Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort 4.0

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Arenas del Mar is proof that staying at an eco-resort doesn't mean roughing it: Its 38 contemporary rooms are among the nicest in Manuel Antonio, its restaurant is excellent, and its public spaces embody rustic luxury. The property's lush rainforest, two beautiful white-sand beaches on site — a rarity in the area — and diverse wildlife allow guests to truly connect with the nature that the resort's design so painstakingly preserved.

Costa Rica's Best Hotel Beaches(2 of 10)

 Arenas del Mar is proof that staying at an eco-resort doesn't mean roughing it: Its 38 contemporary rooms are among the nicest in Manuel Antonio, its restaurant is excellent, and its public spaces embody rustic luxury. The property's lush rainforest, two beautiful white-sand beaches on site — a rarity in the area — and diverse wildlife allow guests to truly connect with the nature that the resort's design so painstakingly preserved.
Beaches in this small South American country tend to vary from long stretches of sandy, white beaches to more rocky spots bordering the nation's lush forest and jungle habitats. Either way, you're guaranteed a picturesque bathing experience. Just be sure to look out for the occasional Capuchin or iguana -- they need to work on their tan, too! Easily among the most luxurious resorts in Central America, The Four Seasons is as close to perfection as it gets. With two beautiful beaches, ocean views from each one of the sumptuous rooms — decorated in materials including wood, bamboo, and stone -- and an 18-hole golf course, the resort makes it possible for guests to spend their whole vacation on-site. Arenas del Mar is proof that staying at an eco-resort doesn't mean roughing it: Its 38 contemporary rooms are among the nicest in Manuel Antonio, its restaurant is excellent, and its public spaces embody rustic luxury. The property's lush rainforest, two beautiful white-sand beaches on site — a rarity in the area — and diverse wildlife allow guests to truly connect with the nature that the resort's design so painstakingly preserved. The JW Marriott is one of the top luxury properties in Guanacaste, with beautiful, hacienda-style architecture (think: lots of wood and stone, romantic white hammocks, wrought iron light fixtures and indigenous art). The stunning free-form pool is the largest in Central America, and the tranquil spa is world-class. Mansita Beach, on-site, is lovely, featuring white sands, gentle waves, and lime green loungers. Los Altos' condos — all 2,300-square-foot, three-bedroom luxury units — are probably the most luxurious accommodations in Manuel Antonio. The beach is gorgeous, but the rocky sands require guests to wear shoes while sunning. Reserva Conchal is not so much a hotel, but rather a series of four individual condo villages, each with several buildings clustered around a communal pool. Drive several minutes to the guests-only Beach Club — where white sand beaches and crystal blue waters await — and it feels more like a resort, with a great-looking pool that has two bars, an open-air restaurant, and a lovely spa and fitness center. Nearby is the property's 9-hole golf course. Lapa Rios, located in the remote coastal rainforests of the Osa Peninsula, is Costa Rica's original luxury eco lodge. This is the opposite of a Cancun-style beach resort — guests come to the upscale Lapa Rios to enjoy the spectacular surroundings, learn about sustainable tourism, and re-connect with nature. The beach, though located ten minutes away, borders the rain forest and allows for some truly peaceful relaxation time. The 701-room Riu Guanacaste is a lot like a Riu anywhere, with a good beach, a huge, raucous pool, an energetic entertainment staff, and a party-hearty, booze-fueled atmosphere. The quality beach also features protected turtle nests. The 202-room Hilton Papagayo is an excellent upscale all-inclusive option in Guanacaste, with a nice beach and comfortable (if generic) rooms. It's quieter and classier than your typical all-inclusive, with brand-name liquor, no annoying bracelets, solid (if not exceptional) food, and live music or karaoke rather than embarrassing staff performances. The beach features watersports and a volleyball net. This ultra-remote, rustic luxe hideaway is worth the bumpy, two-and-a-half hour drive from Liberia Airport. The rooms aren't as impressive as those at larger luxury resorts in the region, but the unparalleled views, stunning infinity pool, and ruggedly beautiful (if rocky) beach more than compensate. There's a lot to like about Buena Vista Luxury villas: The beautiful, sprawling 33-acre grounds, a great on-site beach and beach bar, and big rooms. The on-site Tulemar Beach is beautiful, but can be littered with small rocks. Beach attendants will help set up your lounge chair and umbrella, serve food and beverages, rent free kayaks, boogie boards, and life vests, and request the hotel van to come pick you up when you're ready to go
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