Arenas del Mar is a luxury boutique hotel with just 40 rooms and excellent sustainability credentials, set in 11 acres of rainforest. Rooms are stylish with views either of the ocean or the surrounding rainforest. There are two beautiful pools and access to two beaches, including the secluded Playitas beach with beach chairs and drink service from the hotel. Rooms graduate from the El Mirador restaurant and reception areas down to the Playitas beach where there is another pool and lunch restaurant.

Rooms: are stylish and tranquil in blocks graduating from the top of the resort to the beachfront below. Rooms near the beach allow you to hear the sounds of the ocean, whilst rooms at the top of the resort enable excellent views from the decks.The Ocean View and Ocean Breeze Premium rooms have King beds and a double size futon, they also include 330 square feet of deck with hot tub and day bed. The Ocean View and Ocean Breeze Superior Rooms have King beds and a double size futon. They also have 122 square feet of deck with outdoor kitchenette and seating area. There are four garden rooms on the ground floor.

Dining: The El Mirador restaurant offers modern indoor dining with large windows overlooking the forest and sea. It serves breakfast and dinner and is located towards the top of the property. The beachside restaurant has a more casual feel and offers open air dining on Playitas beach with more local Costa Rican dining options. Private romantic dinners can be pre-arranged beachside. A la carte breakfast is included in the room price. Meals include grass fed beef and responsibly sourced seafood.

Onsite: Trails onsite lead to the beach and through the rainforest. Playa Espadilla can be reached by walking or by electric car and offers 2km of beach.

Nearby Excursions: Arenas del Mar is very close to Manuel Antonio National Park. Guided tours are available from the hotel.

Our Comment: One of our favourite options for visiting Manuel Antonio Park, this intimate hotel offers a secluded beach retreat in a incredible natural setting.