Casitas El Salitral

Spotless, modest casitas run by a family. If they were on the ocean side of the highway, they’d cost three times as much.

The setting is gorgeous, with breathtaking views, and the casitas were well cared for. They strike a nice balance between nature and comfort. I visited with friends, and we had a great time cooking in the kitchen, hanging out by the pool, and having a fire each night. It was an amazing destination, and I’d highly recommend the experience. Can’t wait to return!

I came for 12 days because it’s near Cerritos and better value than other places. Getting answers before arrival was difficult, but once there, the husband and wife owners were very helpful, even while sorting out termites they’d found in my room’s roof. The property is remote, near the main dual carriageway but away from other places and the beach, so you need a car. The garden feels like an oasis, with lovely plants and lots of birds, plus a nice pool and sun loungers. There are quite a few dogs around most of the time, and they bark now and then. My room was clean and nicely presented, with a comfortable bed and a shower and toilet that worked well. One window wouldn’t close properly. There are two kitchens available. I needed earplugs because of the road noise and dogs barking late into the night, and the barking woke me at dawn. The fridge was noisy, but I was glad of it because it helped me sleep. The WiFi was poor and really only worked by the kitchen, though there were few other guests and they let me have the router in my room, which helped a lot. Housekeeping was very good, and staff were helpful. They made me feel at home. Noise from the dogs and traffic was the only downside; otherwise, I’d have rated it five stars for value. I recommend it.

The room had air conditioning, heat, a fridge, stove, and microwave. But the bathroom smelled so bad there was a lock on its door from the outside. I don’t think the plumbing was vented. Otherwise, it would have been a four-star stay.