There are very few hotel experiences where one can't find a single flaw...my experience at Makanda was flawless. The location, infinity pool, restaurant, private beach at low tide, privacy in the room, view from the room, landscaping, personalized breakfast in bed, friendly professional staff, amazing cocktails at the pool...the list goes on and on...
Experience it for yourself...you won't be disappointed.

Makanda was the only hotel in Costa Rica who charged our credit card the full amount in advance. We reached this place late in the night. The check-in took a while and they put us in a villa. The lights in the villa did not work to begin with. Someone had to come and fix the lights which took 30-40 mins. We were tired from the drive from Arenal and called the restaurant on the hotel property. They told us not to come as it was raining and the place was under water, so we ordered on the phone. It took more than an hour for our food to come and quality was so horrible, I almost puked. I am a vegetarian and the pizza they made was burnt badly. We were pretty bummed and tried to get some sleep. All night, there were these fruits dropping on our villa and making really loud noise..forget relaxing, we hardly could sleep even for a minute.I also got some skin allergy dont know from what at this place, my guess is some insect bites. We decided to move to another hotel due to this and asked for our money back for the rest of 2 days that we were not going to saty there. They charged us $300 for one horrible night here!! and never gave us the rest of the money back. Its been 4 months.Finally, we called our credit card compnay to dispute this charge against Makanda.

My GF and I were wandering around Manuel Antonio looking for a place to crash for the night, after looking (and then running away) about 3 other places we saw the Makanda entrance and were intrigued. The guy at reception was so great, he showed us one of the suites avail which was GORGEOUS, exactly the aesthetic the snobby angelino in me loves and then offered us a fantastic deal since it's low season. I couldn't have been happier with our amazingly beautiful room and the FABULOUS service. Our room was spotless, and thoughtful. Everything we needed was there, and the views are just to die for. We went and had some drinks at the pool and the bartender (Rasta?) was so wonderful and took such great care of us, and gave us some seriously amazing restaurant recos. I can not wait to come back to this hotel and stay for longer than one night!

Our stay in Manuel Antonio couldn't have been more perfect! This boutique hotel is gated and small. You feel as though you are amongst the few elite that are allowed to enjoy such beauty and service.
Our villa was sitting above lush jungle, with a perfect view of the Pacific. The entire front of the villa was glass, with large sliding doors to let the sounds and fragrances in. As we relaxed in our hammock, we truly forgot everything and became one with nature! The villa offered us everything we could want for a romantic anniversary. Privacy, comfort, kitchen, amazing views and AMAZING VIEWS! WOW!
We awoke each morning to the brilliance of the ocean glistening directly in front of us, and watched each evening as the sky changed colors with the setting of the sun. Our canopied, king bed was romance personified. Housekeeping ensured that we had a special animal on our bed to greet us when we returned each day. Flower petals were spread over the bed and used to give our creatures character. Lovely touch. Thank you Makanda Housekeeping for your time in giving our stay just one more perfect touch.
The kitchen was open and airy, with pacific blue tile and wood. It all blended naturally to the vista around us. The only requirement for cooking a great meal, was the food, but with the great food offered at the restaurant or by room service, we found no need to spend anytime cooking. The step-down living room was large enough to entertain several new friends in comfort. The furnishings were just enough and nicely laid out. The colors of the room were in keeping with the splendid hues laid out before us.
We really liked the two entrances to the villa. The first opens into a private small garden, with a landing leading to another door to the room itself. We were able to remove our shoes and leave the umbrella there without bringing them inside or leaving them to the elements outside.
The restaurant is set by the pool and very romantic. The draped area offers you, both shelter from the occasional rain shower and intimacy for that special dinner. Our chef was Randall and he was extremely accommodating. Thanks Randall, for your special drink you prepared just for me! Delicious!!! Great food and great company was the theme of our meals at Makanda.
The infinity pool transitioned to jungle without any disruption. It is set down a hillside, and surrounded by tropical flora a fauna. Birds, geckos and butterflies seem to love the property as much as we did, as there was always some show that these beautiful creatures were putting on for us.
Everyone at Makanda by the Sea became like a friend to us during our stay. We were treated warmly and with great respect.
For anyone considering this property, please don't hesitate. It is a special place and will remain in your memory long after you have returned back to the real world!
Gracias Amigos at Makanda by the Sea...