Alma del Pacifico

A comfortable and stylish villa and spa resort, formerly called Xandari by the Pacific, on a seemingly endless stretch of beach

This is an ideal spot for the restful part of your trip to Costa Rica. There are attractions within reach: Manuel Antonio National Park, the crocodile safari, boat trips to see the wildlife in Mangrove rivers. But the real appeal of being here is to lie back in a hammock and gaze at the waves breaking on this magnificent beach.

The resort was originally designed by an architect and painter couple who felt that luxury and elegance should be relaxed, not pretentious or over the top. They called it Xandari By The Pacific, and for many years it was a beloved beach resort among discerning independent travellers. Bought in early 2011 by Rock Resorts and renamed Alma del Pacífico - we have not visited since the change in ownership - it still promises a colourful world of spacious villas in post-modern Californian style, beautiful gardens right on the ocean front, and holistic treatments in the spa to soothe and restore you. When the sun starts to sink, go for a stroll along the wide glassy sands, order a mojito from the bar and watch the spectacular sunset.

Highs

• Tremendous location on one of Costa Rica’s finest beaches: endless smooth sand, no rocks and great surfing - yet few people!
• Relaxed atmosphere; fabulous light bouncing off the Pacific ocean. Utterly peaceful
• Villas are luxurious, spacious and have everything you need. It’s like borrowing someone’s private house for a few days
• Just 45 minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park: see the wildlife and return to the peace of the beach

Lows

• We have not visited it in its new incarnation, so can't vouch for the current service or food levels; also, be aware that they plan to renovate and expand during 2011
• This part of the Pacific coast is not Costa Rica’s top attraction, and there's little nightlife in the area apart from seedy Jacó - but the main point is to relax
• The design is bright - reflecting Costa Ricans’ love of colour. Garish at first, perhaps, but you soon feel at home
• Phones and WiFi in the rooms, but no TV (when we visited): a deliberate choice of the owners to help you completely disengage