Hostel Santa Cruz del Islote — Hotel in Bolívar

Just save time and avoid this hostel. The service there was terrible, food is ridiculously expensive (more expensive than at the other islands around) and for very small portion. very noisy diesel electricity plant running until 6am that makes you feel like sleeping next to the highway (diesel smell was so bad the forst night we got headache). The worse part was the admin lady who has a serious mental problem and clearly not fit for working there. Such a rude person, at the point of insulting guests. You could feel she was rude with employees as well, giving the all hotel a feeling of tyranny from the first minute we got there. Its a shame as the island could be beautiful, but it is just very dirty. We cleaned the water in front of the hotel our selves in the morning (floating garbage). Couldnt clean the old tires and furnitures though. The hotel admin lady clearly didnt care, she was more concerned about recovering from hangover after partying until 3am and being super noisy despite us asking nicely to keep it down…she even asked the kstaff to clean the garbage and the kitchen dirty water right in front of the hotel, where guests are supposed to swim…

I recommend a change a administration urgently, and a fresh focus in helping and educating the community to explain them the value of keeping the island clean, for their own health and confort. Such a hostel could have a huge positive impact on the island, many nice and smart kids around whom could benefit from educating activities, ecological workshop etc but clearly the hotel admin is there just for the money. Below pictures of what they won’t show you on their website: the next door garbage beach, the hotel entrance in the middle of the dumpster and the breakfast portion that even our kids found too small (they’ll charge you extra for anything else, even bread). Skip this one until they drastically change their management, and...

I had the pleasure of staying at Santa Cruz del Islote Hostel and what a unique experience it was. The hostel itself is clean, comfortable and is situated right on the Caribbean Ocean, literally four steps down from the deck. A slice of paradise. But what really made my stay so memorable was the staff. In one word: Phenomenal 💜 Samantha, the Manager, is a gem to say the least. She is helpful, accomodating, efficient and incredibly personable. A dynamic personality and respected by her amazing staff. Edwin, the talented Chef in the kitchen, did not disappoint with his talents. Every meal was prepared with thought, love and a desire for cooking - delicious in every way. The other staff members were super nice and contributed in so many ways to ensuring that the hostel areas were kept clean and that guests were always made to feel welcome. Thank you so much to you all 💜 Highly recommend!!!...

I was not sure what to expect as the island itself looks very different than anywhere I have stayed, which was part of the draw. But I can say I was very happy with the decision to book 4 nights here. The hostel was clean, comfortable and had the most breathtaking views and access to the beautiful Caribbean ocean right at your feet. What made my stay even more memorable was the amazing staff. Samantha who runs the hostel was always courteous, kind and always ensured we had whatever we needed. I consider myself a real foodie and the food was on point! Edwin the chef made us beautiful meals and takes pride in his food. The whole team did a fantastic job at making our stay one that we will for surely remember. Im already considerering going back for my bday. Thank you to everyone! I will be...