Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio has excellent weather year-round, and there's always something to see and do. Surrounded by rainforests and tropical vegetation where one you can spot hummingbirds, squirrel monkeys, basilisk lizards, and more exotic wildlife, Manuel Antonio hotels are favorites for travelers of all types.
Manuel Antonio Family Resorts Next to the Jungle
Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited destinations in Costa Rica for a good reason.
The national park offers visitors a taste of the rainforest and access to stunning, tropical beaches with calm waters and white sands sandwiched between lush forests and azure waters.
It's great for families with young kids who will enjoy splashing around in shallow waters and building sand castles in shady spots under the trees.
Older kids and teens will get a kick out of playful monkeys monkeying around nearby. While you can see monkeys in many parts of Costa Rica, they're generally at a distance. In Manuel Antonio, however, they'll swing down from the trees and scurry across your blanket, grabbing your sandwich if they're lucky! (Please don't feed them!)
Couples also love these beaches because of the incredible pictures they can post from them and that “desert island-like” romantic vibe.
Travelers love Manuel Antonio because it's all right there at your fingertips. You can hit the beach, go hiking, dine in unique restaurants, buy souvenirs, watch sunsets with a fruity cocktail in hand, and sample the classy nightlife scene, all within minutes from your hotel.
Even in the most secluded Manuel Antonio hotels, you're still a short taxi ride away from everything.
Are There All-Inclusive Hotels in Manuel Antonio?
In short, there are no all-inclusive hotels in Manuel Antonio, but for a good reason. While all-inclusive sounds attractive at first, its appeal works in some areas better than in others.
For example, in an all-inclusive resort, you may want to stay on the premises all day because that's where all the action is. And it's nice not to carry your wallet around or do the math to pay for things while on vacation.
In Manuel Antonio, though, you'll spend most of your time away from the hotel, exploring and enjoying the sights and activities.
There is so much to see and do outside of the hotels because Manuel Antonio offers just about more to see and do than anywhere else in Costa Rica. In a place where you can stay on the beach or explore all day, why go back to the hotel three times to eat?
Would you end up paying for all you can drink on-site and then paying again for the convenience of drinks when you're out and about all day? Remember, you can grab a bite on your way between adventures or choose a tour that includes a snack or meal.
There are so many great restaurants and cafes to check out in Manuel Antonio that it'd be a shame to stay confined to one all-inclusive hotel.
It's more convenient—and lighter on your wallet—to eat and drink as you go from one fun activity to another exciting excursion with the freedom to discover a new eating spot in the evening.
In Manuel Antonio, a hotel is for sleeping. As lovely and comfy as it is, you will be out and about for much of your stay.
Where Should I Stay in Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio's best hotels and resorts are perched high above the sweeping coastline, taking advantage of picture-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean and the National Park.
Secluded luxury beach resorts and hotels, like Arenas del Mar, Los Altos, and Parador all boast spectacular panoramic views, world-class amenities, and fine dining. These are at the top of our "best luxury hotel in Manuel Antonio" list!
Let's look at a few of our remarkable properties:
Arenas del Mar
Arenas del Mar is the only eco-luxury hotel right on the beach in Manuel Antonio. The oceanfront ambiance makes for a privileged feel you won't forget. Arenas del Mar offers top-notch food and boutique-level service combined with the comfort and privacy you would have at a luxury resort.
Falls Resort
At the Falls Resort, "gorgeous" doesn't even begin to describe the gardens of orchids and fruit trees that hummingbirds and sloths call home. You could easily spend the entire afternoon wildlife watching in the lush gardens.
Gaia
The Gaia Hotel & Reserve, which allows guests only 13 or older, is an adults-only property surrounded by nature. However, this hotel features a scarlet macaw reintroduction program worth checking out. It's also home to the Ambar Lounge, a hot spot known for tapas and live music at "happy sunset hour."
Los Altos
With fully furnished luxurious apartments and beach access, Los Altos is home to one of the most popular restaurants in town, Karola's. So even if you stay somewhere else, stop there for a meal.
El Parador
El Parador has lots onsite, including a mini-golf course, a tennis court, and a spa with old-world charm coupled with modern practices to bring all of your senses to a new dimension of serenity. It's perhaps the most “resort-like” hotel in Manuel Antonio.
Si Como No
Those traveling with kids, or adults who are kids at heart, will love the waterslide and movie theater at Si Como No. It's, by far, the best kid-friendly option in Manuel Antonio, although many couples choose it, too.
Costa Verde
Considered the pride of quirkiness among Manuel Antonio hotels is Costa Verde, featuring incredible vistas and a variety of lodging units, including, you guessed it—a vintage Boeing 727!
FAQs About the Best Places to Stay in Manuel Antonio
Is it worth going to Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio offers beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, great food, and rainforests full of monkeys. It's enjoyed by many tourists each year. Unless you prefer something more isolated and off the beaten path, it's worth checking out.
Manuel Antonio is a popular location you'll share with many other tourists.
How many days do I need in Manuel Antonio?
We recommend staying at least three days to relax and enjoy the place. However, it's common to stay for two weeks.
Is there a town in Manuel Antonio?
Yes, there's a great town to explore, with restaurants, tons of shops, and artists selling their work on the streets. There's also the nearby town of Quepos close by, featuring a marina and more shopping and restaurants.
Is Manuel Antonio crowded?
It's most crowded from mid-December to April, but it's big, so there's room for the influx of visitors. Also, going to the beach earlier helps avoid crowds and see more wildlife as the animals wake up.
Why Trust Us?
Honestly, we've seen the good, the bad, the ugly, and the best. We know that not everything that looks luxurious online lives up to expectation, and that there are some hidden gems worth seeing. We won't steer you wrong. But, rest assured, you're in the hands of the experts, the same experts that checked into every option we offer and have given our very selective seal of approval.
All the Manuel Antonio hotels featured on this page are well known by us - and also the other ones not on this page! Our team regularly checks the hotels and the staff to ensure that the service, installations, and management remain high quality. We take client feedback seriously and love to hear about fabulous trips to locations where we can feel confident about sending more guests.
Still not sure what you want? No problem! With so many options, it's a common dilemma. Feel free to contact one of our travel consultants at 1-800-606-1860 to start talking through potential plans today.
Of course, within the scope of our options, you can't make a wrong choice. Still, we'll guide you to the very best one to suit your individual travel needs and make sure you and yours have an exceptional time.