Hotel Costa Las Ballenas

We had a good stay and I'd happily come back. The hotel is right on the beach in a quiet area, with a nice pool and a five-star massage. Food was good, and breakfast came with the stay. The rooms are OK, with a traditional feel, though a few small improvements would help.

Breakfast was really good, and they served it whenever through the morning, right up to 11:30. The gardens and pool were pleasant and very well kept. There are a few rocks on the beach in front, but lovely stretches of sand are only a short walk away in either direction. We were there briefly in mid-February 2020, and the stay exceeded what we expected. The staff were friendly and helpful. Special thanks to Ezekiel at reception.

We stayed nearby for 30 days and came to their restaurant nearly every morning for breakfast, lunch or takeaways, spending well over $1000. When we booked one hotel night, we asked for a late checkout because we had business meetings that afternoon. They refused. We offered to pay for the extra hours, but they wanted the full rate. They seem willing to lose much more than $150 over those extra hours. There was no flexibility or recognition of us as repeat, loyal customers.

The main courses we chose, fillet steak and Spaghetti Arabiatta, were excellent. We finished a good Spanish Tempranillo in the garden, and the bill was more than reasonable. The place has open-air seating, Caribbean decor and is about 50 metres from the beach, with attentive service and a varied menu. It had only recently opened, and they apologized for the seasonal heat, saying ceiling fans were being installed. Those should make the atmosphere more comfortable. A great new dining option on Playa Bonita.