Hotel & Villas Huetares, Gulf of Papagayo

Located along the Gulf of Papagayo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Hotel & Villas Huetares is a simple, family-friendly property surrounded by trees and bordering the ocean. Its 24 rooms and suites are in villa-like structures set around a central pool area with tropical plants and palm trees. The hotel is just a quick 3-minute walk from Playa Hermosa Beach, a 15-minute drive from the lively Cocos Beach, and within walking distance of several eateries. 

Pros

• The hotel is close to the beach, and travelers can borrow snorkeling equipment to use during their stay.
• Hotel & Villas Huetares has two large pools and a kids' pool, all with food and drink service.
• A complimentary continental buffet breakfast starts at 7 am.
• There's a game room that's a nice feature when the weather doesn't cooperate.

Cons

• The pools can get crowded.
• Noise from the pools can filter into guest rooms.
• The rooms have basic decor and don't have much personality.
• There's no spa or fitness center.

Authenticity

The property has tropical vegetation that attracts native wildlife, including birds and butterflies. The hotel's restaurant serves local dishes, allowing guests to sample traditional Costa Rican cuisine, and it's common to see locals dining on the premises.

Location

Hotel & Villas Huetares is located along the Gulf of Papagayo in Guanacaste. Only a five-minute walk to Playa Hermosa and a 15-minute walk from the town center, the hotel is close to a good selection of restaurants and shops. It's a 15-minute drive to Playas del Coco for more shops, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife. The hotel offers a shuttle service to and from the Liberia airport (Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport) for an added fee, a 30-minute drive (14.8 mi/23.8 km). The best way to get around this chill area, which isn't too touristy, is by car.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel offers basic rooms and suites, each with tiled flooring, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and a seating/dining area. The rooms are pretty simple with just the basics, though it's still a good place to unwind after a day of adventures, and the bathrooms come with complimentary toiletries. Book one of the suites for more space and amenities, like a kitchen and a generous living area. 

Wildlife

Travelers will wake up to the sounds of local birds and monkeys and perhaps catch glimpses of them in the trees. Iguanas are also known to appear poolside.

Amenities

Hotel & Villas Huetares has two large pools and a kids' pool. Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and towels are provided. There's also a hot tub; travelers can enjoy snacks and drinks from the nearby bar and restaurant. Parking, the main entry, ground-floor hotel rooms, and villas are wheelchair accessible. In the event of inclement weather, there's a game room with table tennis, a pool table, and games for kids.

Family-Friendliness

Hotel & Villas Huetares welcomes children of all ages, and kids under thirteen qualify for a discounted rate. The villas are a great choice for families and groups, offering two bedrooms and a comfortable living room. There's a playground, an indoor playroom, a children's menu at the restaurant, and a kids' pool. The property is flat and paved for strollers, and many families come with their children.
 

Other Highlights

Hotel & Villas Huetares' restaurant, Coco Viquez, serves international and Latin American cuisine. A complimentary continental buffet breakfast starting at 7 am. For other meals and snacks, the restaurant has an a la carte menu, a buffet, and a full bar with poolside service. Reservations are suggested as it's open to the public.