Hotel Makanda by the Sea

I cannot say enough about this amazing piece of paradise. From the moment you step onto the property you immediately realize this is something you have never experienced before. The artistic architecture of the main buildings encompassed the feeling of the pacific ocean. The staff, greeted us with warm smiles and chilled lemongrass scented towels. Our luggage was promptly delivered to our suite while we were shown around the property. We were brought to our suite via private cart. We entered our suite and not only could you see it was meticulously clean but you could smell it as well. It was spacious and well decorated. A large bottle of chilled mineral water, which is refilled daily by staff, was a welcomed surprise. We quickly opened the panoramic sliding glass doors to step onto our private back patio. The view was breathtaking. It’s your own personal slice of Costa Rica jungle overlooking the Pacific Ocean while you hear the waves crashing into the coast. The suite not only had a large hot tub on the patio but also a private swimming pool inside as well. We opted for a swim to cool down with much anticipation to relax in the hot tub to watch the sun set later that evening. While exploring the property you can hear the wildlife all around you in you the distance. If you stop for a moment you can see the monkeys in the tree tops. There are several infinity pools on site, you won’t be disappointed at whichever one you choose to relax in. If you choose to go down to the pool area and enjoy a cocktail at the bar or if you go for a swim and enjoy the swim up bar, all very impressive. Our bartender Elias always made sure we did not go thirsty. His energy and enthusiasm for his profession was infectious. I highly recommend his Guaro Sour drink, it’s a refreshingly sweet limeade vibe. The decor and service at the restaurant was impeccable. We felt very welcomed, never rushed and you can literally taste the freshness and love that was poured into each meal. When wanting to explore the town, a quick call to the front desk provided us with a quick ride from our suite to the front entrance where a vehicle was waiting on us. I cannot say enough good things about this property or the staff. We cannot wait to come back. Until then, PURA VIDA 🇨🇷

Perfection! Makanda by the Sea is an absolute escape from everything, as it wraps its luxurious arms around you. Every single detail, big and small, is so well thought out. It should be a must visit if you find yourself in Manuel Antonio. Perfection.

So first I would like to say that this place is in an AMAZING location. Located in Manuel Antonio and less than a 5 minute drive from the downtown area, definitely walkable. It is also located near Quepos which is another cute area to walk around. You are close to the beach as well as the National park and the Nauyaca Waterfall. The hotel booked all of our excursions for us and were incredibly accommodating to our needs and wants. Great communication as well. There is many different types of restaurants close by if you prefer to eat off site! (Although the food at the resort was delish and we ate at the hotel multiple times during our stay). The deep fried snapper was 10/10 and one of the best meals I’ve ever had. The atmosphere was soooo vibey. Both pools had insta-worthy photo-esqe scenery’s and you can tell they put a lot of thought into the design elements throughout the resort. It was like walking through a jungle but you’re in a luxury hotel at the same time… giving white lotus vibes! Our room was overlooking the ocean and we had an outdoor area which was so lovely for morning readings and yoga. Extremely clean overall, our room was cleaned and organized daily with fresh towels (love that). We loved falling asleep to the distant sounds of the jungle (it felt like a dream!) The service was outstanding (shoutout to Andres, he deserves a raise!) Professional, hospitable, friendly and overall a 5-star hotel experience. Dollar for dollar the value was totally worth it because these memories will last a lifetime. Oh and if you’re thinking of doing a spa day I HIGHLY recommend. Milton gave me an incredible massage and the spa amenities are totally worth it. I did the Special Shanti Spa treatment and felt so rejuvenated afterwards. I have a bachelors degree from the best school in the U.S. for hospitality and can confidently say that this hotel was well worth the money. We will definitely be back and thank you for the wonderful experience!

Five nights at Makanda by the Sea and we came home still thinking about it. The property is built into the jungle canopy above Manuel Antonio, and the design takes full advantage of it: glass walls, open-air layouts, ocean views layered through the trees. You hear howler monkeys in the morning and watch the sunset over the Pacific in the evening, often from the same spot. The staff struck the right balance, attentive without ever feeling intrusive. Breakfast each morning was a highlight, fresh and well-paced, and the property’s quiet, adults-focused atmosphere made it easy to actually unwind. We also loved how close everything felt to Manuel Antonio’s beaches and trails while still feeling completely secluded. This was our first stay and it will not be our last. If you want a property that feels like part of the rainforest rather than dropped into it, Makanda delivers.

My husband and I stayed at Hotel Makanda by the Sea for our 25th wedding anniversary. It did not disappoint! It was luxurious without being pretentious. The staff is top notch. I would definitely go back! Highly recommend, especially for a milestone birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary!