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Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica: Discover Arenas del Mar Resort

Manuel Antonio beach

Costa Rica is famous for its lush jungles, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. The local phrase “Pura vida,” often translated as “the good life,” captures the relaxed, joyful spirit found across the country. My stay at Arenas Del Mar Beach Front Resort in Manuel Antonio offered a clear and immediate understanding of that expression.

arenas del mar(The view from the balcony)

Surrounded by tropical greenery and spectacular ocean views, the resort blends natural beauty with thoughtful, sustainable hospitality. From the balcony I watched waves roll onto the shore while sloths and iguanas lounged in nearby trees. The gentle rhythm of the surf was the perfect soundtrack to unwind after a day of exploring—no guided meditation required.

Service at Arenas Del Mar was attentive without being intrusive. Staff were friendly and helpful, creating an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and personal. I was also pleased to find a range of dietary options at the restaurants, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. The kitchen sources most produce locally and emphasizes sustainable ingredients, which added to the overall sense of care and responsibility.

Highlights from the menu included vibrant, fresh dishes made with local produce: flavorful quesadillas, well-seasoned tofu skewers, and a memorable appetizer of zucchini rolls filled with sweet potato and avocado. These culinary choices reflect the resort’s commitment to sustainable, delicious food that complements the natural setting.

arenas del mar(Arenas Del Mar)

Manuel Antonio itself is an ideal destination for relaxed beach days and easy jungle treks. Manuel Antonio National Park is nearby and offers excellent wildlife viewing; be aware that playful monkeys are known to snatch food if you leave your picnic unattended. The park’s well-maintained trails provide opportunities to see birds, reptiles, and other native species in a lush tropical setting.

sloth(A sloth hanging in the treetops)

If you want to experience the essence of Pura Vida, a visit to Manuel Antonio and a stay at Arenas Del Mar make an excellent combination. The resort’s location beside both rainforest and ocean creates a rare opportunity to enjoy wellness, nature, and relaxation in one place.

For travelers looking to combine vacation with a wellness focus, Arenas Del Mar has hosted curated retreats. One example is the Pura Vida Luxury Wellness Retreat, led by Michele Shorter of The Shorter Approach in partnership with GreenSpot.Travel. This week-long program (originally offered Oct. 8 to 15, 2016) blends fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching with local cultural and outdoor activities designed to leave participants refreshed and better equipped to maintain healthy habits at home.

During the retreat, participants follow a structured, balanced agenda that emphasizes practical, sustainable changes. The program includes goal-setting sessions, cardio and strength training, nutrition planning, and opportunities to learn skills that support long-term wellbeing. Activities are designed for a range of fitness levels so everyone can participate and benefit.
Retreat experiences typically combine time at two properties: a coffee plantation resort in the Central Valley and the beachfront rainforest setting near Manuel Antonio National Park. This mix allows guests to experience Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes while participating in wellness-focused activities.
As Michele Shorter explains, taking time to focus on self-care, movement, and mindful eating helps people return home with tools and habits they can maintain. The retreat’s aim is to create achievable, long-lasting plans that integrate healthy practices into daily life, no matter where participants live.

Pura Vida Luxury Wellness Retreat

The retreat offers a balanced program that matches movement and education with cultural and natural exploration. Sessions are designed to energize, strengthen, and improve flexibility, while structured guidance supports personal goal setting and nutrition choices.

A selection of wellness retreat activities includes:

  • Fitness sessions with goal-setting guidance

  • Personalized nutrition planning and recommendations

  • Cardio and strength training classes

  • Sunset yoga sessions overlooking the ocean

  • Salsa lessons and cultural dance experiences

  • Volcano hikes and scenic wildlife viewing

  • Guided hikes in Manuel Antonio National Park

  • Tours of organic coffee plantations

  • Hands-on cooking demonstrations using local ingredients

  • Opportunities for guided wildlife observation

Arenas del mar(Beachfront at Arenas Del Mar)