A coastal landscape with a beach, ocean, and dense forest.

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Our top choices for Playa Matapalo hotels

1. Parador Nature Resort and Spa

Parador Nature Resort and Spa
5.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Claudia
The price is CA $394
CA $467 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Parador Nature Resort and Spa

2. Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio

Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio
4.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Salvador
The price is CA $233
CA $264 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio

3. Hotel Costa Verde

Hotel Costa Verde
4.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (405 reviews)
"Great jungle stay. Clean room, beautiful balcony, clean bathroom and plenty of space for the family."
United States
Chris
The price is CA $244
CA $276 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Hotel Costa Verde

4. Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only

Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only
4.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (539 reviews)
"Excellent experience."
Canada
Kyle
The price is CA $388
CA $439 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only

5. Jardin de los Monos

Jardin de los Monos
3.5 star property
Savegre
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (57 reviews)
"This is the best place we've stayed so far! The environment is beautiful, and the staff and owner are incredibly kind and welcoming. We were also able to see many lovely wild animals, which made our stay even more special. Everything was wonderful and made our trip absolutely perfect. We highly recommend this place!"
United States
Summer
The price is CA $131
CA $148 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Jardin de los Monos

6. Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge

Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge
3.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (815 reviews)
"Everything was great, one of our most favorite places to stay!"
United States
brock
The price is CA $361
CA $408 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge

7. ECOTICA Boutique Hotel & Spa.

ECOTICA Boutique Hotel & Spa.
3.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (408 reviews)
"Excellent hotel and great staff!"
United States
YENINA
The price is CA $240
CA $272 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
ECOTICA Boutique Hotel & Spa.

8. La Mariposa Hotel

La Mariposa Hotel
3.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Amazing stay. Many animal encounters, beautiful views and friendly staff."
United States
Katharine
The price is CA $368
CA $416 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 28 - Aug 29
La Mariposa Hotel

9. Lapazul

Lapazul
4.0 star property
Savegre
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (16 reviews)
"Beautiful place in an amazing, peaceful location. The room was perfect! The staff were wonderful and the food was great! The pool was the nicest I have seen in Costa Rica, and I have stayed many places. I highly recommend staying at this incredible hotel!"
United States
James
The price is CA $435
CA $492 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 6 - Aug 7
Lapazul

10. The Falls by Lalibela

The Falls by Lalibela
3.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"Beautiful property…staff were all very nice."
United States
Kellie
The price is CA $212
CA $240 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
The Falls by Lalibela

11. Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa

Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa
4.5 star property
Bahía Ballena
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (319 reviews)
"Incredible staff incredible property incredible stay 10 out of 10"
United States
Lori
The price is CA $490
CA $572 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa

12. Mountain Top Park Hotel

Mountain Top Park Hotel
3.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (286 reviews)
"We had a really nice stay at Mountain Top Hotel in Manuel Antonio. The location is close to the national park and surrounded by beautiful nature. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and the staff was friendly and helpful the whole time we were there. We enjoyed our free breakfast, too, and the free nature guided hike in the hotel."
United States
Michelle
The price is CA $107
CA $121 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Mountain Top Park Hotel

13. Villas Rio Mar

Villas Rio Mar
3.0 star property
Bahía Ballena
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (653 reviews)
"Place was very Nice. Had all the amenities we needed and AC. We got to see a Toucan and other reptiles. Pool was great as well. We enjoyed our short stay."
United States
Collin
The price is CA $148
CA $168 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Villas Rio Mar

14. Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort

Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort
4.0 star property
Lagunas de Baru
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Breathtakingly beautiful spot with the loveliest staff! If you want pure relaxation and pristine accommodations, this is the spot to take in Costa Rica. "
United States
Lauren
Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort

15. Makanda by the Sea

Makanda by the Sea
5.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (591 reviews)
"Everything was just beautiful! Peaceful, clean … The staff was amazing, the food delicious, the view from the pool was incredible !"
United States
Oral
The price is CA $745
CA $841 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Makanda by the Sea

16. Mavi Surf Hotel

Mavi Surf Hotel
3.0 star property
Bahía Ballena
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (109 reviews)
"Clean, friendly, a good value. "
United States
Ellen
The price is CA $196
CA $222 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Mavi Surf Hotel

