We really liked being able to take a short cab ride (about $6 each way) to the nearby town Playas del Coco to experience different restaurants and shops. The resort has an excellent view and the black sand beach of Octocal is very nice. We paid a little extra to stay in a bungalo and would definitely recommend it. The... More

It is indeed a great location. Facilities are quite nice. On a hill overlooking a beautiful bay. We took a room at the bottom of the hill so that we could be closer to the beach and a lower level pool/restaurant/dive shop. However, our phone did not work for the first 4 days of the week we were there. Which... More

We booked a room last minute and got a great deal, with mediocre breakfast included. The room was ok, with a beautiful view. The staff was very friendly and helpful. A very good choice for a hotel near the Liberia airport, about 20 minutes away.

I had high hopes, but they were dashed when I walked in the door! The bed was comfortable and clean, and the TV was nice - and working! However, the lighting was horrid, and the bathroom was in need of repair. The stool had been glued back together. The tiles was in poor shape, and the grout was nasty. The... More

We pre-booked a snorkel tour which may have been a mistake. The conditions were not ideal for snorkeling. Leo, our guide, should have known better than to take us out in jellyfish infested water. At a minimum he should have given us the option of canceling given the jelly infestation. I was bitten everywhere and still suffering, what if I... More

We stayed in a bungalow which was nice. We had our own private little pool that we enjoyed, as well as the patio. This place has a great view and I loved the beach. The beach is down a steep hill but a shuttle is provided for getting around the property. The place overall is a little worn but we... More

The Ocotal is in need for an overhaul of its dated look. Its location is beautifully set above the beach with views as good as any I have seen in the world but the service and rooms are not up to the standard you'd expect with a view as good as the Ocotal's. As others have said the hotel promises... More

We dove with them for 2 excellent dives. Well run. Well organized. Good rental equipment. Unfortunately I lost my shorty wet suit there and was too lazy to go back for it. That's because of the great service. Our gear was all brought to and from the dive boat and cleaned for us after the dives (which is why i... More

My husband and I just returned home from our honeymoon at Ocotal Beach Resort. Unfortunately, we were very unimpressed with this hotel. I'm so thankful the two other hotels we stayed at in Arenal were fabulous, to somewhat make up for this awful place. First of all, we paid over $200/night and were on our honeymoon. It was a terrible... More