Hotel Makanda by the Sea

The swanky Arbol restaurant is encased in glass with a nearly-360° view of the jungle and sea. The cuisine is just as innovative, offering reinventions of classic dishes - and plenty of seafood. Speaking of which, the sushi lunches at the swim-up bar are excellent. The cave-like (in a good way!) Shanti Spa is adorned with spirals of ocean pebbles and shell art and a menu of massages to soothe and relax. Take your pick of saltwater pools and hot tubs to soak in afterwards, or laze in a wicker cocoon on one of the terraces.

Starting at 680-square-feet, Hotel Makanda's suites and villas are artfully decorated with jungle scenes, leaf-inspired chandeliers and 'driftwood' furnishings. French doors open onto spacious terraces, which, at the villas, feature a private plunge pool and swing. Marble bathrooms have dual sinks, powerful rainfall showers and sea-view tubs. The most luxe option is the Sky Penthouse with its full-size marble pool and the best view on the peninsula.

Hikes into Manuel Antonio National Park reveal cheeky, white-faced capuchin and howler monkeys, caotis, sloths and even some of Costa Rica's wild cats. Along the coast, partake in a spot of jet-skiing, parasailing or a dolphin-spotting catamaran sail, or head inland for white water rafting, a canopy tour and kayaking excursions through the mangroves. Then, once you're adventured out, take it easy with an afternoon of coffee tasting or head to Biesanz Beach; one of the finest in Costa Rica, it's a 15-minute walk (or quick golf cart ride) away from the hotel.