FAQ
What is the weather like?
The Guanacaste area is one of the hottest in Costa Rica, averaging around 80°F with cooler nights , so keep this in mind when packing. If you intent to do any tours in the mountains, such as Arenal or Monteverde, however, you will find a very different climate where pants and a warm jacket might be necessary. During the dry season (November through April) you are unlikely to see rain. Umbrellas will be available in the villa just in case.
Will Rental Equipment be available?
The villa is located a 20 minute walk from downtown Playa del Coco. There you will find a plethora of options for tours by kayak, boat, ATV, car and/or bike. The house has beach chairs, float toys, volleyballs and more.
Where to take out/exchange money?
There is a Banco Nacional at the entrance to Playa del Coco, just beyond the turn to the villa, and a short walk away. You may choose to exchange currency to Costa Rican colones during bank hours, just remember to bring your passport. You can also choose to take local currency directly from the ATM. About 75% of local bars and restaurants will accept credit cards, so it is good to have some extra cash on hand in case.
Is the House near to town?
Yes, we are a 5 minute drive from downtown Playa del Coco where you can find souvenir shops, pharmacies, grocery stores, restaurants and bars. We are 20 minutes by foot on dirt roads from downtown Coco.
We are a 30 minute drive from the larger city of Liberia where you can find more banks, pharmacies, stores of all kinds, churches, and a mall with a movie theater. If you would like us to help you arrange a trip to Liberia, just ask!
Are there Beaches near by?
The Villa is not beach-front, however we do have our own man-made beach on the property. We are also just 15 to 25 minutes away by car from many wonderful beaches in the area. We can arrange ground transportation to these beaches or, even better, reserve a sailboat that can bring you to the most beautiful beaches along the Papagayo coast.
Is Playa del Coco safe?
Playa del Coco is a sleepy fishing village in which tourists and locals interact on a daily basis. You should watch your things on the beach, and keep your valuables in a safe area like the villa safe (NOT your rental car). If you are smart and keep your eyes open, there is little chance that you will have a problem with safety. The Villa is also equipped with a state-of-the-art security system.
Do we have to tip the staff?
Our staff at Villa Buena Onda prides itself in offering the best service possible from the time you arrive to the day you depart. With a full-time staff of 8 people, we do our best to accommodate your every need. While each member of the VBO Team is well compensated for their work, tips are always appreciated. You will have a chance at the end of your stay with us to tip those team members who stood out in your eyes individually or you will also have the opportunity to tip the group as a whole. Tips can be discussed with our concierge the evening before your departure when you are going through the check-out process.
What if we want to eat a dinner out?
Simply notify the chef in advance of your plans so that no unnecessary meals are made. There will be no change in the price however, unless we are notified way in advance.
What nightlife and cultural activities are in Playa del Coco?
Playa del Coco boasts colorful bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. There are three hopping dance spots – Bongos, Lizard Lounge and Zii. There is also a Casino downtown next to the Italian Gelato shop, along with many other international dining options. Open-air souvenir shops and tour operators stay open until around 8 p.m.
Check in & Check Out:
Check in: 2:00 p.m.
Check out: 11:00 a.m. (Late check-out may be requested and will depend on villa occupancy)
Meal Times:
Meal Times at Villa Buena Onda are as follows:
7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. – Coffee and Continental Breakfast Station
8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. – Breakfast
12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. – Lunch
6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. – Dinner
11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. – Bar Service Hours
Special arrangements can be made in advance for later meals or early breakfasts to accommodate your schedule.
Services not included but available for an extra fee:
- Premium Snacks
- Premium meals
- Liquor and Beer (Domestic Drinks Available in All-Inclusive Plan)
- Laundry Service
- Nanny Service
- Day Tours
- Bartender Service After Hours
- Spa Services
- Transportation
Wattage:
The electricity in Costa Rica is 110/220 volts AC, 60Hz10/ 120 watts, the same as in the United States. All outlets at VBO are designed for 3-prong, flat blade plus ground plugs. If your electronics require a different plug shape or wattage, please make sure to get a voltage converter.
