Ylang Ylang is one of those places people come back to year after year.

It sits at the quiet end of the beach, surrounded by jungle and sea, so you hear waves and monkeys more than anything else.

It feels a bit like its own little world, with paths through the gardens, hammocks under the trees, and unique rooms spread out along the sand and into the forest.

Location

The resort is set on a secluded stretch of beach just outside Montezuma. Most people walk along the sand from town, which takes about ten to fifteen minutes and is a really pretty walk when the tide is right.

It’s at the far end of the bay, so you don’t get vendors or loud bars, just ocean, palm trees, and the occasional beach walker.

You can reach the property by car, but only if you have the right vehicle and road conditions are good, so it’s best to check in advance with the hotel if you plan to drive in.

Once you’re here, you’ll likely spend most of your time between the pool, beach, spa, and restaurant, with the option to head into Montezuma for a change of scene.

Check availability. This peaceful spot often books up early in dry season ↓

Rooms & Layout

Rooms at Ylang Ylang are spread through the gardens and along the beachfront, with a mix of cabinas, beach rooms, and bungalows.

Everything is designed in a natural, Costa Rica–meets–beach style with plenty of wood, warm tones, and little details like outdoor terraces and hammocks.

Options include simple jungle cabinas, standard beach rooms with two queen beds, beachfront bungalows for couples, elevated Tree Top Canopy rooms with outdoor tubs, garden bungalows, family-friendly spaces like the Colibri Bungalow and Coco Joe’s Bungalow, and a larger Family Beach Suite that can sleep bigger groups.

All have private bathrooms and air conditioning, and many are just a few steps from the sand.

Breakfast and dinner are included for hotel guests, which makes it very easy to settle in and not overthink meals.

On-Site Dining

The on-site Ylang Ylang Restaurant and Bar is a big part of why people love staying here.

The focus is on fresh, organic, and sustainable ingredients, with lots of options for different lifestyles. You’ll find seafood plates, hormone-free chicken dishes, vegetarian and vegan meals, gluten-free options, raw food, and even sushi.

Breakfast might include things like pancakes, fruit plates, or Costa Rican favorites, while dinner menus feature creative mains and house “Ylang Ylang natural juices.”

Red meat and pork aren’t served, which fits with the more health-focused, eco-conscious feel of the place.

There’s also a full bar with tropical cocktails and a daily happy hour.

Why Guests Love It

• Secluded beachfront setting at the quiet end of the bay
• Calm, peaceful atmosphere with only the sound of the ocean
• Plenty of wildlife including monkeys, iguanas, birds, and more
• Friendly staff and owners who make people feel genuinely welcome
• Included breakfast and dinner with lots of vegan and special diet options
• Beautiful pool and gardens that feel like a little paradise
• On-site spa and yoga for an easy wellness-focused stay

Heads Up (Real Talk)

Getting here takes a bit more effort than some other places in Costa Rica. The walk along the beach to town is lovely, but it may not feel ideal at night or for anyone with mobility issues.

The property is not brand new, so a few things show some age, and small maintenance quirks can pop up from time to time.

There’s no TV in the rooms, which most guests end up enjoying, but it’s good to know ahead of time.

You won’t find surf or boogie boards directly on-site, and tours or activities are booked through partner operators rather than run by the hotel itself.

Our Take

We are kind of obsessed with Ylang Ylang (and Montezuma in general). In fact, we considered getting married at this relaxed resort.

Ylang Ylang is the place to go for travelers who want that “hidden beachfront retreat” feeling without sacrificing comfort or good food.

It’s especially nice for longer stays because you can settle into a routine of beach walks, pool time, spa or yoga, and long dinners while watching the waves.

It’s really a special spot if you’re looking for peace, nature, and a slower pace rather than constant action.

Great For

✔ Couples and honeymooners who want a romantic, peaceful escape
✔ Nature lovers who get excited about wildlife and quiet beaches
✔ Vegan and health-conscious travelers who care about food options
✔ Families who want a calm, all-around relaxing place to stay

Not Ideal For

✘ Travelers who want to be right in the middle of town life
✘ Anyone who doesn’t like walking to and from the property along the beach
✘ Guests looking for a big, modern resort with lots of built-in entertainment

👉See Current Availability and Room Options