted chicken, smoked with coffee wood. It was an amazing experience, definitely recommend this place if you're in la fortuna.
Law Mak — Google review
It’s worth the $18. An easy, yet steep walk down several staircases to the beautiful waterfall below. A sweet little beach and some quiet water with many fish is available for a cold swim. The other side of the river is privately owned and tours come down that way as well.
Lindsey Price — Google review
Initially, the facilities are in good condition. Nonetheless, the $20 entrance fee for this waterfall seems a bit steep to me. Descending the well-designed staircase for about 15 minutes provides an enjoyable experience, with opportunities for swimming. Don't forget to bring water shoes. There's a small area to swim and relax. As a solo traveler, while it's not the most impressive waterfall, it is beautiful, and I believe it should be free or cheaper. There are plenty more Impressive in Costa Rica.
Launaty Cruz — Google review
Visited here midweek but was still reasonably busy. 500 steps (sometimes uneven) down - and also back up so bring water if it's a hot day.
The waterfall itself is very impressive, can't swim directly in the pool underneath it (can take photos and that spot is mostly full of people trying to get the Instagram photo), but you can further down there are life guards present to keep an eye on people's safety.
We swam in the river just next to the falls, a few people in but the water is pretty cold and in places fast flowing so most don't stay in long or do more than paddle - glad we went in as it was a good experience.
Back at the top they're are changing rooms, and there's a great cafe with a wood fired spit-oven that does really good chicken (you get half a chicken, which was a suprise but really tasty)
Jamie Palliser — Google review
Beautiful waterfall with swimming allowed. Honestly I thought the walk was pretty easy. My 5 and 8 year old kids were free which is pretty cool. Not really any wildlife that we saw aside from a bunch of common fish...but really cool place to go swimming and see a beautiful waterfall. Great place to go for the first day of our trip and then go on to more arduous challenges. Contrary to what everyone was telling us our kids were able walk up and down totally on their own as opposed to the handing bridges. Rio Celeste was more impressive but you couldn't swim by the waterfall and was a bit more challenging with a 5 and 8 year old... but totally doable to just see the waterfall.... we didn't continue on to the higher up parts
Ray Erins — Google review
We purchased the tickets and lunch online the day before. It was convenience. I think they ask you to choose the time to wish to visit mostly for estimate number of visitors. It doesn't seem that you have to be there at that exact time.
Be prepare to walk 500 steps down and then 500 steps up. It was a nice shady walk but tiring. It was crowded at the water fall. The water was very cold. But after a long walk, it could be refreshing. There were fish swimming in the river close by. And in case you were wondering : no drone allowed.
The pre-purchased lunch was pretty good. You have a different limited menu to choose from. And It came with a refreshing fruit drinks , a few options to choose for lunch (costa Rica typical plate with different protein options, burgers , pasta...) and a small froyo at the end. After the long walk, it was perfect. I had the costa Rica plate with fish and the fish was fresh and tasty.
Their gift shop sales things with reasonable price too. The same tshirt I saw selling for ~$20 at hotel, it was sale ~$15 here.
Trang Thu — Google review
Getting exercise in CR is just one of those things you have to do. Why not do it with a beautiful hike to a waterfall. When you arrive at the waterfall there is a good size parking lot. Park and pay your fees to go in. If it is raining you may want to go in the shop and get a poncho ($3).when you start off there is a sign indicating it is about 500 steps down. Just remember, if you go down you must come up. Once you get to the bottom there are lots of people taking pictures and swimming. Swimming would be great on a hot day. Now for the way up you could run the stairs, but then it would be hard to stop at the signs posted every 100 steps indicating you are getting closer to the top. There are also a number of sitting locations to take in the beautiful scenery. You can watch a couple of the zip liners going by from the near by zip line park. Once at the top there is a nice small bar / restaurant that was cooking rotisserie chicken and making everything smell good. Sit down enjoy a drink or two. You earned it after all. Once refreshed take a tour of the orchard garden.
David Webster — Google review
We loved this hike! Down 550 steps and then back up again. Absolutely worth all those steps! Gorgeous crystal blue jungle pool with waterfall cascading down with a thunderous roar. Some folks went swimming( mostly Canadians) but honestly, it was too cold for us.
Ernst Koehler — Google review
4.6
(6880)
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4.5
(9725)
21007, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
Ensure advanced reservations when visiting Proyecto Asis animal shelter to avoid disappointment, as the group sizes are small. The tour is highly informative and provides insights into the complex world of eco-conservation. Visitors will learn about difficult decisions that need to be made regarding rescuing animals and allowing nature to take its course. The knowledgeable guide delivers an excellent experience with a focus on care and education. The lush greenery on the property enhances the overall visit, making it worth paying for this cause-driven tour.
Make sure to book ahead. Saw some people looking sad in parking area. They tried to take care of "walk ups" but the tour was really excellent because our group was small. A wonderful CARE and concern place. If you listen and ask questions you will learn incredible things. There are some difficult decisions to be made about rescuing and/or letting nature take its course. Very educational - complex eco world we live in and these people are doing front line work. I was fine with the price of the tour because of the cause. Our guide was really good at his job. Gorgeous foliage on the property.
J. Randy Lepp — Google review
Carlos our guide was wonderful, very friendly and informative. The animal rehabilitation process was well explained. We even got to see a mom and baby 2 fingered sloths! My husband got a better photo of the baby sloth's face. They recommend wearing pants and putting on bug spray for your tour. Highly recommend!
Emily Fisher — Google review
We cannot recommend Proyecto Asis enough!
The conservation and rehabilitation work they do here is incredibly important and both our guides were genuinely invested in the mission. We left feeling like we 100% made the right choice.
We loved our wildlife tour with Carlos! He was absolutely fantastic. We learned and laughed so much. We even saw a wild Toucan and Cayman, alongside the numerous beautiful birds and monkeys under rehabilitation.
Our sloth tour was equally incredible. Our guide was super friendly, informative, and had a sharp eye to spot sloths and other creatures on the preserve (we saw 4 total). He went out of his way to take incredible high quality pictures on our phones through the telescope!
Jackson Dahlen — Google review
If you’re looking to learn a few things about sloths this is the place to go. Staff is extremely friendly. I never thought going on a sloth tour, the tour guide would change the ways I thought about animals in nature. Wonderful tour! Best in town! Highly recommend going! You will see so many sloths it’s worth the time!
Gavin Johnson pnw — Google review
We loved everything about Proyecto Asis! Their mission and the work they put into protecting the animals and educating the public is wonderful. Our guide, Carlos, was extremely knowledgeable, funny, and passionate about the work they do there. We all learned a lot and my boys (6 & 9) stayed interested and excited throughout the tour. We opted to prepare food and enrichment for the animals at the end and I can't recommend it more! It was the perfect way to end our experience there. Absolutely worth the visit!!!
Kim Lehmann — Google review
Carlos was our guide. He clearly cares and is very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and the animals. Preparing and feeding these beautiful animals was once in a lifetime experience for our family with a child and teens. Good coffee too. Thank you so much! Support this place if you’re an animal lover, you won’t be sorry.
Stacey Oatman — Google review
This was one of the highlights of our trip in Costa Rica! We loved our tour—super educational! We also made animals food. 🤩🤩🤩 We loved being a part of this, learning about animal nutrition and toys for feeding!
Tammy Soweidy — Google review
We had amazing experience at proyecto Asís. Johnny was our guide, he was funny and knowledgeable. Very educational and also fun for kids. Me and my daughter enjoyed it a lot. Saw a lot of animals and learned interesting facts about nature in Costa Rica .
Nadezda Tatarkina — Google review
Amazing! Our guide Carlos was exceptional. Entertaining and educational. Beautiful place to visit. The volunteer portion is not just for kids! We prepared breakfast and watched as they devoured their meals (delivered by Carlos.) It was truly a special day.
Diane Poole — Google review
If you are in the La Fortuna area, take some time to meet some amazing people and animals! Proyecto Asis works with injured animals, illegal pets, and all sorts of species to prepare them for release back to the wild. You will have a chance to tour the facility, meet the animals (Carlos is amazing and gives great examples and stories for everyone, children particularly were totally engaged), and volunteer for some time by helping them prepare food and feed the animals. This was a highlight of our time in Costa Rica, definitely check it out!
George Hipp Jr. — Google review
Tour was nice, the "volunteer" part of helping prepare food for the animals really makes the day. Carlos great! Very knowledgeable and fun! It was raining heavy for most of the tour, but gave the chance to see how the animals react to the weather. I had some trouble booking, as I was trying last minute. The ladies at the front we so helpful. Appreciated there help and responses in WhatsApp. Would definitely go again maybe on a stay volunteer.
Roxanne Splett-young — Google review
What a great place. The opposite of all the reserves that present themselves as protecting the animals but actually take them away from their forests to show them in a much smaller area to tourists.
The owners put so much energy in doing education about the black market of animals in Costa Rica and the visit is really interesting. You get to see wounded or formerly domesticated animals that now found a place here. Highly highly recommended
Daniel Moszynski — Google review
Great place, really welcoming, and super knowledgeable team who know how important true ecology is. The costs are very reasonable and goes towards funding their work not some glorified unethical theme park like the other place in Fortuna (who I’m told poaches animals from the wild to show in enclosures - not sure how that is legal in CR) but anyway Proyecto Asia is NOT like that! They are the good guys and deserve all the visitors 🥰🌎🦥
Jen E — Google review
These were by far the best wildlife awareness and rehabilitation programs I have ever attended, and my favorite activity from our trip. We did the whole day with the wildlife tour, volunteering, and sloth tour. Both of our guides were extremely engaging. Most of the animals we saw are being rehabilitated after being kept as pets, and the education around responsible human interaction with animals was priceless.
Thank you so much!
Emilie Giustozzi — Google review
Proyecto Asis is a heartwarming, real deal animal rehabilitation sanctuary. Most of their animals were brought to them by protection agencies due to poaching or illegal pet ownership. We did the wildlife tour and volunteering and loved every moment there. Our guide was Carlos who seems like he was born to rehabilitate animals and educate humans about the importance of conservation. Not to mention, he is undeniably adorable and just fun to be around. His connection with the animals is so evident. The mission is to reintroduce the animals to the wild when they are healthy and strong enough to adapt. All of the animals are well cared for and well nourished. This experience was a true highlight for my husband and I, and one we will never forget! Pura Vida!
Jules Karsten — Google review
My partner and I heard about this tour + volunteer opportunity from a friend. We had an amazing time with Carlos, our tour guide. The tour was very informative about the current problems facing the birds and monkeys in Costa Rica. We got to ask many questions, and it's obvious that Carlos is very passionate about his work.
Once the tour ended, we got to prep fruits and vegetables for the monkeys and watch them eat. There were 3 kids in our tour group, and they all had fun prepping the food for the monkeys.
