henriette and Sally from atlanta USA     July 11, 2010

wow........we just got back from an amazing 7 days at Banana Azul.
This hotel is awsome and the staff is even more awsome. There was absolutely nothing more we could have asked for. The kitchen staff set up the most amazing display at every meal and always ready to assist with a smile. The rooms were clean and adorable.
A special shout out to David, Franklin and Roberto......you guys are the best !!!!!

roux from france     July 04, 2010

We went to Costa Rica last year in May 2009. Banana Azul is a very nice place. We stayed in the ocean room. Wonderfull room. We splept without doors only with ocean noise. The food is very good. I can recommand you guacamole home maid with "mojitos" and pancakes for breakfast. Amazing ! See you soon

Mark     May 30, 2010

Not to be melodramatic, but Banana Azul literally changed my wife's and my life. We went to CR on our honeymoon, and really did not know what to expect, only knowing that a friend had said "go to Puerto Viejo" and on Trip Advisor Banana Azul was rated #1, and everyone was saying these insanely positive things, so we figured what the hell, lets stay there. Well I'd give just about anything to be back there right now. It really is the energy of the place, from the the land to the hotel itself to the Flora and Fauna of the area, but most of all the wonderful energy that Colin and Roberto have put into Banana Azul. My wife and I were so affected by it and inspired we began to ask ourselves questions about our own life and happiness. It almost sounds cliche but while lying in hammocks in the downstairs area watching leafcutter ants and reading some inspiring books strategically strewn about the coffeetables, we realized that we needed to correct the course of our life, and pursue dreams we had forsaken several years before. Long story short, we returned to our life in the US, quit our jobs, sold our house, and moved to the city we'd always dreamt of living in. We are now pursuing our dream, making music full time, have a baby on the way, and just frikkin happy like nobodies business. We really really appreciate Colin and Roberto for the insight they gave us and are so happy to see how well Banana Azul is doing!

Katherine from Toronto, Canada     April 15, 2010

WOW! We were so lucky to find this little gem on the beach! 2 years ago B.P (before pool) I spent a week at Banana Azul with friends. I can honestly say it was one of the greatest weeks of my life. The staff at Banana Azul are so warm and welcoming and will gladly go out of their way to accomodate you and make your stay for enjoyable. They also offer you lots of helpful information on the best snorkle spots, local restos, hicking paths to waterfalls, zipline, and other great activities. I have to say, I have travelled Europe a few times and the food we had in in Puerto Viejo was some of the best and most unique I've ever tasted. So frehs, colourful and tasty! The beautiful paradise-like beach, ocean-side hammocks, sunfilled bedrooms, fantastic food and unforgetable hosts really made for an unbelievable trip. I would highly recommend Banana Azul to anyone! I would go back in a heartbeat if I could. PURA VIDA!

mark werder from birmingham, mi     April 01, 2010

after staying at banana azul you have to hesitate before honestly reviewing it, understanding that each more glowing review threatens it's hidden gem status. my wife found it a year ago doing CR vacation research and it sounded so good we delayed when we couldn't get a room on our only available dates. this year we stayed in the Howler and another room (after a 2 day trip to Tortuguerro arranged by Gecko, their affiliated Tour operation that is equally excellent). BA is a truly unique boutique property that threads the needle for a whole host of variables that can make for a vacation-of-a-lifetime experience: it makes 'rustic' feel opulent and intimate; the decor reflects an extreme attention to detail and the lush landscaping/plantings/open air eco vibe (with a turtle canal virtually underfoot that you have to see) is right out of a movie set for the Secret Tropics. Gecko will set you up on truly amazing adventures but if you want to veg, you'll lack for nothing: it's got a bar and table d'hote food service all day, it manages to balance opulent privacy with divider-screened balconies that you want to just live on, the caribbean is so warm there you can stay in for hours; the pool/jacuzzi set up is very comfortable and welcoming and if you want to make friends, the eating arrangements encourage it. majorly casual. you belong from the moment you arrive. kudos for the concept.

George Traugh & Ray Wolf from Cresco, Pa. USA     March 25, 2010

Never in my life of traveling all over the world, have I ever met nicer people the those at Banana Azul. It was one of the most confortable trips with some of the most wonderful people I have ever met. Not only were they more then helpful, but the hotel and the grounds were by far the best. The place is clean and beautiful. The garders are outstanding and the pool, although small, was great. I think that Colin, Roberto and their staff were the greatest. I loved the waiters and waitresses, and the staff at Gecko, Wow, I can't thank them enough for all their help. Unbelieveable, It really is a piece of heaven. Ray and I want to thank you all very much. We had a WONDERFUL time and hopefully will return again some day. Ray Wolf and George Traugh

