Celebrating Our 10-Year Anniversary
A Review Of The Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
For our 10-year anniversary, we chose to spend June 9-14 at the stunning Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort. From the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for an unforgettable experience that combined luxury, adventure, and natural beauty.
Check-In and First Impressions
Our check-in was smooth and effortless, setting the tone for the rest of our stay. We were thrilled to upgrade our room for a reasonable price, which made our celebration even more special. Walking into the resort, we were struck by its authentic and welcoming ambiance. The open-air design of the lobby, surrounded by lush greenery, immediately transported us to a tropical paradise.
Room and Amenities
We opted for an adults-only room with a private pool, perfect for a romantic getaway. The room was spacious, elegantly decorated, and the private pool was our little slice of paradise. Sipping morning coffee by our private pool while listening to the sounds of the rainforest was a dream come true.
The main pool was another highlight, sprawling and winding its way under charming bridges. We loved lounging at the swim-up bar with its friendly bartenders who made the best cocktails. One evening, we had a spontaneous conversation with another couple at the bar, and it was delightful to share stories of our adventures.
Dining Experience
Every morning, we looked forward to breakfast at Hacienda Kitchen. The fresh fruit selection was abundant and delicious, and the made-to-order omelets were the perfect way to start our day. One morning, we had a lovely chat with the chef who shared his secret ingredient for the perfect omelet – a dash of local herbs that added a unique flavor.
One evening, we ventured a short 10-minute walk up the beach to CoCo's, where we indulged in the best fish tacos we've ever had. The casual beachside vibe, coupled with the exceptional food, made it a memorable dining experience. "This is what paradise tastes like," my wife exclaimed, savoring each bite.
Activities and Attractions
The resort offered a variety of activities that we eagerly took advantage of. We booked a thrilling zip-lining adventure and a buggy tour to a nearby waterfall. Both experiences were exhilarating and provided us with unforgettable memories. Zipping through the treetops with the wind in our hair was pure adrenaline, while the buggy tour gave us a closer look at the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Despite visiting during the rainy season, we found the evening showers added a unique charm, enhancing the rainforest ambiance. The resort's uncrowded nature meant we often had the pool to ourselves, which was a delightful surprise. Watching the rain from the warmth of the pool while sipping a tropical cocktail was an unexpected highlight.
Additionally, we went off-site for a crocodile tour with Crocodile Man. Watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat was both thrilling and educational. The guide's enthusiasm and knowledge made the tour even more enjoyable.
Beach Experience
The beach at Los Sueños is not your typical white sand tropical beach. Instead, it boasts unique black sand filled with natural rocks and shells. My wife and I loved exfoliating our feet in it every morning. "It's like nature's spa treatment," she said with a smile. The black sand added an element of authentic charm to the location. The scenery of the resort is unmatched, with hills along the coast of the rainforest providing a breathtaking backdrop. Wild macaws often flew overhead, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Tortuga Island Excursion
We also visited Tortuga Island using the company Costa Cat, and it was an unforgettable experience. If you're missing that classic tropical beach vibe that the resort's beach doesn't quite offer, this island is a must-visit. The powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life make it one of the top beaches we've ever been to. Snorkeling in the warm waters and spotting colorful fish was like swimming in an aquarium.
Marina and Nearby Attractions
One of the great perks of staying at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort is the proximity to the nearby marina. A beautiful walking path takes you directly to the marina, where you can book world-class fishing excursions. The walk itself is scenic and relaxing, offering stunning views along the way. The marina also boasts a selection of nice restaurants. While these dining options are on the pricier side, the quality and ambiance make it worth the splurge. Whether you're looking to enjoy a gourmet meal or simply stroll around the marina, it's a must-visit spot during your stay.
Friendly Atmosphere and Transportation Tips
One of the standout features of our stay was how nice everyone was, from the resort staff to the locals. The friendliness and warmth we encountered everywhere made our stay even more enjoyable. The staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome and ensure we had everything we needed. We chose not to rent a car, but it definitely seemed doable for those who prefer to explore on their own. A helpful tip we received was to use the international version of Waze for navigation, which is highly recommended if you decide to drive.
Family-Friendly Environment
While we chose to leave our kids at home for this trip, it's worth noting that the resort is incredibly family-friendly. With a variety of activities for children and dedicated kid-friendly spaces, it’s a perfect destination for families as well. We saw many families enjoying themselves, and it was clear that the resort catered to guests of all ages.
Service and Hospitality
The staff at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect. Their attentiveness and friendliness made us feel truly welcome and pampered. From the housekeeping staff who left sweet notes in our room to the concierge who helped us plan our excursions, every interaction was a delight.
Tips for Future Guests
Room Selection: If you're looking for a romantic escape, the adults-only room with a private pool is a must.
Best Time to Visit: The evening rains added to the charm for us, but if you prefer dry weather, plan accordingly.
Must-Do Activities: Don’t miss the zip-lining and buggy tours. And for a taste of adventure, the crocodile tour is a must. Also, make sure to visit Tortuga Island for an unforgettable tropical beach experience.
Secret Spot: For an amazing, private view, take the elevator on the pool side to the fourth floor. Then, walk up the steps to the top of the tower. We enjoyed drinking our coffee here every morning. It was incredibly private and quiet, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Points and Value
We booked our stay using Marriott points, utilizing just 168,000 points for five nights. The stay would have been completely free if we hadn’t decided to splurge and upgrade to a pool room. This made our luxurious experience even more rewarding, knowing we maximized our points for such an unforgettable stay.
Overall Experience
Our stay at Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort was nothing short of spectacular. From the luxurious amenities to the exciting activities and exceptional service, every aspect of our stay exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend this resort for anyone seeking a memorable and luxurious getaway. Paradise on Points (POP) wholeheartedly endorses it.