Costa Rica offers much more than just “drinks by the pool” and tropical beaches. Our country is famous for its flora and fauna and Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort is the perfect base from which to explore its natural treasures. We invite you to become active, have fun and learn about Costa Rica, its people, nature and culture…
 Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort offers you the most exuberant flora and fauna in the country. We invite you to explore Manuel Antonio, one of the most famous National Parks in Costa Rica. Many first-time visitors to Costa Rica plan their vacation around seeing the park, and it is no surprise why: the views from the hills overlooking Manuel Antonio are spectacular, the beaches are idyllic, and its jungles are inhabited by howler, white-faced, and squirrel monkeys, sloths and parrots, among other forms of exotic wildlife. You are invited to experience and taste the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest that grows right down to the white sands and crystal clear water of the beaches. You will also be supporting the Costa Rican National Parks system and contributing to the conservation of our natural resources. By protecting the flora and fauna, you are ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunity to experience the magnificent biodiversity of Costa Rica.
Our hotel has a resident naturalist guide that is always available in case you have questions about nature or tours. If you want to get in touch with him just ask at the front desk! He will be more than happy to answer all your questions!
Manuel Antonio National Park
Early in the morning, enjoy the charms of Manuel Antonio National Park, with its striking white-sand beaches, clear tranquil waters and abundant wildlife. Though the highlights of this park are its two white sand beaches Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio - it also protects coastal rain forest, a mangrove swamp, coral formations and 12 islands that serve as seabird sanctuaries. Our guide will teach you about the park's distinctive plant life and point out some of the resident fauna, which include 109 mammal species, such as 3 species of monkeys, agouti, three-toed sloth and 184 species of birds.
What to bring: Sun block, hiking shoes or hiking sandals, insect repellent, binoculars, hat, swimsuit, towel, camera and plastic bags for your camera.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival time:11:45 a.m.
Driving time: 15 minutes
Rate:
$50
$40 (children under 12 years)
$90 (Private Tour)
Includes: transportation, bilingual guide and entrance fee.
Early Bird Watching Tour
Costa Rica is a birder's paradise. With over 856 different species, you just need to go for a short walk to see a multitude of colorful exotic birds. Here, in Arenas del Mar, the trees, bushes and flowers planted just outside your room, were chosen because they attract different species of tanager, euphonias, flycatchers, robins, woodpeckers and over 180 different species of birds. During the early hike we usually see monkeys, sloths and agoutis as well. Come and join us for a fascinating nature experience!
What to bring: Bottle of water, hiking boots or tennis shoes, camera,binoculars, light clothing
Departure time: 6:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 8:00 a.m.
Rate: $20 per person
Night Walk on
Arenas Del Mar Nature Reserve
At night, many animals go to sleep but many others come out to explore the dark such as snakes, spiders, opossums and owls. This is your exotic opportunity to see, hear and experience the thrill of the wild nocturnal life at Arenas Del Mar. Come and join us in this great experience!
What to bring: Hiking boots or tennis shoes, long pants, rain gear.
Departure time: 6:00 p.m.
Arrival time: 8:00 p.m.
Rate: $20 per person
Morning or Sunset Sailing
 Discover the wonders of our imposing Manuel Antonio coastline and climb aboard one of Costa Rica’s greatest sailing experiences by morning or sunset. Marvel at mysterious islands with jagged rock formations, towering cliffs and nesting grounds to sixteen species of marine pelagic birds. Its during certain times of the year you may be lucky to hear the song of the whales, whistling with each surge of the waves. Submerge with us and visit a fascinating undersea domain, playground to more than 60 species of colorful tropical fish. We travel all along the coastline while explaining fascinating facts about Manuel Antonio National Park and the heritage of the Quepoa Indians. Join us and witness the world’s most unforgettable sunsets, the perfect conclusion to another relaxing, and beautiful afternoon in paradise. We cruise in search of different species of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, vibrant schools of fish and many other marine creatures that inhabit these waters.
What to bring: Sun block, hat or cap, shorts, sandals, swimsuit, and camera.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m.
Driving time: 15 minutes
Rate: $75 per person
Includes:transportation, boat transfer, bilingual guide, snorkel equipment and lunch
Surf Lessons
Surfing is one of the healthiest and most natural sports. It gets you in shape, gives you a nice tan, and most of all is FUN! From kids to grandpas, pros to novices, we have you covered. Playa Espadilla has wonderful right and left breaks on its different points, “El Frente” is great for beginners with perfect breaking 2 to 5 feet waves or if you are more experienced you can try “El Bajo” and “Playitas” with up to 15 foot waves! Before you get into the water, our bilingual instructors will give you a safety talk, some theory and demonstrate the first steps of surfing and after that you are ready to try out your first waves. What to bring: Appropiate swimsuit (make sure it won’t fall-off with the waves), towel, waterproof sun protection and camera.
