One of the best value guesthouses around Puerto Viejo, Shawandha is a rustic place to stay but offers a warm welcome and very convenient access to a beautiful little beach, Playa Chiquita. The town of Puerto Viejo is a ten-minute drive away, making this more a peaceful place to stay geared towards relaxation. Rooms are on the simple side and are cooled by fans rather than air-conditioning, but all feature private bathrooms and feel entirely in-keeping with their natural surroundings. There is a pleasant pool area and lush tropical gardens which attract visiting monkeys and birds.