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

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Tonight
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Tomorrow
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
In two weeks
23 Oct - 25 Oct

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Our top choices for Playa Matapalo hotels

1. Mi Vida Lodge

Mi Vida Lodge
Savegre
Canada
Anonymous traveller
£98
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Mi Vida Lodge

2. Posada Alroma - Hostel

Posada Alroma - Hostel
Savegre
United States
Anonymous traveller
£23
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Posada Alroma - Hostel

3. Villas Rio Mar

Villas Rio Mar
Bahía Ballena
Mexico
Henry
£78
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Villas Rio Mar

4. Mata Palo Beach Club

Mata Palo Beach Club
Savegre
£45
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Mata Palo Beach Club

5. Tropical Sands Dominical Eco Inn

Tropical Sands Dominical Eco Inn
Bahía Ballena
United States
Keith
£51
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Tropical Sands Dominical Eco Inn

6. Hotel Diuwak

Hotel Diuwak
Bahía Ballena
United States
Anamaria
£67
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Hotel Diuwak

7. Hacienda Barú Lodge

Hacienda Barú Lodge
Savegre
United Kingdom
Steven
£69
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Hacienda Barú Lodge

8. Mavi Surf Hotel

Mavi Surf Hotel
Bahía Ballena
United States
Ellen
£120
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Mavi Surf Hotel

9. Lapazul

Lapazul
Savegre
United States
James
£274
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Lapazul

10. Villas Alturas

Villas Alturas
Bahía Ballena
United States
Marisol
£104
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Villas Alturas

11. Hotel el Páramo

Hotel el Páramo
Paramo
United States
maria
£48
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Hotel el Páramo

12. Rafiki Safari Lodge

Rafiki Safari Lodge
Río Nuevo
United States
Christopher
£157
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Rafiki Safari Lodge

13. Hotel Cuna Del Angel

Hotel Cuna Del Angel
Bahía Ballena
United States
Charles
£129
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Hotel Cuna Del Angel

14. Kritajna Safari Resort

Kritajna Safari Resort
Savegre
£22
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Kritajna Safari Resort

15. La Foresta Nature Resort

La Foresta Nature Resort
Quepos
United States
Charles
£83
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
La Foresta Nature Resort

16. Paradise Lodge

Paradise Lodge
Barú
United States
Carl
£86
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Paradise Lodge

17. Quimera Hotel

Quimera Hotel
San Isidro de El General
United States
Carlos
£36
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Quimera Hotel

18. Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa

Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa
Bahía Ballena
United States
Martin
£218
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa

19. Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort - All Inclusive

Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort - All Inclusive
Lagunas de Baru
United States
Andrew
£470
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort - All Inclusive

20. Qasa Boutique Hotel and Retreats - LGBTQ

Qasa Boutique Hotel and Retreats - LGBTQ
Barú
£116
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Qasa Boutique Hotel and Retreats - LGBTQ
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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.

See all hotels in Playa Matapalo
A coastal landscape with a beach, ocean, and dense forest.

Top Playa Matapalo Hotel Reviews

Igloo Beach Lodge

Igloo Beach Lodge

8/10 Good
"Is well located, rooms clean. You can walk to the beach, which super convenient."
Pablo 2-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Igloo Beach Lodge
Hotel Plaza Yara

Hotel Plaza Yara

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful room, great location, helpful staff"
roseann 1-night trip
Posted 20 hours ago
Hotel Plaza Yara
La Mariposa Hotel

La Mariposa Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at La Mariposa Hotel in Manuel Antonio was phenomenal and, so far, our favourite stay in Costa Rica! The views throughout the property were incredible, and the entire experience was wonderful from start to finish. The staff at the front desk were welcoming and helpful, and the service throughout our stay was excellent. The pools were clean and well-maintained, and the breakfast was fantastic, with plenty of options for everyone in the family. We were lucky enough to see the resident sloth a couple of times, and squirrel monkeys also passed by during our stay. These wildlife encounters made the experience even more special. Between the beautiful views, excellent service, great breakfast, lovely pools, and wildlife, La Mariposa made our stay truly memorable. We would happily stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Manuel Antonio!"
Chris 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
La Mariposa Hotel
Parador Nature Resort and Spa

Parador Nature Resort and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"El hotel es precioso, vistas impresionantes, rodeado de naturaleza y el personal es increíble, todos son super amables y lo tratan a uno como si es familia."
Jose Antonio 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa

Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"I had a great stay. Room was clean and staff were super nice. Never felt unsafe walking around as a solo traveler. Very easy access to beach and park. Food was delicious and very pretty views. Only thing I noticed was pools could have used a little more cleaning as there was leaves and things in them. Hard to avoid though outside! Would highly recommend!"
Jazmine 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa
Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio

Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio

10/10 Excellent
"SOOOO SO MUCH FUN!! it was our first getaway out of the country and we couldn’t have been more impressed!! They planned all our excursions for us making the stress on us SOOO much less!! They treated us so well and were so much fun!! Such a beautiful country to experience and thanks to them, we got to experience so much!! If you love nature and wildlife and adventure THIS is the country to go to!! JUST BE RESPECTFUL!! Love love loved the hotel and all that came with it!! we will definitely be back!!"
Jenna Elisabeth 8-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio
LAYAN Hotel & Spa

