Hotel Playa Espadilla y Gardens

It’s a delightful one-block walk to the beach, and there are birds, iguanas and other reptiles, sloths, and plenty more to see nearby. The food and drinks were wonderful, and the accommodations were better than I’m used to. Most of all, everyone on staff was so kind and helpful. Thank you all. I’ll treasure the time I spent here forever. ¡pura vida!

You can walk everywhere from here, since the hotel is just steps from all the action. The service, food and facilities were exceptional, and every staff member we met was friendly and helpful. Kyle at reception deserves a special mention for helping us get organized and order taxis each day. Even our hotel taxi driver made the trip to the airport memorable, giving us a little tour of Costa Rica along the way. Thank you for making this the best hotel stay I’ve ever had!

The restaurant was very good, though quite pricey, and happy hour was a nice bonus. We also enjoyed the pool, and guests can use the pools at another building from the same hotel chain nearby. One is shallower, while the other hotel’s pool is great for adults. Our room was spacious and clean, with AC and a fridge, and the property is very well maintained. Playa Espadilla was a lovely place to stay, just a five-minute walk from the beach and national park.

There are plenty of monkeys to watch, and the hotel restaurant serves a very good breakfast buffet. Dinner was good too. Staff were professional and helpful, and our clean, comfortable room had air conditioning. The tap water is safe to drink. We stayed two nights at Hotel Playa Espadilla, on a side road within walking distance of Manuel Antonio National Park. It was relatively quiet and far enough from the crowds and the trouble caused by the “parking lot vendors.” They try to make you think they have official authority and stand in front of cars to direct people into their lot. That behavior is obnoxious and deceitful, and it’s a big negative that local police let it happen.