Short answer
Makanda by the Sea suits intimate adults-only wedding groups looking for a secluded, jungle-meets-ocean atmosphere rather than a large all-inclusive resort.

Costa Rica · Central Pacific - Manuel Antonio (Quepos)
Makanda by the Sea
Central Pacific - Manuel Antonio (Quepos), Costa Rica
Every resort on this site passed my vetting. But this is one of the resorts where, if my daughter called me tomorrow and said she was engaged — this is where I'd be genuinely excited to start planning.
By Shanna Fowler, Certified Destination Wedding Planner and Travel Advisor
Price Category
Luxury
Rooms
33
Ceremony Types
Symbolic · Legal · Same-sex
Intimate adults-only weddings (roughly under 50 guests) wanting jungle-meets-ocean seclusion, sloths and monkeys included, with a full-buyout option.
Wedding Venues
Ceremony Types
FAQ
Is Makanda by the Sea adults-only or family-friendly?
Adults-only (Makanda by the Sea does not accommodate children).
Guest feedback
What do wedding guests say about this resort?
Guests rave about the jungle setting, wildlife, ocean views, stylish adults-only design, and romantic atmosphere. The steep hillside requires many stairs, the beach is small, and it is not an all-inclusive resort. It is best for intimate, visually dramatic weddings with mobile guests who appreciate boutique hotels and nature. Overall, the recurring feedback suggests that the best experience comes from matching the resort's personality and layout to the guest list rather than choosing on photos alone.
Location
Where is it located?
1 km west of Plaza Vista, Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Puntarenas 60601, Costa Rica
Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP) · 10 km / about 20 minutes
Get directionsMore resorts in Costa Rica

Costa Rica · Family-Friendly
Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
Guanacaste - Peninsula Papagayo (Culebra Bay)

Costa Rica · Family-Friendly
JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort All-Inclusive (formerly Dreams Las Mareas)
Guanacaste - Playa El Jobo (La Cruz, Costa Elena community)

Costa Rica · Adults-Only
Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica
Guanacaste (Papagayo Peninsula)

Costa Rica · Family-Friendly
The Westin Reserva Conchal
Guanacaste - Playa Conchal (Brasilito)
Not sure this resort is the one? Take our 90-second match quiz.
Take the match quizConsidering Makanda by for your wedding?
Thirty-minute discovery call with Shanna, real answers about this resort, honest pros and cons for your specific guest list, and no-obligation quote.
Book Free Consultation