At a Glance
This chicly appointed El Mangroove is an excellent option for couples in search of a full-service resort experience at a lower price than the neighboring Four Seasons and Andaz.
Review
With a prime position on Papagayo Peninsula on the northwest tip of Costa Rica, El Mangroove has all the trappings of an ideal beachfront resort. The design, which is elegant and quintessentially Costa Rican, is one of the hotel's best attributes. Guests enter through an airy, indoor-outdoor lobby and are greeted with views of the beach and swimming pool ahead, along with a rustic, thatched-roof restaurant whose wooden chairs spill onto the beach.
El Mangroove's rooms are slightly less decorative, in this case swapping Costa Rican influences with minimalist, fresh and beach-inspired décor. Crisp white linens and sofas meet with blonde wood furniture and the occasional pop of color. Many accomodations have outdoor patios with jungle views, and the pièce de résistance, the El Mangle Suite, has a private plunge pool, direct access to the beach and a full kitchen (ideal for travelers looking for a villa experience).
In addition to beach- and pool-front relaxation, guests are spoiled for choice with plenty of water sports (including kayaking and paddle boarding) and boating available on the beach. Also impressive is the massive Renaissance Spa, a stunning, Asian-inspired pavilion tucked away from the resort's main hub. Special servies include reflexology and yoga massages, plus Costa Rican-inspired treatments such as 'volcanic soothing' using heated stones, and 'organic coffee detoxifying,' meant to improve circulation. At mealtime, guests choose between the all-day sea-to-table gastronomic restaurant, and the more casual poolside eatery serving delicious pizzas, grilled fish and ceviches.
Who Should Stay
Budget-conscious travelers who can appreciate a laid-back beach experience. Those who require high-touch service should opt for the Four Seasons.
Written by Blair West