Reviews Of Costa Rica

June 2006 I made a second inspection of The Sanctuary Resort and Spa. I always enjoy my stay at this expansive resort which is tucked away on the secluded beach of Playa Azul. I highly recommend this resort for anyone looking for beach resort away from the crowds.

It is located about 1 hour north of Nosara which is the closest town you can fly into from San Jose on our domestic flights. You have several choices of accommodations here from Seaside Cottages to large fully equipped Homes. You can choose to cook your own meals if you stay in the houses or you can choose the all inclusive plan.

The gardens are very well maintained and the pools are clean and refreshing. Each townhouse unit has its own pool and the Cottages as use of the large seaside pool with swim up bar and shallow area for kids. They added a large rancho near the pool for those who prefer the shade which was very nice for rainy afternoons as well.

The beach is just a few steps beyond the pool and across the board walk. The beach is called "Blue Beach" and it is true to its name, the sand is a blue black color and is very beautiful for walking and relaxing but seemed rather rough for swimming. There were a few lounge chairs and a couple of cabanas on the beach for hotel guest which made it nice for sitting and watching the waves crash in.

All the room types and houses were very well maintained and clean. They are very comfortable and inviting with their Key West inspired decor and fresh colors. The beds are some of the very best I have slept in here in Costa Rica, the linens are of very good quality and comfortable. I stayed in the 2 bedroom Seaside Cottage and I really enjoyed the outdoor shower that each cottage has. It is a very nice addition to the rooms. Also most of the terraces have full or partial ocean views and chairs for sitting.

The resort offers a full service spa in a building by itself along with a seaside thatch hut for spa services. I have to report that my experience at the spa was not up to the standards I expected from a resort that has so much going for it. The quality of the technician was not up to the prices of the services or the resort in my opinion.

Aside from my experience at the spa I would still recommend the resort for at least 4 nights or more since it takes a while to get to the resort. And after you are there and get relaxed you won't even think about being in a secluded area.