marAmar Bungalows by STH

I recommend reading all the reviews to get a full and balanced picture of the place. We stayed at MarAmar Bungalows for 7 nights with our family (2 adults and 3 kids), and overall we had a wonderful experience. The location is excellent — close to the beach and within walking distance to great restaurants and spots. The bungalow size was perfect for a family, spacious and comfortable, and suited us very well throughout the stay. There are a few areas that could be improved, mainly related to communication and maintenance. The host was not very responsive. The safe code didn’t work and was never fixed, and at one point we got locked out when our key wouldn’t open the door. We eventually received help from the security guard after being unable to reach the host. Towels were replaced every two days, and there were a few small things that affected the overall enjoyment. Another important note: some of the bungalows are located higher up the hill, with a very steep road. This can feel intimidating, especially if driving an ATV or a regular car. I recommend checking the bungalow location in advance if steep climbs or descents are a concern. All in all, this is a beautiful place with great potential, and despite the issues, we truly enjoyed our stay and would be happy to return. With some improvements in communication and service, it could be exceptional. Pura Vida 🌿

Online the Bungalows had names, but on the check-in instructions, were by number. Confirm w/ host which unit and if you want a particular level (each bungalow has a top & bottom unit). At check-in they said this was bottom, but they nicely accommodated with a different top unit. BUT do not recommend staying in that Bungalow Five until they can demonstrate they have resolved the ant infestation. This isn't normal Costa Rican ants, there are ant highways on the floors, walls, counter tops and bath vanity. If a crumb falls on the floor...game over. Was a constant battle trying to prevent them from getting onto/into our bags and items. It’s REALLY bad. And we kept absolutely everything in the fridge. The included cleaning was also fairly poor, dead ants remained where they had been sprayed, floors swept of sand, but not mopped. Our same damp and used towels - some of which were visibly dirty- would some days just be re-folded and stacked in a pile. Note: no AC in the kitchen/living room/bathroom areas. That whole area it is screens. Temperature in July with the fans was tolerable but humid & damp. Bedrooms had AC (one worked great, other said needs servicing). Beds were a huge plus- so comfortable! FYI a bit of a hill to climb, but not too bad. Also on the plus side, we loved the porch and being up in the trees. The pool was beautiful, and the security men at the front gate were super friendly. The location is great, close to surf spots and DELICIOUS awesome restaurants!

This place was ideal for our stay. Highly walkable to the beach, town, and dining options. The pool was a huge bonus and the kids loved it. The morning wake-up from the howler monkeys was next level cool.

Amazing place

Very good location. Close to everything if you have a form of transportation. Walking distance to the beach. Nice secure neighborhood.The property shows some wear and details need replacement or maintenance. The pool area has a nice seating area, it could use more light at night.We enjoyed our stay.