Pacific Paradise Resort

From the front entrance, it's evident that Pacific Paradise Resort has gone through some changes. Aged statues of Native American figures stand on orange pillars in front of a sign advertising the now-defunct casino. There's a large parking lot and a small, landscaped hill that leads up to a closed two-story structure that was once home to the bar and casino. Drive up the hill and past the casino to find the front desk, located across the drive from the outdoor swimming pool. The small, indoor lobby includes a brown patterned chair and couch, a few out-of-date magazines, and Egyptian art. The grounds are beautifully maintained and decorated with African-style statues, flowering bushes, and green grass. A nature reserve behind the property attracts birds -- we saw a pair of toucans shortly after arriving on property. 

The hotel draws visitors who want to be close to the Quepos airport or away from the bustle of downtown. Many guests are locals, and there have been past reports of prostitutes working out of the rooms under the former management. However, on our visit, we only found a pair of German tourists and a family using the pool for the day. Oddly, we were the only overnight visitors during high season and felt a bit of a deserted vibe. The newest iteration of the hotel is focused on families and nature. Guests wear pink wristbands and day visitors are required to wear green wristbands, in an effort to make sure that everyone who is hanging out at the hotel actually belongs there. 

Pacific Paradise Resort is located off of Route 235, about a three-minute drive from the Quepos Airport and five minutes from the bustling center of Quepos. There's nothing within walking distance of the hotel, but it's adjacent to a nature reserve, so the overall vibe is picturesque and serene. Expect a 15-minute drive to the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park and beach. Ample parking at the hotel is free.

There are 12 Standard Suites and an Accessible Suite located near the pool and seven Deluxe Suites closer to the former casino. Decor varies slightly; the Deluxe Suites are more recently renovated than the Standard Suites. The Deluxe African Suite is decorated with orange tile floors, neutral wallpaper, and heavy wooden furniture. A non-working decorative fireplace stands in the corner and the bed is covered with a burgundy and gold patterned bedspread. Bathrooms include large showers with glass doors etched with the words, Villa Club Terranee, a holdover from prior days. Air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, coffeemaker and coffee, microwave, and mini-fridge are included. A furnished private patio overlooks a garden. All of the rooms are on the ground level. 

The social hub of Pacific Paradise Resort is the outdoor swimming pool and adjacent bar area. The pool has a waterfall feature and adjacent kids' pool, along with blue and white sun loungers and metal chairs around small tables for picnics and drinks. Staff at the bar provides poolside service and delivers drinks to chairs. A free made-to-order breakfast of eggs, toast, and beans and rice is served under the palapa-style roof, but guests have to leave the premises for lunch and dinner. Wi-Fi and parking are included in the price of a room.