Community & Education
Community & Education
At Arenas Del Mar, we believe the concept of “local” is the key to sustainable hospitality. That’s why we hire local and buy local. Learn how we support our community in Manuel Antonio.
Local Staff
Meet the Arenas Del Mar family and connect with our local community
We prioritize the hiring of Costa Rican staff predominantly from the local area. In many cases, their educational level and skills are limited when they start with us, and we invest heavily in their training and professional development.
Many hotels in Manuel Antonio lay off a high percentage of their staff during low season. We don’t do this. We provide ours with year round employment and plenty of opportunities for growth.
Local Products
From the food on your plate to the products in your room, local is always close at hand.
At Arenas Del Mar, we choose products that are grown, crafted, and created as close to home as possible. Choosing local helps reduce our carbon footprint while supporting the farmers, artisans, and producers who make Manuel Antonio so special.
Our minibars are stocked with local drinks and snacks, and the coffee served throughout the resort comes from Pittier Coffee, a local producer led by former Arenas Del Mar waiter César Delgado. Certified by the Rainforest Alliance, Pittier Coffee reflects a commitment to responsible farming and environmental stewardship.
You’ll also enjoy 100% Costa Rican spa products and bathroom amenities, while our gift shop features handcrafted jewelry, woodwork, purses, and other creations by local artisans.
Local Community Support
Our sense of community extends beyond the Arenas Del Mar family.
We believe thriving communities are essential to a healthy destination. That’s why we support initiatives that protect the natural environment, celebrate local culture, create opportunities through education, and encourage responsible tourism across the Manuel Antonio region.
Sustainability is about more than protecting nature. It’s about investing in people, preserving traditions, supporting responsible tourism, and helping build a stronger future for our community.
Supporting Local Schools
Your generosity helps create brighter learning environments for local students.
Together with our guests, we partner with local schools across the Manuel Antonio region to improve learning spaces and inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on education and community projects.
Our support includes donations of construction materials, paint, printers, books for school libraries, and other essential resources. We also organize environmental education programs and reforestation activities that give students the opportunity to learn by doing.
Many of these initiatives are made possible through the generous support of our guests.
Travel Locally,
Travel Responsibly
“Arenas Del Mar has everything you could possibly want in a luxurious vacation. Most of all, by booking a vacation here, you know you’re traveling sustainably and responsibly. The resort hires local people, serves fresh and local food, is committed to conserving the environment, and supports the local community.”
– Kelsey, California