La Ponderosa * Pavones (Puntarenas) | Beachfront Eco Resort

La Ponderosa Hotel Pavones Exterior photo

Key details

About the Resort

Unnamed Road, Pavones (Puntarenas)

Close to Playa Pavones

Perfect

9.4

/10

5.0

Loved by La Ponderosa guests

Beautiful vegetation

Relaxing pool area

Comfortable beds

Delicious meals

"Breakfast options were great."

Randall from United States

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"The landscaping of The Ponderosa was intricately laid out with tropical vegetation and walkways that wind around to the different units."

Ed from United States

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"If you like surfing then you cannot fault Ponderosa."

Wendy from United Kingdom

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3-star beachfront eco-resort in Pavones

Accommodations

La Ponderosa offers eight uniquely furnished accommodations including the two-bedroom Villa El Oso Perezoso, designed for larger families or groups. Each room provides a mini-fridge for snacks, and air conditioning for comfort during warm days, while many rooms feature views of lush gardens or the ocean. Guests can select from ground or second-floor options, with specific features tailored to individual preferences.

Dining

On-site dining is available with a menu that caters to various appetites, offering fresh breakfast and lunch options throughout the day. Guests may purchase meals individually or through a pre-paid package for convenience. Dining areas are designed to enhance the experience of leisurely meals in a casual setting.

Leisure

The hotel provides access to a game room filled with a ping-pong table, foosball, and a pool table, making it a social hub for guests. Situated close to one of the longest point breaks in the world, La Ponderosa connects surf enthusiasts with local instructors for lessons. Wildlife enthusiasts can discover over 270 bird species in the gardens, enjoying sightings of macaws and monkeys.

Location

La Ponderosa is positioned where the jungle meets the beach, located 2 km south of Pavones town center and 4 km north of Punta Banco town center. This secluded property features its own sandy swimming area ideal for relaxation and exploration of tide pools along the coast. The surrounding Golfo Dulce region is recognized for its eco-tourism opportunities and abundant wildlife.

Leisure

Guests can unwind with therapeutic massages offered in a calming garden setting, promoting relaxation after a day of activities. The hotel features a custom tropical swimming pool designed with a shallow beach style entry, making it accessible for children. Nature trails are available for leisurely strolls through well-established gardens, enhancing the connection with nature.

Highlights

Location: 2 km south of Pavones town center

Activities: Game room with ping-pong and foosball

Dining: Fresh breakfast and lunch options

Wellness: Therapeutic massages in garden setting

Wildlife: Over 270 bird species to spot

“Pavones is a true escape, and this property amplifies that feeling of discovery. The landscaping creates a sense of privacy and immersion in the natural surroundings. Its proximity to the beach and well-designed pool area make it ideal for those seeking relaxation and surf.”

Emma JohnsonEditor-in-Chief at Toresort

Location: Perfect

9.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingShaded Security

The parking area felt very safe. I appreciated the shade; it kept my car cool. An outdoor shower helped with the sand after surfing.

Carlos from Spain

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Sports & FitnessSurfer's Paradise

Steps away from a wild beach, it's perfect for surfing. There's even an elevated platform to easily check the surf conditions.

Jake from Australia

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Room FeaturesBalcony Bliss

Our large room included a sea-facing balcony with mosquito protection. It's perfect for enjoying the fresh air bug-free.

Ingrid from Sweden

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DiningCoffee Convenience

Free cold water and coffee were available in the dining area. Breakfast had many tasty options. This was a plus.

Kenji from Japan

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Select your room type

La Ponderosa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Double Room Balcony Sea View
2 persons
32 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Sea view
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
King Room Balcony
2 persons
49 sq. feet
2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Bungalow Garden View
2 persons
30 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Garden view
Air conditioning
Shower
room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

La Ponderosa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Snorkelling
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Table tennis
Fishing

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance

Dining

Restaurant
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus

Children

Cots
Board games
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Plunge pool
Saltwater pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Garden area
Full body massage
Pool with view
Shallow end

Room features

Air conditioning
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Parquet floor

Dining Onsite

La Ponderosa features a unique dining experience that melds American comfort with local flair. Enjoy a menu designed for surfers, offering hearty options for a satisfying start to the day. Open for breakfast, this on-site venue ensures a delightful morning filled with choices for every appetite, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections.

La Ponderosa Hotel Pavones Restaurant photo

Private Hotel Restaurant

American, Local

Ambiance

Bright and inviting setting, perfect for casual dining with a touch of local charm.

Key Offerings

A full breakfast menu crafted to satisfy hearty appetites, featuring vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.

Reservation

Not needed.

Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Location

Unnamed Road, Pavones (Puntarenas)

Explore Pavones (Puntarenas)

Local Highlights Near La Ponderosa

Playa Pavones

25 minutes' walk

A stunning surf beach known for its long left-hand waves, ideal for surfing and sunbathing.

