"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.
Activities
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 1.5 miles south of Pavones town center and 2.5 miles 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.
Wellness and Relaxation
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: 1.5 miles 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
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
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
La Ponderosa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.5/10Review 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
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
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
Show more
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.
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
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
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:
8
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about La Ponderosa from previous guests about their experience
Review score
Based on 39 verified reviews
9.7 /10
Perfect
98 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.7/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.5/10
Free WiFi
7.5/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
9.2/10
Pros
Breakfast options
Relaxing pool area
Secure parking
Swim able areas
Cons
No microwave
No complaints
No complaints
Guest reviews
based on 46 reviews
9.5/10
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.
Open reviews
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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.
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