Stays in Potrero

I recommend Villas Vivo to families or two households travelling together in Potrero. Units have sea or mountain views, a terrace and balcony, air conditioning, a kitchenette and a washing machine, and a shared kitchen and lounge make group meals easy. The infinity pool is the centrepiece, and private parking is free. The 9.9 score is outstanding but comes from only nine ratings, so I see it as very promising rather than settled.

I recommend LA QUEBRADA ECO LODGE Hotel Boutique to families who want polish rather than a rustic lodge, despite the name. The five-star property was recently renovated, with air conditioning throughout, a lush garden and an outdoor pool open all year. A private beach area is a 12-minute walk away, and the full spa menu, concierge and private check-in suit parents who want a smooth stay. The 9.4 rating from 349 guests backs it up.

I would choose Villas Pura Vibra for an active family stay in Potrero. The activity list is long: hiking, cycling, canoeing, fishing, diving and horse riding. Back at the villas, the garden has a year-round outdoor pool, a sun terrace and an outdoor fireplace, with occasional live music. Family rooms are air-conditioned with a kitchenette, pets are welcome, and Potrero Beach is seven minutes' walk away. Families who prefer full hotel service may want more.

I recommend Casa del Sol - Villas Catalinas to families who want a villa with a full kitchen near Potrero. Each air-conditioned unit has a full kitchen, a washing machine, a private bathroom and garden views, which makes a long stay with children easy. The garden has a year-round outdoor pool, a hot tub, a terrace and barbecue facilities. Playa la Penca is a four-minute walk away. Nineteen guests rate it 9.1.

I recommend Sueño al Mar Residence & Hotel to families with young children. A separate kids' pool sits next to the main outdoor pool and a hot tub, so little ones can splash away from the deep end. Family rooms have a kitchenette, a balcony and a private bathroom, which makes breakfasts easy, and the restaurant serves American and Italian dishes from brunch to dinner. Potrero Beach is a few steps away and parking is free.

I recommend Parti Gras Hotel & Villas to families with children of different ages. Two swimming pools give toddlers and older children their own space, and the sun terrace, garden and picnic area suit long afternoons. Family rooms are air-conditioned with a dining area and free Wi-Fi. Potrero Beach is a four-minute walk away, and private check-in and full-day security add peace of mind. Seventy-eight guests rate it 8.7.

I would choose Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas for families who want plenty of outings arranged from one desk. The tour desk books dolphin-swimming trips, scuba diving, national park visits, horse riding, hiking, cycling and fishing, and cars and bicycles can be hired on site. Bungalow-style rooms with air conditioning surround an outdoor pool in tropical gardens, 200 metres from the beach. Rooms are plain, so the appeal is the activities.

I recommend Bahia del Sol Beach front Boutique Hotel to families who want the beach and a pool without planning around either. It sits directly on Playa Potrero, with indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, a spa and wellness centre, and water sports on site. Rooms have a terrace, garden views and a minibar, and suites add a separate lounge for parents. An airport shuttle is available, and 277 guests rate it 8.3.