Makanda by the Sea is one of the best-known small hotels on the Punta Quepos side of Manuel Antonio, and it appeals to travellers who prefer an intimate, boutique atmosphere over the scale of a large resort. It sits on the forested hillside west of Quepos, in the area that overlooks Biesanz Bay, where the road climbs away from the busy strip and the surroundings feel quieter, greener and cooler. The setting is the main attraction: a hillside among trees with views toward the sea, a pool and gardens, and a calm, relaxed pace. The hotel is known for a villa-style, low-density layout, which gives guests more privacy than a standard hotel block. Expect a restaurant and bar on the property, a pool to cool off in after a morning in the park and a setting where you may well see monkeys, birds and lizards from your terrace. The Punta Quepos area is also home to Biesanz, a small, sheltered beach that is good for swimming and snorkeling when conditions are calm. Check the current room types and amenities, since small hotels change their offer more often than large chains, and ask for a sea-view room if the outlook matters to you.
Location and getting around
Punta Quepos is a short drive from the national park entrance and Playa Espadilla, and the road between them is steep and winding. You will probably want taxis or a rental car for dinners out and for beach days, so budget for transport. The trade-off for the quiet is distance: you cannot stroll to the main beach or to the cluster of restaurants along the strip, but the hotel can usually help with taxis and tour pickups, and many excursions collect from this side of the coast.
The marina and the town of Quepos are also within a short ride, which suits early departures for rafting or fishing.
The rooms and who they suit
The property suits couples and small groups of adults who want a quiet base with character. The layout means stairs and paths between rooms and public areas, which may not suit travellers with limited mobility, so ask about the location of your room when you reserve. Families with very young children should check the policy on children and the pool arrangements, since small boutique hotels sometimes set their own rules. If you want a livelier base with a walk to the beach, the main road is a better choice.
Good to know
Rates follow the seasons, higher in the dry season from December to April and over holidays and lower in the green season from May to November. The green season brings afternoon showers but also the lushest forest and the quietest roads, which many travellers prefer. Breakfast arrangements and parking differ between rates, so check the rate details when you reserve.
The national park is closed on Tuesdays and open the rest of the week, and a morning visit followed by an afternoon at the pool or at Biesanz makes a very satisfying day. Overall, Makanda by the Sea is a good fit for travellers who value calm, privacy and sea views more than convenience to the beach.
Why stay here
- ✓Hillside setting with sea views
- ✓Pool
- ✓On-site restaurant and bar
- ✓Villa-style boutique layout
- ✓Tropical gardens
- ✓Near Biesanz Bay
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Free wifi
Good questions
Is Makanda by the Sea near the beach?+
It is on the Punta Quepos hillside, a short drive from Biesanz Bay and from Playa Espadilla and the national park, rather than a walk.
Do I need a car?+
Not necessarily, since taxis and tour pickups are available, but the hotel is away from the main strip, so plan transport for dinners and beach days.
Who is it best for?+
Couples and small groups of adults who want a quiet, intimate base with sea views. Check the hotel's policy on children if you are travelling with them.
