The mix of clients was mostly older couples, some singles, and some smaller families and even though the hotel was near capacity we, we did not see many teenagers and only a few children who came in with Disney Adventures. However, if Disney Adventures is a clue, this hotel is a good value for families, singles, and couples.

This best thing about Hotel Arenal Manoa is the accommodations, they are individual buildings that are completely surrounded by flora and fauna.  The rooms are immaculate, spacious and absolutely gorgeous with incredible sliding doors that open to spectacular views of the rainforest.  You can sit on your outdoor deck on the rocking chairs and enjoy a morning coffee and admire the volcano.

The grounds are lush and tropical and give incredible privacy for each building – some “habitaciones” room buildings house just one apartment and some house two.  We had a “double” – one room with bathroom and kitchenette area and private deck for the kids and we opened up our doors and had adjoining “apartments”.  We felt very at home in our own little house away from all the others, most of the units have a second side to it so it’s ideal for family together as you can open up the rooms to make one double room apartment.

The hotel has a hot spring pool and tub and a cold pool and hot tub, a spa and is surrounded by lush gardens.  The staff is amazing. The hotel is spread out over many acres and is very walkable but they offer a free shuttle to the pools, spa, rooms, restaurant and reception.

Hotel Arenal Manoa money saving tips

The cold pool has happy hour 2 for 1 drinks from 4-5.  They have fantastic pizza.   The thermal pool has happy hour from 5-6 and people migrate and mix from one pool to another.  It’s a very social atmosphere with people from around the world.

Should you tip while at the hotel?

Tips are included in the meals (10%) but this does not mean the staff gets 10% on top of their minimum wage, rather this means that the service charge goes to pay the minimum wage of the staff.  Tipping is not expected but is greatly appreciated.  Therefore, we tipped extra for services from wait staff, bartenders, to drivers etc..