La Vena is the quintessential beach palapa restaurant. It is very popular with the sailors and powerboaters who anchor in the protected anchorage out front and dinghy or swim in. Some customers also walk down the beach from Los Angeles Locos, the hotel that controls access by land. Visitors by car follow the hotel signs and then drive past the hotel down the beach road and park in the palms and walk back to La Vena. If you come by car you can only get through the hotel Gates sorting open hours at the restaurant, and you may be required to leave your license and show your receipt when you exit. Sometimes yes, sometimes no. All depends on the mood of the guard. So after getting you worried about access, let me assure you that it will be worth it. The restaurant has been run by the same family for the 15 years that we have been visiting Tenacatita. The menu is small and simple and is all local. They are well known for their Rollo del Mar, fish wrapped around shrimp with a rich sauce. Their empanadas de camerones are my favorite. Three large empanadas in an order. Plenty for two normal appetites. I've cold beers, good margaritas, agua minerales and assorted soft drinks make a great place to spend a few hours as the breezes blow through the palapa. Great beach for swimming too with changing room and a fresh water shower read more

See all