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Beautiful Oceanfront Villa for Your Tropical Vacations [#332427] | View Property

El Zonte
Villa, 3 Bedrooms + Other (See Description), 2 Baths (Sleeps 6)
$150/nt US Dollars
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Traveler Reviews (18)

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  • Safe Haven in a Quiet (other than the ocean) Paradise

    Safe Haven in a Quiet (other than the ocean) Paradise

    • Guest KL
    • Date of stay 03/12/13
    • Review Submitted 04/06/13
    My family of 4 spent 12 nghts at this property. It was absolutely relaxing and beautiful.The view was spectacular, the pounding sound of the waves relentless, and the house itself quite comfortable with lots of room. Definitely room for 6. Having Mike and Paola and their beautiful daughters on site made our stay more enjoyable. Although our Spanish is adequate, Mike was incredibly helpful with getting a rental car, water, directions, advice and even picked us up at the airport. We definitely enjoyed and needed the amazing A/C as the nights were hot. The power was out in the area 3 times during our stay and having the cool inside shower and the pool was helpful in cooling down for bed. It never did get hot in the inside shower and we often used the outside showers which got incredibly hot! The beds were clean and comfortable. Oneida the "cook-for-hire" and "housecleaner" was pleasant. Be aware that you need to ask her to clean anything other than the kitchen. The three meals she cooked for us were tasty, and her cleaning up the kitchen was a real treat. My favorite things: the sunsets, the gazebo, the pool. Be aware there is no wi-fi, and Mike had a USB drive containing internet that plugs into a laptop, which fortunately, my teenager brought. Also, we were hoping for a stereo, or some entertainment at night--especially with the kids (15 and 9). It got dark by 6:30-7 and then we stayed home so as to not be out much at night. We ate out only a couple of time in the town and, although sometimes tasty, usually regretted it. Next time, we would bring games. Definitely a surfer's paradise!!! It was great to see Mike living his dream!! We are beginners and the ocean got VERY big (mid March), so we could only go in the water for the first 1/2 of our trip. Down the road in El Tunco, a town emerging with youth culture and young surfers, the waves were a bit easier, although still fast and powerful. We watched some amazing surfing and boogie boarding. We adventured up and down the coastline and enjoyed many secluded, pristine beaches and then would spend the next day resting on the property and exploring the local El Zonte village and beach. I didn't see any bad guys, only felt sketched out a couple of times in Libertad, and got the feeling it is a well-armed country. Overall, the people of El Salvador were kind, gentle, gracious and peaceful.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • A Surfer's Dream, Uncrowded Paradise

    A Surfer's Dream, Uncrowded Paradise

    • Guest Rusto
    • Date of stay 01/07/13
    • Review Submitted 01/27/13
    Almost every morning I rose to watch the sunrise on the Pacific and in the evening, sat with my favorite beverage and watched the sunset on the Pacific. Every day I went surfing in the most dramatic, consistent, yet ever-changing waves that I have ever experienced. Mike and his family, and not just his immediate family, Paola, Zoe, and Tessa, Niko and Nutmeg, quickly became our family. Zoe, who is only six years old, sat next to me in her little chair many times to watch the sunset, while Tessa, three years old, played near us. Mike and Paola would quietly maintain the beautiful yard that surrounded us. Mike has a nice selection of surfboards, if you decide not to bring your own. My niece learned to surf while she was there. Oneida and Brenda, sisters, cooked us delicious, El Sal favorites everyday, breakfast and dinner, whenever we wanted. They would even shop for us as the local fish pier or market in La Libertad, which is a sight to be experienced. We all went up to Beto's for dinner and watched the sunset from there. Go to Beto's at least once. El Zonte village, just a short walk down the beach, is still a secret haven for surfers, wanderers and world travelers, with friendly locals, a masseuse, and satisfying social gatherings. I brought my family, my two sons and niece, and we were treated kindly, felt safe the whole time, and I feel became part of an amazing community. Mike and Paola will go beyond to make sure that your stay is the best ever. If you want adventure, go up to the village of Tamanique, just twenty minutes away, ask for Pedro and Luca, and take a guided, amazing, rigorous 45 minute hike to the Tamanique falls for a negotiable 8 dollars per person (negotiate first). Another cool thing is that everything is a short drive away. We were able to go to the airport several times with no stress. As beautiful as the pictures of this property are, they still do not even get close to how beautiful this place truly is, the poetic beauty of sea and flowers, the connections to the people, the memories that will be in my heart and mind for the rest of my life. I left the world behind at El Zonte. You should too! I left part of my heart in El Zonte, but my soul was enriched beyond words. I have so much to say but I am running out of characters. Go to Mike and Paolo's secret hideaway of your dreams!

