First of all we have to realize that they are located on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, all of the Manuel Antonio surf area and of course the amazing sunsets.
They have their own secluded beach (In CR private beaches do not exist. However this little beach can only be accessed by the ocean) where they have kayaks and boogie boards.
All the rooms are actually individual bungalows equipped with a deck and mini kitchen. Some of them might be smaller than others. When I’ve traveled in Buena Vista by myself or with my ex we stayed in the smaller ones. But with the kids we usually picked the double size villa and that went perfectly well.
The rooms are equipped with a kitchenette, which, depending on the room of choice, has less or more stuff. For instance, the Standard Room has sink, microwave, mini fridge, and coffee maker. But the Select Villas have 2 burner hot plate, sink, mini fridge, separate ice maker to make cocktails (That truly makes me very happy!), dishes and kitchenware, microwave, coffee maker, and even a place to sit, which in vacation is indispensable! (Don’t you just hate it when you are cooking on vacation and everyone is having fun elsewhere?).
There are markets nearby so it only takes a bit of a walk to be totally set.
Breakfast is included, big and tasty!
As usual everywhere in Costa Rica the staff goes out of their way to help you, and are really friendly and fun with the kids, always from a very respectful point. That, for me, as a mother is absolutely transcending!
The restaurant is rather small so a reservation might be needed, especially during high season.
The grounds are truly amazing, a lot of forest all over. And yes, it is steep. So, if you have problems in terms of walking it might be a good idea to check with reception for the drivers that go up and down the hill.
The pools deserve a separate comment. They are all infinity pools and truly, even with small children in the hotel you simply feel in a very easy silent relaxing place. They are so beautiful and the views are simply superb. And if you want you can also get food and drinks right there (Very convenient with the kids).
Wildlife comes around the villas and the pools very often and it is a great place to see squirrel monkeys, sloths and black iguanas. However, as you can see these ones and it is great, you have to realize that there are countless bugs in the rainforest and that is part of the pack.[/text_output]
PROS
- Secluded beautiful beach
- Rainforest around the hotel, wildlife included
- Having a kitchen makes it very convenient when you are with children.
- Restaurant prices are above average
- Surrounded by rainforest. Wildlife Sightings
CONS
- Too far to walk to town and beach area
- Shuttle Service quick but not always punctual.
- Poor WI-Fi
- Rainforest surrounded, therefore expect bugs.
