Stop Googling—these Costa Rica Hotels in Manuel Antonio and Quepos were handpicked to save you hours of time
The Manuel Antonio region offers the full Costa Rica experience: gorgeous beaches, tropical jungle, incredible wildlife—and over 100 lodging options to sort through. But not all hotels in Manuel Antonio and Quepos are created equal, especially when you’re trying to balance budget, style, and location.
When I started planning our trip to Manuel Antonio, I fell down the same rabbit hole you’re probably in right now. Endless hotel listings, conflicting reviews, and vague promises of “jungle views.”
So I did the research, took the notes, and sorted through the fluff to bring you a curated list of the 12 best places to stay—whether you’re coming for the beach, the wildlife, or just to relax.
My Method: How I Picked the Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio and Quepos
I started with over a hundred properties—and narrowed it down the hard way. I filtered out low-rated stays, then I compared photos, reviewed amenities, and ruled out dozens more. Finally, I read through a year’s worth of guest reviews for each remaining hotel.
Bill and I even drove around Quepos and Manuel Antonio to see the properties in person. Some managers invited me in for a tour, which helped me finalize this list. Only the true standouts made the cut.
Hotels in Manuel Antonio: What to Know Before You Book
Choosing where to stay in Manuel Antonio means balancing location, budget, and how close you want to be to the beach, jungle, or the bustle of Quepos.
Below, I’ve sorted the best accommodations into three categories by budget so you can quickly scan the right fit for your travel style. Use the Table of Contents to jump to the right section or just keep reading to see them all!
Helpful red links are provided for booking these highly rated properties.
Kari’s Travel Tip: Manuel Antonio and Quepos offer very different vibes, even though they’re only 10–15 minutes apart. Manuel Antonio is the go-to for beach lovers and national park explorers, while Quepos is more of a hub town with the marina and better access to services.
The Map
I created a map for you of our top 12 recommendations so you can see where they are located relative to the Park, the Beach and the Towns. Numbers are not rankings, but simply refer to the listings here.
Best Luxury Hotels in Manuel Antonio ($500+/night)
If you’re looking to splurge, these properties offer top-tier amenities, stunning views, and personalized service. Perfect for romantic honeymoons, special occasions, or Bucket List travelers who simply want the best.
#1 – Marina Pez Vela Villas – Luxury on the Marina
The Marina Pez Vela Villas is a luxurious property are located right at the Quepos marina, walking distance to plenty of shops and restaurants. Bill and I ate dinner at the restaurants several times, watching the sun go down over the marina!
Guests can enjoy the sea views, pool, spa services, and onsite dining. A great choice if you’re combining Manuel Antonio with deep sea fishing or sailing adventures.
#2 – Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort – Beachfront Eco-Luxury
Arenas Del Mar, a member of the Cayuga Collection, offers oceanfront accommodations surrounded by lush rainforest. The property features an outdoor pool, a spa and wellness center, an on-site restaurant, and concierge services.
It’s one of the only truly beachfront hotels in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica—just steps from Playitas Beach and a short ride to the national park.
#3 – Villa Palmeras – Private Villa with Jungle Views
Enjoy private luxury in the jungle at Villa Palmeras, an updated 3-bedroom home featuring a large private pool and full kitchen, perfect for families or couples traveling together.
Nestled in the hills near Quepos, it’s a quiet oasis just minutes from town and a short drive to Manuel Antonio National Park.
#4 – Parador Nature Resort and Spa – Panoramic Ocean Views, Jungle Wildlife
Perched on Punta Quepos and surrounded by the rainforest jungle, the Parador Nature Resort and Spa offers sweeping ocean views, three pools, and three restaurants.
Daily wildlife sightings include monkeys and sloths. Guests enjoy a free shuttle to Manuel Antonio Beach and access to hiking trails on the property.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Manuel Antonio ($200–500/night)
These hotels and resorts blend comfort and amenities with solid value—ideal if you’re seeking something more upscale without hitting luxury prices. Expect perks like ocean views, on-site dining, or wildlife-friendly grounds.