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Amazing, relaxing and unforgettable stay, a surfers dream!

    Amazing, relaxing and unforgettable stay, a surfers dream!

    • Guest AC
    • Date of stay 11/10/12
    • Review Submitted 02/27/13
    We spent a week here in late 2012 with six adults. We are return visitors to El Zonte and this house combined with Mike and Paola's hospitality made for an awesome trip. The house itself was well maintained and clean, the pool was cool clean and refreshing and the grounds and view amazing. The rooms/kitchen were basic, but we spent most of our time in a hammock or lounger on one of the two large outdoor areas. We mainly cooked breakfasts in the house and took advantage of the quick walk to "town centre" for delicious and ultra inexpensive group dinners. Among other things, Mike was very helpful and forthcoming in organizing transfers, stocking the place with food prior to arrival, recommending activities and surf spots to visit. Mike's ceviche recipe recommendations were also great after a quick visit to the fish market in La Libertad. A great experience all in all.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Paradise

    Paradise

    • Guest JB
    • Date of stay 11/02/12
    • Review Submitted 01/31/13
    This was our third trip to El Salvador and our third time staying here.I would not think of staying any where else. Mike, Paola, Zoe and Tessa invite you into there day to day life surrounded by flowers and palm trees over looking the Pacific, they make you feel like family. The house and property are fabulous! simple, comfortable in to many ways with a pool and the best view of the surf in El Zonte. My wife and I are due with a child in April and we will make Mike and Paola's our "try out" travel with child first on the list. I would go on, but the review before this pretty much says it all!

    Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Paradise!

    Paradise!

    • Guest Dani
    • Date of stay 10/26/12
    • Review Submitted 02/28/13
    6 of us had a fantastic fall trip in El Zonte. The only thing that out matched the accommodation and location was the wonderful family that owns and runs this property. The combination of friendliness, comfort and location was perfect! This rental is suited for a huge variety of travellers (surfers, families, friends, young and old). We will be back for sure. Thanks for the perfect holiday

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Surfers Sanctuary

    Surfers Sanctuary

    • Guest KP
    • Date of stay 10/26/12
    • Review Submitted 01/30/13
    Mike and Paola's place is fantastic in every way. The house is simple, clean and well maintained. Their children Tessa and Zoe are wonderful as well and a joy to be around. The gazebo is wonderful for watching the surf and sunset. There were 6 adults in our group and we cooked most meals at home. There is some sort of fruit truck that comes almost every other day and Mike was helpful in getting us to La Libertad for a grocery and fish run. The surfing was great for our mixed abilities and it was super helpful to be able to see the surf from almost anywhere in the house. You could then decide if you wanted to go or not. The locals in the town are wonderful and it is an easy walk to get there if you want to go out for a meal. We caught the bus a few times to go to Sunzal for a different surf scene and that was easy as well. We rented boards when we went to Sunzal for ease. I could go on and on about how much we loved this place. We will be back for sure. We didn't have any children in our group but it is a perfect place for little ones with the enclosed property and pool.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Beautiful and well-maintained home with amazing view of the point!

    Beautiful and well-maintained home with amazing view of the point!

    • Guest Wombat
    • Date of stay 09/24/12
    • Review Submitted 01/30/13
    I have stayed at this property twice and both experiences have been wonderful. The home is very clean and well kept. You can walk out the back gate and paddle directly into the line up at El Zonte point. IF surfing is not in the cards, you can also enjoy the pool or lounging around in the hammocks. The host family is very friendly and helpful. I will definitely stay here again when I return to El Salvador.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Tranquilidad

    Tranquilidad

    • Guest Ani
    • Date of stay 04/12/12
    • Review Submitted 05/01/12
    Villa Bendicion is too beautiful to be real and was everything my boyfriend and I hoped for in our 10 day stay. The bird's eye views of the point break from just about every point on the property are phenomenal, and especially appreciated for those wanting to check the surf throughout the day. The place is incredibly quiet and peaceful, the only things you will hear are birds and waves. We held off on renting a car for the first week of our stay, as there was so much to do right there at Villa Bendicion/Playa El Zonte. We surfed, went for long beach walks, explored tide pools/caves, relaxed in the pool, meditated under the palm trees, watched tropical thunder storms and sunsets from the gazebo, did yoga under the plumeria tree, read and did artwork on the patio, napped on one of the 4 hammocks, explored the local towns (you can walk to El Zonte in <5 minutes or reach La Libertad by bus for only 50 cents!), and ate lots of delicious fresh fish, mangos, avocados, and plantains. I would definitely recommend this place to a friend or relative looking for a relaxing getaway in tropical setting. Mike was a great host and readily available to answer all of our questions. The place was cleaned daily (inside and outside), including the pool. Villa benediction is honestly one of the most "tranquilo" homes I have ever visited and I can't wait to return.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • Blown Away

