For a home base while spending time in Arenal, I can think of no better place than the Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort! It is located about 15 minutes outside of La Fortuna and secluded on a (secured) back road in the middle of the rainforest. The entire property was stunning and it was tempting not to spend all day here! It really was a really luxurious stay. Here is my experience staying at the Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort in Costa Rica!
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Arrival & Check-In
After a short drive down a dirt road, our first impressions of the Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort definitely exceeded our expectations! The check-in process was a breeze and the desk staff gave us all the info we need to know. A map to drive to our villa, a parking pass, details about the several restaurants on property, the pool, and of course- the hot springs! There is free wifi throughout the whole property, which worked very well. We had absolutely no issue connecting to all of our social media apps or even streaming YouTube videos on the room’s TV. After only a few minutes at check-in, we were on our way to our villa and to explore the property!
The Villas
A quick drive from reception (and a quick security checkpoint), we arrived at our villa: number 229. All of the rooms at the Arenal Manoa Hot Springs Resort are villa style, and it’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for luxury and privacy. We had our own entrance, parking space, and backyard. The back patio was the perfect place to sit in a rocking chair and enjoy the lush foliage. Each morning, we would wake up to the sounds of birds, frogs, and other wildlife. It was the perfect way to start each day! Once the sun began to set, the no-see-ums were in full force, so don’t forget the bug spray!
Inside the room, we had everything you could need for either a short or long stay. There was a small kitchenette complete with a mini fridge and microwave. They even provided bottled water for drinking, which was much appreciated! The bathroom was enormous and boasted a skylight and even live plants! Our villa had two queen beds which were comfortable, and they also provided robes and slippers. The AC was strong, and we even had to ask for extra blankets for the nights!
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Pool & Bar
The pool is centrally located and was the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The pool is large, and has a gradual slope for walking in. I always prefer this kind of pool entry to the typical large steps as it makes getting used to the water easier, but you didn’t need that here! The water was very warm, while also being refreshing. There were two infinity ledges that looked over a casual pool-side restaurant that served typical casual food and wood-fired pizzas (the oven was out in the open to watch them prepare and cook them!).
The bar was located right in the center of the pool and you could order a variety of specialty or classic cocktails, beer, or wine. There is no better way to end the night than to sip on a strawberry daiquiri while swimming in a pool in the middle of the jungle!
Hot Springs
After busy days exploring Costa Rica’s Arenal region, it’s time to soothe those aching legs and relax! Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort has 8 hot springs right on property that are a short walk from the central pool and restaurant area. They range in sizes so you can choose to settle into a small one and enjoy some solitude, or make some friends in larger springs. All of the hot springs range in temperature from 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re beautifully manicured and lined with large, smooth stones that make for an authentic experience. All of the hot springs are heated by the (now dormant) Arenal Volcano and contain sulphate and magnesium that provide countless health benefits.
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La Saca Restaurant
La Saca is the main restaurant on property and offers a complimentary breakfast buffet as well as seated dinner service. It is an open-air restaurant that boasts straight-on views of Arenal and is surrounded by lush vegetation. The spread at breakfast included everything from local dishes, to items more familiar to their US visitors. Fresh squeezed juices, build-your-own omelette station, fresh breads and fruits and more all await. It’s the perfect fuel for a long day ahead!
For dinner, the menu consists of a blend of local and international dishes and there is something for everyone. I opted for the ribeye, which was delicious. We of course had to split a couple of desserts, which were eccentric and tasty! Even though it was dark and we couldn’t see Arenal, the clear skies were lit up by stars and it really was the perfect way to end a day.
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