The hype
Guests are blown away by the architecture and privacy but often mention the service is still finding its footing compared to other Four Seasons properties.
Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo
$1,400-1,600+/ night
Book this if You want to disappear into a 3,000-acre private nature reserve where the jungle meets the Pacific, and you don't mind being 40 minutes from the nearest town.
Why People Love It
- Dramatic cliffside architecture that feels carved out of the rock
- Three cascading infinity pools that drop visually into the ocean
- The 18-hole El Tamarindo golf course with spectacular oceanfront holes
Quick Take: It's less of a beach resort and more of a high-design nature sanctuary—stunningly beautiful, but you are captive to its prices and pace.
Reviewed by @Jeremyaustiin: I’ve never stayed anywhere that balances raw nature and luxury like this. My Cliffside Suite felt like a private fortress above the ocean. Watching the sunset from my plunge pool with zero noise but the waves was a core memory. Truly a place to disconnect.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might wait 45 minutes for a taco at the pool, and turndown service has been reported to show up at odd hours like 9:30 PM.
- You value extreme privacy and silence over nightlife
- You are a golfer or nature lover (biologists on staff!)
- You want a pool that feels like it's floating in the sky
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable daily service, though turndown timing can be erratic (sometimes as late as 9pm).
- Bathroom hygiene: Pristine. Deep soaking tubs and outdoor showers are kept spotless.
- Maintenance: Brand new property feel; very little wear and tear visible yet.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count, crisp, and plentiful. No complaints here.
- Odors & scents: Smells like fresh ocean air and copal incense in the lobby.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ocean waves (loudest in beachfront rooms)
- Jungle fauna (birds/insects in morning)
Before you book
Good to know
- The drive from Manzanillo (ZLO) is ~45-60 mins; from Puerto Vallarta (PVR) it's a grueling 4+ hours—fly into ZLO.
- There is a 15% service charge added to everything, plus 16% VAT.
- The ocean can be rough; swimmable areas are flagged, but don't expect a calm Caribbean bathtub.
What to pack
- Dramamine for the winding transfer and buggy rides
- Bug spray (it's a jungle reserve, mosquitoes are real)
- Golf gear if you play—the course is a highlight
Room Genie
Best picks
- Cliffside One-Bedroom Suite: The hero room. Private infinity pool, insane panoramic views, total privacy.
- Beachfront Rooms: Best for families or those who hate waiting for buggies—walkable to the main pool and beach.
Rooms to avoid
- Nature Rooms: Entry-level for a reason. They face the foliage, get less light, and miss the ocean drama entirely.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a Cliffside Suite with a clear, unobstructed ocean view. Please avoid units that are too close to the main buggy path to ensure privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
No specific 'resort fee' listed, but expect a 15% service charge and 19% tax (VAT + state) on top of rates.
Can I swim in the ocean?
Yes, but use caution. There are swimmable coves, but the Pacific current is strong. Look for the flags.
Is it all-inclusive?
No. Food and drink are à la carte and priced at luxury resort levels (e.g., $25+ cocktails).
How do I get around the resort?
Golf carts driven by staff. You call them via the app or room phone. Walking is possible but the hills are punishing.
Are kids allowed?
Yes, there is a 'Caramelo' kids' club and family pool, but the vibe is definitely more adult/romantic.
Is there a town nearby?
Not really. Barra de Navidad is the closest 'town' and it's a 40-minute drive. You are essentially isolated.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book a 'bioluminescence tour' through the concierge—the nearby lagoon glows at night during certain moon phases.
- ✨
The 'Rancho Lola' farm tour is free and includes tasting fresh produce; it's an underrated activity.
- ✨
If you want a sunset dinner at Sal, book it for your first night before you arrive—it fills up fast.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Nature Rooms' are essentially expensive treehouses with no view—don't get upsold on 'jungle immersion' unless you mean it.
💡You might see coatis, armadillos, or even wild boars on the property.
💡The sand is darker/volcanic in spots, not blinding white Caribbean sand.
💡Room service pizza is surprisingly good if you're tired of fancy seafood.
💡The internet speed can be spotty in the far-flung cliffside villas.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo is located and what's nearby.