Casa Conde Beach Front Hotel, Gulf of Papagayo

Pros

• The hotel's property borders the shore and offers direct beach access, plus a few views from some common areas—if you can snag a seat at the bar, it's a good spot for sunset.
• Two swimming pools have fun features, like a swim-up bar and waterfalls, plus a shallow area for kids.
• The buffet restaurant offers a generous spread and variety of food, plus plenty of fresh and local fruit for breakfast. 
• You'll find gardens and walking paths throughout the well-manicured grounds. 

Cons

• There's no spa or fitness center at the hotel. 
• The standard rooms are pretty basic, so we recommended booking a suite to enjoy the property's essence. 
• Despite being a beachfront hotel, the property doesn't offer many ocean or beach views.

Authenticity

Straight away, the hotel's spacious open-air lobby welcomes you to Costa Rica, with high wood ceilings, tile flooring, and greenery. The buildings and rooms aren't oceanfront, but you have direct access to the shore via a private gate, giving you both a jungle and beach experience. 

Location

Casa Conde borders Playa Panamá, one of Papagayo's many beaches. Though you won't get many ocean views from the hotel, you have private and direct access to the beach. If you'd like to dine off-site, you'll also be within walking distance of a few area eateries. But to explore the other area highlights, renting a car or hiring a transfer is best. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

You'll find 50 rooms within four categories at Casa Conde, all providing air-conditioning, minifridges, and coffee makers. The standard rooms offer the basics, with bright spaces, two double beds or a king bed, tile flooring, and a choice of a semi-ocean view or a garden view. Upgrade to a suite to get the authentic Costa Rican experience and add amenities like kitchens, seating areas, private decks, and bathrooms with a Jacuzzi tub.

Wildlife

It's common to spot wildlife around the property, including monkeys, iguanas, parrots, and tropical birds. 

Amenities

There are two pools at Casa Conde. The large main pool features an uncovered hot tub, swim-up bar, fountains, and a shallow area for small children. This pool overlooks the ocean and has several lounge areas. The second pool has a rock waterfall and several smaller lounge areas. There's no fitness center or spa on-site, but spa services can be arranged for guests in their rooms. Some units on the ground floor can accommodate travelers with limited mobility.

Family-Friendliness

Casa Conde is a family-friendly hotel, and kids under three can stay for free. Those 12 and older are charged as adults, while those between 4 and 11 are charged at a reduced rate. Cribs and extra beds are free. All ages are welcome at both pools, but the main pool area, with its shallow end, is ideal for children. There's also a playground for kids and child-friendly options at the Vistas del Gulfo buffet.

Other Highlights

Casa Conde has three restaurants: Vistas del Golfo, Santa Rosa, and Sport Bar El Zarpe. Breakfast is served at Vistas del Golfo, as well as lunch and dinner, all in a buffet format. Santa Rosa is a more gourmet a la carte option, open for dinner, and Sport Bar El Zarpe is a full-service bar that also serves pizza and burgers in the evening. The main pool has a swim-up bar.