Costa Linda Beach Resort

We had lunch at Water’s Edge 12N at Costa Linda and enjoyed the beautiful beach view. An attendant welcomed us and directed us to the restaurant. After eating, we walked down to the beach to take a few pictures, then security came over and said we couldn't be there because we weren't hotel guests. They also said we couldn't leave through the lobby we'd entered through for lunch, and insisted we exit by way of the beach. If non-guests can't use that beach area or leave through the lobby, the restaurant should tell people before they dine. I wouldn't have spent my money there if I'd known. Security said it was “management’s rule,” but management should communicate rules that affect paying customers directly, ideally with signs at the entrance, instead of having security deliver the news after the meal. The poor communication and how this was handled left a bad impression. The situation was embarrassing and avoidable with a little transparency.

My husband and I stopped at Costa Linda’s Water Edge Restaurant for lunch during a tour excursion. We told the attendant we weren't hotel guests and were just eating before continuing to Eagle Beach. They welcomed us in, and we enjoyed our meal and the view. We decided to take a few photos on the beach, nothing disruptive, but on our way back an aggressive security guard told us we couldn't be on the beach or return through the lobby we'd entered through. The restaurant staff had welcomed us, seated us, and taken our money at that same entrance. Then we were treated as if we'd trespassed, and the guard's manner made us feel like criminals being escorted away instead of customers who'd just supported their business. After reading other reviews, it seems this may be a pattern with non-guests, even those who spend money there. We were genuinely considering staying at Costa Linda next trip, but that won't happen now. The lack of clear information and the disrespectful way we were handled was embarrassing and unnecessary. If non-guests can't enjoy the beach or return through the lobby, they shouldn't be allowed to dine there without being told first. Costa Linda has lost our future business, and likely that of others who receive the same treatment. I strongly urge upper management to address this, since staff are driving away potential guests.

The pool was wonderful, the beach beautiful, and the food was 10/10. Housekeeping and pool staff were wonderful, and everyone was accommodating. I felt very safe. I left my phone in the lobby while I was away on the island, and they kept it for me overnight. They also called cabs whenever we needed one and gave us amazing recommendations.

We've been coming for 30 years, and it's the best beach with lovely staff. With a full kitchen and access to a BBQ, we don't have to eat out all the time.