Ylang Ylang Beach Resort

We've been to Ylang Ylang several times over the past decade. The resort and restaurant are beautiful, the rooms are clean, and the grounds are well cared for. But the reason we keep returning is the warmth of everyone who works there, from the waiters and managers to the yoga instructors. They smile, greet you, and make it a delightful place to be. The hospitality is top tier. I couldn't recommend it more highly.

We've returned to Ylang Ylang several times, and each visit has been wonderful. From the moment you arrive, the smaller boutique resort has an intimate charm that the bigger resorts can't reproduce. The owners are present and engaged, always making thoughtful improvements, and you can feel how much care goes into the details. The food is a highlight. Our family needs vegan options, and we often worry about finding them, but Ylang Ylang went above and beyond with creative, delicious plant-based dishes that everyone enjoyed. The culinary experience alone would justify the trip. The holiday season is especially magical, with lovely celebrations, live music, and an impressive fire show that's become a highlight for us. The pool is small compared with those at mega-resorts, but it's beautifully decorated with lush jungle foliage and offers a welcome break from the beach sun. You could easily fill a week without booking a paid excursion. Several beaches are within walking distance, along with great hiking trails, volcanic rocks full of crabs, and stunning waterfalls, including the famous Montezuma Falls. Montezuma itself is about a 10-minute walk and has its own delightful character. There's surfing for anyone interested, too. For an authentic Costa Rican experience, thoughtful hospitality, great food, and natural beauty close by, Ylang Ylang is hard to beat. We'll definitely be back.

We came for a women's yoga retreat, and the beachside location worked so well. The yoga studio and restaurant both have killer views, and the evening meal was lovely with the scent of the ylang ylang trees around the grounds. Staff were friendly, the amenities were good, and the service was straightforward. It’s a peaceful hidden gem for a quiet traveler, still a short distance from town and a few attractions. If you're passing along the beach, stop in for the food. The Montezuma seafood grill combo was awesome!

Our wedding guests still talk about the trip as one of the most incredible they’ve taken, and we’ll absolutely be back. We got married at Ylang Ylang, where the staff were attentive, the excursions were unparalleled, and the food was delicious. I’ve never experienced better service anywhere. It was the most magical place I’ve ever been to, a trip of a lifetime.