Deanna Sykes-Rohrer from Boulder, Colorado USA     March 10, 2010

Stayed in Howler Suite in early December 2009 as part of our honeymoon. Just want you to know... DAYDREAMING & MISSING you. Great property, beach and owners. The Howler Suite ROCKED.
Hoping to be back late next November. Leave the lights on for me ;)

Damien, Patti, Megan & Chris     January 25, 2010

Tyler Ingram from Vancouver, Canada     January 10, 2010

When Robyn and I first started looking through her Lonely Planet guide for Costa Rica, we were reading up on the various accommodations that the Caribbean coast had to offer. Our friends went in the beginning of the year and stayed at a place called Cashew Hill Jungle Lodge which was a bit outside of town but further away from the beach. We found it in the Lonely Planet guide book, but Robyn kept looking. We decided on the Banana Azul, which happens to be the Lonely Guide’s “Our Pick” for mid-range accommodations.

After reading that and noticing that breakfast is included we popped over to their website to look up information such as rates, amenities as well as to see their location in relationship to Puerto Viejo itself. It was perfect and we were excited to book our stay with them, even if we booked it back in March of 2009. Did I mention that one of the co-owners of the Banana Azul is from Vancouver?

Isabelle from Switzerland     December 19, 2009

Hotel Banana Azul in Puerto Viejo Costa Rica, a very nice & comfortable hotel built out of local hardwoods that has 12 beautiful guest rooms, situated on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica. One phrase to describe Banana Azul: This place is paradise! The hotel is beautiful; the food is fantastic; the beach is gorgeous...and the staff and owners are great!

Susan Mausshardt from Kirkland WA USA     November 19, 2009

Hello everyone there in beautiful Puerto Viejo....wanted to leave this comment that hands down our stay with you last week was the highlight of our 2 week honeymoon...thank you so much for making it a dream!!!! Can't wait to visit again, hope you are all well.

Love,
Susan and Ted

Josh and Mary O'Leary from Oneonta, NY     September 15, 2009

We stayed at Banana Azul for 4 nights this past August, and all we can say is we wish we had stayed longer. It was truly an amazing place, the room was fantastic, the staff and the owners were wonderful, hello to Franklin, and once you were there you didn't really feel the need to go anywhere else. The surroundings were beautiful, the food excellent, best Mojitos, and we can't wait to go back.

Kim Cavyan from Los Angeles, CA     August 27, 2009

My boyfriend Matt and I just went for a week. We absoluetely loved it. The beaches were beautiful and not crowded at all. There were times when they were empty. Puerto Viejo is a fun town and very close by. And best of all are the Banana Azul employees. They were all amazingly nice and friendly. We already miss Costa Rica and the hotel!

Juli Chiappa from Jersey, USA     August 12, 2009

I stayed at Banana Azul For a week with my Mom and had a fantastic time! Cant say enough about the staff! They are all so great! The room we had was AWESOME!
Cannot wait to go back!
Thanks to everyone at Banana Azul!!

Lori Sorrentino     August 04, 2009

Our photo album from our visit to Puerto Viejo including our stay at Banana Azul. The pictures say it all!

View album.

Yeannid Murillo E from South Carolina     August 03, 2009

Hola Roberto,I stayed at the Banana Azul,with my brother Alexander and wife Sandra for a few days.I just wanted to let you know,how grateful I am of the way you and your staff treat us. It was a great experience.I actually let go of all my stress, and enjoyed the awesome view,the outstanding service,the friendly and fun chats in the evenings.It felt like I knew you guys for yrs.Thank you so much for your warm and kind heart.No wonder my brother and family are so crazy about you guys.Remember I got a big mouth, I'm telling everyone about your place!!!
Many blessings,look forward to see you soon with my kids.
Besos y abrasos
Nini

Colin from Costa Rica     August 02, 2009

As a hotel owner down on the Caribbean, I am often questioned what is the difference between the 2 coasts of Costa Rica.

The differences are striking but very difficult to put into words. I am also very careful about what I say as I am biased and The Caribbean is not as developed as Pacific and therefore not suitable for all travelers coming to Costa Rica.

I had the privilege (unbeknown st to me) to have a professional photographer as a guest do an amazing photo gallery of opposite sides of the country in the southern zone. They were just too good not to share.

Here is link for gallery of Puerto Viejo of the Caribbean.
http://tinyurl.com/l2pf4a

Here is link for Osa Peninsula on the Pacific
http://tinyurl.com/mctqkx

My answer to all is that if you are the adventurous type and got the time... do both.

