Hotel Makanda by the Sea

When it comes to Makanda by the Sea, one word stands out amongst them all - "Wow". Context: 27 year old male 27 year old female 6/16/2017 - 6/22/2017 We flew in and didn't arrive at the hotel until almost midnight. We were greeted with open arms by security and immediately helped with our bags. We traversed down the beautiful stone staircase to Building 9 - a luxury villa that I had booked for myself and a lady friend. Upon entering the room, our jaws dropped. I am nearly 28-years old and have traveled a lot in my life but nothing trumped this room (including where I've stayed in Dubai). The surrounding marble pillars were complimented by the beautiful marble floor and wooded walls. The bathroom was out-of-this-world with accent lights shining down upon the waterfall that was the shower. It included a bathtub, bidet, two sinks, and more. The bed was one of the most comfortable beds I've ever laid in. There was a fully stocked kitchen with kitchenware as well as for-purchase items. As for prices, they weren't too bad unless you were slamming shots of Patron (USD $16). Beer was priced between $6-$7, a small bottle of wine was $20 (two glasses worth), but my favorite was the Costa Rican rum, Centenario, which was only $7. Drink the rum...seriously. The next morning, we walked onto the balcony to our own Infinity Pool with one of the most beautiful views I've ever seen. Equipped with two waterfalls and comfortable reclining chairs, we spent a lot of our time just relaxing and listening to the sounds of crashing waves. The villa was equipped with a full sound-system, TV, plenty of lighting, AC, and it was all controlled via switches or using the smart home panel next to your bed. An awesome feature. Our sound system wasn't working, but the staff ensured that if we wanted music, our wishes were fulfilled. Chompo (this is his nickname) is a great guy and brought us a custom sound-system because ours wasn't working. He told us everything we needed to know about the place and was incredibly friendly. Speaking of staff, I've seen some reviews that stated the service from the staff could be "rude". This couldn't be further from the truth. Leo specifically ensured we had an amazing time and everyone we encountered greeted us with smiles, treats, and more. We were surprised with a complimentary bottle of Rose champagne one day. It was unexpected and the little things matter most. As for the other amenities of Makanda, the other pools were well staffed and gorgeous as well. The "Raw Bar" offered mouthwatering sushi amongst other dishes. Priced between $18-30. Breakfast was complimentary and was served with fresh-squeezed juice, coffee, fresh fruit, and a choice of omelets, bagels, and more. The food was really amazing and worth every penny. You also have the ability to order food to your room - FYI. Any time we wanted to leave the grounds or needed recommendations on where to go, the reception area handled everything beautifully with no hassle. Makanda offers a private beach area easily accessible via golf cart (or walking). It's only 5 minutes away from Manuel Antonio Park (a must see) and the public beach area. The nightlife is filled with friendly folks that'll cheers and toss 'em back with you :) This is a place that is friendly to all ages - I want to make that clear. Everyone was very inviting, shared stories, but also knew when you wanted some private time to just relax. As for the weather, beautiful days and rainy nights. It was the wet season which really made the surrounding area glow and pop. It turned out to be a dream getaway because of Makanda.

My husband and I stayed at Makanda for 4 nights in June as an early anniversary trip. The hotel room was modern in style, but still very comfortable. It had a wonderful view of the sea, and a huge balcony. Both pool areas were immaculate, and it was a true pleasure hanging out by the pool, which had a magnificent view in the midst of the forest. We saw sloths, macaws, and capuchin monkeys while sun bathing, which was a real treat. The service at the resort is also impeccable. Every employee that we came in contact with was hospitable and friendly. The staff at the pool and Sunspot restaurant were very attentive. We had an exceptional stay and would absolutely recommend this hotel!

My boyfriend and I just returned from a trip around Costa Rica - we ended the vacation with 4 nights at the Makanda in Manuel Antonio. It did not disappoint! We received the recommendation from a friend who said it was one of the best hotels he'd ever been to. Upon arriving, our concierge Darwin couldn't have been nicer or more helpful. He gave us a personal tour of the grounds and let us decide which hotel room was right for us. Every room is beautiful and modern, with an amazing view of the ocean and the jungle. The pools are incredible, and completely cater to every guest there. I could have lounged on the daybed for hours. Makanda is also walking distance to a private beach, with multiple other beaches close by. It's absolutely stunning. Darwin even took us out one night in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. We had a blast and he went above and beyond to make sure of that. The rest of the staff brought us what we needed, ensured our room was cleaned everyday, and pointed out the sloths and monkeys in the trees to me everyday - they jump around while you're eating breakfast! If you're looking for a nice hotel to stay in during your time in Manuel Antonio, definitely check out Makanda by the Sea. Tell Darwin I referred you!

We had an incredible two night stay in the private pool room. The room is an absolute work of art - every little detail is exquisitely crafted, from the lighting to the wood work and the tiling. Even the bedroom headboard amazing. High attention to detail throughout the hotel. The room opens up into a private pool with running fountains that turn off around sunset for quiet. The view is the Pacific in the distance beyond the infinity pool. Really incredible. The public pools are also works of art that the photographs don't fully capture. The entire experience felt like staying in a peaceful,isolated spa oasis. It was truly an incredible stay and it's hard to imagine a better place for couples in Manuel Antonio. My only complaints are minor. First, the staff - while incredibly friendly were a tad over-enthusiastic and talkative in our few interactions with them which took away from the spa-like atmosphere. Including a couple times where they rang the doorbell when the do-not-disturb sign was on. But all were very friendly and accommodating. Secondly - the restaurant. They're building a second one that's opening soon so this might not be an issue any more, but the vegetarian options were exhausted after one meal. There just aren't any and the chef wasn't really able to improvise at all. The food was excellent, but we had to eat the same meal multiple times. We also didn't have a car so we couldn't easily get to anywhere else - most restaurants were about 25 minutes by foot and we were happy to stay in the hotel (andit rained each night so we couldn't easily walk regardless). Again - the food was excellent, in particular the desserts - our complaint was simply about the lack of choices if you don't eat meat. But all and all, I would be happy to recommend this little place and in particular the private pool room. Really incredibly peaceful and serene.

Makanda is the best hotel in the area. The rooms are super comfortable and well designed. We loved the restaurant by the pool, the food is amazing and it has the perfect view for the stunning sunsets in Manuel Antonio. They have the best service.We deserved a great holiday and Makanda is totally worth it, super recommended!