Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio: Top Luxury and Boutique Hotels

Manuel Antonio, a lush coastal paradise known for its stunning national park, wildlife, and pristine beaches, also offers some of Costa Rica’s finest accommodations. Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat or a boutique experience with personalized touches, this destination has an array of choices to match your preferences. Let’s explore some of the best hotels in Manuel Antonio, each known for its unique features, exceptional amenities, and guest-favorite highlights.

Parador Resort & Spa

Parador Resort & Spa is one of the top-rated properties in Manuel Antonio, blending luxury with an eco-conscious design. Guests rave about the panoramic ocean views and the feeling of being surrounded by nature without sacrificing modern comfort. The resort sits on 12 acres of tropical forest and is just a short drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. Visitors frequently mention the diverse wildlife that can be seen right from the hotel grounds, including monkeys and sloths.

Parador offers multiple pools, a spa, and a range of dining options, making it a self-contained paradise for relaxation. The rooms, suites, and oceanfront accommodations cater to different budgets, with prices ranging from around $250 to $600+ per night depending on the season. With a family-friendly atmosphere and activities like hiking trails and nearby beaches, Parador is popular among both couples and families seeking a comprehensive luxury stay.

Gaia Hotel & Reserve

For a more intimate and adult-only experience, Gaia Hotel & Reserve offers a combination of privacy, exclusivity, and personalized service. The boutique hotel is set on a private reserve, where guests frequently mention the serenity of the environment as one of its standout features. Gaia is known for exceptional service, with a dedicated staff who ensure that each stay is seamless from beginning to end.

The hotel’s price range is typically between $350 and $800+ per night, and guests love the free shuttle service to the beach, the beautifully designed infinity pools, and the on-site Terra Spa. The hotel's reserve includes nature trails, which offer opportunities to spot wildlife without leaving the property. With its focus on wellness, fine dining, and understated luxury, Gaia tends to attract couples and solo travelers seeking a tranquil escape.

Shana By The Beach Hotel

Shana By The Beach Hotel offers a blend of casual elegance and direct access to the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio. This beachfront property is popular for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite among guests who appreciate beach access combined with comfort. Visitors often highlight the short walk to Biesanz Beach, a secluded gem perfect for swimming and sunbathing, as one of the hotel’s best features.

Shana By The Beach has a range of rooms and suites, priced from around $200 to $500 per night. It offers amenities like an infinity pool with ocean views, an on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and spa services. The hotel is especially favored by couples and small families, with many guests praising the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and the proximity to both beaches and Manuel Antonio’s central attractions.

Makanda by the Sea

Makanda by the Sea is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. This adults-only boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views from nearly every room, a major draw for guests looking for a romantic getaway. Guests consistently mention the hotel's modern, sophisticated design and the feeling of complete privacy. The property is surrounded by lush jungle, creating a peaceful escape where the sound of the ocean and the natural surroundings dominate.

Makanda’s accommodations range from villas to suites, with rates typically starting at $400 and going beyond $1,000 per night for the most exclusive villas. The hotel features an infinity pool, an open-air restaurant, and a spa. What truly stands out about Makanda is its attention to detail in terms of guest service. Visitors often mention the personalized touches, like room-service breakfasts and thoughtful concierge recommendations, as aspects that make their stay unforgettable.

Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge

Si Como No is a unique option, combining eco-conscious practices with luxury in a family-friendly setting. This hotel is often praised for its commitment to sustainability, with solar energy and wildlife conservation efforts in place. Guests love the property’s wildlife refuge, which serves as a haven for animals and provides educational opportunities for visitors.

Room rates typically range from $250 to $500 per night, and Si Como No offers two pools—one for families and one for adults. The on-site spa, multiple dining options, and proximity to both the beach and the national park make it a well-rounded choice for travelers. The property’s focus on sustainability without sacrificing comfort is a big plus for eco-minded visitors, and many reviews mention the abundance of wildlife on the grounds, including toucans, monkeys, and iguanas.

Tulemar Bungalows & Villas

For those seeking a more flexible stay with a variety of accommodation types, Tulemar Bungalows & Villas offers everything from cozy bungalows to luxurious villas with private pools. This expansive property, set on 33 acres of jungle and with direct access to a private beach, is one of the most highly rated in Manuel Antonio. Guests frequently mention the exceptional service, noting that each villa or bungalow comes with a personal concierge to help organize activities, dining reservations, and more.

Prices at Tulemar vary widely, from around $300 to over $1,500 per night, depending on the level of luxury you choose. The private beach, multiple swimming pools, and easy access to Manuel Antonio National Park make it a versatile option for families, couples, and groups. Visitors also appreciate the property's balance of seclusion and proximity to local attractions, as well as the abundance of wildlife, including frequent sloth sightings.

Conclusion

Manuel Antonio offers a wide array of luxury and boutique accommodations, each with its own unique blend of amenities, atmosphere, and price ranges. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, an adults-only retreat, or something in between, the hotels in this stunning region deliver unforgettable experiences that keep visitors coming back year after year. With easy access to nature, wildlife, and beaches, choosing any of these top properties ensures that your stay in Manuel Antonio will be one to remember.