Lily N from Olivehurst, California     June 27, 2009

We stayed in the Apartment at Banana Azul for a week. The Apartment was the owners’ residence until they finished their home just a few meters away from the property. As a result, their pets would often wander up and sleep on the furniture in the Apartment. We had two cats who regularly visited and Benji the Dog. All were polite and lovely pets and it really made it feel like home for us because we have three dogs and two cats at home. There was an amazing open-air bathroom with a deep tub and shower that faced out into the forest.

daniel giaquinto from orlando florida     July 03, 2009

WOW, banana azul was great when we were there last year. Now they have a pool. I didnt think they could make it even better. I want to return soon!!!!! Congrats on the new pool Colin and Roberto, it looks great!! Everytime I go to book a vacation I think about Banana Azul and then I think nothing can top our stay with you.

Stephen from Tampa, Florida USA     June 15, 2009

What a GREAT time we had, Collin and Roberto and the whole staff were just great, so relaxed and refreshed. Only wish I could just live there..New POOL and Cool TUB is fabo... Just a nice place to escape the world but still have WIFI for those junkies that still need to stay somewhat connected.. EVERYONE should go here at least once...

Don Faust (& Chris Gray Faust) from Alexandria, USA     June 08, 2009

We stayed here in October of 2008 - our 1st anniversary. This was such a cool place and Colin and Roberto did such a fantastic job on the everything - I noticed all the little details in their fountain, tile work, grounds, etc - a true labor of love. It was what we like... very rustic and the red hardwood construction is very beautiful. The open-air design worked very well with great airflow and the 2nd floor porches with hammocks were very inviting.

The staff is excellent and the bar setup is perfect. All of the guests were really nice... you just don't meet people like this at the Hyatt.

Check out my photo website - I have some pictures from Costa Rica and a couple of Banana Azul.

La Toya from Washington, DC     May 27, 2009

I had the best vacation that I have ever had last summer when I stayed at this beautiful oasis. Can't wait to come back.

Bruce McIntyre     April 19, 2009

Sharing some photos from our 2008 Costa Rica trip: Puerto Viejo. Lots of photos from Banana Azul, Flowers and life everywhere!

Ron from Toronto     February 25, 2009

Colin and Roberto as hosts have created the perfect low key Caribbean vacation haven, from the open concept bedrooms where you hear the surf as you nod off, to the professional attentive staff that are there to tend to your every need. The breakfasts and dinners are home cooked goodness, and the mingling of the guests in the lower open air dining area lends to the enjoyment. Costa Rica has much to offer, Banana Azul and hosts Colin and Roberto have made it a bit more special. I'll be back

Ron

Lynne + Joe Arsenault from Fontana, CA     February 20, 2009

Thank you, Colin, Roberto, Franklin, Nina and everyone else for making us feel like part of a big family. Banan Azul is a perfect place to spend time, great food, fantastic margaritas, and the most friendly, well behaved dogs, I've ever met. Blackie, I already miss seeing you outside our door in the morning! We're looking forward to coming back, ASAP!!

Emily and Janet from San Diego, U.S.A.     February 11, 2009

My mother and myself stayed at the Banana Azul for 5 nights while in Puerto Viejo. It was so amazing! The staff went out of their way to accomodate us and the full breakfast was such an unexpected surprise upon arrival! We are planning on going back in the next year and my dad is already looking forward to staying there when he comes to Puerto Viejo! Thank you so much Colin and friends at the Banana Azul!

Rebecca Russell from Ottawa, Canada     January 19, 2009

I have traveled to many places around the world and Banana Azul is the best place I’ve ever stayed at. Colin, Roberto, Kevin, Agustin, Franklin and the rest of the staff (including Nina who was on vacation) were very accommodating and personable. The hotel was nice and inviting, the rooms clean and comfortable and the location stunning. Oh and I must also recommend the food which was always delicious and the great mojitos :D. I miss everyone already and look forward to my next visit!

Jeremy from San Francisco, Ca     January 01, 2009

I love the place. I spent some time with my partner in August. The hospitality was amazing. We loved the beach too. Very private so we were able spend some quality time together and our bananas...

Rosie from Charlotte     November 21, 2008

My sister and I visited Banana Azul in early April of this year. It was the most relaxing time of my life. The staff is awesome. The food gets an A+. We would walk back around 3:00 from the beach just to see what was on the dinner menu. I never knew you could get so much for such a reasonable price in a hotel. I can't wait to go back and bring the whole family. We miss you Michele!

sarah laccabue from San Francisco, California     November 16, 2008

for the past two days i have basically been back in arcata (minus the overcast gross weather). everywhere i go there are hippies and some of the streets smell like weed. right back at home!

it is beautiful though. hot weather, sun and ocean. we are staying at the banana azul in puerto negro and the 13 room hotel basically has a private beach so yesterday we all layed out and played in the warmest ocean water i have ever been in. i layed on the hammock and read my book. it was perfect!

Rob Yablonski from Manitoba Canada     November 10, 2008

Colin and Roberto...Just wanted to say Hi and see how things are going....your business card fell out of my Spanish dictionary the other day...lol Is Rick working out there again???

