Hotel in Manuel Antonio, Unknown, Unknown
Makanda by the Sea
Adults-only boutique luxury resort perched on a hillside above the Pacific with stunning ocean views. Villas and studios feature private plunge pools, high-end design, and personal service. One of the most romantic properties in Costa Rica.
Makanda by the Sea is an adults-only luxury boutique resort perched on a forested hillside above the Pacific in Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas province, Costa Rica. The property occupies an elevated position approximately 2 km from Manuel Antonio National Park, offering sweeping ocean panoramas across the jungle canopy from every accommodation unit. The resort's architecture is designed to frame the Pacific view from multiple angles, with open-sided lounges, glass-railed terraces, and natural stone materials blending indoor and outdoor environments seamlessly.
The property comprises twelve villas and studios, each individually designed with an emphasis on privacy, ocean views, and premium furnishings. Premier villas feature private plunge pools on wraparound deck terraces, and several units include outdoor showers set within landscaped tropical gardens. The intimate scale — no more than twenty-four guests at maximum occupancy — guarantees an unhurried and private atmosphere that distinguishes Makanda from larger properties in the region.
Dining centers on the open-air restaurant, which has earned recognition as one of the finest in Manuel Antonio, serving contemporary Costa Rican cuisine with European influences. The menu reflects seasonal local ingredients, and the included breakfast delivers fresh tropical fruit, pastries, and hot prepared dishes on the ocean-view terrace each morning.
The adults-only infinity pool overlooks the jungle canopy and Pacific below, and a yoga deck provides guided morning sessions in an open-air forest setting. Spa treatments are offered in-villa by arrangement with qualified therapists. The concierge arranges guided tours of Manuel Antonio National Park, snorkeling at Playa Biesanz, dolphin and whale watching excursions, and transport to Quepos town for evening dining.
Makanda appears regularly on shortlists of Costa Rica's top romantic and honeymoon properties. The property enforces a strict adults-only policy and is not suitable for guests under 18 years of age. The personalized service model focuses on anticipating guest preferences without intrusion, and the staff-to-guest ratio is among the highest in the region.
Amenities
- Private plunge pools
- Infinity pool
- Fine dining
- Spa
- Yoga deck
- Concierge
- Adults-only
Visit / Book / Contact
Location
9.3933, -84.1700 — View on map
Highlights
- Adults-only — peaceful and romantic
- Spectacular sunset views
- Intimate boutique atmosphere
Tips
- Book premier villas with private plunge pools at least 3 months in advance — these units are the most in-demand for honeymoon stays and fill quickly year-round.
- Arrive at the infinity pool terrace by 5:30 PM to secure the best sunset viewing position; the nightly Pacific sunsets are considered the resort's signature daily experience.
- The resort enforces a strict adults-only policy; guests under 18 years of age are not permitted under any circumstances.
- A minimum stay requirement typically applies and increases to 3–4 nights during peak season — confirm the current policy at the time of booking.
- The concierge can arrange private guided snorkeling tours at Playa Biesanz, one of the calmest and safest bays in the Manuel Antonio area.
FAQ
Is Makanda by the Sea suitable for families with children?
No. The resort enforces a strict adults-only policy and does not accommodate guests under 18 years of age. It is designed for couples and adult travelers seeking privacy and a quiet environment.
Does Makanda have a spa?
In-villa spa treatments are available by prior arrangement rather than through a dedicated spa facility. Qualified therapists offer massages and body treatments delivered to the villa setting on request.
How far is Makanda from Manuel Antonio National Park?
The resort is approximately 1 km from the park entrance, reachable by a short downhill walk or a quick taxi. The concierge arranges guided national park tours departing from the property.
Is breakfast included in the room rate?
Yes. Breakfast is included with most room and villa categories and is served on the ocean-view restaurant terrace each morning, featuring fresh local fruit, pastries, and hot prepared dishes.
Accessibility
The property's hillside terrain involves stairs and steeply inclined paths between villa levels, with no elevator access throughout the resort. Guests with limited mobility should contact the property directly before booking to discuss suitability; some villas are more accessible than others depending on their position within the grounds.