17. Igloo Beach Lodge

Igloo Beach Lodge
3.5 star property
Manuel Antonio
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (312 reviews)
"Location, cleanliness, the pool access, and did I mention location? I wish we would have stayed more nights here. We definitely will be back."
United States
Jose
The price is CA $208
CA $235 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Igloo Beach Lodge

18. Tulemar Resort

Tulemar Resort
4.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (245 reviews)
"Excellent bungalow, great wildlife ideal location close to national park. Will go there again."
Australia
Charles
The price is CA $439
CA $519 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 29 - Aug 30
Tulemar Resort

19. Rafiki Safari Lodge

Rafiki Safari Lodge
2.5 star property
Río Nuevo
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (6 reviews)
"Beautiful place "
United States
Christopher
The price is CA $341
CA $385 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Rafiki Safari Lodge

20. LAYAN Hotel & Spa

LAYAN Hotel & Spa
3.0 star property
Manuel Antonio
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (180 reviews)
"The breakfast staff was at amazing!"
United States
Noemi
The price is CA $121
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
LAYAN Hotel & Spa
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Learn more about Playa Matapalo

Surfers catch perfect waves along this pristine beach where sea turtles often nest in the golden sand. Hike nearby trails in Manuel Antonio National Park or join local fishermen for authentic catch-and-release adventures.

A coastal landscape with a beach, ocean, and dense forest.

Top Playa Matapalo Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Playa Matapalo

Find out more about Playa Matapalo

Top reasons to visit Playa Matapalo

  • Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the picturesque Matapalo Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling matapalo surfing and various beach sports.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Experience Costa Rica's diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.
  • Beautiful Waterfalls: Explore the breathtaking Matapalo Waterfall for a refreshing escape.
  • Charming Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere of the local community.

Find great hotels in Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo is a picturesque destination in Costa Rica, offering a diverse selection of hotel accommodations ranging from charming beachfront bungalows to quality resorts. With options spanning from budget-friendly to upscale, visitors can enjoy a natural, adventurous getaway tailored to their preferences. Whether you're seeking a memorable extended stay or the best hotels for a relaxing beach experience, Playa Matapalo is sure to provide an unforgettable vacation.

  • Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge: Nestled in a lush tropical setting, Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge offers a unique blend of adventure and romance. Located 22.5km from Playa Matapalo, this 3.5-star resort is perfect for families and couples alike. Enjoy a variety of on-site activities such as rafting, kayaking, and horseback riding. The resort features a children's pool and safety amenities, making it family-friendly. Romantic touches like ocean-view dining and spa services, including massages and pedicures, enhance your stay, creating an idyllic retreat for relaxation and exploration.
  • The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio: The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio, also 22.5km from Playa Matapalo, invites guests to experience its natural hot springs, offering a unique twist on a typical resort stay. This 3.5-star property caters to adventure seekers and business travellers with activities like snorkeling, rafting, and boat tours readily available. The serene environment, along with business facilities, makes it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind or conduct meetings in a tranquil setting. Guests can take advantage of the stunning landscapes that surround the resort, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
  • ECOTICA Boutique Hotel: Located 24.1km away from Playa Matapalo, ECOTICA Boutique Hotel is an enchanting beachfront retreat that embodies romance and adventure. This 3.5-star hotel features direct beach access and offers exhilarating activities such as motorboating, fishing, and skydiving. The romantic atmosphere is complemented by poolside dining options, champagne service, and in-room massages, making it ideal for couples. Guests can unwind with stunning pool views and enjoy the amenities designed for a relaxing yet invigorating vacation experience.

Where to stay in Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo, a charming village in Puntarenas Province, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its stunning Matapalo Beach and inviting atmosphere, this destination is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Explore the nearby tropical landscapes, engage in thrilling excursions, or simply unwind on the soft sands. Experience the warm hospitality of the friendly locals as you soak in the natural beauty of Costa Rica's captivating coast.

  • Matapalo: Nestled a mere 805m from Playa Matapalo, Matapalo is a charming village that offers a mix of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The travel experience here is moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers from January to March. Visitors flock to Matapalo for its recreational areas, shopping centres, and access to beautiful beaches and national parks. Whether you're looking to hike through lush landscapes or relax by the beach, Matapalo provides a perfect base for exploration.
  • Savegre: As the city that encompasses Playa Matapalo, Savegre is rich in outdoor activities and natural beauty. Similar to Matapalo, it experiences seasonal visitor trends, peaking from January to March. Adventurers will find a range of activities, from resorts to thrilling adventure excursions. Savegre's proximity to national parks and breathtaking beaches makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, ensuring a memorable travel experience.
  • Palma Quemada: Located 4.8km from Playa Matapalo, Palma Quemada is a delightful village known for its adventurous spirit. With a seasonal travel pattern similar to its neighbours, it attracts visitors primarily from January to March. Palma Quemada offers unique activities like zipline ropes courses and various adventure sports, making it a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Surrounded by national parks and beautiful beaches, it provides a perfect blend of adventure and natural scenery.