#5 – Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge – Family-Friendly Jungle Fun
Jungle views, a butterfly garden, two pools (one with waterslides!), and a swim-up bar make Si Como No Resort a top pick for families, couples and solo travelers.
Located a short ride from the national park and beaches, the eco-friendly resort also includes a wildlife refuge and in-house cinema. And the lush greenery is perfect for spotting toucans and monkeys.
This is where I want to stay next time I come to Manuel Antonio – the grounds and facilities are stunning!!
#6 – Hotel Playa Espadilla & Gardens – Steps from Espadilla Beach
Hotel Playa Espadilla & Gardens is the closest property on this list to the National Park! Just a 1-minute walk from Playa Espadilla and 650 feet from the national park entrance, this hotel features a pool, tennis courts, and a casual restaurant. Junior suites include spa tubs, making it a great value for beach access and comfort.
#7 – Gaia Hotel & Reserve – Adults-Only Rainforest Retreat
An adults-only property nestled in its own private nature reserve, Gaia Hotel & Reserve offers suites with sweeping rainforest views, a 3-tier infinity pool, full-service spa, and fine dining. A complimentary shuttle takes guests to the beach and park throughout the day.
#8 – Hotel La Mariposa – Iconic Views, Mediterranean Style
Perched above Manuel Antonio with sweeping views of the Pacific, Hotel La Mariposa offers Mediterranean charm and gorgeous sunsets from the pool.
The Le Papillion restaurant offers French style cuisine and the Sunset Bar & Lounge, a Pizza place and a swim-up pool bar round out the offerings on-site. It’s a quick drive to the beach or the national park.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Manuel Antonio (Under $200/night)
Looking for affordable lodging that doesn’t skimp on location or charm? Great stays don’t have to break the bank. These budget-friendly finds still offer style, comfort, and location—many with jungle views, pools, or quick beach access.
#9 – Cozy EcoCondo 4 – Walkable Location with Wildlife Visits
This budget-friendly two-bedroom Eco Condo has a full kitchen, shared pool access, and frequent visits from local wildlife. Located in Manuel Antonio Estates near the sharp bend on Route 618, it’s about 5 minutes from Quepos and 10 minutes from the beach. Guests often spot monkeys and toucans from their patio.
Note, this property has several Eco Condos available, each with their own listing on Booking.com. Search for Eco Condos at Manuel Antonio Estates in Quepos
#10 – The Falls at Manuel Antonio – Lush Garden Setting, Central Location
Set in a lush garden setting, The Falls at Manuel Antonio offers air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant. Guests love the peaceful vibe and close proximity—just 10–15 minutes on foot—to Playa Espadilla and Manuel Antonio Park
#11 – Puesta del Sol – Rooftop pool with ocean views in Quepos
The Puesta del Sol guest house sits high above Quepos with incredible ocean views and a rooftop pool for soaking it all in. Rooms come with kitchenettes, and it’s just a few minutes by car to both Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park.
#12 – Selva Linda Lodge – Tranquil jungle hideaway
The least expensive option on our list! Located just outside Quepos, the Selva Linda Lodge offers indoor/outdoor living in bungalows surrounded by gardens and the rain forest.
Bird and wildlife visits are frequently reported and guests love the peaceful vibe and value. Great if you have a rental car and want something quiet and authentic.
If all of these terrific properties are already booked for your dates, there are still tons of other options in Quepos & Manuel Antonio. Check them out on Booking.com, my favorite platform for lodging!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Manuel Antonio Area
How do you pronounce Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio is pronounced just like it looks in English: man-WELL an-TOE-nee-oh. Don’t worry—the friendly Costa Ricans are used to us travelers mispronouncing place names. They’ll appreciate your effort no matter what!
How many days should I spend in Manuel Antonio?
You could easily fill a week here with beaches, wildlife, and adventures and the National Park—but 3 to 5 days is the sweet spot. That gives you time to visit the national park, enjoy some water activities, explore nearby towns, and still sneak in some relaxation by the pool or beach.