This is a MUST DO when you're in Costa Rica. It's only 30 minutes driving distance away from La Fortuna.
Nancy Young — Google review
Wildlife Tour and Volunteer - It was a wonderful experience at Proyecto Asis. Each animal is cared for, fed and visited by volunteers, staff and expert veterinarians and released when it is considered fully rehabilitated. The staff takes care of different types of monkeys, toucans and parrots, wild cats, raccoons, coatis, pigs and many others who need help from time to time. It's always nice to see up close how much these people do for these animals and it's rewarding to be able to take part in the project, even if for a short time. Carlos, our guide, was amazing! He's really kind and he was really happy to share all his knowledge with us. It was really interesting getting to know better every species. We also had much fun preparing food and toys for the animals and watching them eating.
Really recommended experience!!!
Francesca Manno — Google review
This tour was excellent. We did the sanctuary tour, volunteered preparing meals for the animals, had lunch down the road (a short walk), and then we enjoyed the sloth tour. It was extremely informative. Staff were very friendly and thoughtful. They had refreshments and we had some down time between tours so they provided coloring and puzzles for our son. This sanctuary is legit. They have the best interest of the animals at heart and it shows.
Catherine Cavanaugh — Google review
It was a great experience for the whole family, and I'll always recommend places that seem to be working to conserve nature.
We did the full experience, including preparing food for the monkeys and the sloth hike. It was educational and fun.
Ryan Schroeder — Google review
My husband and I saw this place online and we were so happy we went. It is money well spent because it goes to the sanctuary. Carlos was our guide and provided information that many most likely don't know, especially tourists. This helped us understand that wildlife is wild and should stay that way. We have no interest in taking pictures with monkeys or sloths after hearing about the issues it causes. This place should be visited by everyone to fully understand how unfair it is to the animals when people are careless or uneducated. We highly recommend visiting this place. We also found out they have volunteer programs, which is nice. Flip-flops or sandals would be fine, the walkway is crushed stone.
Crystal H — Google review
Proyecto Asis is a must experience to learn and give something back to the community for the adorable animals of Costa Rica. It’s a rehabilitation center that provides medical and therapy for the animal friends that need to return/introduce back to their wild environment. Our tour guide Carlos was quite informative and a lot of fun which made both learning and volunteering just a delightful experience. One of the highlights of my trip that teach you outside of the textbook and be more familiar with their lives and surroundings.
oya yazıcıoğlu — Google review
4.8
(447)
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5.0
(1884)
141, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a vast expanse of lush, tropical forest that boasts an extensive array of flora and fauna. Orchids, ferns, and an abundance of wildlife can be found throughout the reserve's various mountains, valleys, and rivers. Guided tours and walking trails allow visitors to explore this unique ecosystem while taking in breathtaking views from the miradors. The forest's tree-level clouds create a distinctive environment that sets it apart from other nature preserves.
Beautiful, the experience was surreal. One of the most biologically diverse private reserves I have ever visited. Be sure to visit in March or April as it can get very busy during the high season. If you're lucky you can spot some animals! However, the main attraction was the diverse plant life and fauna.
Kynan Suttle — Google review
Monteverde is a unique biosphere full of different species of birds and animals , some very unique to cloud forest. This place is quite isolated and could take time to reach depending on road and weather. However it’s totally worth it. You will be rewarded with extra ordinary views and scenery. If you want to find birds or snakes, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide, they exactly know how to find the right places to spot and also you learn a ton of things
Kaushik Ghosh — Google review
These forests are so interesting and easy to navigate. Well maintained accessible paths lead you into another world. The canopy is teaming with life. Maybe, if you arrive early enough, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive camouflaged wildlife. Or just enjoy the diverse flora and fauna all around you.
Jessica Bundrige — Google review
Listen closely here...Hire a guide! You'll be glad you did. Ours, had 18 years experience and was incredibly helpful. We reserved online, and our guide was waiting for us at the entry gate. You'll need to park at the established parking lot down the road from the main gate area, (restrooms are available), where the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at the entry and gate area. We spent two hours walking the trails...with our guide and his spotting scope...(looking straight up 99% of our time). Now I understand why there's a massage table at the lodge. Haha we didn't see as much as we thought we would. A sleeping Sloth, a coiled viper snake, and some interesting bird species, but nothing like we thought...and I guarantee...we wouldn't have spotted anything on our own. The canopy is just too thick and high...remember, hire a guide. It's worth the time, energy, and the pot filled gravel roads to come here though. It's a special place for sure...get here while ya can!
Richard Ward — Google review
The Cloud Forest was a magical place. There is no parking by the way closer to the park so we paid $5 to park like 1.3km away and then we took a shuttle - but it was okay. The hike took us to a small waterfall to the left followed by a beautiful epic walk through the cloud forest to the right. The miradors are just phenomenal. Highly recommend.
Jonathan Ding — Google review
Very beautiful park with good hikes. Unfortunately when we went, it was very cloudy and we could not see anything from the viewpoints. But hiking in between their reserve is amazing. You can make it a couple of hours visit, by just doing the main trail, or you can spend the full day there as well doing all the hikes. In the entrance they also have a good restaurant. They offer parking for additional 5 dollars. It is located about 5min before the park and there is a little bus taking people from the parking lot to the park entrance and vice versa. It is well organized.
Bernardo Engelke — Google review
Absolute MUST, MUST, MUST visit. The trails are well planned and safe. They’re not too difficult and rugged but you are still immersed in nature. We decided not to get a guide as we had limited time. We managed to do all of the trails in about 3.5 hours, of course stopping for pictures and to bask in nature. The top of the trail that leads to the Continental Divide is spectacular. There’s no jaw-dropping views because the views are CLOUDS! At the top, you are standing amongst the clouds, which I thought was pretty cool.
Buy your tickets in advance, if you’re not with a tour group. If you’re driving, they have a parking area ($5 per car in advance when you book the ticket) about 5 minutes from the actual park. They provide the shuttle bus that comes every few minutes. There are free parking spots along the road leading up to the park on either side, but space is limited, not guaranteed and could be difficult to get in and out of, so proceed with caution if you decide that route.
TravelingGayPanda — Google review
Very interesting place! Even though (but maybe because) it was raining towards the end when we visited, the experience walking thru the forest with its very specific vegetation was great. The suspension bridge is a pretty cool place, walking high up above the ground. Really likes it.
Matthias Leba — Google review
We went on the 6am birding tour. Our guide was amazing and very knowledgeable. He helped us take pictures and identify the birds. We got there before the park opened and were able to park right outside the gate. Between the time the park opened at 7am and 7:40am, the park reached capacity, and they had to close their sales. Get there early! The hummingbirds are just outside the main park by the cafe.
Crystal Monnens — Google review
If you are in the area, do not miss this. I highly recommend taking a guided tour. I was in a group of only two people with a terrific guide, Mauricio. He has worked there for about 15 years and he is just full of knowledge. He also has an uncanny ability to spot cool birds and set up his equipment so you can see them too. He was also very kind and fun. The surroundings are stunning, I learned so much about the local plant and animal life and the things that make the cloud forest so special and unique. Walking through there gave me a sense of the timelessness of nature and strongly clarifies how important these environments are to all life on earth. Beautiful and thought provoking experience.
On the way out stopped at the hummingbird area and that was super fun. If you've never had hummingbirds whipping past your head, you will want that experience before you die.
Cheyenne S — Google review
Amazing!
This was a beautiful park. We visited in September which is the rainy season but we got there early and so were able to hike all the trails before the afternoon rain. We opted not to pay for the tour or a guide and were still able to see a lot of different plants, animals, and insects. It was very peaceful and quiet and we didn’t see anyone else for the first hour we were there. I imagine that will be different in the sunny season. This is well worth the $25 each.
Ben Sperry — Google review
This was one of my favorite things we did in Costa Rica, top 3 for sure! Although I like this kind of stuff, it was quite, beautiful, and all the plants and fungi were amazing. We enjoyed our time walking around, just wish we had more time, I would say give yourself 2hrs to walk and see the bridge and waterfall and take in the beauty of the place.
Josh Leard — Google review
We were probably rushing, but completed most of the trails ( waterfall, bridge and the deck with a view) within 2.5 hours. I recommend spending way more time in this beautiful reserve, but if you are short on time you'll still see a lot of cool things.
Oleg Ptashnyk — Google review
A rain free walk through the forest was enjoyed for about 4 hours. We didn’t get a guide, and we didn’t see much wildlife. But we enjoyed the forest and a keeping our own pace. Had a warm drink to break up the day. Parked at the trailhead for free no problem.
Sarah W — Google review
Beautiful tropical forest. We were able to see some animals while in the trails.
Off street parking was easy on a weekday. Tickets are sold per day so worth going and spending the full day there.
Julio Viana — Google review
We spent a wonderful wet and cloudy day in the reserve. We walked virtually all of the trails ( about 13km) and hardly saw any wildlife at all!
Seriously, it was the perfect way to experience the Cloud Forest. Whilst some blue skies and a view of the Continental Divide would have been ideal, it was just amazing to be able to spend a day walking through the lush, green forest and ferns, and experience one of the rarest habitats on earth.
We did see some spider monkeys very briefly and caught a glimpse of a pair of Resplendent Quetzals, but other than that, just greenery.
If you really want to see wildlife, you maybe disappointed, especially if it's raining. Go to experience the forest.
We got their early (7.30am) and paid at the reception to get in. ( Didn't need to book in advance) We didn't use a guide.
The trails are really easy to follow and we'll signposted so it's very hard,if not impossible, to get lost. There are some less popular narrow and steep trails where we felt alone and very peaceful. We loved those!
Your entrance receipt means you can go in and out as many times as you want in a day. So if you want to walk some trails, then come out and have lunch in the cafe, and go back in, that is allowed. The cafe has humming bird feeding stations so you can watch them while you drink your coffee!
Bruce Learner — Google review
Beautiful place! Must include when visiting Costa Rica. Well maintained and clear hiking trails. They have posted signs at various locations to educate you on local flora and fauna. I’d recommend Hiking shoes or shoes with non slippery soles.
Roli Garg — Google review
Absolutely worth the trip up the winding, dirt roads to this ecological wonder. I didn’t do a guided tour, opting instead to hike and tour the grounds by myself. Interpretive trails still provide lots of information along your path. I spent about 3 hours exploring the trail system, listening for birds and observing the diverse array of nature that makes up the rare Cloud Forest. I would gladly go again and spend much more time here. Admission is $26 and parking is $5, unless you arrive early enough to park along the road.
Jake G — Google review
We bought our tickets very early morning so we would have the whole place to ourselves. Took many great photos and the clouds looked like fog. The greenery was great and the red bridge fit perfectly in photos. Highly recommend getting tickets early morning. Also, there was a restaurant that had hummingbird feeders and we got many good pictures of hummingbirds.
