Guest Report

[Genevieve]

We stayed in three different areas on the island and this was our favorite! Ancle, the owner, came to pick us up from our previous hotel at Pigeon Point and drove us to our next destination in Black Rock. We were able to chat about the island and he pointed out some landmarks on the way. He was also more than willing to help us book tours if we wanted to. The Naturalist is a great location right on the beach in the small secluded town of Castara. The waves were quite big but fun to swim in and there were very few rocks on the beach and in the water. If the water visibility is good, there are some good snorkling opportunities (including turtle and stingray sightings) at the adjacent Heavenly Bay. Unfortunately, we had poor visibility so we couldn't see either. There's also a trail nearby through the rain forest that leads to a waterfall and a small pond to swim in.

There are a few restaurants in the town but they seem to be on rotating schedules in terms of when they are open. There's also a mini-mart nearby and a fruit and vegetable stand up the street if you want to make your own meal. We also recommend going to the fish market where you can buy the catch of the day fresh off the boat from the fisherman himself! If you get there early enough you can watch him carry the fish from the boat to the shore. Make sure to get there before 4pm to claim your fish because they go fast.

The hotel offers complimentary breakfast (toast, cereal, cheese, bake, tomato, etc). Guests can use the beach chairs free of charge. We stayed in the Dolphin room which had a partial view of the ocean and beach. It has a balcony with a table and lounge chairs which we thoroughly enjoyed. We would cook our dinners in the kitchenette in the room and enjoy eating on the balcony while listening to the waves and then relaxing after dinner on the lounge chairs. The room was very clean, the air conditioning worked well, and the bed was comfortable although the pillows were a little flat. If there's a rain storm though, don't be startled by the sound of downpour on the roof.

We had a great stay at the Naturalist and in Castara. If you are looking for a relaxing place, this is the place to be. The price and value can't be beat!