Casa Amapola is a hidden gem in Yabucoa, a small town on the southeastern side of Puerto Rico. The view of the ocean is incredible, especially for sunsets. The hosts are incredibly welcoming (from sending us emails full of helpful local recommendations to Christmas decorations everywhere). The house feels like a resort due to the comfortable king beds, the pool and gazebo, and beautiful plants on the property. One touch we loved was the soft, thick towels for both the beach and for showering. Such a treat! The pool is great for kids (our children were 3-11 years). The second floor has a balcony with comfy rocking chairs and a gorgeous view of the island and ocean. The backyard is an outdoor oasis, perfect for relaxing. You can hear the ocean, the native birds, and beautiful wind chimes. The kitchen is really well stocked for cooking meals at home, making this a great place to stay with families. We stayed with 9 guests (2 families, 5 kids) and we had an extra room to spare because our children loved having "sleepovers" together. The private access to the beach was incredible for walking, swimming at low tide, watching surfers, and shell hunting. There is so much seating indoors and outdoors for meals and hanging out. There's a comfortable living room area for a nightly show before bed. Casa Amapola is close to a great grocery store (Ralph's) and some shops and restaurants in 10-15 minute drive. We had an amazing trip and went cliff jumping and hiking in El Yunque (~45 mins away), kayaking at night with bioluminescent algae, and traveled to 2 beautiful local beaches (7 Seas and Loquillo). We had dinner right on the ocean one night at a great restaurant called Arroyo's. 
Staying at Casa Amapola was an incredible way to spend the Christmas holiday. Our hosts were so easy to contact through VRBO. We exchanged messages about helpful tips for our stay and conditions on the island after 2 hurricanes). Yabucoa is in great shape and is set apart from the touristy parts of Puerto Rico (like San Juan). Our hosts helped us feel so prepared for our trip. Check-in and check-out were super easy. Thank you so much, Jose & Madeline!!! We want to come back again in a few years to stay again!