Try the community tour given by Cesiak. All the money goes back to preserving the reserve. Great place for wildlife viewing, and the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable.

Hello! This is a question from a newcomer, so have patience.. my question is:

Is anyone here aware of internet access and public transportation in the area? Thing is I'll probably be backpacking through and I'm running a bit short on budget to rent a car. Any alternatives are welcome! (including shared car rental if anyone's in the area around Oct 08!)

Also, on the internet issue, anyone knows if there's internet access and where? That is fundamental for me!

Thanks!

I started going to Copal about ten years ago. After the first three years I switched over to Azulik but hung out at Copal most of the time. For the past two years I spent part of my time at Azulik and the remainder at Copal's #28, known as the Casita. The Casita is a very large cabana on the south end of the property, high up on the cliff overlooking the sea. My understanding is that it was originally built for the owner's to use when they were on property. It was the prototype for the Villas of Azulik, which are right next door. I really like the Casita. It has a great location so that you can see up and down the beach in both directions. It differs somewhat from Azulik. The cabana itself is a bit more rustic than the Azulik units but it is quite a bit larger. The indoor tub/shower and bathroom sink are down the hall from the main room, as is the toilet. The floors of the casita are cement, rather than wood like at Azulik. The Casita has a very large covered outdoor deck with a large table, chairs, and outdoor tub (just like Azulik) and a place to hang a hammock. I brought my own hammock and really put it to use.
The Casita has a very comfortable king size bed. It has mosquito netting but not once in ten years have I ever needed protection from mosquitos. The sea breeze just blows them away! The Casita would be a good compromise if you would like a large unit like Azulik but at a lower price. It's a toss up with me. I love them both.
Hurricane Dean last fall really did a number on the beach at Copal. A large slice of the duned terrace is gone but they have installed a nice retaining wall. The net effect is that the beach is now much larger. They have also added several shady palapas and lots of beach chairs, as well as two hanging beds. The outdoor massage tent has been moved to a new pavillion built out over the beach. The beach itself was in the best condition I have ever seen. Deep, clean sand throughout.
I really enjoyed the beach bar. Good selection of food and drinks. A new addition to the beach bar staff this year is the lovely beauty from Guadalajara, Erica. Every person who stepped into the bar area was greated by her warm smile. She is a great asset to Copal.
My old friend Juan is still around. For years, Juan brought me my morning pot of tea, remembering from year to year what time I like to have it and always bringing the leche. Juan has now been promoted from room service to the morning shift of the restaurant where he continues to do a fine job taking care of his customers.
In fact, all of the staff at Copal were outstanding, friendly, and eager to help. One of the many reasons I keep going back, and will continue to do so.
I travel the world for a living. I return to Copal/Azulik year after year because it's my favorite place on earth! Contact me for followup questions, if you wish. Kensterfly at Yahoo.
Cheers!