Mandala Eco Villas

The people were really nice, and the place looked pleasant enough inside. I didn’t stay overnight, so I can’t comment on the rooms. The beach is covered in rocks and was completely inaccessible during winter. People said it’s better in summer, when there are fewer rocks. If you’re just after a pool, it’s fine. The food costs a lot for the quality. I liked the visit, but wouldn’t go back.

We loved the scenery, the welcome we got, and how safe the place felt. The food was fresh, the drinks were cold, and it’s a beautiful setting surrounded by nature. I’m glad we got to spend the day there. The pool needs repairs, though. Tiles are missing, and two of the six children in our group got cuts. The property looks old and could use a proper cleaning and fresh paint. That health concern is why I can’t give it more than three stars.

The pool was kept clean, and the staff were nice. Our meals looked colorful and were presented well, though the taste was only okay. My husband liked the fresh juices, but neither of us thought much of the other drinks. We stayed in a bungalow hoping for a romantic weekend, but the one nearest the pool was noisy because of a large party. We could hear everything. It also got very cold at night, and the only bedding was a flat sheet. The hotel is set back in the forest, so getting anywhere nearby meant driving. It’s fenced and gated, which we appreciated for security. The beach gate was closed because the shore is very rocky and swimming there isn’t possible. They charged our card as soon as the 30-day mark arrived, and wouldn’t let us change the stay. Our work plans shifted about a week before we arrived, so we asked to move the dates or cancel two extra days we no longer needed. They wouldn’t agree and suggested we pass those days to family or friends, but we’re from the US and didn’t have anyone there to use them. After we complained, they gave us credit for the restaurant and bar. We had an okay, three-out-of-five stay at Mandala Eco Villas, but wouldn’t book again.

Maria Jose welcomed us, showed us to our room, and explained what we needed to know. The whole team was attentive from arrival through checkout. Our family villa had a king bed, bunk beds, and two bathrooms, and the rooms matched their description. The outdoor showers were a nice touch. Food was delicious, and the internet was reliable enough for the virtual meetings I had to attend. A few practical details: the pool is open 24/7, the restaurant closes at 6 pm, and they share contact information for restaurants that deliver. Beach access closes at sunset. The road is unpaved once you leave the highway. The shore is rocky, so you have to walk a little to either side of the resort to find a sandy place by the ocean. I recommend staying here. Catch the sunset from the garden beside the pool.