Arenas del Mar

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Press Reviews

AWARDS

Top 15 Central/South America Resorts, 2010 Readers' Choice Awards, Conde Nast Traveler (US)

REVIEWS

The Sunday Times, September 2010
"Boutiquey little Arenas del Mar is a bit eccentric - Le Corbusier meets Robinson Crusoe meets eco-elegance. It's the incredible position that makes it, though: hidden away between the jungle and the surf, overlooking its own perfect crescent of beach. Just don't leave any food out: the monkeys'll have it."

The Observer, September 2008
"At Costa Rica's first and smallest national park, Manuel Antonio, cute sloths climb trees in slow motion and capuchin monkeys frolic through the rainforest canopy before your eyes. There are tree frogs, snakes and gorgeous beaches - and hordes of tourists. But secluded in its own forest reserve, on a stretch of perfect beach, Arenas del Mar is a blissful antidote. Sophisticated rooms with ocean views in intriguing buildings are designed to blend with the vegetation. Cuisine is top-notch Costa Rican style and the charming staff greet you like old friends."

Conde Nast Traveler (US), Hot List 2008
"The idyllic jungle-meets-beach location of this Pacific Coast resort means guests can spot two-foot iguanas, white-faced monkeys, and birds of myriad species without even leaving their poolside loungers; and strong eco credentials should ensure the wildlife sticks around...The upper-level thatched reception, pool, bar, and restaurant area overlooks Playa Espadilla, a wide beach with the occasional sculptural rock, and there's another pool and café serving tasty wraps and salads on Playitas Beach, a sheltered cove that once had a nudist colony...'El Mirador' offers superb modern Costa Rican cuisine with an emphasis on seafood, served by an enthusiastic staff."

Frommer's
"Finally, there's Manuel Antonio that combines the best of all worlds, direct beach access, rainforest setting and surroundings, fabulous views, and luxurious accommodations...All rooms are very spacious, with tasteful decor, cool yellow tile floors, and plenty of wood and tile accents. Most have outdoor Jacuzzi tubs on their private balconies...The restaurant, lobby, and main pool are set on the highest point of land here, and several spots have fabulous views of Manuel Antonio's Punta Catedral. The owners are truly concerned about the environment and promoting sustainable tourism. Very little was done to disturb the land or surrounding ecosystems during construction. Free daily yoga classes and loads of relaxing treatments can be enjoyed at the hotel's spa."

Guest Ratings

Room:
70%
Food:
50%
Service:
80%
Value:
70%
Overall:
68%

Guest Reviews

Reviews are only from people who have stayed there and booked through i-escape.

  • “Nice pools, peaceful and pretty setting, but the room was nothing special.”
    KARL, United States (15.01.12)

Save to favouritesPrintMailArenas del MarIt’s as if, where the jungle meets the sea, you discover a folly created by some eccentric explorer rising from midst of the trees: tall columns and curving stairways entwined with lianas and creepers, lights glowing mysteriously through glass bricks. The reception area is a soaring wooden palanque lined with woven palms, crimson walls, elegant armchairs and a circular bar. An organic swimming pool forms a natural oasis; the airy restaurant’s windows make paintings of the rainforest beyond. Yet just 5 minutes away is Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s most visited. Go with resident naturalist Eduardo and you’ll gain fascinating insights into the wildlife, then return to Arenas del Mar’s own beautiful stretch of secluded beach: just the waves, birdsong and silence. Elegant, sophisticated interiors are filled with original paintings; the [eating:CO012:food] is exquisite; a spa offers superb massages and organic treatments; and many of the rooms have ocean views from the beds or balcony hot tubs. And yet it’s all rigorously sustainable. A unique find.

Book this hotelRates from 270USD

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