Fodor's Expert Review Villa Caletas

Perched 1,200 feet above the sea on a promontory south of Punta Leona, the elegant rooms sequestered in the jungle have jaw-dropping views of the surrounding foliage and sea below. Spectacular sunsets should be enjoyed from the Amphitheater Bar. Freestanding suites and villas are gorgeous, and much better than rooms in the main building; if a villa's beyond your budget, try for a deluxe room with a shared pool. Victorian, French Colonial, and Hellenistic motifs feature throughout, with Ionic columns, varied artwork, and cookie-cutter trims. The regular pool is rather small, but the Zephyr Palace complex — with its 10 themed rooms — has an impressive infinity pool with amazing views. Few suites in the world are as lavish as the Imperial suite at the Zephyr Palace, with its private gym, sauna, walk-in closet, and big-screen TV that ascends from the foot of the bed. The closest beach, Playa Caletas, is attractive but small and rocky; it's reached via a 15-minute shuttle ride or a 1½-hour hiking trail. You'll be rewarded with a beach bar, shaded palapas, lounge beds, and showers. Though great for romance or relaxation, there's little to offer kids or active travelers.