LAYAN Hotel & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Sin pensarlo volvería a quedarme en el hotel, buena ubicación, limpias y trato amable.!! Buen desayuno.!!"
Christopher 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
LAYAN Hotel & Spa
Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only

Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only

10/10 Excellent
"Hello, My wife and I stayed here for 4 days. The service was incredible, breakfast included , and they even upgraded our room. Would recommend anyone to stay here if they never have visited Costa Rica. The staff provided great service and recommendations. It felt like I was in the show White Lotus lol"
Jose 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only
Hotel Naoz

Hotel Naoz

10/10 Excellent
"Me gustó todo de este alojamiento, nos recibieron con una bebida refrescante ideal por el calor del lugar, las habitaciones cómodas, limpias y permiten descansar plácidamente. El desayuno con variedad y preparado al momento, muy rico, lo mismo que las otras opciones del menú. Se ubica a pocos minutos del parque nacional. Recomiendo el lugar sin duda alguna, volvería todas las veces a este alojamiento, no hablo solo por mi sino por el grupo de 6 personas que éramos."
Maria Gabriela 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Hotel Naoz

More cheap stays in Playa Matapalo

Sueños de maria

Sueños de maria

Uvita Bahía Ballena Osa
£30
22 Oct - 23 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (9 reviews)
Sueños de maria
Casa del Arbol (Adults only)

Casa del Arbol (Adults only)

Valle Pura Vida Quepos Provincia de Puntarenas
£53
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Casa del Arbol (Adults only)
Alborada Boutique Stay

Alborada Boutique Stay

Uvita de Osa Bahia Ballena Bahía Ballena Provincia de Puntarenas
£68
16 Oct - 17 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (15 reviews)
Alborada Boutique Stay
Tico Tico Villas Adult Only

Tico Tico Villas Adult Only

Calle 618 en frente Mono Azul Quepos Provincia de Puntarenas
£81
6 Nov - 7 Nov
includes taxes & fees
9.6/10 Exceptional! (23 reviews)
Tico Tico Villas Adult Only
Hotel Flor Blanca

Hotel Flor Blanca

125 Oeste de la escuela Manuel Antonio Quepos Puntarenas
£89
12 Oct - 13 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (275 reviews)
Hotel Flor Blanca
Villas Nicolás - Adults Only

Villas Nicolás - Adults Only

4th KM, 618 Route Quepos Puntarenas
Get rates
9.6/10 Exceptional! (401 reviews)
Villas Nicolás - Adults Only

Find out more about Playa Matapalo

Top reasons to visit Playa Matapalo

  • Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the soft sands and lush landscapes of Matapalo Beach, perfect for relaxation and romantic strolls.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in exhilarating water sports and outdoor adventures, catering to thrill-seekers.
  • Natural Wonders: Explore captivating waterfalls and lush reserves, ideal for nature lovers.
  • Local Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the friendly vibes of the community, enhancing your travel experience.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of delightful lodging options, from beach retreats to luxurious resorts.

Find great hotels near Playa Matapalo

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Playa Matapalo, Costa Rica, where adventure meets relaxation. Whether you seek a beach retreat, a pet-friendly getaway, or a luxurious resort experience, this charming locale has something for everyone. Enjoy the beauty of Coco Beach and explore the vibrant surroundings while indulging in top-notch hotel services designed for the adventurous traveller.

  • The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio: Nestled 8.7km from Playa Matapalo, The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation with a business-themed focus. Ideal for those seeking both excitement and comfort, the resort features nearby natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports, such as kayaking, rafting, and snorkelling, all easily accessible from the property. The combination of recreational activities and business facilities makes it a versatile choice for travellers looking to balance work and play in a stunning natural setting.
  • Si Como No Resort, Spa and Wildlife Refuge: This delightful resort, located 8.7km from Playa Matapalo, is perfect for families, couples, and pet owners alike. Si Como No Resort offers an array of amenities tailored to children, including a kids' pool and safety features. The romantic atmosphere is enhanced by stunning ocean views and dedicated romance packages. Guests can pamper themselves at the full-service spa or enjoy the poolside bar, ensuring a relaxing and enchanting experience. The resort's pet-friendly policy adds an extra layer of convenience for those travelling with furry companions, making it an excellent choice for a memorable getaway.
  • ECOTICA Boutique Hotel: Situated 9.3km from Playa Matapalo, ECOTICA Boutique Hotel is a nature lover's paradise, catering to those seeking adventure and romance. The hotel provides a range of activities such as kayaking, fishing, and surfing, ideal for the adventurous spirit. Guests can indulge in romantic dining experiences with room service and champagne options, while the picturesque pool views add a touch of serenity. The combination of outdoor adventure and intimate amenities makes this boutique hotel a standout choice for couples and nature enthusiasts alike, ensuring a memorable stay in Costa Rica.

