Tropicana Beach and Resort

The eco-friendly setting is appealing, and the waitress service was good. Still, paying an entrance fee without getting food or a drink included doesn’t feel right.

Tropicana Beach Resort (often misspelled as Trapicana) has a nice private beach area and pools, but my visit was frustrating from the moment I arrived. Day visitors have to pay a $5 entrance fee, even if they’re coming to eat at the restaurant or bar, which is a big draw for locals and expats on weekends. Food and drinks are already expensive, so charging extra just to get onto the property and sit at a table feels unnecessary and greedy. There’s no benefit or credit toward the bill, just cash upfront. Many beach resorts waive entry for diners or apply it to the bill. I felt nickel-and-dimed before ordering anything, and the fee took away from what could have been a pleasant, relaxing afternoon. For a place selling itself as a tropical escape, the charge makes it feel less welcoming. The beach and facilities are decent, but the mandatory fee, especially for people dining, is a major turn-off. I’d look for another place in the Monrovia area to enjoy a meal by the ocean without extra costs.

It wasn’t an amazing outing with my wife and daughter, but this is a place to wind down. The staff were friendly and service was great. Getting there from the main road took care, as the access road is rough enough that I needed to drive my car very carefully, and a four by four would make the trip easier. There aren’t many food options on the menu, though what I ordered was very good, with no complaints. I’d recommend it if you want to relax and aren’t looking for lots of activities.

We had a lovely experience eating, drinking, and relaxing by the sea. The place looks cool, and they even offered us a tour of the hotel. There was an entrance fee, though, and swimming costs extra.