Bahia del Sol Hotel, Gulf of Papagayo

Pros

• Bahia del Sol is set in Potrero Beach, so you'll be in a peaceful spot surrounded by trees and away from crowded tourist areas.
• You'll have access to a pool with a swim-up bar and a Jacuzzi.
• The hotel is family-friendly, offering rooms accommodating up to four people, so it's a good choice if you're traveling with kids.
• Since the hotel is beachfront, in a safe and quiet coastal area, you can hit the sand in a few steps via a paved walkway.
• The hotel offers three on-site restaurants and a cute coffee shop selling homemade cakes and sweets.
• For a bit of self-care, head to the spa or book a specific wellness-focused experience, which can include perks like sound therapy, yoga lessons, private fireside dinners, massages, and treatments like vitamin therapy. 

Cons

• The hotel primarily focuses on providing a tranquil setting, meaning fewer on-site activities exist.
• Some rooms feel outdated and barebones compared to other similarly priced hotels.
• Some rooms are only accessible via stairs; there are no elevators.

Authenticity

Bahia del Sol is a hotel that beautifully reflects the tranquil environment of Potrero Beach, Costa Rica. It offers a secluded atmosphere, providing an authentic escape from the crowds. The hotel's design and ambience are deeply rooted in the local culture, offering an authentic Costa Rican beachfront experience. 

Location

Bahia del Sol is located in Potrero Beach, a relaxed stretch of coastline that's not quite as busy as other Costa Rican areas. The hotel offers direct beach access via a short paved walkway from the main building and garden to the sand. The town has a few eateries and shops, but you can also easily explore other nearby hotspots. Playa Hermosa is a 45-minute drive north, and Puerto Viejo is 30 minutes away. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Bahia del Sol offer a serene and calm environment, reflecting the hotel's tranquil ambience. You can choose from different room types, including family suites with separate bedrooms or bunkbeds and one-bedroom rooms with queen-sized beds. Some rooms also have kitchens and outdoor terraces with hammocks and furnishings. Not all rooms are as warm and updated as others, so check with your travel specialist to help you find the perfect option.  

Wildlife

Bahía del Sol Hotel is on the beach; guests might spot iguanas and lizards on the property grounds and tropical birds in the trees. Travelers might hear the sounds of wildlife at night or early in the morning.  

Amenities

One of the main highlights of Bahia del Sol is its beachfront location, complete with sun loungers and a garden bordering the sand with places to eat and relax. Additionally, the hotel has a lagoon-style pool with a swim-up bar and Jacuzzi, allowing you to relax and unwind while enjoying a refreshing drink. An outdoor firepit is another place to unwind after dark. The hotel has a spa offering a menu of massages and beauty treatments. The hotel has taken steps to become eco-friendly, with 100% renewable energy, 80% lighting from LEDs, and comprehensive recycling and food waste programs. 

Family-Friendliness

Bahía del Sol Hotel is family-friendly. The apartments offer plenty of room for families, and the pool is fun for all ages. There's no kids' menu or special activities for kids, but past travelers said the beach seems very safe for children. Cribs can be provided on request, and babysitting services are available for a fee. 

Other Highlights

The hotel's on-site eateries provide a good mix of dining experiences, with the main restaurant set in a traditional thatched hut with al fresco dining. Breakfast is served at Nasu Italian Grill, or guests can pick up coffee and pastries at the Café del Sol coffee shop and bakery. The hotel also has a beach restaurant, a tapas bar, a terrace bar and lounge, and a rooftop cocktail and wine bar.