A beautiful resort featuring private nature trails and gorgeous sandy beaches. Here, connecting with nature and 'going green' requires absolutely no sacrifice
Features
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- White Water rafting
- Rainforest Walks
- Historical tours
- Horse Riding
- Surfing
- Fishing
- Spa
| Arenas del Mar - Manuel Antonio National Park, Pacific Coast, Costa Rica | |
Sustainability Scorecard
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From $200 USD Per Double
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good for you
Set in 11 acres (5 hectares) of pure tropical bliss, Arenas Del Mar is a beautiful resort featuring private nature trails and gorgeous sandy beaches. Here, connecting with nature and 'going green' requires absolutely no sacrifice.
The rooms are luxurious and well-appointed as well as being incredibly environmentally-friendly. All sheets and towels are made from 100% natural bamboo fibres, the beds are non-allergenic and all of the furniture is made from farmed wood or recycled components. What's more they're ideally placed for taking advantage of all that the area has to offer.
Whitewater rafting, horseback riding and ocean kayaking are just some of the activities on offer at the resort. For something a bit less active, get to know the wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans and armadillos that live practically on your doorstep. You're also perfectly placed to explore the neighbouring Manuel Antonio National Park and the rustic town of Quepos. Or you may choose to simply soak up the sun on the pristine sands, indulge in a massage at the onsite spa or watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand.
good for costa rica
Demonstrating that sustainability can be successfully combined with the quality of a world-class resort, Arenas Del Mar was tailored to the concepts and requirements set by the Costa Rican Certification for Sustainable Tourism.
The resort was built without using tractors or heavy equipment for land clearing thereby reducing its environmental impact. It uses solar water heating panels coupled with super efficient energy saving heaters, an underground electrical system to protect the animals and birds, a native species nursery where soil is produced from organic waste, vermiculture, energy efficient light bulbs and a complex recycling program. Only electric vehicles are allowed on the property in order to avoid noise and air contamination.
The resort's total "footprint" covers less than a quarter of the land, with the remaining property dedicated as a private nature reserve that acts as an ecological corridor for species of mammals and birds living within the jungle. Employees are mostly locals, and all of them are employed under fair terms, with plenty of support as well as training in sustainable tourism.
Highs
- This place's sustainability credentials are pretty impressive.
- The natural beauty of Costa Rica's Pacific coast is truly breathtaking, and the warm climate and laid back culture make it a perfect place to relax.
Lows
- Luxury resorts unavoidably cut guests off from the local community, but here you will meet locals on staff, and you're close to the nearby town of Quepos.
Rooms
At Arenas del Mar, maximum comfort blends subtly into the natural surroundings. The 38 guest rooms are built around existing trees, and each enjoys stunning views - either of the Pacific Ocean or lush Manuel Antonio Rainforest. Equipped with all the amenities one expects from a luxury resort, all rooms are equipped with ceiling fans, air-conditioning, cable television, high-speed Internet, mini-bar, coffee maker, hair dryers, microwave and irons.
ocean view apartments
These are the most luxurious option on Costa Rica's Central Pacific Coast. With more than 1650 square feet (150 square meters) of living space, the apartments each include two air conditioned bedrooms (each with a king sized bed), a spacious deck or terrace, open lounge area (including a pull-out sofa for extra guests), a kitchenette and three bathrooms. There's a private Japanese-style Jacuzzi on each deck making them the most decadent spot to watch the sunset along the coastline. Facilities include a flat screen cable TV, high speed Internet, mini-bar, safe deposit box, coffee maker, microwave and iron. The apartments can comfortably fit five people.
ocean view suites
The Ocean View Suites have one air-conditioned bedroom with a king size bed, spacious decks or terraces as well as a large living area. Ceiling fans, large pull-out sofas, a kitchenette and two bathrooms are the norm here while the private deck top bath is decadence at its best. As with the other rooms, cable TV, high speed Internet, mini-bar, safe deposit box, coffee maker, microwave and an iron come as standard. This suite can comfortably sleep three.
rainforest view suites
The Rainforest View Suites are spacious one-bedroom suites with a king size bed and a large living room area. All suites are fully air-conditioned and feature one bathroom with Jacuzzi, cable TV, high speed Internet, mini-bar, safe deposit box, coffee maker, microwave, iron. These suites can sleep three people.
