Hostería Mandála

The staff were kind and patient with our travel party, and we really enjoyed our stay. It’s a charming hotel made up of little cabins, with beautiful gardens full of singing birds and a quality restaurant. Some work was being done on the paths and what seemed to be a future pool, but it never got in our way. The air conditioner worked almost too well. A few small details in the room could use updating, though it was generally comfortable.

If I could, I’d give it 3.5 stars. The food was tasty, and they now have a restaurant open to guests and the public from midday through the evening. The location is beautiful by the ocean, near the city center but still peaceful. The artwork throughout the hotel is beautiful, on tables, arches, little signs, even the toilet seats. The photos on Google gave us the impression of a jungle hotel, full of different plants and animals, with private spaces between rooms. After the change of ownership, though, a lot of plants had been removed, and we no longer saw many birds or iguanas. There was quite a bit of construction, plus loud music around 10pm during a party. Privacy was limited to curtains, and with them open it felt like other guests could easily see inside. The changes aren’t necessarily bad, but they may suit a different kind of guest now: pool and parties instead of nature and quiet. At least the artwork is still there. When we mentioned the garden changes, we were told they plan to add more plants again. We hope the hotel returns to its earlier style after the renovations are finished.

What a unique, adorable place, surrounded by nature with hammocks on the porches. The rooms are clean and nice, though there’s no AC, and it was hotter than usual during our visit. Service was good, and the front desk staff speak English, which helped since I’m learning Spanish. The food was really good, and the fishing village and beach town are cute.

The layout is interesting and the cabins are comfortable. The gravel paths make wheeled luggage a bit of a struggle, and you’ll carry debris into the room. It felt safe, and the beach and places to eat are just a short walk away.