Mar & Oro

They picked us up by the Ferry Marina, and we were at the hotel within five minutes. The location is awesome. Staff greeted us at the door, took our luggage until check-in, and explained our stay and what we could do. What an experience! For a romantic, beachfront stay with everything in one place, I'd recommend it to anyone. Couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable visit.

I had a wonderful time on Contadora Island, and Mar y Oro was a good base for exploring by golf cart. It's close to the port and airport, though everything is close on an island this size. At check-in they upgraded me to a private-feeling suite with wonderful ocean views. The room was functional, but I would have liked a chair inside since the bed was the only real place to sit. The bathroom was good, with a very funky shower enclosure that worked fine. The on-site food was a bit pricey, but the quality was excellent and the service was even better. I'd definitely stay again.

The staff were really friendly, and we enjoyed staying here. From the deck you can spot whales, and the beach is lovely for snorkeling or just lying in the sun. There’s also a bar with cover from rain and sun.

The two waiters were lovely, but the restaurant itself made for an unpleasant evening. The space felt bare and soulless, with no mood lighting or soft furnishings, broken glass, bright spotlights in some areas and gloom in others. We ordered dinner for two. The sizzling beef arrived incorrectly, though it was delicious. The fish curry was bland, basic, and cold, and the rice was hard. The price was high, and I wouldn’t come back.