    Blown Away

    • Guest Flava Dave
    • Date of stay 04/12/12
    • Review Submitted 04/26/12
    This place was above and beyond anything my girlfriend and I ever expected. Besides the beauty of the house, decks, and decor, there were numerous species of beautiful flowers and plants strategically placed throughout the property. I cant think of a place that could be more conducive to relaxation. We managed to cook most nights with some great local food we picked up from the markets. (I recommend checking out the seafood market in La Libertad). If you are feeling less motivated, there are great restaurants just a walk down the beach, or hire Oneida, who can hook you up with delicious thick hot Salvadorian style tortillas. The premises is walking distance from the point break, which you can watch all day, unlike most surfers staying in Zonte. (This gave me the opportunity for many uncrowded surf sessions including one of the best of my life). There is also nothing like hearing the pounding surf lull you to sleep at night. Mike and Paula were so personable and accommodating; pretty much wrapping up anything you could ever need in a perfect vacation spot. One time on the trip I tried to worry about something, but then I realized I couldn't find anything I could possibly be unsatisfied about there. No doubt in my mind that I will be returning. I wish it was tomorrow...

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • iowa boy

    iowa boy

    • Guest Iowa Boy
    • Date of stay 01/16/12
    • Review Submitted 02/22/12
    House is on a beautiful spot close to many resturants and attractions. The surf is one of the best in the world. You can tell from the pictures of the perfect setting. House has three separate outdoor seating areas,all with a great view of the ocean. You will go to sleep at night with the sound of the surf pounding the lava rocks at the base of the cliff. If desired Onieda will cook gourmet quality meals for you and your guests for the huge fee of $5 US. Mike and his family will be there to look after your needs and offer great conversation and advise. All in all a great time. We were there for a month and regardless of what you hear, we were not bothered or accosted by anybad guys. Recommend 100 Percent. Thanks again Miguel,Paola and girls. Also Nutmeg and Mico

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0

  • the dechev best chrismas

    the dechev best chrismas

    • Guest doncho
    • Date of stay 12/19/11
    • Review Submitted 01/12/12
    My wife and I and are 4 children have been spending Christmas an New Years Eve in Central America for the past 5 years.Our expierience with Mike and Paola, and thier 2 kids Zoe and Tessa was our most enjoyable time we ever had here in Central America.The house couldn't be in a better spot to watch the point break in El Zonte. The waves were firing every day. To those first time comers, let Mike show you around for he is a great tour guide. His staff will take care of everything for you, for a great price. You can eat fresh fish every day of the week prepared differently every time, if you wish. My family and I can't wait to come back to this paradise as soon as possible.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

  • An outstanding property

    An outstanding property

    • Guest Christopher
    • Date of stay 08/12/11
    • Review Submitted 09/05/11
    My wife and I just recently returned home from an extended stay at Villa Bendicion and had a fabulous time. The property was exactly as described and the view is to die for!! We would return in a heartbeat if we ever visit El Salvador again. I would recommend Villa Bendicion to travelers looking for ANY of the following: relaxation, surfing, adventures and a true El Salvadorian experience. Also, I highly recommend anyone who stays here to arrange for Oneda "the house caretaker" to cook meals for you. The food was authentic, delicious and very reasonably priced. A few local excursions not to miss would include the weekend food festival and mountain biking in Juayua, hiking the Santa Ana Volcano and strolling the sandy beach of Mizata. I haven't even mentioned the perfect, consistant point break out front or the beach break just to the west of the rivermouth. If you plan on renting a vehicle be sure you get something with a decent amount of ground clearence, the roads in El Salvador were surprisingly good but most roads to the beaches are a bit rough.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

  • chillness

    chillness

    • Guest Justin
    • Date of stay 06/25/11
    • Review Submitted 07/08/11
    This house is awesome. It is right on the beach in front of a great surf break. I was skeptical about the absence of air conditioning, however, every night the sea breeze flows through the house. We had a fan in our room and it was perfectly comfortable falling asleep. Additionally, Mike and Paola are the best hosts we could have hoped for. The furniture on the patio area is really unique and comfortable. There are like 4 hammocks on the property; they are great for afternoon naps. The pool is a great benefit, we loved cooling off in it after a surf sesh. Mike would clean leaves out of it every morning before we even woke up. Would recommend this house to anyone. Zonte itself is a great location with many other great surf breaks nearby.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 1/1

  • Awesome Vacation in El Salvador!!!