Thought I'd check and see if you hired a massage therapist yet???

Give me a shout back and lets keep in touch...

Roberto the Canadian

Colin from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica     October 28, 2009

No massage therapist yet on staff but we know a good one who we can book and will come give you a massage right in your room if you like!

Jennifer & Ken Bool from Courtenay, BC, Canada     November 08, 2008

Our 15 day stay at Banana Azul was not long enough. This is truly a tropical paradise with amazing hosts, Colin and Roberto, friendly and most accommodating staff and the landscaping is truly a work of art thanks to Rick. The included breakfasts were varied and excellent; best hamburgesas and sandwiches for lunch; the dinners were all fabulous. In fact, they were so good we only ventured into Puerta Viejo once for dinner and only because the restaurant is closed on Sundays . . .not one meal was a repeat. They arranged a river raft expedition not to be missed (still pumped from it) and an overnight trip to Tortaguero which is a remarkable jungle adventure. This was one fantastic holiday and if you are planning on going to Puerta Viejo, Banana Azul is unique, comfortable, very clean and the place to stay. WE LOVED IT!

Rickey Broussard from Ingleside Texas     October 19, 2008

I cannot imagine that a stay in Peurto Viejo with Roberto and and Colin as the keepers of any vacation cannot be anything but perfect.
We celebrated a birthday with the best of touches, our trips and excursions were flawlessly planned, and the entire thing was a dream vacation. We intend to return. Why stay five star when you can get down to the basics at Banana Azul. I hated to return home.

The Gordons from San Diego     October 12, 2008

We were in complete awe at the fact that we were literally in the middle of the jungle. We pulled up to our hotel gate, no radio and windows rolled down. You could hear a combination of the end of a tropical thunderstorm, the waves and the loudest bugs/crickets we’ve ever heard.

We strolled up to the open air common area and checked in. Nina checked us in and took us up to our rooms. The 12 room hotel is newly built, all wood and very open and airy – almost a hostel like feel. Our room has large doors out to our massive patios with our table, chairs, relaxing chair and hammock. From our bed with the doors open you can hear the distinct sound of calm ocean waves lapping against the shore. Then Nina said a magical phrase that was music to our ears – “When you’re ready head down to the bar for your welcome drink.”

Amy from Seattle     April 03, 2008

Sean & I just got back from our spring break trip to Costa Rica! We went to Puerto Viejo, and stayed in a beautiful hotel called Banana Azul. Before I left, I was telling my mom about the hotel, and the Canadian guy Colin who runs it. She said, "Oh, is Colin your friend or Sean's friend?" And I said, "Neither. I just read his blog."

Wouldn't that be funny if we could speak hyperlink? Anyway, the hotel was just as amazing as I'd dreamed!!

Shamistra Barathan     October 03, 2008

I can't recommend enough Banana Azul. Hidden amongst the rainforest ,on the edge of the Carribean Sea, stood this idyllic and gorgeous hotel made of natural resources. The team are from Canada and serve your every need, including a special request to have dinner on our terrace. Truly a memorable moment, dinner with Frederique and Julia , a couple from the states , also ex students of Maximo Nivel. Under the stars with the sounds of the ocean..with the occasional yell from a mosquitoe bite...ahh...muy romantica..heheh.. Don't worry, no marriage proposals for our Amy!!!
Read full blog entry

Cassie     August 25, 2008

I stayed at Banana Azul with my brother for three days and it was amazing. The staff was awesome, the rooms (garden bath suite) was beautiful. All the detail they put into this hotel made it an outstanding experience. The locations is perfect, nice and quiet yet close enough to the town of puerto viejo. You get the best of both places. The only negative thing was having to leave! I will for sure be back.

cardigan shipman     July 09, 2008

Colin and Roberto it took me while to write you and tell you how special you made my last trip to Costa Rica. Its been 2 years and I think about it constantly. my day on the black sand beach and nights in the hammock with the ocean tickling my ears. The bats and the monkeys. Your and Robertos Hospitality is more than I could have hoped for. It is my Most favorite memory. I hope the construction is done and there will be room for me again some time soon. I now have the link and will send a few friends your way.

Siamak Christian und Yvonne (Germany)     April 11, 2008

Wir waren letztes Jahr (2007) in Costa Rica. Das Banana Azul gehört definitv zu den empfehlenswertesten Häusern an der Karibikküste. Besonders gut war das Frühstück. Der Strand ist prima und wenn man im Frühsommer da ist, hat man ihn auch so ziemlich allein. Tagestouren von hier ins Inland sind ebenfalls eine großartige Sache. Für eigene Trips sollte man auf jeden Fall einen Geländewagen mieten (durchgängige Straßenschäden).