Departure time: departure time for this tour is subject to ocean tides 8:00 am 11:00 am 1:00 pm
Arrival time: around 4 hours after you start it
Driving time: 30 minutes
Rate: $65 per person
Includes: transportation, surf board, leash, lycra top, beverages, snacks and surf instructor
White Water Rafting – Savegre
The rivers of Costa Rica are famous for their White Water Rafting and the Savegre River is renowned in the world. This full day adventure of pure action in the world class rapids to moments of sublime relaxation will astound you with the sight of awesome canyons, waterfalls, and primary rainforest of Costa Rica. The Savegre river is born in Los Santos, one of the areas with the highest annual rainfall in the country. The rapids you will ride on are classes II-III and IV and depending on the water level of the river (pros only) you could have the chance of cruising through "El Chorro", a class V rapid and a narrow path between 2 rock walls. If you prefer lower Savegre will offer you great excitement but also time to enjoy the scenery. On the way there you will have the chance to see the picturesque Costa Rican country-side, something few tourists get to witness. Class: III - IV - V
What to bring: Rubber-soled shoes, swimsuit, shorts of a quick-drying material,hat with a brim for sun, towel, waterproof sun protection, T-shirtis optional. Bring an extra chage of dry clothes for after rafting.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 4:00 p.m.
Driving time: 60 minutes
Rate: $98 per person
Includes: river gear, soft drinks & fruits, bilingual guide & air-conditioned transportation.
White Water Rafting - Naranjo
If you are looking for more action and higher adrenaline then it is only 30 minutes away from the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area where the Naranjo River forms the natural southern border of Manuel Antonio National Park. The Naranjo River drops steeply from the coastal mountain range above Quepos through a beautiful jungle gorge, and takes you on a wild ride to sea level passing nearby farmlands and palm plantations. These are 8 miles of whitewater and famous rapids. The river banks are overgrown with jungle and the canyon walls meet the water at 90 degree angles. The whitewater, jungle, canyon, and sky make for an unforgettable day. Class: III - IV
What to bring: Rubber-soled shoes, swimsuit, shorts of a quick-drying material,hat with a brim for sun, towel, waterproof sun protection, T-shirt is optional. Bring an extra change of dry clothes for after rafting.
Departure time: 7:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m.
Driving time: 45 minutes
Rate: $79 per person
Includes: transportation, river gear, soft drinks and fruits and bilingual guide
Horseback Riding
Experience a picturesque ride through the jungles and hills to nearby waterfalls and explore exuberant natural world of tropical plants and wildlife in a non-intrusive manner. Discover the secrets of the forest, learn about medicinal and curative plants. Find tucans in our exotic primary forest. Time for a swim! Enjoy a relaxing stay at waterfalls and natural pristine pools. What to bring: Long pants, sturdy footwear (not sandals),hat/visor, swimsuit, sunscreen and camera. A change of clothes is recommended.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 1:00 p.m.
Driving time: 1 hour
Rate: $70 per person
Includes: transportation, bilingual guides, horseback riding equipment, fruit, snacks, beverages and Costa Rican Typical lunch or dinner.
Butterfly & Aquatic Gardens Nature Reserve
 We all appreciate the magnificent butterflies we see in the wild, but do you know how they hatch and how long they can live? Visit the first butterfly garden and private nature reserve tour in the Manuel Antonio area and find more than 20 species of butterflies (such as the famous Monarch butterfly and the Blue Morpho) inside a uniquely designed 1,000 square foot atrium garden. In addition to the myriad of butterflies, you will also learn about Tropical Aquatic Gardens where a variety of species of frogs and toads live; including the red-eyed tree frog or the glass tree frog and the wet forest toad, all endemic species of Costa Rica. The tour also offers the opportunity to see the reptiles exhibition.
What to bring: cool comfortable clothes and shoes, hat and sun block
Departure time: 8:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.
Arrival time: 1:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.
Driving time: 10 minutes
Rate: $27, $31 or $45 per person
Includes: air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and camera.
Damas Island Mangrove by Kayak
 This is a once in a life time opportunity to be within arms reach of the spectacular nature of the mangroves. Kayaking through this unique and protected inland waterway is truly a great adventure. You will combine adventure with education, as the Damas Island Mangroves is the perfect place to learn about one of the most important ecosystems in the world, the Mangrove Forest. Enjoy the enchanting, primordial mangrove estuary and observe fascinating wildlife such as the whiteface capuchin monkeys and a vast array of birds. Board your kayak for a relaxing enjoyable trip exploring wild jungle waterways which you cannot normally reach. You will paddle in a sit-on-top kayak, under the shade of the tall mangroves, but if you prefer you can travel by motor boat instead of a kayak.
What to bring: Cool comfortable clothes and shoes, sun block, insect repellent, hat,binoculars and camera.
