I recently took a job in Costa Rica and moved here from the States. I was interested in visiting Manuel Antonio so I could familiarize myself with the area before bringing friends and family down for a visit. I booked Plaza Yara based on the reviews and the price (I am on a budget!). I must say, it FAR EXCEEDED my expectations! The rooms are HUGE and very clean. The bathroom had a shower that could have fit 4 people in it! The property was well maintained, compared to others along the road (from Quepos to Manuel Antonio). Breakfast was standard, but it was included with the room rate! The view from the dining area was beautiful.

The staff at Plaza Yara were very helpful! It was my birthday when I checked in and they remembered to wish me a Happy Birthday. I would absolutely bring friends and family to stay here. It is a real gem! Can't beat the price, either!

We stayed at this hotel for 2 nights during our whirlwind tour of Costa Rica. Overall, it was a very nice hotel & exceptional value.

Pros:
The rooms are huge and lovely. The bathrooms are as well.
Good location between Manuel Antonio and Quepos. (sorry, no ocean view, but the back of the hotel is right against the forest and you're sure to see wildlife).
SUPER friendly and helpful staff.
Good food.
Price is right.

Cons:
Bed was a little too soft/squeaky.
We saw quite a few ants in our room. Not a huge deal, and fairly understandable given that it's right next to the jungle. But, worth noting nonetheless.

Overall, a great place to stay.

If you need a comfortable place to stay, great service and an awesome breakfast this is your place! The room was big and comfortable, the shower was really cool, you have 3 choices for breakfast, American, Typical and fruit and yogurt. Jonathan and Javier working the front desks were very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. We were close to the top of the mountain but within a very short driving distance to Manuel Antonio National Park and to Quepos. There was a nice pool but we didn't get time to use it. Highly recommend staying here if you are in Manuel Antonio.

We had an incredible stay at Plaza Yara! My boyfriend and I stayed here for 2 nights in July 2012, and it was the highlight of our trip to Costa Rica. First of all, it's true - the rooms are HUGE and BEAUTIFUL! Tons of space, very comfortable beds, sleek bathrooms with a large shower, and a kitchenette with complementary coffee, tea, and popcorn! The service was wonderful - Javier and Jonathan are both as charming and helpful as all the reviews say. They provided excellent advice, gave us great recommendations (and directions!), and were so helpful with everything from carrying our luggage to calling restaurants in Spanish for us.

The hotel itself is also beautiful. There is an art gallery next to reception with some stunning work by local artists, a pizza restaurant, that will deliver to the room and a very cute pool! (The pool is small, but clean and nice.) Breakfast was delicious, and served on a beautiful patio overlooking the jungle. Breakfast is made to order and there is a choice of eggs/rice/beans, eggs/bacon, or fruit/yogurt, all served with coffee, tea, fruit, and pastries.

Finally, the hotel is in a prime location, situated on the road between Manuel Antonio and Quepos. It's very quiet and in a beautiful location, with views of the jungle. The bus between Manuel Antonio and Quepos stops right next to the hotel, or a cab will cost $4-6 to Quepos, and maybe $8-10 to Manuel Antonio (although we just took the bus). We are so glad we stayed here, as opposed to a hotel in Quepos (not as nice or spacious) or closer to the park (too commercial). We are still raving about Plaza Yara! I really can't say enough good things about this hotel - we only regret we didn't stay longer!!