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Summary of reviewsHotel San Bada Resort & Spa consistently receives high marks for its exceptional location, situated right at the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park and within easy walking distance to the beach. This prime spot allows guests to effortlessly explore the natural beauty of the area. The hotel's scenic views, beautiful pool and kind, attentive staff further enhance the overall experience, making it a favorable choice for tourists.
The breakfast buffet receives a generally positive reception for its delicious taste, variety and plentiful options, despite some criticisms regarding consistency and occasional shortcomings. Dinner experiences are mixed with the Japanese restaurant and poolside sushi praised for quality and ambiance while the main Congo Restaurant receives less favorable reviews. Nonetheless, the dining scene benefits from attentive staff and good service at the bars.
Room experiences are varied. Guests appreciate the spaciousness, comfort and beautiful views, especially from suites with large balconies. The cleanliness of the rooms is frequently praised, although some guests note issues like dated decor, occasional dampness and minor maintenance needs. Public areas, however, require better upkeep to meet guest expectations fully.
Staff at the hotel are a major highlight, frequently described as courteous, professional and exceptionally helpful, contributing significantly to positive guest experiences. The excellent and efficient service, personalized attention and friendly demeanor of the staff members are consistently appreciated.
Wi-Fi connectivity, however, is a common complaint with many guests finding it inconsistent and unreliable, particularly in the rooms. The spa services are well-received for their quality, though issues like a non-functional jacuzzi and occasionally unclear offers are noted. The gym receives significant criticism for its outdated and broken equipment, calling for immediate improvements.
The hotel's pool facilities stand out positively, featuring a main pool, a rooftop pool with stunning views and kid-friendly options, all maintained to a high standard. Despite occasional maintenance issues, the pools' ambiance, cleanliness and service are well-regarded.
Proximity to a beautiful beach and the opportunity to view local wildlife add to the resort's appeal, especially for nature lovers. The location combines with the family-friendly amenities like the children's pool to make Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa an attractive destination for both relaxation and adventure. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, particularly with Wi-Fi, gym facilities and some maintenance aspects, the resort offers an enjoyable and memorable stay enhanced by its prime location and dedicated staff. Show more
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Hotel near The Beach
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, the hotel is close to the beach and offers family-friendly amenities. It is an attractive destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
This hotel voluntarily participates in the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program. It heats water using residual energy from air conditioners, utilizes biodegradable cleaning products, and implements a comprehensive recycling program. The property also boasts two water treatment plants and owns 66 acres of protected primary and secondary forest.
Certifications:
Certification for Sustainable Tourism (Central America)
Certification for Sustainable Tourism (Costa Rica)
Bandera Azul Ecológica: Cambio Climático
Nivel Elite Certificado Sostenibilidad Turística
Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?
Solar radiation
What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?
Written environmental policy statement in place
The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating
Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)
Rainwater collection and usage
Use of non-toxic cleaning products
LED lighting throughout the premises
Environmental manager appointed
Employees are trained to follow environmental policies
Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush
Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request
Waste is separated into at least 3 categories
No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery
Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced
A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant
Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify? The Hotel offers environmental programs for guests, such as beach cleaning program, tree planting campaigns and others.
Answers last updated by Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort and spa offers a romantic getaway with access to both the beach and rainforest. It provides luxurious amenities and spa services for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel's location allows for exploration of the park and nearby attractions.
Hotel with Spa
Located at the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and spa. It's a short walk to Manuel Antonio Beach and offers ocean or park views from all rooms. The hotel has multiple pools, a rooftop sushi bar, and an on-site spa.
Family Friendly Hotel
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort offers convenient access to the park's attractions. It provides a combination of relaxation and nature-based activities for families. The spa caters to adults, while the proximity to the park appeals to children.
Romantic Hotel
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort offers easy access to nature and wildlife. It features a spa, providing opportunities for relaxation and pampering. The resort's proximity to the park and spa amenities make it a great choice for couples.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort offers a spa and pool facilities. It provides a relaxing environment with convenient access to the park's natural attractions.
Panoramic View Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
This hotel has meeting rooms and event spaces available. It is situated close to Manuel Antonio National Park, with rooms offering views of the Pacific Ocean.
Accessible Hotel
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa offers facilities for disabled guests, including wheelchair access and an elevator for upper floors. Accessible features include a lower bathroom sink and toilets with grab rails.
