Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio Village

A few kilometres back from the beach, Manuel Antonio Village is the small centre where most of the everyday tourist services are found: restaurants, small supermarkets, ATMs, bars, tour offices, and a wide range of accommodation, including many self-catering places.

It’s a practical base if you don’t have a car, as the frequent buses between Quepos and Playa Espadilla run straight through, making it easy to reach both the beach and the national park! It’s more built-up than the other areas – and certain areas can feel overly busy at peak times of the year – but many of the accommodations we have selected sit on small rooms or within forest, so it’s still possible to escape the hustle and bustle whilst remaining close to the action.

Note that this is the area where you’ll find the highest number of accommodations across all budgets. So, even at high season there’s usually a plenty of choice (if you’re not too fussy).

Hotels & Guesthouses

The Falls at Manuel Antonio | Another great mid-range option (doubles from $110 USD per night), The Falls offers good sized, unfussy, comfortable rooms. The facilities are decent, and it’s just an 11-minute walk to the beach. Just be aware that the cheaper rooms have not been updated in a few years.

Si Como No | Sitting atop a hillside in Manuel Antonio, the popular Si Como No seamlessly combines luxury and sustainability, their eco-rooms overlooking the jungle and the ocean beyond. It also functions as an animal refuge, so expect to see monkeys, birds and even sloths from your balcony.

ECOTICA Boutique Hotel | A super popular option away from the hustle and bustle of the village, this hotel offers large rooms and charming bungalows amongst the jungle. They’ve got a gorgeous pool area, a fantastic on-site restaurant, and by all accounts, make a damn good margarita. It’s on the pricier side, but seems like a fantastic vacation spot.

If you’d prefer more of a sleek, resort-style vibe – around a similar price point – don’t miss Hotel Mariposa. It offers large, light-filled rooms with the most wonderful views out over the coast, and these views continue throughout the property, including from the gorgeous pool area and the highly regarded restaurant.

If you’re looking for a comfortable hotel that does exactly what it says on the tin, take a look at Hotel Naoz. Rooms are modern and comfortable, the pool area is decent and it’s in a great location in the centre of the village.

Hotel Villas Lirio is a solid, mid-range option with good reviews.

With prices starting around £750 a night, the uber-luxurious Makanda by the Sea and Los Altos Resort are far beyond the financial reach of many reading this article, but definitely deserve a mention – and would be a fabulous place to stay on a honeymoon or a once-in-a-lifetime Costa Rica trip.

Airbnbs & Apartments

Oceanview Studio | This little studio in the heart of Manuel Antonio Village is ideal for a young couple (or an older couple who don’t mind having to climb quite a few stairs to reach it). Small but perfectly formed, the facilities are great, it has a balcony with sea views and access to a shared pool! Also excellently priced.

Other studios definitely worth taking a look at include these two jungle studio: studio one and studio two.

Mi Casita | A brand new modern one-bedroom, for those that appreciate a bit of luxury (but still want their own space). Features a plunge pool and large balcony with views out of the forest canopy and sea beyond. It’s also on a ‘wildlife corridor’ so expect lots of animal sightings!

Casa Valentina | The inside of this one-bedroom property is light, bright and has lots of space (plus lovely handmade wooden furniture), but the real draw is the incredible terrace area with breathtaking views and infinity pool. Also includes breakfast, maid and concierge service.

Lara Jungle | We adore this fully-equipped tiny house nestled in the middle of a tropical forest. It’s relatively small inside but perfectly designed with a contemporary feel, and its location more than makes up for limited space.

Other one-bed properties that caught our eye include: Amazing Studio With Ocean View, Charming Jungle Studio, 1-Bed Retreat, Mango Tree Apartment, Modern Suite & Private Pool, Tip Top Oceanview Studio, Casa Feliz, and Tropical Heaven.

Luxurious Private House | This two-bed house is a bit spenny, but probably worth every penny. Designed by renowned architect Andres Brenes, it has a sophisticated and elegant vibe throughout – all clean lines and light – whilst also being comfortably furnished. It’s real selling points are the Pacific Ocean and national park views from every room, the private pool and outside space, plus daily housekeeping and a full-time concierge.

Villa Leonardo | With a more traditional design throughout, this two-bedroom property is a long-standing favourite in Manuel Antonio. The open plan living space is ideal for socialising, and leads out to a private pool with gorgeous views out over the treetops.

Villa Atardecer is a similar property as above (also with a private pool), at a similar price point, but if you don’t mind sharing a pool with other apartments, this two-bedroom apartment has excellent reviews at a good price point.

Villa Lapas | Simply decorated (but still comfortable), this home offers two large bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a big living area with vaulted ceilings which opens into the outdoor pool area. Expect to be greeted by monkeys!

Other two-bedrooms that are worth checking out are Casa Camila and The Penthouse.

The charming, cosy and comfortable Casa Lily is our number one affordable option (that remarkably still has a private pool!), but budget-hunters should take a look at Forest Terrace, M&S Apartment, Beach House

Manuel Antonio Tree House Villa | Travelling with a group of friends and want to stay somewhere truly exceptional? This STUNNING three-bedroom, three-storey property may be perfect. Impeccable design throughout – lots of light, poured concrete, natural linens, fibres and wood, marble – a fantastic open-plan living space, outdoor BBQ area, and a gorgeous pool (with slide!) plus free breakfast.

For three beds at a more affordable price-point, see White House, Stylish Villa and Casa Lily.

If you need something epic for a big get together (with at least four bedrooms), be sure to take a look at Luxury Ocean View Villa, Casa Magnifica, Casa BarbaRoja, and Villa Mono Titi.

Hostels

Blue Morpho House B&B is a simple, locally-owned guesthouse with excellent reviews – at a great price point. Dorms available too!