Alma del Pacifico, Playa Esterillos Este, near Quepos, Costa Rica - Explore & Book

"This is an ideal spot for the restful part of your trip to Costa Rica. There are attractions within easy reach: Manuel Antonio National Park, zip-line adventures, horse riding, surfing, and boat tours through the mangroves. But the real appeal of being here is to lie back in a hammock and gaze at the waves breaking on this magnificent beach.The resort was originally designed by an architect and painter couple, who wanted to reflect Costa Rica’s colourful culture. They called it Xandari By The Pacific, and for many years it was a beloved beach retreat among discerning independent travellers. Purchased in 2011 by Rock Resorts, it still maintains the atmosphere of luxury and privacy in a completely relaxed setting, without any pretension. It works well for both families and couples on a romantic getaway, with 20 spacious villa-like rooms in a post-modern Californian style, and lush tropical gardens right on an incredible stretch of oceanfront; there's also a rejuvenating spa and an above-average restaurant. When the sun starts to sink, go for a stroll along the wide, glassy sands, then order a mojito from the bar and watch the spectacular sunset. Highs A tremendous location on one of Costa Rica’s finest beaches: endless smooth sand, no rocks and great surfing - yet few people!A relaxed atmosphere, with fabulous light bouncing off the Pacific Ocean and a tempting range of spa treatments designed to soothe and restoreBright, luxurious and spacious rooms - all with private terraces, iPod docks and sofabeds (useful for families), most with ocean views, and some with private plunge poolsTasty, healthy food in the romantic restaurant, with plenty of local ingredients and sustainable seafoodJust 45 minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park: see the wildlife and return to the peace of the beach Lows This part of the Pacific coast is not Costa Rica’s top attraction, and there's little nightlife in the area apart from seedy Jacó - but the main point is to relaxTaxis can be ordered, but if you want to explore outside the resort, you'll probably need to rent a carThe pool area can get a bit noisy (there are separate pools for children and adults, but they sit next to each other). However, the rooms are quiet, and the vast beach offers solitudeRates include a continental breakfast only; if you want hot options, you’ll have to pay a bit extraThe ocean here is only safe for swimming when the tide is coming in (you'll find a tide timetable in your room)" - Christabelle Dilks