Gallina E Palo Beachfront Hotel

I had an awesome stay at Gallina e Palo. The private rooms and good facilities made it feel like home, and the rooms were very clean with good air conditioning. In the evening, you can walk to shops, souvenir stores, restaurants, and more. You can also spend time at the beach and see Costa Rican life and local people.

The location is fantastic, and the rooms were surprisingly clean. But unless you're a party person or have hired a "working girl," this place may not suit you. The host and owner is outgoing and very friendly; he seems like a decent guy deep down, but his manner and stories won't be for everyone. I strongly advise against bringing children. The lizards are cool, though. If you don't speak Spanish, translating the name might give you a clue. I'd expect the place to work well for what it's meant for. It just isn't really set up for a good night's sleep, a nice shower in the morning, or a hot cup of coffee. For coffee, you'll need to find a cafe.

The sound of waves on the shore is a lovely way to wake up. Rooms are clean, the beds are comfortable, and the AC works well. If you're traveling alone and want the entertainment next door, this is a good alternative to staying at Hotel Cocal.

The owner is a legend. He kept checking that I was having a good time. My room had AC, a TV, and a fridge, and it was a great place for a solo traveler.