The villa is absolutely beautiful and was perfect for my group of 7 as it provided the space, amenities and everything else that we needed. The rooms are all spacious, especially the first-floor bedroom with the ensuite bathroom. You can't beat the location as it is walking distance to several good restaurants, bars, supermarkets, liquor stores, pharmacy, bank, and a relatively short walk (via the back road/trail) or bus ride to the beach. The terrace on the top floor (with a mini refrigerator) is heavenly and a perfect place to have your morning coffee, afternoon drinks, or just to relax and watch the monkeys and giant macaws go by. The pool is small, but ideal for cooling off after a day of tours/excursions... and pool/beach towels are provided. If you decide to spend a day relaxing at the villa, you can sit by the pool in one of the lounge chairs. Did I mention that there is an outdoor grill? Perfect for some burgers, hot dogs or grilled meat.
Two members of my group were celebrating birthdays, so we hired Chef Alejandro who prepared a really delicious meal on our arrival. Everything was so good, especially the grilled whole lobster which was succulent, flavorful and incredibly delicious.
The beach is a great place to relax. You can rent a tent, beach chair/umbrella and get a massage, order food/drinks and participate is several watersports/activities. There are several souvenir shops and restaurants by the beach.
The wildlife in Manuel Antonio is amazing. The monkeys came by the villa every day and would sometimes play on the top floor terrace and by the pool. We saw the brilliantly colored giant macaws and toucans fly by several times, sloths hanging out at night on the overhead wires along the street, iguanas running around and whales splashing around.
Our concierge, Hazel Waterman was incredible! She greeted us on our arrival at the villa and was always accessible. She arranged all our tours and transportation. The tours/excursions were well organized and so much fun. The catamaran tour allowed members of my group to snorkel, see whales and watch the beautiful sunset, all while enjoying an open bar and a buffet lunch. The horseback riding was awesome and the stop at the waterfall was refreshing. The ATV tour along country dirt roads and through riverbeds was perhaps the most fun for my group. Be warned, the fun comes at a price... you get really dirty :-)
We can't wait to go back and would definitely rent this villa again!