we recently took our first big family vacation (minus our toddler) to CR. My husband and I wanted locations that were comfortable for the kids, didn’t feel like a generic, oversized resort, and that were close to the beach! My husband researches locations like crazy and we ended up wanting to stay near Playa Grande. Everything he showed me was so boring and not authentic. The second he brought up the page to Villa Kalei I was SO excited! The photos online, though nice, don’t do it justice. We immediately felt so welcomed. Jeisha and Marcos were beyond hospitable and helpful. They spent a lot of time patiently sharing the best recommendations - they never seemed bothered or rushed. They were so personable. We saw an iguana, howler monkeys, lounged in the pool, and LOVED the showers. Plus after a long day at the beach the clean and cool room was perfect. Our room fit myself, my 6”2 hubby and our two teenager kids so comfortably- it was so spacious! The whole Having a kitchen outside was wonderful too, especially as I have dietary restrictions that can make eating out difficult. it’s so close to so many beaches, just the perfect home base to check out a TON of the most gorgeous beaches! All in all, wonderful atmosphere, a safe setting, lots of interesting nature, fantastic hosts who are beyond welcoming, and some super interesting villas to rest and relax in! We could not recommend Villas Kalei enough - thank you so much for having us, Jeisha and Marcos!