Mafia Beach Bungalows

The staff, including the kitchen team, were exceptionally friendly and did a lot to make our stay pleasant. We were a large group, which they didn’t seem used to, and several things went wrong. They tried hard to sort them out, though some of us were there for two weeks. The setting has mixed points. It’s on a slope, so some units have lovely views and others don’t. Mangroves lie between the hotel and the beach, and getting into the water there wasn’t pleasant. There are lots of fruit bats in the mangroves. They were interesting to watch and I didn’t feel threatened by them, but they made some noise at night. Several groups came to photograph them. The steep stairs were difficult and uneven. The rooms were hot, and they provided floor fans. Some were hotter than others because air didn’t move through them well. I slept with every door and window open, and mosquito nets were provided. Electricity was unreliable, so the fans would stop when the power cut out. That also caused problems for people in our group who use CPAP machines. The location is within a designated reserve that costs $25 USD per day. My impression of the stay is mixed. The staff were the best part, but I wouldn’t return or recommend it. I’d rather try somewhere else.

The staff were amazing and so nice, and the place itself is truly beautiful. The bungalows look fairly new, though they’re basic, and the views are breathtaking. I’d stay here again, but there are a couple of things to know. Power sometimes goes out across the whole island, which isn’t this hotel’s fault. The lack of information about it was concerning, though. At 9 pm I was wandering around with my lantern, shouting for someone who could explain what was happening. There are a cat and a couple of dogs around. They’re cute, but cry day and night. Lots of bats live in the trees beside the hotel too, so I’d bring earplugs.

We stayed two nights with friends and arrived late in the afternoon to warm smiles. The rooms were almost ready, and the staff took our lunch order while we waited. The best things here are the hospitality and the views. It’s right by the beach, with mangroves in front, and we saw stunning sunrises. A recent hurricane had badly damaged some rooms, but there are still plenty of rooms for a small group, with six double or twin rooms. I can’t say much about the food since we only had lunch once, but breakfast was straightforward and good: fresh fruit and smoothie, eggs and toast to order, and pancakes. The pancakes could use some work. There’s a coffee station in the house that’s open 24 hours. We stayed up all night at the restaurant, and the coffee kept us company. Iddi and Ally were great hosts, helpful and very kind to let us stay well past checkout on our last day. A good budget-friendly option if you keep your expectations modest. The basics were right: good water pressure, hot showers, clean linen, mosquito repellent and nets in the room, a standing fan, and a decent breakfast. I can’t complain!

Ally was a helpful host and offered good tours at good prices. The restaurant food was nice, and the staff were very helpful too. We were glad to find such a lovely, peaceful spot so close to the beach and ocean. The bungalows have a great tropical feel, and it’s a quiet place to slow down.