What we love:
Nearly exclusive use of a 12km , gently sloping beach perfect for runs, walks & boogie boarding
Casita equipped with good beds, efficient air conditioners, modern washer, fridge, gas stove /oven & microwave;
Unlike other properties in Nicaragua, there’s no surcharge for electricity or water;
You feel safe given you’re at the end of 18km dirt road & have a night watch;
The isolation. If you enjoy a location free of traffic, crowds, TV, etc & steps from the crash of waves, this is the property for you; &
Constant w/b breeze, at times gusty, cools but kicks up sand.
What you need to know:
You’re 18kms down a dirt road with no immediate access to groceries. If you intend to cook for yourself, ask your driver to stop at a supermarket prior to turning off the hwy. Plan for everything from oils to condiments to meats, fruit, veggies, etc;
Owner uses several vacation rental sites to advertise property. In our case we booked & paid for Red Casita 36 with pool using VRBO in July, 2015, however another guest was instructed to book same property using different site in October & since they arrived earlier they took occupancy;
Given unreliability of shuttle service & remoteness of propert it's recommended you rent a 4X4 if you wish to travel to Leon or beyond;
There’s not always a vehicle at property so should there be a need for urgent transport (eg medical issue) you may have to wait;
Guests need to bring dish/bath/beach towels & face clothes;
Hospitality staff offer no information unless prompted (eg received key to casita 2 days afterquestion @ arrival & shower dripped at a rate of 4ltr/hr throughout stay despite advising staff immediately);
Rates for equipment rentals & shuttles may vary. Told that 20-min boat ride to Puerto Sandino would cost a few dollars (ie enough to cover gas) & we paid US$50 + 120 Cordoba for a trike cab to town;
You’re on a sandy beach so expect biting ants outside & at times inside your casita;
This is an active construction site, so serenity of locale is interrupted by sound of band saw & sanders throughout day;
Kitchen/glassware in limited supply. Staff provided some missing essentials upon request & shared items with other guests
While there is a convenience store (ie pulperia) stocking some essentials 12kms away, it will cost you US$20 to get there;
Pack of 10+ dogs roam property looking for handouts & often bark at night;
Guests' trash deposited in area below restaurant window
