This was our 8th visit to Puerto Vallarta. Initially, we were a little hesitant staying so far away from downtown but that was not a problem. We normally take the bus everywhere in PV, however, at Costa Sur we would take the bus into town and a taxi back, usually with groceries and stuff, for about $5. We stayed for 2 weeks.

The staff was very nice and the room was just as expected. The lagoon was awesome and was some of the best snorkeling we've ever done. The decor was average but all usable. Both pools were nice, but the main pool was where the action was and service there was excellent and the staff helped you make the most of happy hour including free popcorn. There was no mention of buying a time share, but there was mention as to if we wanted to sell ours (ours was trade).

Carlos the head bell guy was extremely helpful and even gave us a boogie board to use in Sayulita. Our 6-year old had a great time and met a few friends and Carlos was very nice to him, too.

The weight room was somewhat in disrepair but had enough working machines. I needed an internet connection each day and you can only use their computers, no wi-fi, but I was able to carry my thumb drive back and forth. We only turned on the TV while making meals and we liked the idea few programs were in English.

The beach is nice and it's isolated location kept the hawkers away. The sand is not as nice & soft as farther north, but we expected that. We rented a kayak but didn't arrange any other activities there. It was the rainy season but there was only one storm but it was amazing, like none we had ever seen before. The food and service at the restaurant was good, but once is enough. We go somewhere different each night. The convenience store about a block to the north was better stocked than CS's.

The Costa Sur is an ok place for the price. But really, don't expect much for the money. You have to take a taxi to get anywhere into where action going on in town, and to any resturants. The view is beautiful being right on the beach. And the room had strong air conditioning? I guess thats good, espeically in August when we went.
When it came to anything else. It wasn't worth it. The food was aweful and the service was even worse. The waiter actually came banging on our door at 10pm at night because we took the pink copy, not the white...
The Concierge wanted to talk to us...until we told him we weren't interested in another time share. Than they wouldn't give us the time of day. So we just figured things out on our own.
The rooms were old and out dated. The kitchette had a killer dead fish smell, so we just steered clear from using the kitchen much.
I tel you what though, if you're going down there, take advantage of the timeshare sharks. We did some pretty fun things on their dime. Tours of the city, a day boat tour, etc.
Its a beautiful place, you'll have fun no matter what though.

This is a warning to anyone thinking of buying timeshare while in Mexico. Please do not act on a whim and do lot's of research beforehand. See a lawyer before signing any contract. Do not sign anything before getting a lawyer. We were caught up in a timeshare scam with Playa Del Sol.

Pros:
A magnificent view of the Bay of Banderas and Sierra Madre mountains.
Clean linens and towels

Cons:
The hotel is a two star resort by American standards.
The room decor and amenities are dated from the 80's.
The restaurant is outdoor and there is no indoor seating which means fighting bugs in order to enjoy your meal.
Front Staff tries really hard to sell you into their time share.
Be cautious with wait staff and double check bill.
Hotel is a 15 minute drive from city center and there are no stores or restaurants within walking distance.