The Superior Rooms are air conditioned with comfy king size beds. All come with a roomy deck or terrace plus all the mod cons you could ever need.
Food
There are two restaurants within Arenas Del Mar each located next to one of the resort's two swimming pools. El Mirador, is the more formal of the two, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from a spot high in the tree tops, overlooking the Manuel Antonio National Park. Expect nouvelle Costa Rican cuisine here; El Mirador uses fresh local produce with local spices and techniques. The more laid-back Playita serves lunch and snacks almost on the beach. The focus is on simple, tasty fare using fresh ingredients such as tuna wraps and pannini sandwiches.
Features & Facilities
- Full a la carte breakfast included in the rates
- Two restaurants and a bar
- On-site Las Brisas spa, with views of the national park and a range of massage and beauty treatments
- Complementary High Speed Internet access
- Two swimming pools
- Laundry service
- Room service 24 hours
- Parking service
- Money exchange
- Bilingual staff (Spanish and English)
- Concierge and tour desk
- Local transfer arrangements
- Domestic air reservations
- Gift shop selling local arts and crafts
- Modern business centre
Local Info & Activities
Costa Rica is as famous for its flora and fauna as its idyllic beaches and Arenas del Mar offers an excellent base from which to explore the country's natural treasures. Step outside your room and you'll find an extensive network or trails, including a hanging bridge, which leads guests through the hotel's very own rainforest.
The following is a range of activities in the area and tours offered by the resort.
Whitewater Rafting: An unforgettable, if not wet, experience navigating the beautiful Naranjo or Savegre Rivers. Rates from $65 to $95, including lunch.
Manuel Antonio National Park: An experienced guide will accompany you on an informative walk through Costa Rica's most famous National Park and point out monkeys, sloths, iguanas, birds and other wildlife on the way. Besides hiking books and binoculars, bring your bathing suit and a towel and take advantage of the calm white sandy beaches within the park. Rates from $45.
Carara National Park: Close to Manuel Antonio, Carara National Park is well worth the trip. Here you can observe scarlet macaws and the extraordinary crocodiles in the Tarcoles river. You are accompanied at all times by an experienced bilingual guide. Rates from $85.
The History of Quepos and Manuel Antonio: The resort has designed a special cultural tour that teaches you about the history of the area from early Spanish settlement, though the "banana boom" to today's palm oil plantations and tourism. You'll visit the port of Quepos and meet local fishermen and farmers and are accompanied at all times by an experienced bilingual guide. Rates from $55.
Horseback Riding: The resort offers half-day tours on horseback into the rural areas near Manuel Antonio where you can refresh yourself in a waterfall and observe toucans and other wildlife. Guides available upon request. Rates from $60.
Mangrove Tours: Explore the protected inland waterways of Damas Island Estuary. Discover this incredible mangrove forest and a unique ecosystem either on a guided kayak or boat tour. Rates from $65.
Ocean Kayaking: A challenging open ocean kayaking tour along one of Costa Rica's most beautiful coastlines. Explore nearby islands that are the nesting grounds for sea birds. Rates from $65.
Canopy Tour: People of all ages can enjoy this tour. Travel on suspension cables from platform to platform observing and learning from your guide about the rainforest canopy. Well-trained certified guides and high quality equipment ensure your safety. Rates from $65.
Other available tours: Catch and release sport fishing, fly fishing, sailing, surf lessons, mountain biking and butterfly tours.
Sustainability
Demonstrating that sustainability can be successfully combined with the quality of a world-class resort, Arenas Del Mar is Costa Rica's first 100% sustainable development project, utilizing all concepts and requirements set by the Costa Rican Certification for Sustainable Tourism.
By implementing eco-friendly programs and the most efficient energy-saving practices, Arenas Del Mar is a model for sustainable tourism. The resort uses solar water heating panels coupled with super efficient energy saving heaters, underground electrical system to protect the animals and birds, a native species nursery where soil is produced from organic waste, vermiculture, energy efficient light bulbs and a complex recycling program among many other sustainable efforts. Only electric vehicles are allowed on the property in order to avoid noise and air contamination.