Hotel with Gym
The hotel has an onsite fitness center and can provide a personal trainer if needed. The fitness amenities support a healthy and active lifestyle for guests.
4-Star Hotel
Situated next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort offers convenient access to nature and wildlife. The inclusion of a spa enhances the relaxation experience. It's perfect for travelers who want to combine nature exploration with spa treatments.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Located next to Manuel Antonio National Park, this resort and spa is anticipated to provide excellent outdoor pool facilities for relaxation and recreation.
Hotel with Panoramic View Pool
Features multiple pools with views of the rainforest and ocean. The hotel's location near Manuel Antonio National Park provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. The spa enhances the relaxation experience.
Room Types
Superior Jungle View One King BedThis air-conditioned room features 1 king-size bed or 2 double beds, plus a furnished balcony with partial ocean views. In-room amenities include a 32-inch LCD cable TV, iPod dock, CD and DVD player, as well as free coffee, a minibar, safe, and an iron and ironing board. The private bathroom includes a bath with a rain shower or bathtub and shower upon request.
Deluxe Room with Partial Ocean ViewThis air-conditioned room features 1 king size bed or 2 double beds, plus a furnished balcony with ocean and jungle views. In-room amenities include wooden ceilings and furniture, a 32-inch LCD cable TV, iPod dock, as well as free coffee, a minibar, safe, and an iron and ironing board upon request. The private bathroom includes a jacuzzi tub, shower and hairdryer.
SuiteThis spacious, air-conditioned suite features 1 extra large double bed and includes both a furnished balcony and a 32 m2 terrace with ocean and park views. The main room features a seating area and a spa bath. In-room amenities include a 32-inch LCD cable TV, iPod dock, CD and DVD player, as well as free Wi-Fi, free coffee, mini bar, safe, and an iron and ironing board.
SuiteThe spacious suite provides air conditioning, as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 3 beds.
Superior Jungle ViewThis spacious suite features 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower. This suite features air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 2 beds.
Standard Double RoomGuests will have a special experience as this double room offers a sauna. This double room features a private bathroom and air conditioning. The unit offers 2 beds.
Superior Jungle View Two BedsThis quadruple room is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box and a tiled floor. The unit offers 2 beds.
Deluxe Room with Partial Ocean View Two BedsThis quadruple room is air-conditioned and features a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box and a tiled floor. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.1
Very Good
Location
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa boasts an exceptional location that is a standout feature in guest reviews. The hotel is ideally situated right at the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park, making it incredibly convenient for visitors wanting to explore the park. Guests consistently highlight the benefit of the hotel's proximity to the park, noting that it is literally just a few steps away from the entrance. This prime location not only allows easy access to the national park but also places the hotel within a short walking distance to the beach.
Reviewers appreciate the convenience of not having to drive with parking provided for those who do bring vehicles. The hotel's location is often described as unbeaten or perfect with many guests pointing out that it is one of the best in the area for those planning to visit the park and the beach. Additionally, the hotel offers excellent views, a beautiful pool and very kind and attentive staff, enhancing the overall experience.
Overall, the consensus among guests is that the hotel's location offers unbeatable convenience for enjoying both Manuel Antonio National Park and nearby beaches, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to fully experience the natural beauty of the area.
Breakfast
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa offers breakfast that has garnered a variety of responses from guests. On the positive side, many have praised the breakfast buffet for its delicious taste, ample variety and plentiful options. Several reviews highlight the breakfast as amazing, exceptional and a highlight of the stay with many noting the inclusion of an impressive variety that caters to all tastes. Statements like incredible, superb and excellent were frequently used to describe the morning meal with several guests pointing out the good buffet selection and appropriate quality.
However, there were also some negative remarks regarding the breakfast. Some guests found the breakfast to be monotonous, lacking in variety and not living up to the standard expected for the price paid. Issues such as no labels on food items, occasional ants in the cereal and failure to replenish items were noted. While the majority of reviews have a positive tone, indicating a good or very good experience, there is clear room for improvement in ensuring consistency and maintaining the variety and freshness of the offerings.
Overall, the breakfast at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa is generally well-received with many guests enjoying a fulfilling start to their day, although enhancements could further elevate the dining experience.
Dinner
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa offers a mixed dining experience according to guest reviews. The Japanese restaurant at the poolside bar and the sushi served on the terrace both receive high praise for their quality and pleasant ambiance, making them standout options for dinner. Several guests highlight the superb flavors and beautiful views at these locations.
