La Palapa (cuna Del Angel)

A real hidden gem. Super friendly and accommodating staff, great location close to Playa Dominical without being steeped in the busy tourist area. Note that this resort does not have beach access, however it does have a nice pool and the forest cabinas have an amazing view of the jungle canopy from the balconies. The whole facility is 100% gluten free, making it the perfect base camp for celiac and gluten free travelers. A special shout-out to Andrés for being particularly helpful with tips for things to see and do in the area as well as being a fantastic server in the restaurant. The restaurant can be busy for supper so be sure to make a reservation if you can!

The staff were great, and the hotel itself looked very good. Our only issue was the food, we didn't have a car so we're forced to eat at the restaurant, there is nothing else anywhere nearby. It has really bad options for vegetarians, for lunch we tried the pasta primavera, which was basically a half litre of garlic water with some vegetables and horrible gluten free pasta. Then for dinner we tried the coconut curry, again very bad, about 25% pineapple even though that ingredient wasn't listed and my wife had already told the waiter she couldn't eat pineapple as our only restriction. Other people seemed happy with meat options and the presentation of the food was great, but the chef really needs to provide a few safe vegetarian options. If it says pasta primavera it should at least resemble the dish, what we got was nothing like any primavera we've had before. Same for the coconut curry, I understand the chef is probably just trying to make things a bit unique and work everything to be gluten free but when you've only got a couple of veggie options I think they have to be safe and as described! We went to sleep very hungry and glad to be leaving the next day solely due to the restaurant.

The pool area is clean and tidy. HOWEVER, it's directly on Route 34, and the rooms face the road. There is no letup from the traffic noise. We asked to change rooms, but the gentleman in reception was so indifferent it was borderline rude. Our bed was very comfortable, but the drain smell was awful. Our coffee machine flooded even time we used it and the hairdryer didn't work. The food in the restaurant was good quality, but they only cook gluten free foods, so the choice is limited and very expensive. There is absolutely nowhere to walk to, so only stay if you have a car. We should have stayed 3 nights but moved on after only one.

This place is nice but not the best. The grounds are beautiful, and the restaurant is good, although the gluten free menu sacrifices taste if that is not your thing. The hotel booklet says it’s a quiet place and kids must be well behaved. That was not enforced when we were there. It’s also within earshot of the highway, on which a lot of trucks pass at all hours. Views are great, and it’s close to a lot of great places. One big drawback is that it is isolated and there is no trail to any beach or forest nearby. You need a car or a ride to get anywhere off the premises.

Quaint rooms with good service. The location was in the woods. Close to the ocean, the Whale's tail. The food was great. Breakfast was included. $140 a night for the room.