Igloo Beach Lodge

Breakfast was the highlight for us. It had a wider selection than anywhere else we stayed on our trip, alongside the usual choices. There’s also a pool, which was a nice bonus. The igloo-shaped room was comfortable, and it was interesting to hear how sound travels inside it. This is a distinctive place in Manuel Antonio, very close to the ocean and with direct private beach access. Mobile signal was very limited in the area, but otherwise the accommodation was fine. A special stay because of the location and design.

The beach is only a minute or two away, and the hotel offered us towels when we headed there. My husband and I usually went around 5 pm and always felt safe coming back. Manuel Antonio is about a 15-minute walk. We stayed four nights and enjoyed everything. Staff were great and helpful, breakfast was delicious, and I had an Americano with a side of avocado every morning without getting tired of it. The room has an echo: when my husband was across the room, I could hear him as if he were right by my ear. We actually found that interesting. The rooms are soundproof, too, so I never heard anyone or anything outside ours. Laundry service through another company was helpful, and the staff extended our checkout by a couple of hours, which was very convenient. On our last day we had lunch there: fried calamari on the side and ceviche for me. The calamari tasted like the freshest I’ve ever had. I loved seeing Pancho and Nikki each morning. I’d highly recommend this hotel.

The breakfast let us down. It was very limited and wasn’t prepared in a particularly yummy way. But we enjoyed our two nights in the igloo. Having Google in the room so we could play music made it feel like home, and the place was unique and pleasant. The location is great and easy to get around from, with the beach just around the corner. Staff were friendly, the room was clean, and there was hot water.

We’d definitely stay again, even just to see Nikki and Pancho Villa, the house dog and cat, and the wonderful staff. My sister-in-law has just come back from a week at the Igloo. At first we were disappointed the pool was closed for maintenance, but they offered us lunch discounts. The beautiful, surprisingly warm ocean was just steps away, so we didn’t end up missing the pool. Food, service, location, and ambiance were perfect for us. Our double igloo had plenty of space, comfortable beds, and a warm shower with good pressure. Definitely recommend!