Drake Bay Getaway Resort by Sandglass

We had high hopes for Drake Bay Getaway based on the glowing reviews and beautiful website, but the experience fell far short. While there were a few bright spots, the stay left us frustrated, uncomfortable, and deeply disappointed. What we appreciated: The onsite staff were kind, welcoming, and truly did their best with the circumstances they were given. Breakfast was delicious. The team helped us with luggage on the steep and surprisingly long hike to the rooms and allowed us to store bags while we visited Corcovado. Once we arrived, they also shared a working WhatsApp number for communication—which was critical, since nothing else worked. What went wrong and why we won’t be returning: False advertising: The website and our confirmation email clearly stated that airport transfers were included. They were not. Thankfully the staff arranged a taxi, or we would have been stranded at a remote airport with no Wi-Fi or taxis. No communication: The hotel did not respond to our emails, and the WhatsApp number on the website didn’t work. We had no way to reach anyone in advance. Luxury? Not even close: Our room had an open-air shower and a fully open connection to the bedroom. During a storm, we were woken in the middle of the night with water falling on us. That same storm brought in huge jungle insects, making the bathroom unusable. And yes, I know we are in the jungle but the open air shower didn't enhance the experience with beauty, a simple screen would make it so much better. Same with the giant door - a simple screen allows you to enjoy the breeze and beauty without the bugs. We had this in other jungle locations! Missing amenities: There was no in-room coffee or tea, despite being promised in both the confirmation and on the website. The hammocks shown online had also been removed. Misleading marketing: The hike to the rooms is much more strenuous and longer than described. They previously used to shuttle you up the hill to the trail at least, but that is not offered anymore. Anyone with mobility concerns should be warned clearly. The real issue: It’s obvious that the original owners who built a true luxury experience have sold to a heartless corporation. Since Sandglass Hotels took over, they’ve stripped away everything that made this place special. The website still reflects the old charm, but the experience does not. The amazing staff are doing their best, but they can’t fix what ownership has broken. Bottom line: We paid for a luxury eco-lodge and got a poorly maintained, misrepresented property with no accountability from the company that now runs it. I would never stay here again and will actively avoid any Sandglass hotel in the future.

We stayed for a few nights and resort has a lovely feel, I was concerned about the lack of air conditioning prior to booking, however with the way the air flows naturally through the apartment there is no need for air con plus it allows you to hear the animals naturally throughout your stay. Would definitely recommend

We cannot say enough about our time at Drake Bay Getaway. Hay Neer had newly taken over management of the resort and it did not show as he was so welcoming, knowledable and organized. We could not have asked for a better host. He helped us plan our excursions and made sure we had what we needed to maximize our experiences. We do not speak Spanish so it was so nice to have Hay Neers help with organizing adventures for us.We had so much fun talking to Hay Neer and his party Andy who also helped host. The food was absolutely incredible and blew us away. The staff we so mindful and accomodating of dietary restrictions and the food was all made fresh and was amazing. The room and view was stunning. Everything on the property was spotless. All the staff we so kind and hard working. We even got to see some wild life around the property!

What can I say about Drake Bay Getaway Resort and Drake Bay in general - Life-changing. We stayed in the Heliconia cabin and it was perfect. Great views of the ocean and a macaw couple nesting in the trees. We were worried about the lack of AC - we are Americans okay - but the ceiling fan and airflow of the cabin made it comfortable. In fact we had to use the blanket at night. Geinier, the new GM, is amazing. He went above and beyond to make our trip memorable. The food was impeccable and always 5-star presentation. The fresh fruit, smoothies, desserts. I really can’t explain how fantastic everything was at this resort. We made forever friends and plan to go back as soon as we can. Highly recommend!!

I went after reading near perfect reviews. While there were aspects I liked, it wasn’t the great experience I had hoped for Pros: meals were beautiful and delicious; Yens and Patrick were super nice and accommodating; the view from the bungalow was good ( not great); the other guests were friendly and interesting; good WiFi Cons: animal life not nearly as plentiful as expected (saw monkeys from our balcony at Tulemar; none at drake bay); Corcovado and mangrove tour were letdowns (Corcovado is crowded with limited animal life, 4-hour Mangrove tour saw monkeys for 15 minutes, nothing else except birds); 10 minute hike from dining room to bungalow is straight up, left us streaming sweat and heaving for breath and we are in good shape and young); really missed a/c in room, especially during day; no pool to hang out at after excursion and 30 minute hot hike to nice beach; no screen on bathroom windows (why?) leaves you dodging bugs at night even if you leave the light off as management recommends, I was stung by a wasp when I took a shower on my first night).

I was extremely fortunate to have my entire Family together at Drake Bay Getaway Resort for 5 nights. Two years ago my wife and I had a 3 night amazing taste of DBGR and knew our entire Family would love everything about the experience. It was the perfect choice to celebrate an important milestone in my life. My wife and I had been praising the resort to our family for so long. Somehow, Patrick and Yens managed to beat all expectations! The memories, tastes, sounds, adventures, trails, views, and conversations will be shared forever in my Family. Some of the favorites - Adventure of getting there - The food and drink (the bomb) - Cabins and views - Birds and vegetation - The trails, beaches, and water (Thats all you need) - Taking pictures of each amazing meal course set down in front of you - Watching the stars - Yens and Patricks company at all meals - Going to sleep with all the outside sounds - Waking up with all the outdoor sounds and sunrise view - So many monkeys and endless wildlife - National Park Tour - Sierpe River tour - Night Hike - Real CR beach village just down the beach - Great boat rides - "The presentation of each meal" - Having all 5 cabins and the resort to ourselves Thank You Yens and Patrick for a truly magical and unforgettable experience!