Hotel Isla del Sol

The hotel and beach are beautiful, and the location is great, but I have serious concerns about security. On a day trip, we left our belongings on the boat while we went snorkeling, and some money was taken from my bag. The only people who stayed aboard were two or three staff members, the captain and his helper, with no other tourists there. I didn't notice the money was gone until we got back. When I contacted the hotel, they said I should have kept it somewhere else. Guests should be able to trust that their things are safe during private activities arranged by the hotel.

The best parts are the picturesque setting, pretty beach and pier, nice cottages, and excellent pool. The hotel snorkeling trip was very good, and the speedboat staff who took us to and from Cartagena were excellent. For a nearby restaurant off the property, try "Tico". Still, I'd probably give the stay about 3.5/5. Power and internet cut out now and then, which is island life but still inconvenient. The rooms are pleasant but very basic: small TV, cables taped to the wall, and a bed that seems past its best. You're mostly confined to the resort unless you walk through Orika, the shanty town in the island's center. Even then, there aren't maps or recommendations for places to go. I'm cynical about the island's resorts, not just this one, relying on having a captive audience instead of helping develop the local community. I'd limit a stay to three nights.

Our three kids had the time of their lives, and we can't wait to return. The property is quiet and has beautiful views, with a very family-oriented feel. We went snorkeling, paddle boarding, and biking, and also had massages. The food and guest service were great.

The beachside setting was gorgeous, and our room was cute and clean. The staff were phenomenal. Josmira greeted us with so much kindness and charm, Fabio made serving food and drinks a pleasure (feliz cumpleanos, Fabio!), and Maria Fernanda looked after us the whole time. 10/10