Unseen — Google review
Beautiful forest and not too crowded! Great views from the Mirador. Make sure to come in time as there are always 3h slots that fill up quickly. I think 7 am is the first and I went at 9 and had to wait till 10:30am to enter the park!
Felix I. — Google review
In all honesty I did not choose to do a guided tour of this forest. I’m on a budget and therefore I did a self guided tour and it was excellent. I didn’t see many animals but the hike was lovely. Great viewpoints and a nice 6km route
Parque Nacional Tortuguero is a forest and marine wildlife sanctuary located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It is renowned for being a nesting site for green and leatherback turtles. This incredible park can be explored by boat, offering visitors the chance to witness an array of animals, particularly birds. Although surprisingly few turtles are found in this area, it remains a must-visit destination with plenty to see, making for a peaceful and enjoyable boat ride especially early in the morning.
This is a awesome park, where you can explore it on boat for days. You can see many animals, mostly birds, but also others if you have time an affinity. A must-see on the Carribean coast of Costa Rica.
?afarek Film — Google review
If you stay in Costa Rica longer than 12-15 days, I really recommend passing by Tortuguero.
It’s a bit out of reach if you come from Monteverde or La fortuna (half day trip) or from the west coast but so worth it!
The park access is located in Tortuguero village, which is a cute lil town little with a cool Caribbean vibe.
Unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to do the walking tour of the park, but I did the Canoe tour with Roots Tours and it was amazing! We saw a lot of animals and wonderful birds and we got a lot of insights from our knowledgeable guide.
Totally worth the detour from La fortuna to Puerto Viejo!
Please note that to enter the park you need to purchase a 16$ ticket (valid both for canals and walking tour).
Natalia Sarzi Amadè — Google review
beautiful place, take a boat and watch animals. Suprisingly not too many turtles found
Zbyn?k — Google review
Those who want to experience nature should invest a visit to this breathtaking park. We encountered sloths, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, snakes and numerous beautiful birds in just 2 days. Take a guide and let him explain everything to you!
Stefan Koop — Google review
Today was our day in the rainforest. Light rain (amazing in this place) and cooler temps, but sunshine later. It's all done in a boat accommodating our tour group of 18. We saw lots of animals, butterflies, trees, plants and incredible sights.
Tortuguero National Park is a national park in the Limón Province of Costa Rica. It is situated within the Tortuguero Conservation Area of the northeastern part of the country. Despite its remote location, reachable only by airplane or boat, it is the third-most visited park in Costa Rica. The park has a large variety of biological diversity due to the existence within the reserve of eleven different habitats, including rainforest, mangrove forests, swamps, beaches, and lagoons. Located in a tropical climate, it is very humid, and receives up to 250 inches of rain a year.
John Marsh Class Piano II — Google review
A must visit. Usually early in the morning. Lots to see! Nice and peaceful boat ride.
Nasir Fazal — Google review
We had an amazing time in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a beautiful country and our trip to Tortuguero National park was so special.
We have seen so much wildlife. My dream came true at Tortuguero National park where I have finally seen a green Sea Turtle nesting. This is a life changing experience that makes you more humbled towards the nature and all its beauty.
It is so important to preserve the nature and to save the planet for many more centuries to come so that our next generation can enjoy the blessing as we have.
I’ll never forget this experience and would definitely come back to explore more of Costa Rica
Trisha Dasgupta — Google review
An excellent boat trip in the Tortuguero channels which was not to far from our lodge. Unfortunately it rained heavily for sometime during our excursion & we would have probably seen more wildlife if it had been dryer, but we were on the Costa Rican Caribbean coast so lots of rain is to be expected. Rainproof ponchos are provided which helped to keep us reasonably dry. Excursion not to be missed.
paul appleby — Google review
Amazing park, beautiful nature, and a lot of animals. Guide definitely helpful.
josef zicha — Google review
Very unique park to visit, most tours are via boat, canoe or kayak. Exceptional wildlife viewing.
Doug Alft — Google review
We stayed here for 2 days and saw so many different kinds of animals! Crocodiles, birds monkeys poison dart frogs and lots more. The boat ride was super cool and a great way to see wildlife. I would highly recommend it but remember it’s hard to bring supplies in so most places don’t have ( at least in our experiences) super fresh food and water.
Liam Steele — Google review
This national park is awesome. The boat tour in the forest is amazing.
Jet Zhao — Google review
This really was a special experience. We spent two days in Tortuguero which you have to get to by an hour boat ride. Even though it rained a lot we expected it and loved it anyway. The whole area is so biodiverse you will see so many different plants and animals. Make sure to get a guided boat ride through the canals which was just fantastic. Highly recommended. I would've loved to see the hatching turtles on the beaches as well but sadly it was not the season for that.
Andreas Hofstatter — Google review
As an avid traveler, I can confidently say that my experience with Ivantours was nothing short of exceptional. The tour to Tortuguero National Park was a true highlight of my Costa Rica trip. The knowledgeable guides provided insightful commentary, making the wildlife and lush landscapes come to life. The attention to detail and commitment to responsible tourism by Ivantours made me feel like I was not only exploring but also contributing to the conservation of this beautiful region. Highly recommended!
Amanda Espinoza — Google review
It was an awesome park. Some of the best things to see are at night! We stayed on the ocean within walking distance to the park. I believe we paid a few dollars to get in.. wasn't crazy. The trail out to the point was amazing! Every so often a trail went to the ocean and walk the ocean until the next trail entrance. We saw tons of howler monkies and a few foot prints from a big cat. There are stops along the way to rest if needed. It poured rain on our way back. Definitely wear boots, it is a rain forest so plan on rain. Don't get to lost up in the beauty..big cats roam as well. We found tons of turtle shell holes after they hatched. This was a truly amazing place.
The Poas Volcano is an active 2,708-metre high volcano in Costa Rica that is closed to the public due to its frequent eruptions. It has a crater lake and is situated in the Poas Volcano National Park, which is one of the most popular parks in Costa Rica, located approximately an hour away from San Jose. The park offers visitors the opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the bright blue water inside the crater on clear days.
Pretty nice trip from.San Jose.
I recommend to visit in the morning so there is higher chance to have better view (without clouds).
Count with approx 1hour for the whole visit - 10min video, 10min walk, 20min volcano, 10min walk.. even you are fast walker you cannot go by yourself but always in a group .. walking slowly :) it is pretty organized here 👌
Ivana Kopkova (Iva_runstheworld) — Google review
We hit the jackpot and got a warm, clear morning in early March. We booked the 8am (first) tour a week and a half out and we’re glad we did. The crowds (and tours) started coming in around 9am (after we were done 😁). It’s so beautiful to see the crater and learn about its history. Recommend visiting early to ensure the perfect views and fewest number of people.
Waa Productions — Google review
A must visit for anyone staying in San José or nearby. Pleasant walk up to the viewing point for the volcano crater, after a short video explaining the history and dangers etc.
The view is spectacular, over the crater and out towards the ocean. The volcano was quite active, and the air filled with the smell of sulfur released, so it was fascinating to see it 'in action' from a safe distance.
Jamie Palliser — Google review
Active volcano where you can go to the edge of the crater. Its allow only 50 people for 20minutes because ita still active volcano. You can park car quite near the volcano, but weather is little bit tricky. Mostly is cloudy and you nor see the crater. Still the feeling is amazing:)
Tomas Pinter — Google review
Lucked out on a beautiful day near the Volcano and La Paz waterfalls. Crater was awesome looking. The walk up and back was pretty easy and quick.
Aquil Nabizadah — Google review
You can’t control nature. I see the negative reviews but it’s not the places fault if it’s cloudy or rainy or if the volcano doesn’t do enough tricks. We came when it was green safe and not too active. Would it be better in yellow condition meaning more activities. Maybe.
We had clear sky and got lucky. The place is what it is. The volcano is just as described.
There are more conditions against you seeing it as it should be seen. I guess the odds are against you.
Leaving negative review is like coming to CR in rainy season and complaining about the rain. Yes it’s sucks if you don’t see it and pay. But it’s not that expensive.
A Wessely — Google review
I was excited to see the volcano but it turned out to be a disappointment. The staff was rude. The lake was closed off. They made a big deal about only being able to be at the lookout point for 20 minutes. But when I got to the lookout you couldn’t see much of anything due to the cloud cover. The best thing was the souvenir shop had some cool looking sloths.
Ryan Bibler — Google review
So beautiful! You must add this to your itinerary. Book in advance online and then arrive at your designated time slot. Every video we watched online showed people watching a safety video and wearing a hard hat…we didn’t have to do any of this. We simply arrived and walked up to the volcano. It is amazing - and so is the drive up!
Jarod Glover — Google review
BE AWARE! The female security guard LOCKED US IN THE PARK! Do not order Uber to get you there because they will not pick you up. The female security told us to leave before 4pm…because Uber would not pick us up we had to walk. It took 30+ minutes to get to the gate. The guard drove by us in the rain, then locked the gate!!! We had to crawl under the gate in the rain to get out!!! The park was amazing, however. Thankfully there was a bus of employees that stopped and gave us a ride. The people of Costa Rica are warm hearted and lovely people but that female security guard was THE WORST. Also, when get got to the city of Poas, it was beautiful and we had an amazing time at Sabor de la Montana, but again, Uber will not come and get you so keep that in mind
Brandon Smalls — Google review
You get really close to volcano and on a good day, you’ll be able to see the crater without any clouds.
Active volcano, and only approx 300m walk to the view point (15 minutes) from the parking lot, definitely a great experience.
Make sure you get tickets in advance. Not sure why they aren’t able to charge in person, when they charge at the gate for parking. Wi-Fi on site, so was able to get tickets online at the gate.
S Nalin — Google review
Worth the travel! The view of the volcano and mountains is mesmerizing. A memorable experience with our little one.
Ken Aguilar — Google review
Make the trip here while you’re in Costa Rica and you won’t be disappointed. The ride there is beautiful and you’ll start to smell the sulfur when you get closer to the park. There’s plenty of parking and the hike isn’t too bad to get there. Cloud cover can hinder your experience but you can’t predict the weather and the clouds move in and out so you very well could be pleasantly surprised by the time you get up there. Pro tip - stop at one of the strawberry stands on your way out and get the best strawberries you’ve ever had!
Dan Roberge — Google review
Beautiful and easy hike to the volcano, at most half a mile. It was absolutely breathtaking. If you are going in Oct or early November you need to get there early before the fog and rain come in otherwise you'll only see fog.
Another important things to note - you need tickets prior to visiting. You can get them in advance online for your specific date and time.
