Hotel Istirincha

This hotel offers a unique escape into nature, with its private beach access and expansive natural reserves serving as its signature features. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, families seeking a tranquil retreat, and couples looking to disconnect from urban life. Guests frequently highlight the beautiful pools and the hotel's commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly with its turtle release program and crocodile sanctuary. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for a slower pace of service in the dining areas and note that internet connectivity may be limited to public spaces, encouraging a true digital detox.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts several pools, including one with a stunning ocean view, which are generally described as beautiful, clean, and of good size, with a dedicated splash pad for children. Guests appreciate the direct access to a private beach, which is often noted for its cleanliness and tranquility. The extensive grounds offer walking paths and bike rentals, though some guests found the bicycles to be in poor condition. While the natural setting provides ample outdoor activities, some guests noted a lack of staff presence at the pool bar, leading to delays in service.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. Many rooms are described as basic and rustic, with some guests finding them to be old and in need of maintenance. Specific issues mentioned include a humidity smell, broken showers, clogged sinks, and concerns about the cleanliness of common bathrooms. While some guests found the beds comfortable, others reported them as uncomfortable. In-room amenities are minimal, with guests noting the absence of kettles or mini-fridges. Small televisions are common, and while rooms are generally quiet, some guests experienced noise from loud pool music.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant receives significant and varied feedback, with service being a frequent point of concern. Many guests experienced slow service, attributing it to understaffing and a lack of organization. Food quality is mixed; some guests found the dishes tasty and well-seasoned, while many others described the food as greasy, bland, served in small portions, or even cold. The breakfast buffet is often criticized for being expensive relative to its poor quality and limited variety. The menu itself is noted for being quite limited, especially for dinner options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's isolated location within a private natural area is a major draw for guests seeking tranquility and a complete break from city noise and crowds. It offers direct beach access, providing a serene environment free from vendors. The property is conveniently located near natural attractions, including mangroves and a crocodile sanctuary, which guests can explore through guided tours or boat rides. Parking is available on-site, making it accessible for those traveling by car, though its secluded nature means there are no other dining or entertainment options within walking distance.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is varied. Many guests commend the staff for being friendly, attentive, and helpful, particularly those working in the restaurant (despite the service speed issues) and those leading the wildlife tours. However, the reception staff frequently receives criticism for being unfriendly, indifferent, or unhelpful, especially concerning check-in delays and reservation problems. Overall, some guests perceive a general lack of organization and training among the staff, which can impact the efficiency of services provided.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest reviews is the poor Wi-Fi signal, which is often limited to public areas like the lobby and restaurant, with little to no connectivity in the rooms. A highlight for many guests is the hotel's strong focus on conservation efforts, including the popular turtle release program and the on-site crocodile breeding center, which offers educational tours. Other available activities include horse riding and evening bonfires. Despite these unique offerings, some guests noted a general lack of maintenance in certain areas of the property and felt that the hotel was overpriced given the overall value and condition of some facilities.