Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
While parts of the beach today look like one giant gravel pit, Playa Herradura represents
one possible future for the central Pacific coast. Sprawling complexes of condos and high-
rise apartments are slowly encircling the bay and snaking up the mountainside, while the
marina boasts rows of luxury yachts and sportfishing vessels. Although opinionated de-
tractors of Playa Herradura are quick to lob insults, there are some truly world-class hotels
on the beach and high up in the surrounding mountains that are worth seeking out.
Sleeping & Eating
You have to pay to play in Playa Herradura, so consider moving further down the coast to
Jacó if you're not prepared to bunk down in the top-end price bracket.
Hotel Villa Caletas
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
( 2630-3000;
www.hotelvillacaletas.com
;
r US$224-641; )
Although the views of the Pacific are amazing, what makes this blufftop hotel truly unique
is its fusion of architectural styles, incorporating elements as varied as tropical Victorian,
Hellenistic and French colonial. The ultraexclusive accommodations are located on the
tiny headland of Punta Leona, perched high on a dramatic hillside at the end of a serpent-
ine driveway.
Each room is arranged amid the tropical foliage of the terraced property, affording a sin-
gular sense of privacy and isolation. The interiors of the rooms are tastefully decorated
with art and antiques, with windows looking onto spectacular views. There is also a
French-influenced restaurant, several semi-private infinity pools, and a private 1km trail
leading down the hillside to the beach.
Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
RESORT
( 2630-9000;
www.marriott.com/sjols
; r US$383-666; )
With golf course behind and marina in front, this sprawling 200-room resort at Playa Her-
radura embodies the upscale comfort envisioned for the development, all wrapped up in a
hacienda-style aesthetic. Interconnected pools meander through the landscaped property,
while luxurious rooms include such comforts as hair dryers, iPod docks, and windows that
actually open to catch the ocean breezes.
Zephyr Palace
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