Iglesia de Pavones

25 minutes' walk

A charming local church that showcases beautiful architecture and serves as a community hub.

Sea Kings Surf Shop

25 minutes' walk

Offers surfboard rentals and lessons, perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Pavones Beach

30 minutes' walk

Renowned for its serene atmosphere and stunning sunset views, a great spot for relaxation.

Surfing Lessons

25 minutes' walk

Accessible at nearby surf schools, lessons are tailored for all skill levels. Enjoy the waves!

Nature Hiking

30 minutes' walk

Leads through scenic trails near Tiskita Jungle Lodge, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Yoga Retreats

10 minutes' drive

Relaxing classes held at local studios, promoting wellness and mindfulness surrounded by nature.

Kayaking Tours

10 minutes' drive

Explore coastal waters and mangroves; tours often include equipment rental and guided experiences.

La Bruschetta

5 minutes' walk

A cozy local eatery specializing in Italian-inspired dishes, perfect for a casual meal with fresh ingredients.

Pavones Restaurant

10 minutes' drive

Offers local specialties in a relaxed setting; try the fresh seafood dishes for a taste of Costa Rica.

Casa de la Cultura

10 minutes' drive

Features authentic Costa Rican cuisine with a focus on organic ingredients and traditional recipes.

El Café de Pavones

10 minutes' drive

A charming café providing a variety of coffee blends and baked goods, perfect for a snack or light meal.

Live Music at La Bruja

10 minutes' drive

A lively venue with local bands performing weekly; great for night outs with friends or family.

Cine Pavones

10 minutes' drive

Catch the latest films in a cozy theater setting; family-friendly movies are often shown.

Bar La Bomba

10 minutes' drive

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, hosts trivia nights and offers a range of cocktails and local brews.

Cultural Festivities

25 minutes' walk

Seasonal events and festivals celebrating local culture, often featuring music, dance, and traditional foods.

Getting around

City Centre
Pavones (Puntarenas) 17 min · 4600 ft
Airports
Golfito (GLF) 93 min · 38.2 mi
Aeropuerto de Palmar Sur (PMZ) 176 min · 72.8 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:30

Check-out

from 07:00-12:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about La Ponderosa from previous guests about their experience

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Comfort

9.5/10

Facilities

9.4/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.5/10

Location

9.6/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.7/10

Staff

9.3/10

Value for money

9.2/10

Pros

Breakfast options

Relaxing pool area

Secure parking

Swim able areas

Cons

No microwave

No complaints

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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Questions of the users

About La Ponderosa

Is the WiFi strong enough for video calls? I need a reliable connection for my work during my stay.

13 March 2024

The WiFi connection is generally good, with two different providers to ensure options if one is facing issues. There are plans to upgrade to a faster option soon.

What are my options for reaching the hotel if I decide not to rent a car?

19 April 2024

Renting a car is the most common choice, which allows for easy exploration of the area. Alternatively, a taxi service or private transfer can be arranged.

Can you recommend local attractions, dining options, and travel methods nearby?

05 May 2024

A bus passes in front of the hotel once daily, heading to Golfito. Nearby, the famous Pavones surf break is a must-visit, along with an Italian restaurant just a five-minute walk away.

How far is it to the surfing point at Pavones from the hotel, and are there other surf spots around?

12 May 2024

The hotel is located about 1.6 kilometers south of the Pavones surf point. There's also another surf spot known as Punta Banco, approximately 3.2 kilometers to the south.

Do visitors usually need a vehicle for getting around and to access surf spots, especially for beginners?

29 May 2024

While a rental car is often recommended for convenience, particularly with surf gear, there are beginner breaks accessible without a vehicle, though having one provides flexibility.

Are there any policies in place regarding bringing pets, such as service dogs?

20 June 2024

The property maintains a strict no pets policy, including service animals.

If I need to heat baby food, is there a microwave available on-site?

22 July 2024

Unfortunately, there are no microwaves available on the property, not even in the restaurant. However, a two-bedroom villa does feature a stovetop.

Is there a local car rental agency near the resort for visitors who wish to rent a vehicle?

10 August 2024

There is no car rental agency in Pavones itself, but a NATIONAL rental car service in Golfito can deliver a vehicle to Pavones for a fee.

What activities are available on-site at the resort for guests looking for entertainment?

15 September 2024

The resort features a game room equipped with ping-pong, foosball, and pool tables, along with board games and a lounge area. Volleyball and basketball courts are also available.

Can you tell me about wildlife viewing around the resort? What types of animals might I see?

25 October 2024

The area is teeming with wildlife. Guests may spot macaws, toucans, monkeys, iguanas, and more, often right outside their rooms, particularly due to the well-maintained gardens.