While the main hotel's Congo Restaurant has its moments with some guests finding the food delicious, others mention it as being subpar with less attentive staff. The restaurant scene at the hotel overall is described as convenient with good bars and attentive staff, particularly praised bartenders.
However, improvements could be made, especially concerning the lunch and dinner menus, as well as the general upkeep of the dining areas. Alternative dining options outside the hotel might offer better value and quality. Despite these criticisms, the restaurant staff are generally found to be attentive and willing to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Rooms
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa offers a mixed experience regarding its rooms. Guests commend the spaciousness of the rooms, featuring large and comfortable beds that invite a restful sleep. Many rooms also provide beautiful views, especially those overlooking the ocean or the lush landscape of the nearby National Park. The cleanliness of the rooms is frequently praised with several reviews highlighting that their rooms were very clean upon arrival.
However, some guests noted that the rooms appear dated and in need of general maintenance. The rooms on the ground and main floors were sometimes reported to have a musty or damp smell and instances of mosquitoes and ants were mentioned. Additionally, several visitors were disappointed with facilities like non-functional air conditioning and faulty locks.
Despite these drawbacks, the decor and layout of the suites, particularly the Selva and Mogote suites, were well-received with many guests enjoying the expansive balconies and the breathtaking views they offered. The rooms' large size and the comfort of the beds were consistent points of satisfaction, making them a highlight of many stays.
Overall, while the hotel rooms provide a spacious and comfortable environment, there are areas that need improvement, particularly regarding maintenance and updates to furnishings.
Beds
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa receives consistent praise for its beds, frequently described as super comfortable, comfy and exceptionally comfortable. Many guests appreciated the cleanliness and comfort of both the rooms and the beds with some noting the spacious and tidy accommodations. Several reviews highlighted the beds as some of the most comfortable they have slept in, contributing to positive sleeping experiences.
However, it's noted that there are some inconsistencies. A few guests found the mattresses to be old and uncomfortable, causing them to sink in and wake up with discomfort. This suggests that while many beds are highly satisfactory, some may require urgent replacement or updates. Overall, the majority of guests enjoyed a comfortable night's sleep thanks to the pleasant bedding.
Cleanliness
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa in general offers a mixed picture when it comes to cleanliness. Many guests have praised the hotel for its very clean rooms and the diligence of the housekeeping staff with some describing the cleanliness as impeccable and recognizing the staff's friendliness and excellent service. The grounds are mentioned as clean and beautiful, contributing to the resort's overall positive environment.
However, there are recurring complaints about certain aspects of the hotel's cleanliness. The public areas, dining hall and pool facilities often fall short of expectations with mentions of neglected and dirty spaces, moldy chairs and an unpleasant smell pervading the property. Some guests noted that while the rooms were clean, they were damp, musty and plagued by aging furniture and outdated decor. There were also reports of ants and garbage left uncollected in some areas.
Although the resort maintains a generally clean appearance in the rooms, the consensus is clear that substantial renovation and better maintenance for common areas are needed to elevate the overall guest experience.
Staff
At Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa, the standout feature consistently highlighted by guests is the exceptional quality of the staff. Words such as courteous, kind, professional and helpful frequently appear in reviews. Guests appreciate the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, particularly at the reception and pool bar, making their stay welcoming from arrival to departure.
Service across the hotel is described as excellent and efficient with a particular emphasis on personalized and attentive care. The staff is noted for going above and beyond to ensure visitor satisfaction, including coordinating tours and providing detailed information about activities. Specific mentions of individuals like Gerardo and Mr. Francisco highlight the personalized service that makes the hotel experience memorable.
Despite some comments on occasional slow service in restaurants, the general consensus is that the staff's friendliness and willingness to assist are key highlights. Staff members at the reception and restaurants are commended for their professionalism and efficiency, contributing to top-notch customer service.
Whether helping to book tours or accommodating special dietary requests, the hotel's team is described as making every effort to meet guests' needs, enhancing their overall experience. While there are occasional remarks about unmotivated or inattentive staff, these are significantly outnumbered by positive acknowledgments of the staff’s kindness and hospitality.
Ultimately, the commitment to excellent service and the welcoming attitude of the staff at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa leave a lasting positive impression, aligning with the high expectations of its guests.
