Esencia Hotel and Villas, a 3-star retreat in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, sits about 0.3mi from the city center. Address: 2 km north of Cruce de Playa Carmen. A convenient base for beach days and strolls along the coast.

Facilities shine with an outdoor swimming pool (free), private parking (free), and complimentary Wifi. Air conditioning keeps rooms comfortable, while a terrace, garden views, and a private entrance add a touch of privacy. Beach access, garden space, and a playground await, along with free on-site parking and free beach chairs/loungers; snorkeling and horseback riding are available for extra charges, and shuttle services (airport or other) carry additional fees.

With 95 reviews backing its charm, Esencia Hotel and Villas offers a breezy Costa Rican stay just steps from Santa Teresa’s coastal vibe.

Beyond the lobby, a year-round outdoor pool invites sun-seekers to soak up the Costa Rican vibe. With a shallow end and an adults-only policy, it’s easy to find a mellow moment after a day on the beach.

Payment options keep budgeting simple: cash is accepted, and American Express, Mastercard, and Visa are welcome.

Accommodations offer a variety of layouts. The Queen/Twin Room, Pool View sleeps 2 adults and features 1 Queen bed plus 1 Twin bed. The Double Room, Sea View sleeps 2 adults. The Quadruple Room, Sea View also accommodates 2 adults. For families, the Family Villa runs 474 sqft and sleeps 2 adults and 1 child, while the Family Villa, King/2 Twin accommodates 4 adults and 2 children. Other options include the Room With Pool View (sleeps 2 adults, 1 child; 1 Queen bed plus 1 Twin), the Superior, 2 Twin, Pool View (2 adults, 1 child; 2 Twin beds), and the Superior, Pool View (2 adults, 1 child; 1 Double bed). The King/2 Single Room, Pool View sleeps 2 adults and 1 child with a King bed.