Costa Bonita is not for everyone. It is safe, clean, well maintained, lush, and hosts a beautiful beach. It really is best for a couple (or couples) who want a quieter vacation. The reason is it is off the beat-and-path north of the new Marina on New Mazatlan. Just a couple of restaurants close by.
The complex has many seasonal retired owners that are not exactly tolerant of children. I've witnessed a child being scolded by an owner (who was reading a book) for splashing in the pool!. Psst; thats what Kid's do in the pool! My 13 year old was yelled at by someone because he was in the whirlpool without an adult. A crime I guess. Don't expect to see many small children. As adults, we like to find a couple with other children to "hang with" so the kids can play. That simply may not happen unless you are there during peak time. If you choose this location and you have small children, your Kid's will be bored.
It is true that I got the feeling (initially) that I didn't "belong" as I was a renter. There is some animosity. After talking with some of the seasonal people I blended in. They explained that the problem is the complex owns some rooms of there own and rents by the weekend and some owners rent well below what they should ($50 per night) and don't always attract the finest renters. So there is a constant change of people and I understand that they don't treat things like they own it. If you show up with small Kid's, you will feel the cold shoulder from some of the owners.
On the other hand if you are 40+ and are staying for a few weeks, expect to have a wonderful vacation so long as you are searching for a quiet spot.
The restaurant is fairly priced with $6 breakfasts and $8 lunches but the bar is way over priced with $3.50 beers and $5.50 mixed drinks. I was told it is a policy that you cannot bring your own drinks to the pool area (but you can to the public beach).
Others who have commented about the massages are correct in that it is WELL worth it. I had a massage from a women on staff (yea, a little phobic I guess) and she did a great job for $25. In fact, I got three!
The workout area is a pretty long walk and they charge a daily fee (free for the owners) and the hot tub area and grilling area is off limits to "renters" (again included for the owners).
So to break it down in letter grade format. A+ beach, A- facility, A- grounds, B staff, B quality food, C- cost of drinks, A security, C- location (proximity to restaurants etc), A location (because it is in an upscale area), C- owner friendliness, A- to a C range of rooms (depending on who you rent from), and D+ Kid Friendly.
So the bottom line is don't bring the Kid's (even teens) and don't expect to be partying. This is PERFECT for a 2 week + renter who is 40+ and whats to unwind in a nice resort. All others need not apply!
Dan from MI
- Costa Bonita Condominium Beach Hotel
