Club Cantamar

The rooms looked nothing like the photos and felt very outdated. Friendly staff, and the private beach and marina view were the best parts. But loud trucks go by right behind the property, near the factory and ferry, and I couldn’t get enough sleep. The view and beach don’t make up for that.

The standout here is the private beach at sunset. The ocean turned pink, with colorful fish swimming around you. It felt like a once in a lifetime experience, and the price was good for that perk. The hotel itself has plenty of character, with decor that suits the area. Front desk staff, security, and the other workers were all extremely friendly, making it a peaceful, stress-free stop before the ferry. I also noticed a rainbow flag at the desk, so it seemed queer-friendly.

The location is nice and the price is good, but we had a rough stay. The first floor smelled like sanitation, as if the septic system might be maxed out. Most staff were great, but one receptionist was very rude. At breakfast, my son and I waited 40 minutes. I ordered food, but the coffee and lemonade I’d asked for never came, even though only two other tables were occupied. We finally walked out. Their no-reservations setup also leaves people showing up and waiting for rooms, which seems like a terrible system. Our family of four was made to leave our room in the morning, and it was given to an incoming guest. Then we had to wait for another room. Nobody apologized or offered a discount, and we were even reprimanded for spending time at the beach while we waited.

The room was in poor shape and badly needed an update, and one of the pillows had stains. The hotel didn’t look like the website at all. The woman at the counter didn’t speak any English. There’s no restaurant or anything, and it’s far from everything. We chose Club Cantamar thinking excursions would be nearby, but they all leave from downtown La Paz. You’re better off staying in the city, which is a half-hour drive away from Cantamar hotel.