Victoria Walsh — Google review
Luckily we just got in time before the clouds covered the volcano. My tourguide said the best time is either go in the morning or later in evening around 4-5pm. The views are great! The museum is undergoing renovation so we couldn't go inside that.
Chandra Kanth Reddy — Google review
If you’re a tourist, this may be a worthwhile visit. While we were here the sky cleared up enough to see inside the crater.
We also got really lucky as it ended up erupting, first large eruption since 2019!!
Vibriance — Google review
I highly recommend Poas Volcano National Park. Make sure you wear good hiking shoes as the terrain is steep and slippery. We hiked 13 km in total.
Jeff Kemp — Google review
Probably the best view of our entire vacation. My only suggestion is to make sure you prepare for your entrance/ticket. There is no booth, so many people had to park on the side and pay on their phones.
Beth P — Google review
Visibility is by chance. We visited January 17th, 2024 and could see maybe 100 feet (so we could not see anything.) Just bad luck. We were also unprepared for the gale force winds and chill from being literally in the mist of the clouds. I failed to find a good source for weather forecasting at the park and suffered the consequences. The hike to the main viewing area is short, not steep (IMO) and on wide paved surfaces (which were quite wet but not unreasonably slippery, YMMV). We also took the short extra hike to the overlook of the inactive crater, Laguna Botos and could see; nothing. We took the alternate hiking path back down to the nature center and even it was paved (just a bit narrower.) We got tickets online ahead of time for $15 plus 13% tax each. I don't think it really matters what time you select for your pass. We were several hours later than the time listed on our passes and had no problem entering (it may have helped that we had a local driver/guide, but I can't say for sure.) We were there maybe an hour. Might have spent more time there if the weather/visibility had cooperated. This was the 2nd stop of our Doka Coffee Plantation/Poas Volcano/La Paz Waterfall Gardens tour day. Started in San Jose and ended in La Fortuna.
Cory Cookston — Google review
Hands down the best volcano close to the San Jose area! The view of the crater and the lagoon is amazing! Wear tennis shoes and take your time to walk up to the lagoon. One way to the cater takes about 10 minutes, and one way to the lagoon (uphill) takes about 20 minutes with a break or two.
Ruoqing Wang-Cendejas — Google review
Parking is easy, the rate was $5. Once you walk in you have to get a helmet, after that your fee to walk to the volcano, it’s about a 12-15 min walk not difficult at all as it’s on pavement. Once there you can have this beautiful view.
They also have a bathrooms by the helmet station and to return the helmet you walk upstairs where there’s a souvenir and snack bar area next to it.
La Paz Waterfall is a nature reserve that features picturesque waterfalls, a lush cloud and rain forest, and an array of wildlife including various animals, insects, and birds. The complex offers a cultural experience that is easy to digest in the Central Valley area. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails spanning 3.5km in length leading up to five stunning waterfalls.
A stunningly beautiful place! I love that it's an animal rescue facility in addition to being a gorgeous nature reserve. The waterfalls were just magnificent - well worth the hike to see them all!
Courtney Jacobson — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit the waterfalls was truly magical. All the animals were so cool and it was nice being able to learn so much about the wildlife. It is a little bit of walking and going up and down stairs but it is definitely worth it.
Carlos Ibarra — Google review
This is a wonderful place to visit. There are so many things to see. A variety of animals, butterflies, snakes, jaguars, ocelot, monkeys, tapirs, hummingbirds, orchids, frogs, and, oh yes, waterfalls.
Jean Robinson — Google review
This is a fun place to visit set in a gorgeous rainforest area.
The foliage, wildlife and falls are great to see! There are a lot of stairs, especially to the falls, so those who have trouble with such be warned.
The restaurant that has the buffet is very good with options for picky eaters.
Melodie Haas — Google review
Outstanding value for the money! We spent nearly the entire day exploring the many attractions, stations and experiences this place has to offer. It is hard to beat the compact proportions and sheer number of things going on here. The Waterfalls are particularly beautiful and straightforward to access. BIG wow factor at nearly every turn of the walkway! We also found the toucan aviary especially vivid with colourful, active birds flying about our heads. Highly, highly recommended!
Han Friesen — Google review
I was truly amazed at this incredible experience. We saw waterfalls close up thanks to incredible engineering of staircases. La Paz was super and easy to access after Poas. They also have wildlife exhibits which were zoo quality. Good for families.
Ellie Zalazar — Google review
Fabulous waterfalls and surrounding area. Well worth a visit. But you have to capable of walking up and down at least 500 steps. It is a gradual climb, I'm 70 with a wonky knee and managed it. Just takes time but it is worth it.
Elizabeth Sayers-Birdee — Google review
What an experience! If you visit you will not be disappointed. Just be ready for a serious hike up and down many stairs. It's worth it to see the beauty and power of the waterfalls.
Carielle Rankin — Google review
Not cheap, but a great place to spend 4-5 hours our more. Beautiful setting and amazing animals. Buffet lunch was abundant as well. Plenty of people on a Saturday, but didn't feel crowded. Waterfalls were a highlight. Trails are steep but well maintained and there is a shuttle at the bottom.
jonathan sansgaard — Google review
What an amazing spot to visit! Only an hour away from San Jose airport, this beautiful place was a great activity before heading home. The animals were great to see, but the waterfalls are certainly the star of the show! The hike through the jungle to all of the viewing points was well maintained and got us up close and personal with the waterfalls. This is a must do activity for all! I was so impressed with how beautiful the grounds and buildings were. They have done a fantastic job creating a great space.
Philip Lockwood — Google review
Seeing multiple waterfalls up close and personal, with the mist upon your face, is well worth the visit. Be prepared for a moderate to tough trek along multiple winding stairs to see all of these stunning waterfalls. A light poncho and good hiking/walking shoes are recommended.
Suzette Garvey — Google review
This was an amazing stop, be sure to go behind the waterfall! Do not buy tropical fruit there. The Guanabana looks great, but it was not ripe. The corn on the cob was smoky flavored and worth it!
Tzemah Yoreh — Google review
This was great the trail is nice and the different animals at the conservatory are great. There are multiple waterfalls on the way down and then a souvenir shop at the bottom. A trolley to get back to the top. Recommend this visit highly.
David Prouty — Google review
Excellent adventure when you come to Costa Rica. About an hour outside of San Jose and worth the trip to see the animals, falls and also a great place to get some pretty decent food & drink. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
Marc Armstead — Google review
It might be a bit touristy but still worth visiting for its sheer beauty. The animal sanctuary is kind of like a zoo. But the toucans, hummingbirds and frogs were fun to see. Be prepared to climb some stairs if you want to fully enjoy the waterfalls- it's well-worth it.
Michael K — Google review
Amazing waterfalls! 5 stars
BUT
the zoo/sanctuary is horrible!
Small cages, animals having strong anxiety (you can see by their behaviour, especially wild cats). If those animals were rescued, nice! But the conditions they are having now are unacceptable. I paid around around 50$ (I don't remember now) and I regret any penny. It was a horrible experience.
I hate snakes but the terrariums they had were smaller than for a tiny turtle.
Horrible, terrible, unacceptable! If I could I would take all my money back because I don't want to support this insane zoo.
I was in plenty animal rescue places, where you can tell, it's about animals. Here is just about money.
Waterfalls were truly amazing but you can see similar in other places.
Please, don't invest in places like this because they are created just for tourists...
Sara Weber — Google review
Nice waterfall, nice spot to take some nice pictures.
I think the offer tours, but we just stopped by when we were driving through and did some memories of photos with the family.
Tania Nova — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Just be aware of the tremendous amount of stairs to see it all. You don't however have to walk back up as there is a shuttle bus that brings everyone back to the start
Ian Thompson-Villeneuve — Google review
Showed up and saw sloths and jaguars, their butterflies were beautiful, and their birds exhibit allowed us to see tucans up close. Everything was absolutely amazing, I proposed at the top of the waterfalls and she said yes! there are 5 waterfalls in total.
Brenda Balderas — Google review
You will also see some animals and waterfalls. Lots of stairs to the waterfall. People with heart problems should take caution. Strongly recommend. Nice all you can eat restaurant inside a park.
Charles — Google review
This waterfall is located right off the main road. You can see if as you pass or you may stop on either side of the bridge for a closer look. There is a fair amount of parking available. There is a small trail that allows you to walk behind the waterfall.
I wouldn’t go out of your way to visit this waterfall but if you happen to be in the area it is definitely worth a stop.
There are tourist police on site as well, so you don’t need to worry about anyone breaking into your car while you visit the waterfall if you have luggage in your car.
Samara Beach is a popular beach destination with a horseshoe shape, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers various amenities such as nearby shops and restaurants catering to tourists. It is important to note that some freelance parking personnel may ask visitors for a small fee to use their service. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at places like La Casita de Mr Wagner or drinks at the restaurant with access to the beach offering stunning views of the sunset.
Beautiful beach, very long. The northern portion is easier for swimming, in the southern portion waves are bigger and better for surfing.
Louise Brazeau Wong — Google review
Amazing place for a short or even long vacation. I was living in Sàmara and I had the best times. I could definitely live there.
The beach is great, the people are so lovely, the village is small but very nice.
You find delicious restaurants or homemade food - it’s a perfect surfing spot for beginners, for intermediates in the surroundings also - great hiking spots - waterfalls nearby - the best sunsets - island life on isla chora :) - full moon parties - what else? :) I think Sàmara is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been!!!! ❤️❤️
Carolin Pfeifer — Google review
Beautiful beach! Such a large beach that you will have no problem finding a spot away from people. So many little restaurants along the beach. Small park next to the police station has freshwater showers. If you need to escape the sun or heat there are quite a few trees that line the beach to set up under. Saw surfers and horses.
Cee Dupree — Google review
This beach was a great find. It is pretty touristy so be warned if you are looking for a more local-like atmosphere. There are also those freelance parking guys walking around so you might have to pay a couple hundred colones to buy some peace. We ate at La Casita de Mr Wagner and it was delicious. We also drinks at the restaurant with beach access and blue umbrellas directly across from that food courts. My friend and I both agreed they were the best versions of each drink that we had ever had (mojito and piña colada). What a good place and pretty good location. We drove from Monteverde no problem.
Cassidy Crawford — Google review
I almost don’t want to write a positive review because I love Playa Samara so much, I’m dreading some day it will lose it’s magical, small, locally-owned, bohemian beach appeal. The waves are great for surfing newbies to intermediates, playing in the sand or drinking a tropical beverage from one of the nice restaurants right on the beach. I ❤️ Samara 🏝️
Christine Larson — Google review
Lovely not too busy beach and town. It has an small island and a rock/coral break to protect the bay from large waves. There's still waves good enough to work on your surf board skills. Lots of restaurants and accommodations for vacations. Many expats live there.
Barefoot mart — Google review
Fantastic beach, very clean, decent amount of parking. Very kid friendly. Great sunsets.
