Prior to my stay, I believed that the perfect beach vacation did not exist. I had been looking for that elusive destination for years because I've always had such exacting criteria: beautiful/safe beach, intimate/boutique feel, private, luxurious (but not over the top), exceptional food and service, kid friendly (pool, sitters, sand toys, etc.), lots of amenities and attractions on property and closeby, AND easy to get to from Montana. So imagine my delight when I found Esencia!! Every detail of our stay was impeccable and I truly felt relaxed for the first time in years! Not only does this resort check all of my boxes, it sets the new standard for "5 Star Service". My children were so thrilled with every little thing--from the palm-frond critters made by Augustin at lunch to the hermit crabs that the staff helped them find at night. And when they would both fall asleep in my lap at dinner (exhausted from a full day of play), the staff were quick to pull up a sofa with pillows so I could continue eating and they could continue sleeping (they also carried my heavy purse all the way home from the restaurant since my hands were full with slumbering babies). I have yet to visit a place that is more accommodating to children--and weary parents--so this vacation was worth every peso and more! Don't even get me started on the healing power of a massage with Carla!! Lastly, although there were lots of guests staying at Esencia when we were there, I often felt like we had the place to ourselves and that everyone there was exclusively caring for my family. Who could ask for anything more!?! Everyone was so kind, helpful and polite... and we miss them all already! A return trip is certainly in our future.