Where to stay near Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo offers a stunning blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a beach holiday in Costa Rica. Explore the pristine Matapalo Beach, where soft sands meet lush landscapes, creating an idyllic backdrop for romantic strolls. Nearby, you can immerse yourself in the friendly local atmosphere, enjoy thrilling excursions, and indulge in recreational activities. Whether you’re basking in the sun or embarking on an adventure, Playa Matapalo promises an unforgettable experience.

  • Matapalo: Nestled only 311m from Playa Matapalo, this charming village is a perfect gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. Matapalo attracts visitors with its stunning scenery and a variety of adventure activities. The peak tourist season runs from January to March, making it an ideal time for those seeking vibrant experiences. Here, you can explore local beaches, venture to nearby national parks, and enjoy recreational areas that offer a taste of Costa Rica's natural beauty. Shopping centres in the village provide a chance to pick up souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Palma Quemada: Situated 1.9km from Playa Matapalo, Palma Quemada is a delightful village that promises adventure and scenic views. With a similar tourist pattern peaking between January and March, visitors flock here for thrilling activities, including a zipline ropes course that offers an adrenaline rush amidst the lush landscape. The proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks makes it a prime location for exploring Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a picturesque spot to relax, Palma Quemada has something for everyone.
  • Portalon: Also located 1.9km from Playa Matapalo, Portalon is a village that boasts a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and serene surroundings. The village sees moderate tourist traffic, with peak seasons aligning with January to March. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas and resorts that cater to both relaxation and excitement. The local attractions include stunning beaches, national parks, and even a volcano, making it a fantastic spot for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Whether hiking through lush trails or lounging by the beach, Portalon is sure to enchant.

Things to do near Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as sightseeing tours, exhilarating water sports, and opportunities for relaxation at local resorts and recreational areas. Whether you're looking for thrilling outdoor adventures or simply wishing to unwind on the beach, Playa Matapalo has something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.

Shopping

In Playa Matapalo, local markets offer vibrant crafts and souvenirs, perfect for gifts. For a broader shopping experience, if you're up for a drive, head to Ciudad Neily for its larger shops or the bustling town of Quepos, where you’ll find a variety of boutiques and eateries.

Recreation

Explore the Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge, just 9.3km from Playa Matapalo, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a serene atmosphere. Alternatively, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Brisas Wellness Center, also 9.3km away, for an exceptional spa experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding, located 5.0km from Playa Matapalo, where you can enjoy the stunning coastline and vibrant marine life. Then, soar through the treetops at Hacienda Baru, a zipline ropes course 5.6km away, offering exhilarating outdoor adventures.

For a unique challenge, head to Mountain Top Park, situated 8.7km from Playa Matapalo, where you can engage in various adventurous activities while soaking up the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of the area.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Playa Matapalo is serene yet vibrant, offering unique experiences. Venture to the Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary, located 14.3km away, for a peaceful evening stroll through nature. Alternatively, enjoy local bars and eateries that bring a lively atmosphere to this picturesque destination.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Playa Matapalo

To save money during your trip to Playa Matapalo, consider visiting between September and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Look for holiday deals specific to Playa Matapalo to maximise your budget.

  • 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: Book your hotel in Playa Matapalo about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Playa Matapalo with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions near Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo offers a perfect blend of beach, adventure, and outdoor activities for visitors. With its stunning beaches, captivating waterfalls, and lush reserves, there's plenty to explore. Ideal for those seeking a mix of relaxation and thrill, you can enjoy various attractions, public beaches, and scenic sights. For a memorable experience, consider renting a car to easily access all the tourist hotspots in and around Playa Matapalo.

  • Matapalo Beach: A mere 249m from Playa Matapalo, this beach offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for sunbathing and enjoying gentle waves. The stunning sunsets provide a picture-perfect backdrop for relaxation.
  • Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge: Located 3.1km away, this wildlife refuge is a haven for nature lovers. Wander through lush trails and encounter diverse flora and fauna, including colourful birds and playful monkeys.
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls: Situated 6.2km from Playa Matapalo, these breathtaking waterfalls are ideal for outdoor adventures. Experience the thrill of a hike, swim in the natural pools, and soak in the romantic setting surrounded by lush greenery.

Best time to go to Playa Matapalo

The best time to visit Playa Matapalo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Playa Matapalo falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Playa Matapalo falls in November, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
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 CloudyAverageSlightly Low
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 CloudyAverageAverage
December74.8°F (23.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Playa Matapalo

For a visit to Playa Matapalo, you can fly into two major airports: San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) located 31.1km away, and Quepos (XQP), which is 8.7km away. Near SJO, notable hotels include the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering various transportation services. At Quepos, you can find the luxurious Makanda by the Sea and the adults-only Gaia Hotel and Reserve, both providing airport shuttles. Additionally, Drake Bay (DRK) is 29.2km away, with options like The Tranquilo Lodge, which also offers transport services. Each hotel offers convenient access to the respective airports.

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 £23 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.

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