Rajeshkumar Janarthanan — Google review
Great mix between tropical paradise, chill atmosphere yet very convenient with nice restaurants and a bit of shopping.
Karsten Lyby — Google review
Very beautiful. Less crowded than other beach towns like Tamarindo. Very warm water. Worth the drive.
Kay W — Google review
A nice and quiet beach, great for walking, lots of little beach restaurants. Watch out for jellyfish in the waters.
Alice O C — Google review
Fun beach with quite a few restaurants. Town is right near the beach. Walk the entire length of the beach during low tide. Occasional wild horses. Some decent fishing and shells.
Katy Stevens — Google review
Lovely beach with a relaxing atmosphere. Lots of nice bars and restaurants around as well.
Lisa Krauss — Google review
In December the water is really nice and warm but not like a bath water so it's refreshing. Easy waves so you are able to swim or just float. I visited for the day and found an area under some trees with shade to sit on a towel. It looked like you could rent chairs and boogie boards on the beach. Not crowded on a Monday.
Chad — Google review
My favorite beach, not too busy, great selection of restaurants lining the beach, waves not too big that you can enjoy the water.
Glenn Bartlett — Google review
The water is really nice and you are able to swim . The water is warm . But there should be more sitting areas .bring a towel to sit on the floor . There are couple of stores and restaurants around the area .we stayed the resort near we tried to walk but it was unsafe the roads are to narrow and grass is on slant. Will recommend ask the resort to book a taxi for your travel there . It cost us $10 to get there .
Garthigga Yoganathan — Google review
Beautiful, vibrant, and spacious beach with a good number of people—not overly crowded. Many surf rental shops right by the beach, as well as beachside restaurants/bars. Volleyball and soccer fields available. A safe beach, perfect for beginner surfers and boogie boarding.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center is a 14-hectare rescue facility that features wildlife on display, canopy tours, a restaurant, and souvenir shop. The center houses a large number of animals in spacious enclosures with groomed paths and information boards. However, the main objective of the project is to return animals to their natural habitat through an extensive breeding program focused on rare bird species such as the Scarlatt Macaw.
Excellent wildlife rescue center with superb cages for the animals that cannot be released. The parrot retirement area especially was nice. The sloth rehabilitation center exhibit was very nice. Giant iguana running around everywhere. The restaurant cafe was great; the coffee especially since as a delicious and made fresh with the order. Didn't see any of the big cats I think they were all sleeping when we got there
Grey — Google review
We wanted to do something worthwhile and interesting close to San Jose on our last day in CR, and decided to book a tour at Rescate because I had heard they were a real-deal wildlife rescue. We wanted to see animals, of course, but also to have our money go to support a good cause and not contribute to certain animal welfare issues created by the tourist industry. Not only was Rescate huge, beautiful, and full of interesting animals (which could not be released for one reason or another), but the tour was so informative. Our guide was friendly and nice, and we could tell she was devoted to the Rescate mission and values.
They really do put the animals first here. Animals brought to the rescue are rehabilitated and carefully released whenever possible, and only those animals that are too injured, too used to people, or too potentially dangerous stay at the rescue center. Visitors are not allowed into the wildlife hospital and are not allowed to touch any of the animals. The animals are also not forced to be on display at all times, with their large enclosures allowing them to move out of sight when they desire to do so. It was really nice to see the animals' comfort valued above visitors' curiosity.
It was also really interesting learning about the animal trade in Costa Rica and what is being done to end it, as well as hearing different individual animals' stories. I highly recommend visiting and taking the guided tour, which is very reasonably priced. There are places to sit and grab a popcicle, a restaurant and a gift shop too if that's your jam, so there is a little something for everyone here.
Lindsey Stirek — Google review
Fantastic wildlife rescue centre. Animals well looked after and have big enclosures. Got to see many different native species including Jaguars. Staff lovely overall great experience, would highly recommend.
Sian Otridge — Google review
This was one of our favorite excursions while staying in Costa Rica. This place is not a zoo, they rehabilitate all of the animals and release them in the wild once they are recovered.
This place has exceptionally friendly staff and such a huge variety of animals!! The food here was also incredibly good! They make the food fresh.
All of the proceeds go to supporting all of their animals and staff and they truly need it. You could truly see how much everyone cares for these animals and it’s beautiful!! The only thing that was slightly disappointing was that there weren’t many sloths on the exhibits, but we cannot hold that to their fault!! They definitely had them but they were sleeping lol.
Chris Vasquez — Google review
Where to start? This place is simply incredible! From the beautiful peacocks, iguanas, macaws, and toucans freely roaming around to the up-close encounters with big cats, tortoises, and monkeys, every moment was memorable. The shaded areas provided relief from the sun, and the staff was amazing. The gift store offers reasonably priced, hand-painted souvenirs that support a wonderful cause. We had ice cream scoops from one of the many snack stands scattered through the park and it was delicous. The restaurant, with its affordable prices, even has a cute play area for kids. Plus, they offer rentable push strollers. My favorite part? Walking through the giant bamboo, an absolutely magnificent experience with the breathtaking sound it made in the wind. We went on a Monday and quite literally had the park to ourselves. Clean restrooms and grounds. 100% would recommend. It’s a must see and enjoyable for all ages.
Jill Crowley — Google review
One of the best wildlife rescue centers! You can tell the animals are well taken care of. The center takes about 2-3 hours to fully see everything. All the staff are super friendly and helpful.
Ana Carrillo — Google review
Amazing zoo experience, it is always a pleasure to see wildlife in such well cared for exhibits. Most animals were visible in the morning, all seemed content in their enclosures and a few surprises running around the walkways was also an amazing treat.
Thank you for making the most enjoyable experience possible with your rehabilitation zoo.
Great place to visit!!! Will recommend to everybody I know.
Justen — Google review
I am always skeptical about these things, but it seems like this is a real rescue center. The place is laid out well. The animals look healthy. Wikipedia states, “It is administered by a conservation nonprofit foundation called Fundación Restauración de la Naturaleza,[5] which also is responsible for the country's largest rehabilitation center in the Rescate Wildlife campus.” It looks like it started as a zoo and then they started conservation efforts. Note that the actual wildlife campus is off-limits to visitors. I absolutely loved the huge iguanas walking around everywhere along with the random other animals outside of the enclosures along the paths. The giant bamboo grove is stunning, so don’t miss that. The crocodile is huge. Finally, don’t miss some of the talking birds. They were totally amazing. It was interesting to hear birds who speak better Spanish than me.
Ben Park — Google review
Tons of beautiful animals, huge iguanas wandering everywhere that just don’t give a $&@%, and their work is very cool. But I personally felt a little irked about how small the spaces they were, although it was not their fault, these are injured animals that would not survive in the wild. The price was also high, which I hope is going to the animals as much as possible, although of course overhead is expensive. Note, my son disagrees with my assessment about the cages, and he could totally be right. Anyway, if you can’t go far from San Jose, and want to see a sample of Costa Rica’s amazing animals, this is the perfect place.
A D — Google review
This place is 💯 worth stopping at! Took the family to explore and it feels like you're walking through the jungle and seeing a variety of plants and animals. Loved being able to get so close to the sloths, monkeys, ocelot, cougar and iguanas. Capybara we're running around under foot and there were wild birds flying around the enclosures of the kept ones.
Animals look happy and well cared for - what an amazing place!
Tracy Lindstrom — Google review
We paid for a tour guide and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Our tour guide Eduardo was very passionate about his job and very knowledgeable about the animals. He was able to answer all of our questions and was very respectful to the animals. For those are deciding if they should go, you should definitely go. There is also a restaurant that had wonderful food options. I also want to note it is NOT a zoo, it is a wildlife rescue centre and you can tell how much the staff care and respect the animals. 10/10 experience would go again. Again, Eduardo was wonderful and you are definitely lucky if you get him as your tour guide.
Elexia Aboukhamis — Google review
Great place that is definitely worth a visit. Large number of animals in spacious enclosures, groomed paths, information boards, good restaurant.
However, the whole project is mainly used to return animals to the wild. on the one hand, those who got into the zoo due to injuries or captive breeding, but especially those that were bred here. Zoo Ave has an extensive breeding program focused on rare bird species, the flagship is the Scarlatt Macaw. These birds are then released into the wild in two centers in Nicoya and Golfito. Rescate Center also has a great volunteer program. Your entrance fee will go to a great beneficial thing.
Marek Kumprecht — Google review
Feels like a zoo, but a really cool place to be with the kids. They didn't wanna leave for 6h. Lot of animals strolling around freely like iguanas, tucans, peacocks etc. Everything is beautifully organized. We especially enjoyed the tapir. You can go there by Uber or public bus, there's a bus stop in front of the entrance.
Sarah Harzer — Google review
We had an absolutely magical experience here at RWRC. We went with our 4 children ages 14/12/4/2 and they all loved it. We only saw two other people while there so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. We booked a private tour guide, Amy, who was not only lovely and knowledgeable but very patient ( as our youngest was a bit overtired that day ) she taught us a lot and made the whole experience a day to remember. Thanks so much Amy! The passion and kindness that the staff have for these animals is incredibly heartwarming. I would highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area.
K M — Google review
It was pouring rain, but we had a great time. The animals look well cared for and the grounds are quite lovely! We would appreciate some info on the particular animals included on the signage. Also- golden orb spiders are EVERYWHERE- so if you are an arachnophobe, be aware of your surroundings.
Ellen Wilson — Google review
Our family had such a wonderful visit to the wildlife rescue! It was definitely worth it. We got some amazing photos to bring back home with us.
Angela Finley Manetta — Google review
This is not a zoo but a refuge for animals. It is expensive to get in (35$ USD/adult) but it is fine since they use the funds to save and reintroduce so many animals in the wild. It is sad to see that many of their animals have been hurt by human activity when it is not human cruelty. Animals deserve to have this kind of sanctuary and we truly enjoyed our visit knowing we were making a small contribution to this goal.
Kids learned so much and got to interact with some animals that are roaming freely in the park.
It takes about 2 hours to visit the park but we stayed for close to 4 hours.
There is a nice restaurant as well and food is good and service excellent.
Patrick Tanguy — Google review
I want to start off by saying this is an excellent place for the rehabilitation of sick and injured animals. The plan that is in place is well thought of in terms of keeping an animal for its safety vs releasing it back in the wild if the animal is prepared and can maintain an existing life. It is different from a zoo (which are banned in Costa Rica).
Our tour guide Eduardo is an excellent tour guide for English speaking visitors. His knowledge of the animals there and his well thought of explanation for the history of the animals they have taken in provides excellent insight. He also takes time to explain about the vegetation around the place and will help you identify certain trees or leaves. He also takes time out to listen to your questions and provide excellent information.
