Espadilla Gardens Hotel, Manuel Antonio

Authenticity

As its name indicates, tropical plants and trees surround Espadilla Gardens Hotel. The vibe is casual, with one-story buildings facing an outdoor pool and garden, creating a relaxing and calm environment perfect for a Costa Rican vacation. 

Location

Espadilla Gardens Hotel isn't beachfront, but a short walk on a private nature trail takes you directly to Playa Espadilla. Likewise, a quick walk in the other direction will get you to the national park's entrance and popular Park Trail. Also within walking distance are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Rooms & Bathrooms

All rooms are the same, with either a queen bed or a queen and single bed, so Espadilla Gardens is likely best for small families, couples, or a getaway for two friends. Rooms are bright and colorful, with warm accents, ceiling fans, and waterfall showerheads in the bathrooms. All feature air-conditioning, cable TV, minifridges, and coffee makers. 

Sustainability

Espadilla Gardens Hotel and Hotel Playa Espadilla sit on a property filled with primary and secondary forests protected under the Espadilla Wildlife Refuge. The hotels use energy-saving techniques and alternative energies (such as solar) and earned five stars in the Blue Flag and Green Flag (drinking water management) programs.

Wildlife

Guests can expect to see wildlife around the property, including monkeys, iguanas, toucans, coatis, and birds. The pool area is home to a few sunbathing iguanas. 

Amenities

The hotel has two pools. One is smaller and shallow, dedicated to children, and the other is larger. Since it's located next to the hotel's restaurant, food and drink are available poolside. A small path at the end of the parking area goes straight to the beach; it's only a two-minute walk from the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park. The hotel doesn't have a gym, but guests can participate in hotel-organized activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and surfing. The hotel has accessible accommodations, and the rooms and common areas are all on one level.  

Family-Friendliness

Espadilla Gardens is family-friendly, with a children's pool and kid-friendly menu options in the restaurant. Triple Superior rooms are best for families, providing more sleeping areas and a larger living space. The grounds are stroller-friendly for travelers with young children.

Other Highlights

The hotel's Puerto Escondido Restaurant and Bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring traditional Costa Rican fare, international specialties, and a full bar. The restaurant itself is surrounded by Manuel Antonio's tropical rainforest, and travelers may be able to spot wildlife from their tables while they dine.