Wi-Fi
When staying at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa, guests frequently encounter challenges with the Wi-Fi. While some visitors reported good connectivity, the overall experience with the hotel's Wi-Fi is generally poor. Many guests noted that the Wi-Fi is inconsistent and unreliable, often not working in the rooms or cutting out frequently. Complaints range from the internet barely reaching certain areas to it being practically non-existent in others. This can make planning activities and staying connected frustrating. Overall, the Wi-Fi at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa leaves much to be desired.
Spa
The spa at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa is praised for its high-quality services and a variety of treatments, which many guests have found to be amazing. The location of the spa and the professionalism of the staff receive commendations, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Visitors frequently mention the availability of the spa and specifically highlight enjoying wonderful massages at reasonable prices.
However, some aspects may not meet every expectation. A recurring issue noted by several guests is the non-functional jacuzzi, which was out of service throughout their stays. Additionally, there were instances of confusion regarding spa offers, leading to some dissatisfaction.
Despite these hiccups, the spa service maintains a very good standard, making it a notable feature of the hotel.
Gym
The fitness center at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa has received criticism from numerous guests. Many have found the gym to be in an unacceptable state with broken and outdated equipment. Reports of a neglected, worn-out space with non-functional cardio machines are common. Some guests have expressed disappointment over the gym's condition not being as advertised with several describing it as rundown and in dire need of repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the absence of basic amenities like a sink for disinfecting and cleaning supplies further adds to the dissatisfaction. Overall, the gym appears to be a significant aspect of the hotel that requires immediate attention and improvement.
Pool
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa boasts impressive pool facilities that have garnered positive feedback from guests. The resort offers a large main pool and a rooftop pool specifically for adults, which provides stunning views and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. The pools are noted for their size, cleanliness and appealing decor. Guests appreciate the convenience of provided pool and beach towels, as well as the good service at the pool bar.
The family-friendly atmosphere is complemented by the availability of both a kids' pool and an adult-only pool, catering to different preferences. The well-maintained common areas add to the overall pleasant and beautiful settings of the pool areas. Visitors also enjoyed the peaceful ambiance and the ability to spot local wildlife, such as monkeys and sloths, from the poolside.
Despite the generally high praise, some guests pointed out areas needing improvement. There were mentions of the rooftop pool occasionally requiring more thorough cleaning and noise disruption around the main pool area. A few reviewers highlighted specific maintenance issues that could be addressed to enhance the experience further.
Overall, the pools at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa are a significant highlight, offering guests a pleasant and relaxing environment to enjoy their stay.
Beach
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa boasts an enviable location with its proximity to both Manuel Antonio National Park and a stunning beach. Guests frequently highlight the convenience of the hotel's direct and easy access to the beach, often reachable within a few minutes on foot. Many appreciate that the hotel’s prime positioning allows for short and straightforward walks to the beach, enhancing the overall experience without needing to drive daily.
The beach itself receives high praise for its beauty with some guests noting that the nearby park’s beach is even more impressive than the public one. From the hotel balconies, guests can enjoy sightings of local wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas and birds, adding a unique charm to their stay. While there are a few paths to the beach, some find the route a bit unconventional, suggesting that improved signage could enhance ease of access.
Overall, the combination of the hotel's stunning views, wildlife encounters and quick beach accessibility makes Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa an attractive destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Family
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa is widely praised as an ideal destination for family vacations. Guests find it perfect for traveling with children, highlighting the safety and convenience offered by the resort. The children's pool receives positive mentions, alongside the outdoor pool, making it a great recreational option for families. Many families felt well-accommodated by the friendly and helpful staff with special mentions of superb room upgrades to suites for larger families. While there was some criticism regarding the cleanliness of the family pool, the general sentiment is that the resort offers a quiet and suitable environment tailored for families, ensuring a happy and enjoyable stay for all.
4 Star
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa offers a convenient location, but several guest reviews suggest that it falls short of its four-star rating. Many reviewers indicated that the hotel is outdated and in need of significant renovations to its facilities. Comments frequently mention that the quality does not align with the relatively high price, typically around $200 per night, leading to disappointments in service and amenities expected at this level. Specific areas highlighted include the old dining room and a pool area described as dark and uninviting after sunset with broken loungers by the rooftop pool further detracting from the experience. Collectively, the feedback underscores the need for maintenance improvements to meet the standards and price point of a four-star establishment.
Yes, Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Panoramic View Pool, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa.
No, Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa.