Gaia Hotel & Reserve

What a find!! We began our world travels back when you relied on Fodor's, Frommers and Conde Nast magazine, long before phones and apps, and have been fortunate to have stayed at some world class hotels/resorts. Gaia took us by surprise; what a wonderful resort hotel! It is now one of the top three properties that we've experienced. It is a tremendous value and their service and attention to detail are impeccable. For us, this is what sets them apart. Once we turned into the entrance, their welcoming, professional, and efficient team took action. From guidance into a parking space and a swift golf cart ride up to reception, to cold towels and fresh fruit juice as we were comfortably checked in and oriented. This level of authentic customer service is rare, yet was abundant throughout our stay. It appears to be a part of their company culture. The restaurant is excellent. The included daily breakfast offers a wide variety of choices, both quality and presentation exceeding expectations (not to mention the beautiful open air ocean views). Lunch and dinners were also excellent and included the same consistent attention to detail and authentic customer service. Same for our evenings at the sunset bar. There were so many other experiences and small details that are too numerous to include.  Our tradition is to purchase a logo item when we find a rare gem like this. We still have them from stays at Hayman Island and Mauna Lani. At checkout I asked about the availability of this type of item, but they don't exist. We were a little disappointed, but this may indicate their strong focus on maintaining this authenticity and zero pretentiousness. The memory of this incredible stay will be our momento. Thank you Gaia Hotel and Reserve team!

I tend to agree with another reviewer, the hotel now over 20years old is becoming dated and needs some updating! The air conditioning units are old and cranky and the sound proofing is pretty non existent. Our room was spacious though without a window in the bedroom, just into the living area, it feels strange and slightly claustrophobic. The bathroom is quirky though could definitely do with updating. The golf carts and complimentary bus service are delightfully efficient, could the bus back from the beach not be a little later than 4pm? The restaurant was good and the staff are top notch and couldn’t be more pleasant and helpful, though we were lucky and found that in every hotel we stayed in Costa Rica.

I cannot overstate the superior quality and service at this 5 star luxury resort. I can honestly say that the Gaia deserves an 11/10 ! The hotel itself is tucked away in the midst of a nature reserve and its panoramic views, along with the exquisite decor in every corner of this property, is astounding. True quality runs throughout the complete Gaia experience. First and foremost, the personal and professional service, from the owner who is ever present on site, to all of the staff - is at the highest level you can expect. The rooms are large, well furnished with all amenities, the bed super-comfortable and the power-shower a blessing ! We enjoyed the Luna restaurant for breakfast and dinner all 4 nights of our stay - a first for us! The cuisine was simply outstanding in choice, quality and presentation - we didn’t want to try any other restaurant in the area. The praise and accolades are well-deserved and anyone looking for over-and-above 5-star quality in Manuel Antonio, should look no further than the Gaia.

Amazing experience! The hotel is great. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. Private and secluded feeling like you’re in the middle of the jungle. Tons of wildlife. We will be returning soon. Thank you Gaia!

We stayed 3 nights at Gaia Hotel and Nature Reserve and it was absolutely wonderful! The location is beautiful with an incredible view, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the food is delicious. The entire staff is very friendly and goes out of their way to be sure you have a great stay. I highly recommend if you plan to stay in Manuel Antonio.