Located on the grounds of a former coffee plantation, the course was designed and built by George Fazio and his now famous nephew Tom Fazio. Aside from being able to play the ball once you keep it in the fairway, you will also avoid the lizards, monkeys and snakes which can lurk in the rough. The lizards, what us Texans would call Gila Monsters, can range in size of 2-3 feet, so ball hunting is at your own risk. The course layout is beautiful, with several holes being cut into the side of the San Jose hills with great views of the countryside and downtown San Jose. There are several blind shots and tricky greens, so caddies are a must on the course which can help visitors quickly gain a home court advantage.
Golf is surprisingly cheap, either as part of a package or alone.
Play in the mornings if possible as rain is often a factor in the afternoon. Temperatures stay constant in the 70s and 80s year around with the tropical humidity of Houston or Miami. Because Costa Rica is so close to the ecuator the sun goes down at 6 p.m. each night regardless of season. The golf at Melia Playa Conchal is much more wide open and spread out, but visually stunning with views of the ocean, mountains, the dense wilderness and man-made obstacles. There are numerous elevation changes, dozens of bunkers, several man-made lakes plus views of the Pacific Ocean on several holes on the front and back nine.