Jump to: Room choices | Hotel description | Map | Amenities | Reviews
Adjacent to Manuel Antonio National Park, within a 12-acre sanctuary poised 200 meters above the Pacific Ocean, the adult-only Hotel Makanda by the Sea captures the magical spirit of Costa Rica. Open-air and well-appointed villas and studios are sculpted harmoniously into the natural environment, and boast spectacular views of the 60-mile coastline. In this unspoiled wonderland, you can savor fresh seafood, drift in the stunning infinity pool, or watch local wildlife including monkeys and sloths as they wind their way through the rainforest.
Hotel Makanda by the Sea
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Nearest Airport: SJO
Wow what a place. We stayed in the penthouse and we would rate it as the best accommodation we have stayed at. It is not cheap but nor should it be. While you are part of a boutique hotel the penthouse gives you the impression that you are relaxing in ultimate luxury, in the middle of the jungle, looking at the see yet in complete isolation. The feeling of seclusion is enhanced by the fact that the wrap around balcony and plunge pool are not overlooked by any other part of the property. The breakfast menu is worth working your way through (order something different everyday) as it is not only inventive, it is also delicious. The restaurant is one of the best in the region and caters for all tastes and finally the two pool areas with bars are peaceful with all guests respectful of the fact that most people are there to relax and reflect - having said that if you are in the penthouse you will have trouble leaving it! Service, as you would expect, is impeccable.
Haystack69 - Singapore, Singapore
Our experience at Makanda by the sea was nothing short of fabulous! From the nature, pools and beach this hotel was truly a five star experience. Our hosts Alfredo and Karen at the front desk are amazing and helped us arrange tours, reservations and transportation. Elias the bartender at the salt water pool made the most amazing drinks which we enjoyed while in the jacuzzi. Joshua, at the Arbol restaurant suggested the red snapper which was absolutely delicious. Dayan and Paola, the housekeepers, are fantastic and everyday our room was spotless. We stayed in the WOW Loft and had the best ocean view and enjoyed the two balconies, the beautiful bathtub , and the champagne sent to us for our anniversary. We used the gym everyday and it is equipped with the best technogym treadmill and elliptical machines. Everyday we either sat by the pool or went down to the hotel’s private beach. The monkeys, sloths and agutis made themselves available for pictures and are part of the natural beauty of this hotel. Moreover, this hotel is adults only which contributed to the peaceful environment . If you go to Manuel Antonio do yourself a favor and stay here!
Jaynie A
This place is amazing! The unique stylish design is cool everywhere you look. Every little detail feels carefully chosen, like stepping into a magazine, yet it’s still very comfortable. It felt like a dream. I was immediately blown away by the most spectacular views. From the moment we arrived, we felt relaxed and welcomed. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. It’s evident that they genuinely care about making guests feel at home. The WOW Loft we stayed in was simply amazing! It had a spacious balcony that offered breathtaking views of the jungle and ocean. The beds were incredibly comfortable, and I slept better than I have in months. The bathroom was unbelievable with all the amenities you need and more. The food was delicious, and the service was outstanding. Arbol, the restaurant’s decor was impressive, with an incredible view from every angle. The small private beach on the property was beautiful, featuring a bar on-site that would serve you. There were also lounging chairs with towels available wherever you desired on the beach. Makanda by the Sea is an absolute gem! I highly recommend this stunning boutique hotel!
roxana s
The most incredible place we have ever stayed. There are not enough words to describe the beauty and luxury that is Makanda by the Sea. The views were unmatched and the vibes were even better. If that alone wasnt enough the staff set the place apart from the rest. The bar service by Joshua and Elias was top tier. They were very knowledgeable, playful, and personable. Jonathan took very good care of us helping with our luggage and driving us around the resort in the golf cart and giving us a lovely history of the resort. We also had the pleasure of meeting the manager Alana. It really felt like a very personalized experience and I couldn't imagine a better place to spend my time in Costa Rica.
Alix M
Our stay at Makanda by the Sea was simply out of this world. Nestled in the forest with sweeping ocean views, the property feels beautifully wild, with monkeys and parrots all around, yet remains refined and intimate. The outdoor decor, especially the infinity pool overlooking the ocean, is absolutely stunning and creates a truly magical atmosphere. The service is personalized and incredible from start to finish, with staff who are genuinely helpful and attentive to every need. A special mention to Elias at the bar, who went above and beyond, even helping me find a great place to watch the Super Bowl downtown. Our room was impeccable, spacious, spotless, and thoughtfully designed. The private beach is a wonderful touch for anyone seeking tranquility away from public beaches, with once again impeccable service throughout. This was our second stay, and we will definitely be returning. Makanda remains one of those rare places that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to nature.
MartinG44r4444443243
Read more reviews or write a review
© 2026 TripAdvisor LLC. All rights reserved
My husband and I stayed here and it was absolutely amazing. Often the pictures on the website are an exaggeration of what you get, but that was definitely not the case here. In fact, the pictures really do not do it justice. Breakfast was served in the room a la carte each day and we could sit out on the balcony and just enjoy the privacy and clean air. It was wonderful!
The staff was very helpful, and the resort felt very private,
with few people staying there. We felt like royalty the entire time.
-H. Robertson
My wife and I stayed at Makanda and frankly, we fell in love with the place. Its very laid back and beautiful. The suites are huge and lovely. At the end of every day, we'd float around in the swimming pool with a drink in one hand, watching the sun set, with a troop of Howler monkeys in the trees over our heads. Talk about romantic! The area had enough to keep us busy (we did a guided tour of Manuel Antonio Park, a zip line tour and a mangrove boat tour) and there are several top restaurants nearby, including the one at the hotel, which is outside, near the pool. I recommend Makanda by the Sea very highly.
-K. Perlman