Riverside Bungalows

We saw scarlet macaws, yelliw throated toucans, and a Jesus Christ basilisk, and there’s a small trail to walk as well as a pool. The lodge has just a few bungalows, so it stays peaceful and quiet. Everything was clean and felt luxurious. Carlos welcomed us warmly and shared lots of tips. He and his son were cheerful and kind, and made us feel more at home than anywhere else we’d stayed in Costa Rica. I’d strongly recommend this place.

Our bungalow was private and comfortable, with everything we needed. Kade, our 5 year old, quickly made the pool his favorite place, while my husband and I watched monkeys in the trees and macaws overhead. The restaurant on site was another highlight: peaceful and welcoming, with food that seemed carefully made from fresh ingredients. We even saw daily deliveries arriving for the kitchen. Carlos’s connection with our son was instant. Watching them become friends so quickly is a memory we’ll always keep. Carlos and his family gave us such a special stay, and we’re grateful. The property feels secluded in nature, but it’s also well placed for day trips to Manuel Antonio and nearby areas. After a long travel day, the local family who run the place welcomed us warmly, gave us useful tips, and helped us settle in late that evening. The next morning, lush trees, bright plants, and wildlife just outside our bungalow made it feel like a hidden sanctuary and reminded us why we love Costa Rica. Riverside Bungalows gave our family an experience we’ll remember, not just a place to stay.

Travelers should know that the property recently changed its name from Riverside Villas to Riverside Bungalows. We spent four nights here, and it was the one bad experience on an otherwise amazing Costa Rica trip. The walk to the beach is over 30 minutes on roads with no sidewalks, which felt dangerous for pedestrians. That doesn’t match the website’s description of a prime location minutes from the beach and restaurants. We also felt uneasy about speaking up because Carlos openly bragged about kicking out guests who disagreed with his rules. We looked for another place on day two, but couldn’t make it work. The front desk was often unattended, and we had to track someone down when our room ran out of toilet paper. The AC thermostat didn’t work and stayed on full. The coffee maker was very dirty, there was no coffee provided, and the showers were lukewarm at best. Breakfast was a big disappointment compared with the full, wonderful breakfasts at our previous four hotels. Carlos first said breakfast wasn’t included, until my wife went to the room and showed him our booking confirmation. He then relented, but served a meagre, cold omelet with potatoes and no juice or coffee. He charged a ridiculous amount for coffee and even charged us for two tablespoons of ketchup. It was nothing like the high standard of included breakfasts elsewhere in Costa Rica. One of the dogs had visible skin sores and drank from the guest pool. When I raised it, Carlos said, “The dog always drinks from the pool, don’t worry, there is chlorine.” Another dog sat begging beside our chairs at almost every breakfast. I uploaded photos of the dog drinking from the pool, the dog begging beside the table, and the coffee and ketchup receipts. In 50 years of traveling, this was honestly my worst experience.

Carlos was friendly, helpful, and entertaining, and it’s clear this family-run business is his passion. Their care for comfort and the little details really shows. The rooms are beautiful and private, and the restaurant was amazing. Set on the outskirts, the property feels like being in the jungle. We heard howler monkeys and saw lots of macaws and other wildlife. We’ll stay again next time!