If a cookie-cutter villa in a gated community is your thing, then strike Casa Pelícanos off your list. This is a blissfully unique property, and it's a gem. It floats above a tiny cluster of private homes overlooking a splendidly undeveloped beach -- all that's on offer at Playa los Venados is crashing surf, seabirds, and an unobstructed view of the Pacific. (A more commercial strip of sand is available a short drive or walk away in the delightful town of Lo de Marcos.) The residence takes up the large and very private top floor of a two-storey structure; it's well-furnished, comfortable, and the presence of other tenants downstairs hardly registers. We had coffee every morning of our week-long stay on the wrap-around terrace, gazing out at the ocean and wishing we could stay longer.
Glorious.
Paul was a welcoming and responsive host, with prompt e-mailed answers to all our pre-rental questions. And once we got there, Trini and Joel (his "team" on the ground) were very helpful. But we honestly didn't require much help -- everything worked as it was supposed to.
A few notes: Los Venados wasn't a "swimming" beach, at least not while we were there. A young Mexican woman (an expert swimmer) who braved the waves on one of the calmer days said she found herself fighting the surf and the current, and didn't go back in. The water at Lo de Marcos was just as rough. A car really is a must, for ease of access to the property, the town, and swimmable water -- a 4x4 is the best option if you want to explore, and allowed us to reach an otherwise inaccessible "secret" beach 45 minutes north . (And do take Paul's recommendation and rent with Gecko. The guys there are terrific, and so are their vehicles.) And lastly... the beds are on the "very firm" side, so anyone who'd prefer a little padding should consider toting a roll-up mattress pad of some kind. The place is worth it.