Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• The hotel has some of the best views in the area, with the property (and each guest suite) featuring vistas of Arenal Volcano.
• You don't have to leave the grounds to enjoy a Costa Rican hot springs experience, as you'll find an entire complex with several pools, typically only open to hotel guests.
• The property offers accessibility ramps at its central swimming pool and one of the hot springs pools.
• Rooms come in duplex cottages sharing only one wall with another unit, which means a quieter and more private experience.
• The on-site eateries are very good—choose from a bistro with wood-fried pizza, light eats by the pool, or an open-air restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cons

• Because the property is vast, it takes time to get around it on foot (a shuttle service is available).
• Thin walls mean you can sometimes hear neighbors if the adjacent room is occupied.
• You'll need a taxi or rental car to get around the area; it takes about 10 minutes to get to downtown La Fortuna (and longer for other sites). 

Additional Notes From Brittany

Arenal Manoa reminds me of the popular Arenal Springs Resort in terms of layout, views, and services. So, if you're looking for a more affordable option, this could be it! I enjoyed lunch at the property's main restaurant, which was a memorable experience. The food was delicious (try the tres leches cake), and the views were unbeatable. As I waited for my meal, I looked over the hotel's pond, watched for wildlife, and enjoyed the vistas of Arenal Volcano. 

Authenticity

Arenal Manoa was founded by five siblings, and the property's name was inspired by the family's traditional cattle brand. There's still a connection to cattle here (the neighboring Finca Manoa is a working dairy farm that provides the hotel restaurants with fresh milk and butter) but now the sprawling 27 acres (11 ha) grounds are given over to beautiful tropical gardens, a pond, several hot springs pools, and cabins connected by pathways. 

Location

The hotel offers a decent location in Palma, just northwest of La Fortuna. Surrounded by trees and jungle greenery, the property feels remote despite being just a 10-minute drive from downtown La Fortuna and 20 minutes to the national park. Though there's plenty to enjoy at the hotel, you'll need to hire a transfer or rent a car to reach the area's major attractions or go offsite for a meal.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The suites at Arenal Manoa are all set in duplex cabins spread throughout the property. Thanks to dense greenery, you'll only share one wall with your neighbor and have plenty of privacy on your own terrace. Units are clean, modern, and bright, all offering air-conditioning, minifridges, and spacious bathrooms. Opt for one of the premium suites if you'd like a Jacuzzi tub in your bathroom or a king bed.

Amenities

The biggest highlight at Arenal Manoa is the hot springs complex, with changing rooms, towels, a poolside eatery, and temperatures ranging from 93°F to 100°F. A "spa by the riverside" offers relaxing treatments in private open-air bungalows. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like self-guided nature walks around the property. The hot springs and pool are outfitted with ramps, and navigating the property via a golf cart and shuttle is possible. Some guest rooms are wheelchair accessible.

Family-Friendliness

Arenal Manoa welcomes children of all ages. Children three and younger stay for free, while a reduced rate applies for children between four and 12; kids ages 13 and up are charged as adults. The best room option for families is the Superior Suite, with a small, separate living room and two queen beds. The hotel offers a smaller pool ideal for kids, dedicated children's menus, and a working dairy farm—families will enjoy its cow-milking experience.

Wildlife

At Arenal Manoa, travelers will spot birds from their terraces and the surrounding nature trails, including hummingbirds and curassows. It's also possible to spot howler monkeys and sloths; a nearby lake is home to caimans.

Sustainability

The hotel is a member of the Costa Rica Tourism Board's rigorous Sustainable Tourism Program, which requires an annual evaluation of elements like waste reduction and water and energy use. Arenal Manoa also established its own set of sustainability policies, which include contributing to the country's preservation of flora and fauna and supporting local businesses, among many others.

Other Highlights

There are several restaurants at Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs, so travelers don't have to drive into downtown La Fortuna. Breakfast is buffet-style and consistently gets rave reviews. The relaxed, open-air La Saca Restaurant has an all-day menu and an extensive wine list. Alambique Bistro serves sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas on a terrace with views of the Arenal volcano. Güipipia, the swim-up bar at the hot springs, offers snacks, cocktails, and international beers, with discounts during happy hour. Ohashi is the adjacent sushi bar (only open at night). Uyuyui, a bar located at the pool, specializes in tropical drinks.