Selina Manuel Antonio

Selina Manuel Antonio is part of a hostel-meets-hotel style of travel that focuses on shared spaces, easy company and low prices. For solo travellers, backpackers and groups of friends, that is often the best way to stay in an expensive destination. You get a bed or a private room, somewhere to meet other travellers and a base from which to organise park visits, beach days and tours without spending a lot on accommodation. The mix of room types is usually wide, from shared dorms to private rooms, so choose the category that matches how you travel. Read the room details for bed arrangement, bathroom, cooling and storage, and look at recent guest comments for noise, cleanliness and the helpfulness of staff. A social property can be great fun, but it can also be lively at night, so ask for a quieter room if you plan early starts for the park or a wildlife tour.

Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited places in Costa Rica, and prices for hotels near the park can be high. A budget-friendly social stay opens up the area for travellers who might otherwise skip it. The saving can pay for a guided walk in the national park, a mangrove boat tour or a catamaran cruise, which are the experiences most people remember.

Meeting other travellers is part of the appeal. Shared spaces make it easy to find people to split a taxi, join a tour or share a table at dinner, and staff can usually help with bookings and local advice. If you want to join group activities, ask what is on offer when you book, and check whether there is a tour desk or whether you should book ahead online.

Think about sleep. Early starts matter in Manuel Antonio, because the park opens in the morning and animals are most active before the heat. If your plans include a dawn visit, choose a quieter room, bring earplugs and avoid late nights before the big days. If you want a social evening, a property like this makes it easy.

Prices are low for the area and rise in the dry season, from December to April, when the town is at its busiest. The green season, from May to November, brings lower rates, lush forest and afternoon showers. Keep valuables in lockers or the room safe, use licensed taxis after dark and check the cancellation terms when you book. Bring a padlock for lockers, a light towel and a refillable bottle, and ask the staff about the best times to reach the park gate before the queues build.