Most visitors to Costa Rica will visit Manuel Antonio, and for good reason. This area is the home to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park. Here you can visit animals, nature and one of the most stunning beaches in Costa Rica. The town itself is also fun, with many places to eat and drink. We loved hiking to nearby coves too – you can read more about that in our 3 week guide to visiting Costa Rica. But, where are the best places to stay in Manuel Antonio – find out below.
- Selina Manuel Antonio
- Parador Nature Resort and Spa
- Tico Tico Villas
- Costa Linda Art Hostel
- Shana by the beach
- Want to read more about Costa Rica?
What to do in Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is all about the national park. Book tickets in advance! And check the opening hours, it closes one day a week and you would not want to miss out. I opted for a tour that cost $25, it lasts a few hours and you learn a lot. It ends in the national park beach which is stunning. I’d recommend taking a tour early so you can relax on the beach all day!
You can book tours and tickets here with viator.
The beach in town is also lovely. An iguana came to say hi whilst I was sunbathing. If you want a sunbed, don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors. They all offer different prices.
I would also recommend Biesanz Beach, it’s a bit of a hike from town. But at the end of your walk you’ll be rewarded with a stunning cove with the calmest water I saw in Costa Rica. There’s a few stalls down on the beach selling beers and snacks, including ceviche, but you could take your own snacks down too.
Best places to stay in Manuel Antonio: Selina Manuel Antonio
It’s difficult to write about any major town in Costa Rica without mentioning the Selina chain. We love Selina.
All of their places are accommodation, co-working spaces and excellent places to socialise. On top of that, most have fantastic communal areas and activities, such as yoga.
Selina in Manuel Antonio is no exception. Plus, it’s a stone’s throw away from the beach. This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Manuel Antonio.
Budget: $75 per night for two on Booking.com
Best for: Digital nomads visiting the park
Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Offering 5 star luxury, the Parador nature resort and spa is a fabulous slice of heaven in Manuel Antonio. It’s definitely one of the most luxurious and best places to stay in Manuel Antonio.
Not only is this an eco friendly hotel, but it has 3 swimming pools and 3 restaurants. Making this a great place to stay if you want a “home base,” from which to explore Manuel Antonio.
Sporting a tennis court, a fitness centre and a golf cart that can take you to nearby Biesanz beach, this is a great option for families visiting Costa Rica.
Budget: $250 for 2 per night on booking.com
Best for: Families looking for “resort” style accommodation
Tico Tico Villas
Tico tico villas are apartments in Manuel Antonio. Although they are around 1.5km from the national park, you’re sure to see your own wildlife near to the apartment. Previous guests have spotted monkeys and iguanas.
These apartments offer self catering but with the luxury of a pool. All at a reasonable price point. A rare find.
Budget: $69 for 2 per night on booking.com
Best for: Adults looking for self catered accommodation
Costa Linda Art Hostel
We stayed at Costa Linda Art Hostel and loved it. Yes, its basic. But it is so close to the national park entrance, that the location makes it well worth a punt.
We found it one of the best places to stay in Manuel Antonio for the funky decor, plus the fun bar serving cocktails.
Budget: $37 per night on booking.com
Best for: Budget conscious backpackers
Shana by the beach
With a swimming pool and occupying a prime beachfront spot, Shana by the Beach is perfect for a proper chill.
A little way away from the national park, but close to Biesanz Beach, which is our view is one of the best in the area, especially for couples.
Budget: $125 per night for 2 on booking.com
Best for: couples looking for beachside chill
Want to read more about Costa Rica?
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