Costa Rica (Lonely Planet, 9th Edition) - Matthew Firestone [298]
John Clipperton died in 1722 without ever discovering the legendary treasure, and the mission closed permanently in 1746 as most of the Quepoa had succumbed to European diseases. Although the ruins of the mission were discovered in 1974, they were virtually destroyed and were long since looted. However, if the treasure was indeed as large as it’s described in lore, it is possible that a few gold doubloons could still be lying somewhere, waiting to be unearthed.
All in all, the town’s excellent restaurant scene is kid-friendly, and the local Ticos in town are very welcoming to little ones. And finally, while you’re not exactly on the beach or up in the forest, it’s just a short and uneventful ride out to Manuel Antonio if your kids are in dire need of a little fun in the sun.
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Sleeping
Staying in Quepos offers a cheaper alternative to the sky-high prices at many lodges on the road to Manuel Antonio. It can also be more convenient, as all the banks, supermarkets and bus stops are in Quepos. Reservations are recommended during high-season weekends and are necessary during Easter and the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
For more accommodations options, see the Quepos to Manuel Antonio section, Click here, as well as the Manuel Antonio Village section, Click here.
HOSTELS
Wide-Mouth Frog Backpackers (2777-2798; www.widemouthfrog.org; dm US$11, r with/without bathroom US$40/30; ) This backpacker outpost is run by a welcoming British–New Zealand couple who are determined to make their little spot one of the best accommodations in Costa Rica – and so far, they’ve done everything right. Brightly tiled rooms are centered on an inviting pool with plenty of lounge chairs where backpackers can congregate and swap stories. There’s also a communal kitchen with a huge dining area, a TV lounge with a free DVD rental library and free internet. But what makes this place so memorable are the generally good vibes that radiate throughout the premises, especially in the evenings when everyone unwinds and lets loose over a few drinks.
BUDGET
Hotel Ceciliano (2777-0192; r from US$20; ) There is no shortage of budget hotels in Quepos catering primarily to Tico travelers, though this family-friendly spot gets good marks for its comfortable rooms and welcoming owners. Although the Ceciliano isn’t the newest hotel on the block, everything here is kept spic-and-span, and the welcoming staff ensure that Costa Rican hospitality reigns true during the entirety of your stay.
MIDRANGE
Hotel Sirena (2777-0572; www.lasirenahotel.com; s/d/tr US$60/75/85; ) An unexpectedly Zen-inducing hotel, the Sirena has whitewashed walls with soft pastel trims that are subtly lit by blue Tiffany lamps. The Mediterranean ambience is soothing, and a world away from the rough-and-ready Quepos street scene. The hotel is also perfectly accented with potted plants and original artwork, and is highlighted by a quaint tiki bar overlooking a tranquil swimming pool.
Hotel Villa Romántica (2777-0037; www.villaromantica.com; s/d from US$65/85; ) A short walk southeast from the town center brings you to this peaceful garden oasis, which is overflowing with verdant greens and tropical flowers. If you’re looking for a compromise between the convenience of staying in Quepos and the intimate proximity to nature found in Manuel Antonio, this is an excellent choice. The rooms themselves are designed to be light and open, which is a nice departure from the cloistered feel found at many other midrange spots.
Best Western Hotel Kamuk (2777-0379; www.kamuk.co.cr; r from US$95; ) This upmarket Quepos stalwart bears the somewhat stale Best Western brand name, though in reality the Hotel Kamuk is a surprisingly refreshing historic building that provides excellent value. The Best Western label ensures that service is professional from check-in to checkout, though once you get past reception, the hotel is anything but American in ambience. In fact, the core of the hotel is a winding wooden staircase that fans out to breezy