Hotel El Velero

Overall, we had a very good stay at Hotel El Velero. Our room was comfortable and felt nicely updated, particularly the bathroom. The fixtures seemed quite new and the shower had an almost spa-like feel to it, which we really appreciated. The hotel itself has a charming, colonial-style atmosphere and a relaxed feel. The staff were friendly, polite, and attentive whenever we needed anything, especially the staff at the restaurant. The food at the restaurant was also very good, parking was easy, and everything about our stay felt pretty straightforward and convenient. The location is definitely one of the hotel's biggest strengths. It's right on the beach, so you can walk straight from the common areas onto Playa Hermosa. Beach towels and outdoor showers are available, and having the ocean right outside the hotel is hard to beat. We stayed here for our final two nights in Costa Rica because we wanted to be relatively close to the airport, and it worked out perfectly for that.

There were two things that could use some improvement. We noticed an unpleasant sewage-like smell around the staircase on several occasions. It wasn't a major issue at first since it seemed confined to that area, but during both nights of our stay I woke up and could smell it in our room as well. I'm not sure what was causing it, but it was noticeable enough that I think it's worth mentioning. The pool could also use some TLC. There were quite a few leaves, bugs, and debris in the water — some of which is obviously unavoidable with an outdoor pool — but overall it didn't feel as clean or well maintained as it could have been. The water also looked a little murky, although it was difficult to tell whether that was the water itself or simply the age and condition of the pool. Those issues aside, we enjoyed our stay. Hotel El Velero is comfortable, charming, and incredibly well located, with friendly staff and the huge advantage of being directly on the beach. With a little more attention to the pool and the odour issue, it could be an even better place to stay.

Hotel vibe and style was incredible. Simply walking to my room gave me the "okay, I'm officially on vacation now" sense of relaxation. Not sure if "Bohemian Resort" is a thing or if I even know what that means, but that's what comes to mind. Access to the beach was literally footsteps away. Great restaurants right next to the hotel. Saw monkeys 10 feet away from our room. One of the better hotels I've ever stayed in.

They say you get complimentary morning coffee from the connected restaurant. That is true, but the restaurant staffer def puts on her cranky pants when you ask for coffee. Happened twice. At least the coffee was good!

well maintained property right on the beach, walking distance to a couple of restaurants. The hotel also has a good restaurant. We will definitely come back.

On the beach

Under staffed in restaurant. Food was not hot and service was slow.