The Bottom Line
For the more rugged ecotourist, Playa Hermosa's environmentally-friendly Ecotel offers captivating immersion in Costa Rican wildlife, just steps away from the beach.
Pros
- The owner is an accomplished local conservationist.
- Monkeys, bats, iguanas, you name it!
- Borrow snorkels and kayaks free of charge.
- The communal kitchen is great for budgeting.
- Opens right onto the beach.
Cons
- Not for those who prefer a little luxury.
- Sand is everywhere--even in bed!
- Because of all the communal spaces, privacy is little to none.
Description
- Phone: 672-0175
- Accomodations run between $10-$15 USD
- Located on the last road before the beach, beyond Aquatic Sports and the supermarket.
- If jungle noises keep you awake, bring ear plugs.
- Mind the trash cans: they're divided into Organic (for compost), Inorganic, and Recyclables.
Guide Review - Ecotel - Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica
Set just a few steps back from the sands of Playa Hermosa in Costa Rica, rambling old Ecotel (get it?) is a private jungle hideaway. The owner is a die-hard conservationist, and his preservative touches are visible from the wild vegetation beautifying the patio, to the colony of fruit bats clinging to the wall outside the bathroom window. Troops of monkeys frequently crash through the trees above.
Guestrooms branch off from a communal living area and kitchen, all with wooden walls, raw beams, sandy floors, and bright colors. While Ecotel is rough around the edges, backpackers and budget travelers value its solitude, vibrancy, and castaway feel, plus the knowledge they're donating to a wonderful cause.