Because it is a nonprofit they rely on visitors and donations, I highly recommend to visit the place and learn more about their efforts
Justin Trevino — Google review
So much to see and the rescue and conservation efforts of Rescate are truly fantastic. They also have a nice and reasonably priced cafe with many food and drink options. We had a great time and saw so many amazing animals in truly great enclosures.
Jackie Cafaro — Google review
Its a great place to spend the day in this refuge walking along their paths and seeing all the different animals they have rescued, I really like the fact that they have a full working restaurant so you can plan having lunch right on the property. They have a petting zoo and I really enjoyed the ice cream stand right next to it, were you can relax a bit in the shade with yummy helado as they call it.
Manuel Barquero — Google review
We had the guided tour of the sanctuary in January. It was very informative and amazing to see all the animals up close. Even some wild toucans, iguanas and other birds freely walk the property. I was amazed at how Costa Rica cares for the environment and its animals. I highly recommend everyone visit this sanctuary.
Jennifer Meyers — Google review
This refuge is on the way to La Paz waterfalls and Poas from San Jose. It’s the perfect stop for lunch and to stretch our legs coming from the central pacific coast. Only 30 min northwest from the San Jose airport. The animals were incredible. So up close and personal. It only took about 60-90 minutes and our whole family loved every part of it. Flora and fauna included. We ended with a light lunch (mostly ice cream!) on site and were on our way. We will be recommending to everyone!
Mikayla Stover — Google review
What a great rescue center. Our guide was wonderful. This place is beautiful. And don't forget to leave a donation to help everyone's efforts and keep this facility able to provide the care the animals need.
Karen Scherer — Google review
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2.3 km al este del cruce de Manolo's, ruta 3, hacia el B° San José, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Embark on the Tortuga Island Tour located in the Gulf of Nicoya for a tropical paradise experience. The 90-minute boat ride offers complimentary rum punch and drinks for purchase, along with fruit snacks, a simple ham sandwich, and fish ceviche. On the island, guests can relax in chairs and umbrellas, visit the souvenir shop, or enjoy the bar while taking in stunning views.
I absolutely loved the island. The sands and the ocean are an amazing color. There's plenty of space to walk, swim in the ocean, and do plenty of activities. We tried snorkeling and even though it was pretty cool, we weren't really impressed with the views, but I guess it depends on the area you dive in! There's no reception or free internet on the island, but you can pay for wifi. There's also a gift shop, bathrooms ( they charge $1 for each time you want to go), and you can buy ice cream, food and cocktails ( one of the best margaritas I've ever had, for only $6 each). You can also rent beach chairs for the day, for $14 and you'll get 2 chairs and a beach umbrella for the day ( although there's plenty of space to just sit and lay on the sand with shadow from the trees.
Overall, we loved the experience and would definitely recommend the place!
Sebas Garcia — Google review
Great Day....fabulous scenery and service is unbelievable. It's like a 1 day all-inclusive resort! Perfect to kick back and get spoiled for a day before returning to seeing the natural beauty the country has to offer. Food and drinks are plentiful. Snorkeling was awesome (I am a first time snorkeler so I have nothing to compare it to,but lots of different fish and underwater things..lol).
Hiking was on a beautiful, very gentle trail so its good for anyone.
Highly recommend this tour.
Richard Johnson — Google review
A delightful day trip to a paradise island! We snorkeled, road the banana boat, hiked, imbibed, ate a marvelous lunch and enjoyed the beach. On the way back, we saw manta rays jumping out of the water for extra entertainment.
Tech Gole — Google review
I was looking for a perfect beach day, and this tour did not disappoint! We saw dophins and sea turtles while on the boat ride to the island and it was so exciting to watch them. The island itself offered plenty of very nice beach chairs ($8 each) and the sand beach was absolutely beautiful. The souvenir shop offered plenty of gifts to help memorialize this perfect island beach day.
Betsey — Google review
Great experience and staff is the best. Food was really good and activity’s are worth the money. Beach was really nice and snorkeling was very cool. Will come back again in the future.
And01 ?Pancho? — Google review
My husband and i had a wonderful time traveling to Tortuga island with Cosat Cat Company. The staff Eddie, Sébastien, Jordan, and the Captain were all wonderful. I am missing the other gentleman name - my apologies. But overall, we had an awesome time. We saw a humpback whale, dolphins, and peacocks. The buffet was great. The price is affordable and definitely worth the trip. We loved it!
Bobbie Fortune — Google review
Very cool place that is unspoiled. Everything must me taken(food and drinks) by the tour operator and then removed off the island when heading back. The boat ride is long as the boat goes really slow. I did the Island hike and the snorkeling. I highly recommend this tour.
Arthur Sosa Jr. — Google review
We took the Costa Cat tour. We had a great time, staff are very attentive. The snorkeling was ok, water too rough for me. But a lot of fish to see. Lunch was great! Really enjoyed the grilled chicken and rice. You get what you pay for on this tour.
Lisa McMahon — Google review
Boat itself was quite luxurious. Different places to sit and enjoy the view, relaxed ride to the beach. During this trip we got multiple small snacks (fruit, cake, fish thingy) and enough to drink. Bottles are not cooled however but rather chilled with ice cubes. So you either get cold watered down drink, or warm with good taste.
The DJ that accompanied us was a bit too loud to our taste, luckily on the front deck it was better.
In the beach itself it is nicely arranged. Own seats, some activities, bar, food. That was great!
Mathias Veenman — Google review
A fun boat ride to paradise. Tortuga Island via the Costa Cat was a really great way to spend the day. They have a lot of activities (such as snorkeling) but I opted to relax at the beach, enjoy the warm ocean waters, and chat with people at the restaurant.
Recommended to bring water shoes as the sand gets really hot and there is some rough stone and sharp shells a little bit out.
Chris D — Google review
It's a beautiful island that, as far as I know, can only be reached by a boat tour. On the island, there isn't a lot to do as the beach is the primary area accessible to visitors. There is also an island hike, which we didn't undertake, and I'm not sure if a guide is required for that. Everything on the island comes with a fee, even the toilets. The water is warm, and further out, you can go snorkeling, which is a wonderful experience. All in all, in my opinion it's slightly overrated due to the high number of tourists and the limited options, primarily just one beach. There are nicer places in costa rica which are way cheaper and way more accessable :)
AnotherPerspective — Google review
Had a lovely time at Tortuga Island. Highly recommend coming here and spending the day hiking, snorkeling, drinking, etc. The CostaCat crew was amazing with top notch service. They even brought drinks to you as you were swimming in the water!
Blin Kazazi — Google review
You begin your trip with a boat ride. This was about 90 minutes. They offer complimentary rum punch as well as drinks for purchase. You are also offered fruit snacks, a simple ham sandwich, and fish ceviche on the way there. Once on the island there are chairs and umbrellas to use, a souvenir shop, and bar to enjoy while you bask in the sun or play in the ocean. Views are stunning as you truly feel secluded from the rest of the world as you enjoy the island life with the other guests. Depending on your specific tour snorkeling and banana boat rides are offered. You get a lunch and tickets for soda. Our lunch was salad, potato salad, rice, breaded fish, and chicken with the option for a glass of sangria. When you leave you take another 90 minute boat ride to shore where they continue to offer complimentary fruit and rum punch as well as having the bar to purchase drinks.
You will need to bring lots of sunscreen, a towel, sunglasses, and hat as you will be in the sun A LOT.
Beautiful and worth the price.
Lauren Kiwacka — Google review
Tortuga island was beautiful!
You start with the boat ride there, go snorkeling for couple hours & see pretty fish!
We also saw dolphins on the boat ride there.
To note - everything on the island costs money, if you want chairs, they were like $10US per chair. Also the bathroom cost money to use. Just assume everything costs something on the island ! But the water is beautiful & you can go for a little hike on the island too.
Bree — Google review
I give it a 4 and half stars rating. Would have been 5 if it was a little less crowded. Picturesque beach, beautiful white sand, great vibe. There're few bars on the island to purchase drinks. You can chill under the sun, swim in the beautiful, pristine water, and paddle board out to the other nearby island. There are plenty of things to do. To get here, you have to either charter a boat or book a snorkeling tour. We booked a snorkeling tour, $85 per person, including door to door service and a (castado) lunch.
Teresa — Google review
This trip was Awesome on the Costa Cat! Cruise, Banana boat, Snorkeling, hiking with lunch included. Pull up a chair and do as much or as little as you please.
Doug Childs — Google review
FANTASTIC! I highly recommend this trip. The catamaran ride is about 45 minutes, and we saw whales along the way. The setup on the island is terrific, and the staff is exceptional.
The lunch served was excellent and the provided free drinks are okay. You can opt to purchase beer and other beverages from the bar.
We enjoyed the snorkeling and the fish along the reef. There is also banana boat riding available if you choose to participate.
Remember to bring water shoes!
Pete Ponyboy — Google review
Loved this tour. Used Zuma tours and they were amazing. Great snorkeling, lunch on the beach and everything you need on the island. Just bring cash.
Kurtis Morrison — Google review
Tortuga Island is a beautiful place to visit when you're in Costa Rica. Plenty of companies offer this tour, and the prices vary from USD$125 to $150, so make sure you select a reputable one. You definitely get what you pay for.
They picked us up at our hotel at 6:30am, drove us to the Marina about 45min away and the boat trip to the island was about 1h30.
The tour included a small breakfast, ceviche, fruit, and coffee on the boat, then a buffet type lunch (Costa Rican) on the island with unlimited rum punches!
Other activities offered are snorkeling, banana boat, kayaking, and much more.
The white-sand beach is beautiful and the waters are calm. There also is a small souvenir shop on the island.
Thoroughly enjoyed this activity!
Sophie Sklavounos — Google review
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Q4F3+7RW, Provincia de Puntarenas, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
The Gold Museum is a treasure-trove of ancient gold artifacts from Costa Rica. The museum is underground, giving it a modern feel and ensuring its security. The collection spans centuries and includes currency, figures, and coins.
Quite an interesting and beautiful collection of jewelry and artifacts from before those greedy Europeans ravaged the land. I loved learning about the history of our coins and maps, all in one place. I do feel I need to mention that some of the text translations to English should have been proofread a bit more before being posted, and that the lettering displays on walls and glass require a bit more up keeping since some letters were missing altogether. Other than that I fully recommend nationals (¢2500 and free for 65+) and foreigners ($15) to stop by.
Andy Salas — Google review
I felt that while the museum was lovely, it was a little overpriced for tourists. There are three levels - the basement is the gold, the second level has a geography exhibit, and the main level currently has an exhibit about coins. I've been to other gold museums in Latin America and this one was relatively similar, though there were quite a lot of unique pieces that i admit i had never seen in other similar museums. The geographical exhibit was interesting but can be skipped through relatively quickly (i did appreciate all the signage in English). The coins exhibit will only be interesting to you if you're into the history of coins. Personally i liked it but did find it a little repetitive. Overall - good activity to do if you find yourself in downtown San Jose with some free time to kill but not necessarily a must see.
