Royal Isabela

This resort offers a truly unique escape, distinguished by its private casitas nestled on dramatic oceanfront cliffs, providing guests with unparalleled views and a profound sense of tranquility. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic and secluded getaway, as well as adults looking to decompress and connect with nature. The property's expansive grounds and challenging golf course also make it a perfect fit for golf enthusiasts. While the setting is undeniably breathtaking, guests should be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service and be aware that some casitas may show signs of wear. To enhance your stay, consider renting a car to explore the surrounding area, as the resort is quite isolated, and be mindful that restaurant service can be slow, so plan your meals accordingly.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort features spacious and private casitas, many of which boast their own plunge pools and expansive patios, offering stunning ocean vistas and a sense of seclusion. The property is home to a notable golf course, described as both challenging and scenic, providing a significant draw for many visitors. While the resort emphasizes relaxation and natural beauty, guests should be aware that there is no comprehensive fitness center; some reviews mention only minimal equipment in a small room near the pro shop. Other available activities include organized e-bike tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allowing guests to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. An old tennis court is also present on the property.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. Many describe the casitas as spacious, comfortable, and generally clean and spotless, highlighting the large bathrooms and impressive walk-in showers. However, a significant number of reviews point to a need for renovation and maintenance, noting wear and tear, old furniture, rotted wood, broken hinges on cabinet doors, stuck doors, leaking fridges, and warped floorboards. Some guests reported issues with dusty surfaces and soap scum in showers. While beds are often described as comfortable, some found the linens to be thin. Noise levels are generally low, contributing to the private atmosphere, though occasional disruptions from leaf blowers or children near the main pool have been noted.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort's main restaurant, Jota, receives high praise for its delicious and flavorful cuisine, often described as farm-to-table with fresh, local ingredients. Specific dishes like lobster sliders and Brioche French Toast are frequently highlighted. However, the dining experience is consistently marred by very slow service, with guests reporting waits of an hour or more for meals, even when the restaurant is not busy. Some reviews mention disorganization and inattentive staff, though many individual staff members are commended for their friendliness. The menu can be limited, with certain items occasionally unavailable. While room service is offered, it can also be subject to long delays and occasional order inaccuracies.

Location & Accessibility
The resort is set on oceanfront cliffs, offering breathtaking views and a serene, isolated atmosphere that many guests find to be a true ecological paradise. Its location in a small town means there are limited activities outside the property, making a car rental highly recommended for exploring the wider region, including nearby towns and natural attractions. A private beach is accessible via a long, steep walk down approximately 177 steps, but it is generally not suitable for swimming due to strong tides. While the grounds are walkable, the parking area is quite a distance from the casitas, necessitating golf cart transport for guests and their luggage, which some found inconvenient.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the resort elicit mixed but often passionate feedback. Many guests commend the team for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, attentive, and welcoming, with several instances of staff going above and beyond to assist guests. However, a recurring theme is inconsistent service and disorganization, particularly concerning long waits for restaurant service, check-in, and housekeeping. Some guests reported instances of unprofessionalism or poor communication from certain staff members, including management. Housekeeping services were sometimes described as inconsistent, with issues like unreplenished amenities. Despite these challenges, the overall impression is that many individual staff members strive to provide excellent service.

Additional Information
The property has undergone changes in ownership, and many guests note that the casitas need renovation and more consistent maintenance to address signs of wear and tear, such as rusted fixtures and worn flooring. Beyond golf, the resort offers unique outdoor activities like guided e-bike tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding, which are highly praised for providing immersive experiences in nature. The resort is generally considered adult-focused, with limited amenities or activities specifically for children, making it less ideal for families with young ones. Guests have also noted that the use of loud leaf blowers by grounds staff can disrupt the peaceful ambiance. The mini-bar contents and replenishment policy appear to be inconsistent, and the resort maintains a pet-friendly policy.