Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Guanacaste Lodge

On the outskirts of Flamingo, a short drive from the beach, this Tico-run lodge offers basic accommodations for a fraction of what the town's big hotels charge. Ten simple, attached bungalows have high beamed ceilings, wood furniture, walk-in closets, flat-screen TVs, and spacious bathrooms. Each room has a picture window looking out onto a garden that holds the pool, a thatch shelter, and a cascading fountain. Included in the rate is a typical Costa Rican breakfast served poolside, and there's a small restaurant next door serving lunch and dinner. The lodge is well maintained and comfortable, but the staff speak minimal English, so plan to practice your Spanish.