Ela Kosher Hotel and Jewish Center

My stay at Hotel ELA in Jacó Beach was, unfortunately, one of the most disappointing hotel experiences I have had. I visited with my family, and from the very beginning, the experience was unpleasant. Upon arrival, the manager was unwelcoming and unprofessional. She initially quoted me a higher in-person rate than the one advertised on Booking.com. When I mentioned that I would book online because it was cheaper, she then offered the Booking.com rate but added taxes on top. She required a 50% deposit, which I paid in cash, as she explained there would be an additional fee if I used a credit card. I registered using my Canadian identification without issue. However, when I later arrived with my Costa Rican family members, the manager refused to give us access to our rooms until I paid the remaining balance in full. The manner in which she demanded payment was rude and disrespectful, and her attitude toward my family made us feel uncomfortable. I believe that anyone managing a business in Costa Rica should treat both locals and visitors with equal respect and professionalism. Hospitality should reflect courtesy and cultural respect at all times. Beyond the service concerns, the property itself is in need of significant maintenance and organization. The facilities appear run-down, with equipment and miscellaneous items scattered around the premises. The septic tank is located at the entrance, and its cover was not properly sealed, resulting in an unpleasant odor. The parking area is very limited (approximately five spaces), with one space occupied by an old truck under repair. Cleanliness was also a serious concern. During our stay, we found cockroaches in the room, which was extremely disturbing and unacceptable. The pool area does not provide umbrellas or shaded seating for guests. Additionally, the manager closely monitors guests in a way that feels intrusive rather than attentive. The breakfast offered was very basic and of low quality: hard-boiled eggs, green salad, crackers, and cinnamon bread that did not seem fresh. The hotel advertises amenities such as a pool table and ping pong table. However, although check-in is at 2:00 p.m., at 3:00 p.m. the area is closed to prepare for Shabbat. After that time, other paying guests are not allowed to use those facilities, which significantly limits access to advertised amenities. Overall, this was a very disappointing experience. The manager’s attitude and treatment created a negative atmosphere that affected our family vacation, and the condition and cleanliness of the facilities further contributed to our dissatisfaction.

We stayed here for three nights and had a great experience. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. Justin at the front desk was outstanding and stepped in to help translate for us when there was a language barrier. There was also a Russian lady who worked at the front desk who was very professional and helpful. The breakfast was delicious, and we want to thank the lady who prepared it. Everything tasted fresh and homemade. The pita bread was especially impressive, and we were pleasantly surprised to learn it is made in house. Please pass along our compliments to the baker because it was excellent. We would definitely recommend staying here and are already planning to return in March. One helpful tip for future guests arranging airport transportation is that the sign outside the property says Izu’s Place, which makes it easier for drivers to locate.

Absolutely unacceptable that the hotel is hiding their real identity. This hotel is actually a jewish community center and the real name is Izu’s Place. Rooms are like tombs with sarcophaguses instead of beds. It is dirty, outdated, bed linen wasn’t even ironed, rooms full of ants, cockroaches and spiders, no hot water in the shower. Daria tried her best to make sure we feel safe and satisfied. Breakfast was not worth of mentioning.