Arenas del Mar Resort, Manuel Antonio

Pros

• The resort has a privileged location on an 11-acre (4.5-hectare) private rainforest reserve.
• The resort has two large infinity pools with ocean views.
• Bathrooms are spa-like and include large, deluxe rainfall showers.
• You'll have direct access to Playitas Beach and Playa Espadilla, allowing you to enjoy watersports, sunbathing, and beachfront relaxation.
• Guests might encounter diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, capuchin monkeys, sloths, iguanas, lizards, and scarlet macaws, within the resort's lush surroundings.

Cons

• The property is expansive and takes time to navigate (the resort offers golf cart transportation on request). 
• The resort is popular and can get busy sometimes, especially around the pools.

Authenticity

Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort is an authentic Costa Rican retreat that effortlessly combines luxury with nature. Its design and ethos are deeply rooted in the local environment, offering a true sense of place. Located within a private rainforest reserve, you can experience the country's rich biodiversity and possibly see animals like howler monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws, among others, right at the resort.

Location

The resort is situated directly on the Pacific Ocean, offering direct access to Playitas Beach and Playa Espadilla. This beachfront location allows you to participate in watersports, sunbathing, and swimming. You'll also be close to the rainforest and about a 10-minute drive to Manual Antonio National Park's entrance. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Arenas del Mar combine comfort and luxury. They exude a modern vibe with spacious layouts and king-sized beds, though the decor thoughtfully reflects the surrounding environment. Grab a room with a private balcony for truly memorable views, plus the option for loungers and Jacuzzis. Regardless of your chosen room, you'll enjoy a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. All units have high-speed WiFi, cable TV, coffeemakers, minibars, and organic toiletries. The bathrooms are well-appointed, providing a relaxing and luxurious space to unwind after a day of exploration.

Sustainability

Arenas del Mar is deeply committed to sustainability, which is evident in its integration with the surrounding environment. The resort sits within a private rainforest reserve, allowing for a minimal impact on the local ecosystem. It encourages guests to engage with the natural world, promoting awareness and appreciation for the local biodiversity.

Wildlife

Visitors often see wildlife on the beach and around the grounds. Howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, iguanas, basilisk lizards, and scarlet macaws all have natural habitats here.

Amenities

The resort is home to two large infinity pools, including the Mirador Pool, which offers ocean views, and the more secluded Playitas Pool. There are large lounge chairs and umbrellas near the pools. The hotel offers a fitness center and a spa with ocean views from the treatment rooms. One free laundry service (washing, drying, and folding) is included per stay. On-site, travelers can take surfing and surf lessons at Espadilla Beach or participate in complimentary tortilla-making classes and sustainability tours. In case of inclement weather, the hotel offers free activities such as cooking classes.

Family-Friendliness

The hotel is family-friendly, offering kid-friendly meals, family-friendly hiking, and several in-house tours and activities for family entertainment. The staff includes Family Vacation Specialists who can plan trips or recommend activities and outings. Ocean View Premium Suites and Ocean Breeze Suites are best for families. Kids' menus are available at both of the hotel's restaurants. The grounds are extensive and hilly, so the hotel offers golf cart shuttles around the property.

Other Highlights

Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort features two restaurants and bars, Playitas Beachfront Restaurant & Bar and Mirador Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar. All dishes are sustainably sourced and contain fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Breakfast and dinner are served at Mirador in an open-air cliffside setting with views of the surrounding scenery. Playitas offers beachside seating right on the sand. Both restaurants have full bars.