Trying to decide between Parador Resort & Spa vs Hotel Playa Espadilla. Ease of access to the beach and affordable meals are my biggest concerns. We will have a guided tour for the park
Thanks,
Playa Espadilla is a short walk to the main public beach. Parador is a local bus ride or taxi to the main beach. Some folks prefer the small beach cove at Playa Biesanz to the main beach. Playa Biesanz is a short walk from Parador. The beaches inside the national park are far & away the prettiest beaches in the area but require advance reservations and are unimproved (no beach chairs or services available) and they’re a 1/2 mile walk from the park entrance.
Haven’t eaten at Parador but you could ask them to send you a menu with prices.
Edited: 03 August 2024, 23:40First, I want to say that I have not stayed at either of these places, but I am very familiar with the Manuel Antonio area.
Will you be renting a car?
If not. If the issue is just convenience and walkability, then definitely hotel Playa Espadilla. It is quite close to both the national park entrance and the public beach - Playa Espadilla. There are also several restaurants and shops in the area. That’s specific area is quite flat so the walking is not that difficult However, there are other popular restaurants that you would still either have to take the public bus or a taxi or Uber. (if you can get one) to get to.
The Parador is much farther from the things I mentioned. It is close to Biesanz Beach though some reports say the path can be tricky. Some reviews right about a shuttle the hotel offers to the head of the path of Biesanz.
The Parador however is a more upscale property. You will get much nicer ocean views and probably a more tranquil atmosphere. Taxis would add up. However, realistically, the area is quite small so pretty well wherever you want to go would not take more than 10 or 15 minutes maximum. .
Edited: 03 August 2024, 23:51We will not have a car but will have a guide to bring us to the national park. Reviews for Paradore talk about a steep hill to get back to hotel. Not really sure how steep. Steep is different for everybody. Ill be 62 when I visit but in decent shape. Just dont want the hill to be too much.
Thanks.