Departure time: Depending ontides schedule
Arrival time: Around 4 1/2 hours after you start it
Length of tour: half day
Driving time: 30 minutes
Includes: transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and tropical fruit buffet.
Rate: $75 per person
Canopy Tour  Sail high above the rainforest canopy and experience the jungle from its richest perspective. Drive for approximately one hour to the ranch house, snugly set beside a freshwater stream at the base of a mountain, where you’ll be served a delicious typical breakfast or lunch (depending on tour time). You will be led through magical trails that gently wind through the forest, where you can see poison dart frogs, toucans, squirrel monkeys and more tropical plants than you can believe! Then you will have the adventure of your life, flying from platform to platform at the very top of the rainforest canopy. Featuring: 21 Platforms, 9 zip lines, 2 repel lines, one suspension bridge, and one “Tarzan Swing”.
What to bring: Long pants, sun block. comfortableshoes or tennis shoes, camera, insect repellent, breakfast or lunch.
Departure time: 6:50 a.m. or 9:50 a.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.
Driving time:1 hour each way.
Rate: $75 per person
Includes: breakfast or lunch, air conditioned transportation, equipment and bilingual guide.
Exploring Quepos Point
The Backyard of Arenas Del Mar
Quepos Point is over 300 acres of virtually unexplored tropical wet forest and is our neighbor to the north. Barry Biesanz is a world famous wood-crafter that owns a 150 acre farm on the point. This farm is dedicated to conservation and in association with the Biesanz family, Arenas Del Mar is offering a private walk in this pristine and fascinating preserve. On this hike you will encounter among many rain forest inhabitants, howler monkeys, three-toed sloth, coatimundis and many reptiles and tropical exotic birds. You will experience some of the most stunning views of Cathedral Point and the most stunning views of the National Park's Cathedral Point and a view of the Quepos shore with its dock and mangrove areas. This challenging hike will leave you with memories of one of the Pacific coast's most untamed jungles. What to bring: Bottle of water, hiking boots or tennis shoes, camera, binoculars, light clothing.
Departure time: upon request
Arrival time: 2 or 3 hours
Rate: $40 per person
Includes: Lunch
Hike to Biesanz Beach
This beach is one of the best-kept-secrets of the area. Only those in the know will enjoy its quiet waters and coral reefs. Like Manuel Antonio Beach, (inside the park) this is the only other cove in the area where the crystal clear waters lap at the shore making it perfect for snorkeling. You start hiking with our guide through the forest on the backside of the hotel for about 1 hour until you get to the beach.
There are lots of chances of finding wild life on the way. When you arrive at this beautiful beach you will decide how long you would like to enjoy your privacy and our guide will pick you up later to hike back through the forest. Biesanz beach is perfect for relaxing and swimming and if you wish to snorkel the equipment is available for you to rent right there. This is a tour for those who love beautiful beaches and deep forest trails, kids specially love it.
What to bring: Hiking shoes, snorkeling gear, sun block, camera, bathing suit.
Departure time: upon request
Arrival time: 1:45 min. hike
Rate: $30 per person
Includes: Lunch
Sustainability Tour
Curious to learn about how a resort can combine top-notch service with the highest levels of sustainability? Go behind the scenes to find out how Arenas Del Mar has incorporated elements of environmental stewardship and social responsibility into its day-to-day operations, allowing guests who stay with us to truly leave a positive impact in Manuel Antonio. From biodegradable cleaning products to earthworm powered composting, this tour is truly fascinating and inspiring for all guests interested in conservation, sustainable development, ecotourism and green living.
What to bring:
Departure time:
Arrival time:
Rate: Free of Charge
Includes:
Spices, Gardens & Flavors Tour
 Villa Vanilla is located 10 miles east in the foothills overlooking Manuel Antonio National Park. The farm consists of 27 acres in tropical agriculture production surrounded by 125 acres of primary and secondary rainforest. This farm is certified organic/biodynamic by Demeter USA.
This tour offers you the opportunity to experience the sights, tastes and aromas of tropical spices, essential oil plants, sustainable farming practices, spice drying and packaging. Crops include vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, black pepper, allspice plus a variety of exotic fruits, essential oil and medicinal plants.
Tour begins in the post harvest/warehouse where you will observe spice drying, processing and packaging. Then you will enter the plantation by way of our unique “Epiphyte Trail”, (Orchids, Bromeliads & Tilandsias) where you will smell and taste aromatic spices and herbs. Then we continue past our pasture and fish pond on to savor vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate treats and mountain vistas.
What to bring: Comfortable clothes, tennis or hiking shoes,sun block, insect repellent, cash for shopping vanilla beans and extracts (they don’t take credit cards).
Departure time: 8:30 am 12:30 pm
Arrival time: 12:00 pm 4:00 pm
Rate: $49 per person
Includes:
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