    Awesome Vacation in El Salvador!!!

    • Guest sunshine
    • Date of stay 04/01/10
    • Review Submitted 04/13/11
    Ok, we are the kind of travelers who like to be part of the local community where ever we visit. El Zonte is this small incredible El Salvadoran community nestled along the beach. There are surfers, artists, sweet abuelas (or tias) at the tiendas, and a few basic but clean and delicious places to eat. The ice cream guy rolls through for .25 a cone, and the bus runs by at the top of the hill ready to take you to Tuncal, Sunzal, or La Libertad. We are also the kind of travelers that like our privacy and comfort. Michael and Paola's home perches on a cliff with steps leading directly to the beach. The pool is gorgeous, and we spent the majority of our time at the house relaxing in the ocean breeze on the hammocks stretched across the porch. Fans were enough to keep us comfortable at night, and we would go back in a heartbeat, for the town and the privacy their house allowed us. I can't recommend their hospitality enough, a truly international and artistic family. Did I mention the top of the line ceviche at Ola Beto's just up the street? yuummmm....

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

  • Idyllic Sun/Surf Getaway

    Idyllic Sun/Surf Getaway

    • Guest Anna
    • Date of stay 03/26/10
    • Review Submitted 01/03/11
    I have stayed here 4 times! Direct beach access, ocean and sunset views, ocean breezes--totally amazing! After surfing or a swim in the ocean or pool you can pick a hammock in the cabana overlooking the beach and surf point, or hang out under a tree in the bright, flowery garden/yard, or catch the best breezes lounging in the open air living areas surrounding the enclosed but airy bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen. I read 100 Years of Solitude in one marathon hammock session under the shade of a tree in the yard looking out on the surf, with the sound of the wild birds and neighborhood roosters in the background, with breaks only for naps and beverages. Fresh fruit is in season year round and fish is caught and sold daily in the nearest market town. An amazingly comfortable home--you won't want to leave! Located on the west side of El Salvador, if you crave exploration you can easily visit the mountainous finca region and the country's only national park. Located about an hour from San Salvador, you feel very far from city life but if you want to visit the capitol for museums, restaurants, etcetera it is an easy distance driving or by inexpensive taxi. Totally sweet, responsive owners and on-site staff. Most highly recommended!!!

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/6

  • Amazing place

    Amazing place

    • Guest ERIK
    • Date of stay 03/08/10
    • Review Submitted 04/12/11
    I have stayed at Bendicion several times and will no doubt do so again. beautiful views of the ocean and as you BBQ by the pool, it simply can't be beat. The area is quite and feels a miles away from everything, despite being so centrally located. The main feature i like about this location is the private direct access to the beach. Just walk down a few stairs and you're there. A definite plus if you are taking your board out to go surfing. I give this place my full recommendation, something i rarely do. Be sure to check out the fish market during your stay. it makes for an unforgettable BBQ at sunset.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

  • ahhh...

    ahhh...

    • Guest Kitty
    • Date of stay 02/13/10
    • Review Submitted 01/03/11
    I spent a week at Bendicion in February, 2010. It was the perfect vacation for me. Not a surfer, I loved that all I had to do was step through the gate and I was at the beach to walk or swim or simply absorb the sights and sounds. I spent the rest of the time in a hammock in the gazebo or on the porch, or by the pool... reading, writing and resting. The couple that care for the villa are great. The grounds, pool and house are immaculate and the meals were authentic and delicious. Even though I went alone, I felt completely safe at all times. The villagers were all friendly and respectful. I can't wait to go back.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4

  • gorgeous spot

    gorgeous spot

    • Guest Kimberly
    • Date of stay 02/01/08
    • Review Submitted 04/12/11
    I just love El Zonte and this house. I came with my husband and my daughter when she was almost 2 years old. I was a little nervous about traveling to El Salvador with a child but I found it peaceful, relaxing and totally safe. We got to experience the rich culture and beauty of El Salvador while still relaxing and rejuvenating. San Salvador has amazing markets, restaurants and art galleries and is only about 40 minutes away. The owners will help you with any questions about transportation or where to go. and the beach! It's so beautiful. There was even a little natural pool in the rocks near the beach. The pool is perfect. The sunsets are spectacular!! I can't wait to go back.

    Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

    Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2



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