When is the best time to visit Manuel Antonio?
Like much of Costa Rica, the Dry Season in Manuel Antonio (December–April) is the most popular—expect sunshine, higher prices, and larger crowds.
The Rainy Season (May–November) in Manuel Antonio is greener, quieter, and more budget-friendly. Even during the rainy months, mornings are often sunny, with showers in the afternoon.
Kari’s Travel Tip: No matter when you go, bring your rain gear. It’s lush and tropical here for a reason. We were last there in January and it still rained for a few hours almost every afternoon, even for the supposedly “Dry Season”
Do I need a rental car in Manuel Antonio?
It depends on where you stay. Some hotels and vacation rentals are walkable to beaches, restaurants, or shuttle stops.
Other properties are up in the hills and more isolated. If you plan to explore beyond the park or want flexibility for day trips, a rental car is helpful. Here’s everything you need to know about driving in Costa Rica.
How are Manuel Antonio and Quepos different?
Manuel Antonio refers both to the famous National Park and the small tourist town directly adjacent to it. This town is packed with hotels, restaurants, and resorts that cater primarily to visitors coming to explore the park.
When reading about Manuel Antonio, it’s important to pay attention to whether someone is referring to the national park itself (at Manuel Antonio), the town surrounding it (in Manuel Antonio), or the wider region that includes both. This distinction becomes especially important when browsing tour listings on sites like TripAdvisor, Viator, or Get Your Guide.
Quepos, on the other hand, is a larger and more established town located about 15 minutes away by car or bus. It offers its own selection of restaurants and lodging, but also has additional conveniences like a marina, a medical clinic, public parks, larger supermarkets, banks, and ATMs.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Stay in Manuel Antonio?
With so many incredible hotels in Manuel Antonio and Quepos, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by reviews, prices, and locations. Hopefully this post saved you a ton of research and helped you find the right match—whether you’re dreaming of a luxury resort, a cozy jungle lodge, or a beachy apartment.
Kari’s Travel Tip: The best-rated properties in this region do book up fast—especially in the Dry Season. If something caught your eye, don’t wait too long to check availability and lock it in!
More Info on Costa Rica
Here are some more posts about Costa Rica, including some that I’m still working on. If you’d like to receive emails when I’ve posted new content to the site, please complete the short form above.
- Amazing Costa Rica 7 Day Itinerary for Nature Lovers
- Ultimate 2 Week Costa Rica Travel Itinerary for Nature Lovers
- What to Pack for Costa Rica: A Nature Lover’s Packing List
- Costa Rica Facts & Travel Tips – For First Timers
- Colorful Birds of Costa Rica – A Photo Album
- Sodas in Costa Rica – An Affordable & Delicious Experience
- How to Make the Most of Your Day at La Paz Waterfall Gardens
- Buy Costa Rica National Park tickets without pulling your hair out
- Everything You Need to Know about Driving in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica on a Budget: Lodging, Food & Fun For Less
Monteverde / Santa Elena Rainforest Area
- Where to stay in Monteverde / Santa Elena – Luxury to Budget to Unique
- 25 Epic Things to do in Monteverde / Santa Elena
- Where are the Best Places to Find Birds in Monteverde?
- 14 Awesome Cheap and Free Things to Do in Monteverde
Manuel Antonio / Quepos Area
- Manuel Antonio National Park: How to Have an Amazing Day
- Beyond the Park: 25 Great Things to Do in Manuel Antonio
- The 12 Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio & Quepos for Every Budget
- Carara National Park: Macaws, Monkeys & the Crocodile Bridge
- Whale Watching in Costa Rica at Marino Ballena National Park
- 12 Best Free and Cheap Things to Do in Manuel Antonio / Quepos
La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano Area
- 10 Best Places to Stay in La Fortuna Costa Rica
- Don’t Miss These 24 Unique Things to Do in La Fortuna
- Our Costa Rica Cooking Class – Did it Live up to the Hype?
- 10 Best Free and Cheap Things to Do in La Fortuna / Arenal