Melanie s — Google review
Enjoyed our visit here, so many fascinating exhibits presented well, and the building itself is quite interesting architecturally. Bit of a queue to get in as we fit such behind a couple of big local student groups, but other than that bit very busy at all (apart from the currency exhibition on the top floor which had a couple of tour groups in).
Very interesting to learn some of the culture, as well as the history of the local currency, well worth a visit.
Open bags aren't permitted, but there are free lockers on entry to put them in if required.
Jamie Palliser — Google review
What a stunning museum! Large spacious galleries with artefacts beautifully presented. The gold art work was very thin, delicate and some very tiny ! Over 3 floors this museum really captures the essence of the role of gold in pre-Columbian history. I particularly adored the tiny figurines which were so delicately moulded. Great location right next to the theatre. Very easy to find !
Jamie ?Colouricious? Mason — Google review
It was ok. We did find it more interesting than the jade museum.
Ben Park — Google review
8800 CRC well spent. Lots of fascinating history about the people who used to live in the region of what's now Costa Rica, many centuries ago. There's also some beautiful art on display by Faba, as well as the history of the Costa Rican currency, which predates what is currently in place.
The toilet facilities are clean and staff are friendly.
Adnan Hussain — Google review
Jewelry on Steroids! Loved it, and loved the historical information. There were people at every level to answer questions and add information as well
Mishelle Pasinato — Google review
This museum was on a recommended list for thing to do in San José and it did not disappoint. The museum is now in an underground building rather than the older building just next door.
They provide lockers for backpacks and larger bags. A small purse and phone are okay. Start by going ask the way to the bottom floor and work your way up.
The detail that was able to be achieved in the pieces is breath taking. The section on the colones at the end was super interesting! Don't look past it.
Charese Gainor — Google review
If you like seeing ancient gold artifacts, you would really love the place. Though I feel the artifacts, there were too few in representing the ancient civilization of the original Costa 🇨🇷 settlers.
Emmanuel Osawe — Google review
Nicely curated museum. Worth the time and entrance fee. Not every display has an English option, so take your favorite translation app with you!
Dave Hartman — Google review
This museum has wonderful displays of gold artifacts and jewelry. Throughout the exhibit, there are touch screen displays that enhance the learning experience and explain the intricacies and really give you an appreciation of this fascinating culture. A must see while in San Jose Costa Rica.
Mel U. — Google review
Awesome expo of contemporary art and pre-Colombian history… along with a view on the presence of indigenous tribes of Costa Rica.
Sebastiano Marino — Google review
Great museum. A lot about the indigenous people but the gold work was exceptional. Felt the lighting could have been better, lots of reflections in the pics which I found annoying.
Costa — Google review
Wonderful place covers the culture bot just the items, it's actually the banks museum and had an art exhibition and a numismatic exhibition on the top, so we'll worth it
James Littmoden — Google review
8800 colones to enter- lots to see and has the descriptions in both English and Spanish, very cool to see all the tiny gold figures as well as the rotating art exhibit and the mint
Cady — Google review
Really good museum to visit. Well setup, amazing installation and explanations.
Camila Silva — Google review
Absolutely stunning collection of history and artifacts. It's an amazing part of Costa Rican heritage and history that is well preserved and presented that any history aficionado must see.
Alec Kozak — Google review
Historical journey thru the beginning of metallurgy in Costa Rica. Beautiful exhibits. The entire museum is underground with state of the art security.
Barb G — Google review
What a wonderful place.
Very very interesting and well presented
Jacqueline Beharry — Google review
Talk about a fascinating time. If your interests lie in history, you definitely will not be disappointed. A happy mixture of history /art, this museum definitely brings a lot to the table!
From the history of the pre-columbian people's religious views, down to the cultural influences from Mayan and Aztec cultures on the natives, this museum covers a wide swath of information. The design of the place is also interesting, as you enter into an underground vault-like area to look at the pieces.
There are also multiple floors of different displays so you definitely get your money's worth! I recommend!!
Garret Lovins — Google review
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Bajos de la Plaza de la Cultura. Avenida Central. Calle 5 San José Centro San José CR 10104, Av. Central, San José, Costa Rica
The National Theater of Costa Rica is a majestic building in the heart of San José with a fantastic hourly tour. It is known for its luxurious interior with gold trim, marble floors, chandeliers and high ceilings and hosts performances by the National Symphony Orchestra.
A must in San José Costa Rica for real! This theater is beautiful! They give you a quick funny tour and it’s amazing! I was not expecting that the theater guides were actors and it was hilarious! The architecture is beautiful! And I had fun! Would come back!!! Fav place tbh! There’s a cafeteria too so it’s great for a cute date or a quick snack before your tour!
Karen S?enz — Google review
Decided to visit as we were walking past and were pleasantly surprised. Beautiful building with a guided tour and without giving any spoilers away, the tour was extremely informative and fun. Lots of history and one of the world's most beautiful ceilings Would recommend it to everyone. Paid admission though, seems like a theme for everything in San Jose.
Shweta Goel — Google review
An absolutely beautiful building and right in the center plaza. The paintings are stunning and it was cool being able to see the restoration process. Definitely worth the price to go inside. Tour was about 45 minutes.
Our guide seemed a little newer and not as confident with all of the info, but did a great job handling people who didn’t listen very well.
It would be nice if the touring schedule was more easily accessible and if there was an easier way to buy tickets. The box office was only open for 20 minutes before the tour and there was a long line for purchasing for the tour but also shows; we almost missed our tour time.
Lisa Brough — Google review
One of our most beautiful and iconic buildings ever built.
This National Theater is without a doubt a national treasure that holds the past trapped within its walls. It was built on the Oligarquía Cafetalera era, to be more precise by the lower class. The ones in power, were the owners of the coffee plantations, the provided a small percentage of money to build this master piece, the biggest part was provided by the lower classes via taxes. The richest people did not want to share the floor with the poorest ones, so a third floor was built with exterior separate entrances to those lower classes. The rich people did not know that the best acoustic and view of the orchestra was being enjoyed by the ones on the isolated floor with wooden pews.
The vast majority of sculptures and paintings were done by Italian artists. In fact there is only one sculpture inside the lobby area which was built by a Costa Rican artist. It depicts a woman with and infant on her laps representing misery. He wanted to remind the rich that the lower classes were the ones who build that jewel.
I strongly recommend everyone to visit this magnificent building.
Alexander Lobo — Google review
Beautiful place. Amazing history. The chairs can be removed so the floor can be raised to stage level in 8 hours using a lot of manual labor to provide a ballroom. Presidential box in the middle of 2nd tier has a private restroom. That's real 24-karat gold gilding. Would love to see a performance here.
Wanda Mashburn — Google review
Beautiful building. Obviously cannot compete with all the old buildings we have in Europe, but it was pretty and great to see nevertheless.
Tsvetana Draganova — Google review
Beautiful architecture and paintings. Still has the original seats from 1891 and the manual gears to raise the floor. amazing. Book a small tour.
Yona Lubitz (Ylubitz) — Google review
An excellent tour conducted in English by a wonderful guide called Monica ( I think). A really informative and lively presentation with a few surprises! Well worth doing to see the interior of this ornate institution. Lasts about 45 mins - 1 hour.
Nicola UK — Google review
A beautiful and ornate theater featuring two guides dressed in period costumes describing the past in this historical playhouse.
Shawn M. — Google review
Beautiful building. The tour is inexpensive, the guides do an amazing job and the interior is amazing. Definitely worth it.
Ben Park — Google review
I read about this theater in the Lonely Planet guide which promised it would be an excellent tour, and it was! The theater is grand and gives a glimpse into the culture and history of the area. The knowledgeable tour guide and the clever surprise made it fun and fascinating. Please note that English tours are given at 1 and 4 o’clock while Spanish tours are given at 2 and 3 o’clock. We had people in our group from Algeria, France, China, and California, so it was extra fun. This was well worth the time and the money.
Anne Cox — Google review
Very nice theater and a real attraction! Tickets for the different language tours can be purchased directly on the left side of the theater.
Eighty Percent — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. The tours are really nice. My only negative complaint is that the tour guide (female 6/18) was not nice to the locals and super friendly to the expats (specially Europeans and Americans). Her English was okay and it felt like she was drill in the locals to speak in English when she herself had a lot of room for growth. The make guide was hilarious and super friendly.
Ysabel Ortiz — Google review
A must see! It's gorgeous and has so much history. We were fortunate enough to have a couple of actors as our guides. They were hilarious and informative. I got so many beautiful pictures
Dara Hinden — Google review
I was here on a food tour of city that included this theater because it was on the route.
Its a very nice structure, and i like the story behind one of the sculptures (the one on the right, mother and baby). The artists defiance in past.
Was only in lobby and looking for 5 min, but very nice theater.''
Like this review below if the info helps
adam clare — Google review
Great Building!
When the city heats up to much, definitely a great place to cool and calm down again.
max walter — Google review
Beautiful Theatre. Must to see.
L__ Ol — Google review
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Avenida 2, Calle 5, San José Province, San José, Catedral, Costa Rica
The Montezuma Waterfalls Trailhead and Parking Lot is the starting point for a 40-minute river hike leading to a beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole. The trail also leads to a second set of falls where adventurous visitors can take a 10m leap into deep water, but caution is advised. Additionally, there's a rope swing over a third set of falls for those seeking more thrills.
This is super cool - but beware, it is not a simple hike! It takes only about twenty minutes but your feet will get wet and you will have to climb through trees and use ropes to navigate to the lower falls. The water is cool but not cold and is 100% worth the small hike. Just wear good shoes! We had no problems leaving our stuff on rocks behind the falls to get in.
Valerie Calvery — Google review
Rocky trail. Hiking or water shoes, suggesting. No sandals.
Water falls was great after a hot hiking. Moderate to hard (You need a good balance) botter line swimming was a plus!!
Desde el comienzo, hasta la cascada, es rocosa, recomiendo usar zapatos de hike o zapatos para agua. No sandalias. También tener balance, pero lindo la cascada y poder nadar después de la caminata!.
Mercedes Iglesias-Paul — Google review
Relatively simple and short (about 600m) hike to a waterfall. Parking costs 2000 colones. Quite busy so not the tranquil spot you'd hope! The waterfall is quite pretty. As nice attraction to spend an hour.
Not suitable for flip flops. Wear insect repellant!
Simon Tong — Google review
Beautiful falls with cool pools for swimming. The trail isn't easy in some places, where you have to use the provided ropes to keep from slipping. There are also steep paths and lots of stairs, and even though some rocks appear dry, their surfaces are slippery. But if you're fit enough (I barely was), it's worth getting at least to the lower falls, which are free. You have to pay 2,000 colones per person to go up from there.
