Hotel Estrella del Mar

Location:
12 de febrero just off Academy Bay
Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Hotel

V!VA User‘s Description

The Hotel Estrella del Mar is the only budget hotel that can offer ocean views. Four of the hotel's 12 rooms face Academy Bay and receive fresh breezes off the water through their screened-in windows. All other rooms are cute, clean, and spacious, and have private hot showers and fan. A few select rooms have air-conditioning and television at the same prices, so request these rooms if you come between February and April and need solace from the unbearable heat. It is a friendly place near the water with a comfortable eating area (breakfast is available for a small price), self-service coffee bar, and lounge. The only downfall is the unfortunate recurrent conglomeration of moths in the main hallway.

This Hotel is: Budget

Hotel Amenities, Services and Facilities Restaurant, Breakfast Included

Room Prices:
Lower:$47 (single)
Higher:$83 (triple)
Price Description:Prices include tax, service and breakfast.

Contact Information:
Phone: 593-05-252-6427
E-mail: estrellademar(at)remove-this.islasantacruz.com

Traveler Reviews of Hotel Estrella del Mar

wonderful, budget-friendly, amazing toast

Rating: 100%

We found Estrella del Mar by chance, after being set up in a cheap hostel by our travel agent.  The woman behind the counter (I forgot to get her name) was very kind and helpful and showed us the two nicest rooms she had available for a couple; one was marital, with a queen bed, and the other was double with two twin beds.  We chose the double for the balcony and view of the harbor and just pushed the beds together.  The AC and hot water worked great, with the exception of one morning when the electricity went out for awhile (to be expected on occasion on the islands).  Both the marital and double suites cost us $65/night after taxes and including breakfast.  Breakfast was simple- eggs, toast, juice, and coffee- but delicious: the whole wheat bread was so good I asked if they made it themselves, hoping I could get the recipe.  Turns out it came from a nearby bakery.  On our last morning we had to check out by 11am but had activities planned until 1pm, and they let us keep our suitcases behind the bar so we wouldn't have to drag them with us.

We had our activities planned ahead of time, so I don't know personally how well this hotel helps with activities, but we met a gentleman traveling alone and with no set plan who seemed satisfied with the service.  Plus, the hotel is a five-minute walk from the pier, and once at the pier you can just ask around for boats heading to different islands and make arrangements from there.

Caveats: the windows had no screens, so theoretically the island's plentiful mosquitoes could have gotten in, though neither of us noticed any bites; and I don't believe any of the staff spoke English (I speak Spanish, so it didn't occur to me to check); finally, the hotel is hidden away in an alley, which is great for safety and privacy but surely must make it difficult for travelers to stumble upon.  We found it by asking for recommendations from another hotel that was booked.  Oh, and I suppose its lack of amenities- no pool, no computers or internet (although there is a community area with a small TV)- could be missed, but there are internet cafes nearby and who needs a pool when you've got the beach?

All in all Estrella del Mar was a wonderful, private, relaxing place to return to after a day of exploring the islands.  I couldn't recommend it more.  And a bonus for young travelers with concerned parents: it is located right next to the police station.

By V!VA User from Bogota, May 21, 2009

Visited May '07

Rating: 75%

We were able to find a room for 3 during a national holiday. It was a last resort and for the money, was very clean. It's next to the police station and we felt very safe. Travelers were three females ages 20 - 83. Across the street is a travel guide named "Freddie" whose tours were great. Not overpriced at all. We received a great deal for the money.

By V!VA User from Los Angeles, CA, Mar 10, 2008

Good Budget Choice

Rating: 0%

We enjoyed our stay in this small hotel in June. Location was on the waterfront, next to Hotel Lobo Del Mar and the police station. We had room 12 and adjoining room 8. Room 12 had oceanview with balcony, no ac, but with the door open to adjoining room 8 with ac, both rooms were cooled sufficiently. The view was spectacular. You can see marine iguana, crabs, many sea lions and birds from the balcony. I could have been satisfied to sit there all day. You are awoken by the bark of sea lions and the water lapping the rocks each morning. Rooms were basic, but appeared clean and plenty of hot water. Staff spoke no English. A breakfast of eggs and 3 pieces of toast was included in price. I believe the room cost was $45.00. Moonrise travel made arrangements for hotel and boat tours. Moonrise is based on the island and the Divines, who run it, have lived there for over 30 years. Steve Divine is a level 3 guide and is extremely knowledgeable. Moonrise can arrange any kind of tour. We paid $595.00 for 5 days, 4 nights. Including all meals and 3 boats tours. Loved every minute we were there.

By V!VA User from North Carolina, Jul 12, 2006