Sol Pelicano

I had one of my most relaxing stays here, and Playa Sirena was heavenly, just perfect.

The resort is old, but the beach is nice when the waves are calm. Just be ready for a different sort of all-inclusive, where you may need to bring your own napkins, beer, wine, yogurt, milk, bacon, butter, juice, vegetables, fruit, and desserts. I hope I haven’t missed anything. The desserts can be hit or miss. If you still decide to go, I hope your experience is better.

The location and beach are lovely, and the workers do their best to keep guests happy. But they can’t fix the poor food or the shortages. The food was really awful, the rooms need updating, the showers are worn, and there was no blanket or snack. I don’t want to try it again.

Cayo Largo is absolutely stunning, and I’d certainly come back to the island, though probably at a smaller hotel. I was told larger places struggle to get enough supplies for all their guests, and people could end up fighting over things. Starfish did their best with what they had, but it’s no world-leading hotel. Beach lovers may be disappointed: the beach here is practically nonexistent and very rough. A shuttle takes you to the beautiful Serina beach, but the last pickup is at 5, so you can’t watch the sunset there. Taxis don’t run later unless you show some money. The food might be better at a smaller place. I survived on bread and cheese for seven days.