Barranca Vacations from $773

The views from Shana by the Beach were stunning, and the beach adjacent to the hotel, Playa Biesanz, was lovey and not overly crowded. The winding, narrow road leading to the hotel is certainly not for the faint of heart, and we were never brave enough to venture out after dark because of it. Additionally, the hill on which Shana by the Beach property sits is very steep, making walking it on foot challenging for the able-bodied and I would think impossible for those needing accessible accommodations. Hotel staff do have golf carts for transporting guests and luggage, but except at check-in, they were never visible to us until we had already arrived on foot to our destination (pool, restaurant, beach or registration desk). The room in which we stayed was not as clean or well appointed as I would have expected. The tile floors throughout seemed dirty and in desperate need of mopping, which never occurred during our stay. The seal on the shower door was loose, which led to the bathroom floor being dangerously wet after our showers, and despite being booked for four guests, we were repeatedly given an insufficient amount of towels, hand towels and wash cloths. There are no beach amenities offered by the hotel, but locals “staff” the beach area, offering chair and umbrellas as well as kayaks and stand up paddle boards for rent. (Be sure to take cash—colones or US dollars are accepted—if you’d like these). It was nice, but not quite as nice as expected.

The white design does not fit in this environment. The white plastic seats and leather do not invite to sit. The chandeliers were dirty and birds were building nests in them. The pools were dirty and poorly maintained. The cleaning lady left the doors open one day. Raymundo was lovely though trying to satisfy our wishes. I give this property maximum three stars.

There was nothing not to like about this property!!! Well... except the steps maybe to get to our bungalo! 121 straight up the mountain! But it was so worth it!!! We were there and only saw one other couple on property the entire time! The staff was incredible! Helpful, polite, available... perfection!!!!! Cannot wait to go back!

The property is very unique in that you will see wildlife everywhere. People who have issues walking should avoid the villas . There are just too many steep steps leading to the main lodge. The roads are not paved so be prepared for bumpy rides.

This resort was amazing for the price!