Shana Hotel & Spa

We enjoyed our 3-night stay at Shana by the Beach and would certainly return. The biggest bonus was that our junior suite room opened to the forested area meaning we were treated to capuchin and spider monkeys every morning, as well as scarlet macaws on our last day. The property is set in a steep hillside and the hills are a repetitive theme when traversing the property. Bellmen drive around in golf carts and are happy to shuttle you around if needed; we opted to walk and get the exercise but I confess I thought of the cart option more than once. The restaurant is good for dinner, although there are other nice options for those with the interest and energy to travel beyond the resort. We had a particularly long drive on the day of our arrival so we opted for the hotel restaurant that day; the second day we’d been on a canopy zipline tour and simply didn’t have the energy to leave the property so we returned for dinner. Food and service were good on both occasions but we also enjoyed the dinner we had off-property. The breakfast buffet is nice albeit a little cramped, and we enjoyed the options especially the chicken Casado that complemented our eggs. The pools are very nice, and having an adult-only option is great. Bar drinks were good but we were a bit taken aback when the bartender approached as we lay in our lounge chairs, picked up the koozie-wrapped beers we’d brought from our room (some leftovers we’d brought with us from our prior stop), poured them into glasses he’d brought with him and mildly chastised us for enjoying drinks we hadn’t purchased on-property. We’ve probably stayed in 200+ hotels and that’s a first, particularly given the amount we’d already spent on bar drinks. Otherwise, it was a nice stay and we’d endorse the property but be certain your room faces the forest - you won’t regret it.

Their obscured location is just outside of Manuel Antonio National Park. Very narrow road led to get to this scenic hotel. Onsite were two pools, a general one for all, and an adults only infinity pool. The buildings sat amongst rather steep inclines, walkable though if you take it slow. Sometime there was golf cart shuttle to take you back and forth. I think you can call ahead for the shuttle. There was a restaurant on site with splendid view of the Pacific. The hotel room was quite spacious and has its own outdoor patio. Two king size beds. Separate large bathroom with rainfall shower head. Plumbing though was a bit dated and in need of repairs. Loose faucet, leaky connections in the shower, and flushing the toilet was a challenge. We were instructed to always lock the patio door otherwise monkeys will come into your room. Monkeys will slide open unlocked door. We witnessed monkeys jumping from balconies and cabana roofs and even dropped onto unattended restaurant table to grab food. We ate breakfast, lunch and dinner at the onsite Shana Restaurant. Marvelous views of the forest canopy and the ocean from there. Very good food though servers seemed inattentive. A modest meal for two with non-alcoholic drinks ran around $55-65 USD because 13% VAT and 10% service charge added. In between building 1 and 2 is a moderate downhill path that led to a private beach. It is an easy 10 minute walk going down and 15 minute walk heading back up. We trodded down to the beach mid morning and saw approximately 10 people there. The secluded beach had warm water and calm waves.

What a fantastic hotel. Favorite one I’ve been to around the country and I’ve been to about 10. Warner made our experience perfect and he deserves all of the recognition! He made our family feel at home and was always ready to help with whatever we needed.

Costa Rica: Pura Vida! Wonderful staff. Good food. Beautiful views. Love the monkeys and birds. The kindest staff. Clean rooms. Big shower. Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash provided. Great sunsets. Happy hour fun. Adult only pool. Would come again.

Very attentive and caring staff!! There are tons of monkeys to watch, and a private beach....know that there are several steps that won't be easy if you have any walking issues. Menu is varied, and breakfast buffet is great.... rooms are very comfortable and the showers are spacious.