Ross Brown — Google review
we walked right on through even though the parking lot was chained off. at this point, i'm assuming they did not open the lot due to all the heavy rain in the rainy season. we took the left side route, made it so far, and could not cross the river safely. the map was easy enough to read. the parking lot is small and the street parking is minimal as well so get here early! rocky terrain, and crossing a river, so waterproof hiking boots are ideal. but im sure you can survive with tennis shoes. bring swim suit, towel, camera, food and hydration to enjoy it!
Racheous Point of view — Google review
A place to enjoy and a great place to see. Two Waterfalls to discover (from out- or inside :-) )
There are guides at the start of the trail for hire; not really necessary but can be helpful and entertaining. Be smart - negotiate a price in advance.
Greetings to crazy Carlos ;-)
Michael Mašek — Google review
This is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. You can climb behind the waterfall. So cool!
Heath Hollenshead — Google review
We were a group of six and we hiked to the first fall. It was middle of May so not much rain and we were able to hike the trail to the waterfall through the rocks. You start off at the parking lot at the trail head on the street level. Pay $2-3 US dollars to the “security”. Bring lots of water and even food for a picnic when you get to the waterfall. Cold yet super refreshing and murky at that time of year. Pura vida! 🇨🇷
Sandi — Google review
WARNING: trail is not easy. Must use ropes in some spots to climb completely vertical areas of the trail. Also, using ropes and roots to rapel down.
The place is beautiful. Its a pity the experience can be ruined by very bad organization of the trails.
First of all, there is almost no signage at all indicating the way, or even to confirm that you are actually on the correct trail.
The actual trail is just someone who decided to climb over rocks and trees and called it a trail. Not even something simple like little flags or signs to confirm that you are supposed to climb over those rocks and swing over the cliffs with a half worn down rope.
The first waterfall is the only one that has an “easy” path. After that, forget about it. Hope you have good insurance in case of a slip.
Once you make it to the other side and decide to go back the easy path, turna out the easy path is a “private trail”, which was never indicated when starting. And once again, random unofficial people sitting there charging 2000 colones if you want to go through. Not even a receipt.
Worst part is that this is barely 5mins of steps, and then its back to the initial path. Which the only way to reach is by jumping over some rocks to cross the river.
If you made it past all the ranting, the waterfall is very beautiful. Its really nice that you can also swim under it, and just relax and chill in the different waterfall areas.
Many little pools and waterfalls in the different levels, if you can reach it.
Would be a much more enjoyable experience if they actually used that money to make the trail better instead of just keeping it and not using it to improve the park.
Andres Capurro — Google review
We had an incredible time. The hike was easy getting to the first fall where we had fun climbing a rock and jumping in the refreshing waters. I would definitely recommend
Carl Martel — Google review
Such a beautiful hike. We did the hard side and found it just slightly challenging.
You can jump from the top waterfall (not the big one).
On our way down we wanted to get down quick so took the easy route. They make you pay $2 per person to pass the trail.
Mirela Rahneva — Google review
Beautiful waterfall. We were told it might be dry for the season but it was perfect. Pool is deep but wouldn't recommend diving..jumping ok. They try to make you pay park in there parking & take a guide...neither is necessary. Its about a 20 min walk. Its a little difficult for ppl with mobility issues...but its doeable, Especially if you take the riverbed. Great swimming experience and it was 100% FREE!
Shagorda Ahuanlla — Google review
Cool spot! 1000 to park, you do not need a guide to get to the waterfall! Just follow the beaten down path. It could be challenging for older people, or people with bad balance or weak legs.
Go early in the morning to beat the crowd. That is the only downfall is that it gets very crowded.
Travis Mackenzie — Google review
Nice and cool. The path there isn't for the faint and it's not that easy to cross. There are rocks along the trail also. It's moderate to tough in places. The second and third falls, extremely tough. The first falls are really the best: about 30 meters of flow
Jeff S — Google review
We took our ATV’s from Santa Teresa to the Falls which was about a 45 min commute.
There were 3 waterfalls as you go up the trail and we only hiked to the first waterfall. It took about 45 minutes to get to the first fall. Expect to get your shoes & clothes wet & muddy. You will need to go through shallow waters, climb up the side of the hills while holding onto guiding ropes. Wouldn’t recommend this for small children or bringing a pet.
The biggest & most popular fall is the last one at the end of the trail (apparently 3 hour hike).
We bowed out at the first. 😂 but, if you are an avid hiker or looking for a day of adventure you will enjoy!
Some Tips:
Wear waterproof / hiking shoes
Bring or wear swimwear
Pack lightly (no heavy bags)
Bring lots of water & snacks
Parking was $1,000 COL.
Marly & Kenny — Google review
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MW2J+755, Puntarenas Province, Santa Fe, Montezuma Beach, Costa Rica
Jaco Beach is a 2.5-mile stretch of shoreline surrounded by palm trees, suitable for both surfing and relaxation. Despite its proximity to San Jose and nearby nightlife options, the beach has undergone a significant transformation over the years since becoming a tourist destination. There are some areas that are still pleasant to visit, but others have been marred by the presence of unsightly casinos and unfinished buildings.
Very nice beach!
The sand is a dark grey but the views are beautiful!
eliau piha — Google review
We come to Jaco beach for kids friendly surfing 🏄♀️. It’s a great beach to learn. Sand is not the greatest as it is mixed with dirt and there are some stones while you enter the water but once you walk I in to the water a little bit stones disappear.
Zofia Romanczuk — Google review
This beach was my least favorite beach to visit in Costa Rica, the grounds were not well-kept, the people seemed sketchy, at one point we saw, women, soliciting, sex, as well as we saw a person shooting up. The beach itself very packed, but not very clean not our favorite.
Adrianne Arbelaez — Google review
Seems like a lovely beach, we did not stay long because we had other places to be. We did not manage to find a restroom. The town nearby was very busy and touristy
Kiersten Hayes — Google review
Incredible vistas to stop doing the road. Walk down to the rocky beach for crabs and breaking waves along the coast.
Kevin Markman — Google review
This beach is nice but i have seen nicer.
The beach is clean however nothing compared to manuel antonio. There you will find a lot of activities to do, surfing, flying, jet ski, or just spend the day in the sun.
Here the sand is darker. There are waves that you can use for surfing and depending on the day is high vs low waves but definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. After you cross in the water, there is an area in the sand that is all big and small rocks which makes it harder to cross and play with waves or surf especially on a day with strong waves. However there are beach beds and umbrellas that you can rent and not a whole lot of vendors selling you the good stuff you will find in manuel antonio like cold coconut, shaved ice and other goodies.
Recommend.
Restaurant Critic — Google review
It’s a nice place to enjoy yourself. I didn’t like to see litter around.
It’s accesible and you’ll get a nice walk. There are always surfing lessons going on as well as people riding horses with the tours available for.
Yesenia Quintero — Google review
Great water in February, nice waves for paddle boarding, water is murky so don’t see a lot of fish but crabs running around. The beach is not crowded at all. Black sand mixed with rocks. Very dirty seems like no security, cleaning or any investment from the shore hotels. Occasional local entrepreneurs not too pushy.
Roman Roman — Google review
Was much nicer when it was a quiet blistering hot beach with a fishing village and no tourist infrastructure when I first visited there in 1990. Now an ugly mix of old new and unfinished, ugly casinos and everything grim that goes with it. Some nice parts and it's close to San Jose
David Phipps — Google review
Be aware of people trying to reapp you off. Parking is free. Don't stop to talk to the guy. Food is very mediocre here, just eat somewhere else.
Cyndy Cerros — Google review
Nice place. If your looking for a white sands don't expect it from Jaco. If you love surfing, you can get a not so big waves but good enough to have fun.
Marita Naz — Google review
I had the pleasure of visiting Jaco Beach, and I must say it exceeded all my expectations! This pristine stretch of coastline is a true tropical paradise, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
The beach itself is stunning, with golden sands that stretch for miles and the inviting waves of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a surfer looking for the perfect wave or someone wanting to unwind with a beachside stroll, Jaco Beach caters to all.
The surrounding area is filled with vibrant energy, offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. I highly recommend trying the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood dishes. The laid-back atmosphere of Jaco town adds to the overall charm, making it a fantastic destination for both solo travelers and families.
One highlight was the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific. The colors were mesmerizing, and the view was simply unforgettable. I also appreciated the efforts made to keep the beach clean and well-maintained.
For those seeking adventure, Jaco offers a range of activities, from zip-lining through the lush rainforest to exploring nearby national parks. The local wildlife is diverse and adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
The hospitality of the locals was exceptional, with friendly and welcoming faces everywhere. The surf culture is vibrant, creating a unique and lively atmosphere that adds to the overall charm of Jaco.
In conclusion, Jaco Beach is a hidden gem on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Jaco has it all. I highly recommend this destination to anyone looking for an unforgettable beach getaway. Can't wait to return!
Elias Chelala — Google review
Jaco Beach is a lovely beach we've been coming to for over 12 years and there are some changes since our last visit 4 years ago. It's still a soft surf and easy to ride waves, people barbequing and families flying kites, people learning how to surf. It has become very popular over the years; the weekends it's gotten very crowded. I like seeing that there are lifeguard stations but we didn't see them being used this 3 week visit....not once. Horseback riding is here too. PLEASE TAKE CAUTION! Once the sun sets (some of the most beautiful you'll ever see). Go home to where you are staying. It's quite rough with people who might want to take advantage of you or want your money. During the weekends you'll find people wanting money saying "I watched your car for you". They might try showing you an obvious parking spot and want money. It's ALWAYS been free to park here but they will target tourists.
Vinnie 1973 — Google review
All kind of things to do! Sunset horse ride, surf, canopy, skating,ets.
Also good restaurants and coffee places.
Agustin Munoz — Google review
Good for surfing in the south end. However if you wanna enjoy the beach go more North where it's cleaner with less sticks and or people's trash.
IG IG — Google review
A bit rocky at low tide in some places but a great view of the waves. The sand gets crazy hot.
Justin Hull — Google review
Dirty beach south of the sewer river. North of bridge much cleaner. This time of year lots of wood debris. Nice sunsets.
El Rey — Google review
Fabulous city setting, this beach is one block from the main drag. It has a bit dirty water and sand due to its location but still is one of my favorite places to visit
Robert Burkett — Google review
Very nice clean beach. Walk every day
Michael Zdrojesky — Google review
Beautiful sunset and great waves for surfing. Aesthetically not my favorite beach because of the dark, murky sand due to the proximity to the volcano I believe. Too many rock ashore. Pretty rocks for rock collectors though.