La Mariposa Hotel, Manuel Antonio

Pros

• As a hillside property near Biesanz Beach, La Mariposa has some of the best ocean views in all of Manuel Antonio, and you'll be close to a couple of other beaches, restaurants, and shops.
• You'll have the opportunity to experience Costa Rica's diverse wildlife without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
• The team's warm demeanor and dedication to providing excellent service contribute to a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere throughout the property.
• The hotel's location in Manuel Antonio puts you close to the action while providing a serene retreat.
• Relax at the two outdoor infinity pools with views, a hot tub, and a swim-up bar.

Cons

• The steep pathways could make navigating the property difficult for some, particularly those using strollers or wheelchairs.
• Some rooms need updating, and not all face the ocean.
• No gym available at the hotel. 

Authenticity

La Mariposa is the go-to hotel for Manuel Antonio views. The property sits on a hill overlooking the ocean and national park, so you get both jungle vibes and incredible water views at the same time. Although rooms have been added over the years and all look slightly different, every unit has a balcony. It's common to spot wildlife outside your window, including the resident sloth and macaw families. 

Location

When it comes to ocean views, you can't beat this location. Although it's farther from Espadilla Beach and the national park (a 5-8-minute drive, respectively), the surrounding natural environment makes up for it. Luckily, the hotel operates a scheduled shuttle to the area, and it's only a 20-minute walk (up and down a few hills) from Biesanz Beach. It's also near a grocery store and within walking distance of other restaurants and cafés.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel has grown over the years, so some rooms are newer and feel bright, warm, and inviting, whereas others are a bit more modern with clean lines and minimalist stylings. We recommend skipping the standard rooms (very plain) and the garden view rooms since you're probably staying here for the ocean views. But regardless of what you choose, you'll find clean rooms and exceptionally kind staff to help you if you need anything.

Upgraded rooms offer partial or complete ocean views; some have wraparound balconies and outdoor seating areas with Jacuzzis. Families and larger groups may want to book the multi-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, which are a great option if you want to prepare some of your meals.

Amenities

Hotel La Mariposa's large outdoor infinity pool is oriented to give you the best views of the Pacific Ocean. As the pool's not heated, there's a small hot tub adjacent to the pool, in case you want to relax in warmer waters. Though there's no on-site spa, a local partnered spa can provide in-room treatments. Three accessible rooms are available on the ground floor for travelers with limited mobility, though be aware that the steep grounds can be difficult to traverse.

Family-Friendliness

Offering paid babysitting, cots, and free stays to two children under eight, Hotel La Mariposa is well-equipped for families staying in Manuel Antonio. Many of the hotel's rooms are suited for family stays, but the Apartments are the best option, as they come in one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, allowing you to book the right amount of space for your family easily. 

Wildlife

The sweeping hillside views make this hotel an excellent spot for catching a glimpse of Costa Rica's iconic wildlife. Upper rooms are particularly great for this, as they're at the canopy level, where much of the wildlife tends to hang out. Travelers have spotted sloths, macaws, monkeys, agoutis, and more hanging out on the hotel's grounds. 

Other Highlights

Because the views are the highlight, the hotel ensures you can fully enjoy them at the hilltop open-air restaurant, lounge/bar area, and infinity pools. All feel very serene with bright neutral colors, green tropical plants, and thatched roofing. Other highlights include an on-site art gallery and a free shuttle to the national park and Espadilla Beach, which runs four times daily.