Villas Rio Mar

Villas Rio Mar isn't a campground, but it's a fair comparison to draw in terms of facilities and grounds. The reception desk and lobby are housed in a semi-open-air bungalow with a green roof and white stone siding. Tied, sheer white curtains add a little ambience. The space is set with a cluster of wooden chairs around a water cooler and two desktop computers for guests to use. This is the spot for free Wi-Fi, as the signal rarely picks up elsewhere on the property. Behind the lobby area, the garden grounds are spread out up a slight hill that borders a swath of thick rain forest. Individual bungalows are scattered throughout green lawns accented with native trees and plants labeled with signs. The swimming pool and restaurant are adjacent, and the tennis court and mini-golf course are located in front of the parking lot, near the entrance. The spa is built at the very back of the property, on top of the hill, so it's quiet and picturesque. 

Though couples do visit this property, it's best for families and large groups. The vibe is peaceful and focused on nature, though little ones can occasionally take over the pool. 

Villas Rio Mar has an isolated location that can be difficult to be find. Drive under the bridge at the end of the main drag in Dominical (there isn't a sign) and along the river on a hilly gravel road for about three minutes until you see the hotel on your right. People do swim in the river, but should keep an eye out for crocodiles. There aren't any neighboring restaurants, hotels, or private residences within view of the property, so there's an air of seclusion, but the bars, hostels, restaurants, and gift shops of Dominical are a 15-minute walk away from Villas Rio Mar. Dominical Beach is a bit farther, about a 20-minute walk. A car isn't truly necessary, but it's nice for those who want to explore neighboring beaches or save themselves a walk in the heat. Its about a 45-minute drive to Manuel Antonio National Park and 25 minutes to Playa Uvita. Outdoor parking at the hotel is free and easy. 

Villas Rio Mar is a solid pick for families and groups, and the standalone bungalow buildings each house four separate rooms or suites. Family Rooms have two double beds, air-conditioning, and a flat-screen TV plus an indoor kitchen with cooking gear. Junior Suites include two king-size beds, a larger bathroom with a jetted tub, and an outdoor kitchenette. Superior Rooms offer one king bed and a single bed, plus air-conditioning. Standard Rooms can have one queen bed or two single beds, but don't have air-conditioning or TVs. All rooms have a comfy front porch with mini-fridges and white curtains to pull down for privacy. Decor ranges from out-of-date patterned bedspreads to crisp white bedding with orange bed runners. White tile bathrooms are clean and can include lots of counter space. On our visit, we didn't have any hot water and past guests have complained about maintenance issues. There's an extra fee for optional daily housekeeping. 

It would be entirely possible to check into Villas Rio Mar and have all of one's needs met without leaving the property for the entirety of the vacation. Most of the action happens at the large freeform swimming pool. One end has a tiki waterfall feature and the other end features a swim-up bar with submerged bar stools. Sun loungers and plastic chairs and tables line the deck. A swing set and tree fort are set up just behind the pool and Rancho restaurant is adjacent. Guests get a substantial free breakfast buffet that includes everything from fried yucca to French toast and sausages. All-inclusive packages are available for purchase as well. Lunch and dinner options vary, and there's a dedicated kids' menu and full bar. A pool table and foosball table are nice options for rainy afternoons.

Out front, there are a tennis court and cute mini-golf course. For adults, a small spa is built at the back of the property in a bungalow that faces the rain forest. Inside, there's a single treatment room for massages. Wi-Fi is free but extremely limited; the best chance at picking up a signal is in the lobby or via one of the two desktop computers available. Pool towels must be picked up and dropped off at the reception desk. Staff can arrange excursions, tours, and recommend nearby beaches.