The resort's total "footprint" covers less than a quarter of the land, with the remaining property dedicated as a private nature reserve that acts as an ecological corridor for species of mammals and birds living within the jungle.
In addition, all Arenas Del Mar employees are deeply trained in sustainable tourism practices and are committed to maintaining its high goals.
The hotel uses solar heating panels coupled with super efficient energy saving auxiliary water heaters, underground electrical system, copper-silver ionization systems to clean the pool water, energy efficient bulbs, and a complex but efficient recycling program including the use of waste water treatment plant which require no leech lines, solar drying areas and low wattage high efficiency lighting to protect the fauna and the use of fossil fuels. The roof tiles are actually recycled plastic from discarded plastic bags used in the banana industry.
The total construction (footprint) covers less than 25% of the land and the remaining part, which is secondary forest, is a private nature reserve which acts as an ecological corridor for the animals that travel through this jungle. Arenas del Mar will be planting over 7000 native species of trees and thousands of native plants in the next years. Furthermore, the involvement of the local community is an essential part of the lodging concept. Employees are recruited primarily from the Quepos and Parrita area and purchases are made locally whenever possible. Moreover, all employees are trained in sustainable tourism and a full time occupational safety and environmental supervisor works on the premises.
Getting There
to arenas del mar by car:
Arenas del Mar is located on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica about 2km from the port of Quepos, in Manuel Antonio. Most visitors to Costa Rica travel to the capital, San José, by plane and Arenas del Mar is a 3 hours drive or a short 25 minute flight from here.
Driving to Manuel Antonio: Head west out of San José toward the International Airport on the Interamericana and turn off at "Manolos" (Atenas Exit) towards the beach town of Jacó. When crossing the Tarcoles river bridge, make sure you stop to look at the crocodiles below. Continue to Jacó and then down the Pacific coast to Quepos. From Quepos, follow the signs to Manuel Antonio and later the signs to Arenas del Mar Beach & Nature Resort. Estimated driving time: 3 hours. 4WD is easiest, but regular cars should have no problem. Recomended lunch stop: El Balcon de Mariscos about 10 km after the Tarcoles river bridge.
Visit our Transport section for flights, hybrid car rentals and train bookings.
Rates & Bookings
1 May - 31 oct 2008
Ocean View Appartment US$510 (sleeps 4)
Ocean View Suite US$310 (sleeps 2)
Ocean View Superior Room US$200(sleeps 2)
Rainforest View Suite US$200 (sleeps 2)
6 Jan - 30 Apr 08
6 jan - 30 april 08
Ocean View Appartment US$580 (sleeps 4)
Ocean View Suite US$360 (sleeps 2)
Ocean View Superior Room US$220 (sleeps 2)
Rainforest View Suite US$220 (sleeps 2)
1 nov - 14 dec 08
6 jan - 30 april 08
Ocean View Appartment US$580 (sleeps 4)
Ocean View Suite US$360 (sleeps 2)
Ocean View Superior Room US$220 (sleeps 2)
Rainforest View Suite US$220 (sleeps 2)
15 dec 08 - 5 jan 08
Ocean View Appartment US$660 (sleeps 4)
Ocean View Suite US$400 (sleeps 2)
Ocean View Superior Room US$260 (sleeps 2)
Rainforest View Suite US$260 (sleeps 2)
Additional person US$50
Children under 6 years Free
included:
Breakfast
excluded:
Government tax of 16.39%
pre-payment & cancellation policies
holiday season: 15 dec - 5 jan
A pre-payment for the total amount of the reservation must be done 60 days prior to the arrival date.
- If a reservation is cancelled 60 days prior to the arrival date, 50% of the reservation will be charged.
- If a reservation is cancelled 30 days prior to the arrival date 100% of the reservation will be charged.
all other seasons
An international credit card is required. The total amount will be charged 7 days prior to the arrival date.
- If there is a "no-show", 100% of the total reservation will be charged.
- If a reservation is cancelled 7 days or less prior to the arrival date, 100% of the reservation will be charged.
Want to avoid cancellation fees? Visit our Insurance section for information on travel insurance.