Sí Como No is the best-value romantic hotel in Manuel Antonio, a longtime favorite that combines Pacific views, a dedicated kid-free pool area and a serious approach to sustainability at prices well below the area's top tier. It has 54 rooms on a forested hillside, each with a private balcony. It even has a Honeymoon category for couples who want the best of them.
It suits couples who want character, good amenities and money left over for tours. There are three places to eat and drink, Cala Spa for massages, yoga sessions and a private movie theater, which is a fun surprise on a rainy evening. Families do stay here, but the resort keeps a separate kid-free area with its own pool, so you can choose a calm corner and stay there.
The resort protects ten acres of natural forest on its terraces. Wildlife moves through freely. Manuel Antonio National Park is about ten minutes away. Plan a few nights here, spend one morning in the park with a guide, one day on a boat and the rest switching between the pool, the spa and your balcony.
Highlights at a glance
- Dedicated Honeymoon room category
- Kid-free pool area
- Ten acres of protected forest
- Cala Spa and yoga sessions
- Private movie theater
Why Couples Love Sí Como No
The view is the first thing guests mention. From the hillside, the forest drops toward the Pacific. Sunset from the balconies or the poolside bar is a nightly event.
The second is the atmosphere. Sí Como No has been welcoming visitors to Manuel Antonio for years and has the easy confidence of a well-run hotel. Staff are friendly and helpful with tours and transport.
Couples also appreciate the kid-free pool area, which keeps the mood calm even when families are staying. The resort describes itself as a practicing sustainable resort and has received international recognition for its work. Its ten acres of protected forest mean monkeys, sloths and birds are regular visitors. For many couples it hits the right balance of comfort, character and value.
Rooms to Book
All 54 rooms have a private balcony. The categories rise in size, view and comfort.
- Standard and Superior rooms are the most affordable and comfortable for two.
- Deluxe and Deluxe Plus rooms add space and better ocean outlooks.
- Honeymoon rooms are designed for couples, with the most romantic setup and views.
For a honeymoon, book a Honeymoon room. The category exists for exactly this trip, so ask the resort what it includes when you reserve. If those are taken, a Deluxe Plus is a good alternative. Ask for a room near the kid-free pool area if quiet matters to you. Ask to be away from the main restaurant if you are light sleepers. Book early for December to April, when the resort fills quickly.
Food, Drink and the Spa
There are three places to eat and drink. Claro Que Sí is the main restaurant, serving Costa Rican and international dishes with a focus on fresh fish and local produce. Rico Tico Jungle Grill is more casual, with an open-air terrace overlooking the forest and ocean. Mogotes Poolbar handles drinks and light bites by the water.
Cala Spa offers massages and other treatments. A couples massage after a morning in the national park is a smart plan. Yoga sessions are available for both beginners and regulars.
The resort's private movie theater shows films in the evening, a good option when the green season brings an evening downpour. Dinner out is easy too. Manuel Antonio has plenty of restaurants along the road. Taxis are cheap and quick.
Why guests fall for it
Things to Do
Manuel Antonio National Park is about ten minutes away and is the main event. Go at opening time with a certified naturalist guide, then stay for a swim at Playa Manuel Antonio inside the park.
- Take a catamaran cruise along the coast, with snorkeling and a chance of dolphins.
- Kayak through the mangroves of Damas Island.
- Try a zipline or canopy tour in the hills behind Quepos.
- Go sportfishing from the Quepos marina.
- Watch the sunset with a drink at the poolside bar.
One of you might want an adventure day while the other prefers the spa and pool. The resort can arrange both. Watch for rip currents on open beaches and keep food away from monkeys and raccoons.
Getting There
The fastest option is a short domestic flight from San José (SJO) to Quepos La Managua (XQP), then about 25 minutes by car to the resort. Driving from San José takes about three hours; private shuttles and shared vans are easy to book. Liberia (LIR) is roughly five hours by road.
You do not need a car once you arrive. Taxis and local buses run along the main road to the beach and park. Costa Rica has dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses, especially in the wet season, so pack repellent and cover up at dusk. If you're pregnant or hoping to be soon, check CDC travel health notices for Costa Rica.
Is It Worth It?
For couples on a moderate budget, yes. Sí Como No delivers ocean views, a kid-free pool area, a spa and a range of dining at a price well below Arenas del Mar or Gaia. The sustainability credentials and the protected forest add to its appeal.
It is not a small boutique hotel. With 54 rooms and a family pool, you will see children around the property, especially during school holidays. Couples who want a strictly grown-up hotel should look at Gaia Hotel & Reserve. Those who want to walk to the beach from their room should book Arenas del Mar. If you want good value with views and a calm kid-free corner, Sí Como No is a sensible and well-loved choice.
Insider tips
- Book a Honeymoon room and mention your celebration when you reserve.
- Ask for a room close to the kid-free pool area.
- Visit the national park at opening time to beat the crowds.
- Use taxis to try restaurants along the Manuel Antonio road.
