House of the Macaws

The team here was the friendliest we’ve come across in two months of traveling in South America. The hotel is affordable, with a nice pool and decent amenities. I saw some pretty entitled, overly critical reviews below, but this place is genuinely good value.

Tarcoles is a quiet little town without a lot going on, which made this feel like a real local Costa Rica experience. It’s locally run, something I appreciate after seeing so many hotels that seemed foreign-owned on my trip. The food was amazing, and everyone was so welcoming. Walking down to the beach and waking to macaw calls were trip highlights. I’d absolutely stay here again.

Breakfast was the same for everyone, with no choices, and the pool water looked a little murky. There’s no hot water, though it’s warm enough that you don’t really need it. The room seemed clean but had a strange damp smell, so it could use a refurb or at least some work on the damp. The hotel is away from most tourist areas.

We got lovely views and great service, and the beach and sunset were right there. We also took photos of the parrots living in the trees, beautiful like the place itself. Brian and Amer made sure we were comfortable on our first trip to Costa Rica. I recommend staying here.