Things to do in Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo offers an exciting blend of outdoor and adventure activities, making it perfect for beach lovers. You can enjoy matapalo surfing, engage in various beach activities, and explore the stunning coastline through boat tours. Additionally, the area is ideal for spotting Costa Rica's diverse wildlife, ensuring a memorable vacation experience filled with relaxation and excitement at this beautiful resort destination.

Recreation

Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge is a tranquil retreat 24.1km from Playa Matapalo, offering lush trails, diverse wildlife, and a sense of serenity. Brisas Wellness Center, also 24.1km away, provides rejuvenating spa treatments in a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and self-care.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Hacienda Baru, located 14.5km from Playa Matapalo, where adventure vibes abound. Try your hand at Stand Up Paddle Boarding, 12.9km away, for an exhilarating water sports experience. For more adventure, visit Mountain Top Park, 22.5km away, surrounded by nature.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Playa Matapalo with a visit to the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary, located 37.0km away. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of nocturnal wildlife, making it a unique evening adventure in this beautiful region of Costa Rica.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Playa Matapalo

To save money on your trip to Playa Matapalo, consider visiting during the off-peak months of September to November for lower accommodation rates. Enjoy free activities at Matapalo Beach and nearby beaches. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia's last-minute deals for potential savings. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price to get the best deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for more savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Playa Matapalo are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Playa Matapalo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Playa Matapalo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Playa Matapalo is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Take advantage of Expedia’s search tool to refine your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Playa Matapalo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo in Costa Rica is perfect for outdoor and adventure vacations, offering stunning beaches, picturesque waterfalls, and nature reserves. Popular attractions include Playa Matapalo Beach, Matapalo Waterfall, and nearby Playa Ocotal, catering to those seeking romance and outdoor experiences. Don't forget to capture photos of the breathtaking scenery as you explore the vibrant local landscape and immerse yourself in its natural beauty.

  • Nauyaca Waterfalls: Located 16.1km from Playa Matapalo, Nauyaca Waterfalls offers a stunning natural escape. With its cascading waters and lush surroundings, this spot is perfect for romance and adventure, allowing you to hike, swim, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Matapalo Beach: Only 644m away, Matapalo Beach is a serene coastal haven. Enjoy the warm sun, soft sand, and gentle waves, making it an ideal location for relaxation, beachcombing, or a scenic stroll along the shore.
  • Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge: Situated 8.0km from Playa Matapalo, this wildlife refuge is a biodiversity hotspot. Explore its trails and witness the rich flora and fauna, including exotic birds and unique wildlife, in a pristine tropical environment.

Best time to go to Playa Matapalo

The best time to visit Playa Matapalo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
February76.6°F (24.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
April77.9°F (25.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May77.5°F (25.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June77.0°F (25.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July76.5°F (24.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August76.1°F (24.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
September75.9°F (24.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
October75.0°F (23.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
November74.7°F (23.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December74.8°F (23.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Playa Matapalo

To visit Playa Matapalo, you have several airport options. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is 78.9km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, located 8.0km from the airport. Transportation services include an airport shuttle available on request. Another option is Quepos (XQP), located 22.5km away, featuring hotels such as the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, just 3.2km from the airport, offering 24-hour airport shuttle services. Lastly, Drake Bay (DRK) is 75.6km away, with lodging options like The Tranquilo Lodge, 3.2km from the airport, providing inclusive shuttle services.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to Playa Matapalo?
The best time to go to Playa Matapalo is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience consistent sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. The Pacific Ocean is typically calm and clear, great for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. While this is the most popular time to visit, and therefore you might find more people, the weather truly makes up for it.

For those who prefer a slightly quieter experience and don't mind occasional afternoon showers, the shoulder months of May, November, and early December can also be a good choice. The landscape is lush and green, and you can often find good value on accommodation and tours.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Playa Matapalo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Playa Matapalo hotel?
Prices for hotels in Playa Matapalo often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $42 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.