We are making our 3rd trip to CR in June. This time we are returning to Arenal and seeing MA for the first time. Tell me about hotels at MA you would recommend. I like to stay around $100 a night if possible.

Hi cherbear,

Lots of people like Costa Verde which should be around your price range (maybe just a tad higher). CV frequently gets high marks for the gorgeous views from it's studio plus rooms. I've seen a few mixed reviews of the front desk staff, but in general the hotel seems to be a very good value for the money.

We stayed at Hotel California when we visited in 2006 and were quite happy with that choice. Their rates would also be in your range. The hotel sits quietly back off the noisy main road a ways and several of their deluxe rooms have ocean views (although this hotel doesn't have the views of MA park like CV does...). We enjoyed our stay there. We found the staff to be friendly and the rooms were clean and comfortable.

Hope you have a terrific trip!

We stayed at Mango Moon and liked it; it's more of a B&B/Small Inn. Our first room was okay, but we got upgraded for free to a fabulous room and loved it, so happiness there may depend upon the room you get. A lot of the rooms share a patio or balcony.

I've stayed at Costa Verde twice and really enjoyed it, definitely get the Studio Plus room, absolutely stunning views.

In Arenal, look into Arenal Paraiso or Silencio del Campo.

I second Tully on El Silencio del Campo. In your price range and really lovely bungalows and great staff and grounds. There is also a hot spring (free) on-site, but it's also close to Eco-Thermales hot springs. My first trip to MA is this month, and La Posada Bungalows was my first choice, but it depends on if you want to be close to the beach or up on the hill with great views. After my trip, I might decide up on the hill is better...most people seem to prefer it. Costa Verde gets consistently great reviews.

I think they should write beach "level" for the beach hotels as they are not "on" the beach.....even La Posada Jungle. In all actuality, Natures Beachfront, Arboleda & the older part of Karahes are the only hotels on the beach per say. La Posada Jungle is nested next to the park but on a "side road" opposite the beach. You will need to walk to get to the beach, not far, nor a strenuous hike, but just so you are aware. Cute spot.

you can see where it is on the map section of www.maqbeach.com

bellaboo -- Notice I did say "close" to beach. Actually, it wasn't just the beach that drew me to La Posada either, it was the friendly atmosphere that seems to be present and also I usually lean towards the smaller places. Oh, and proximity to the park is a nice draw too.

Dear cherbear:

We stayed this last Nov. at Costa Verde. Our first night was at Costa Verde II in the penthouse. I wish we could have stayed there the whole time. The other 3 nights were in a Studio Plus room at Costa Verde. We chose this in order to have A/C, but we never used it.

I would stay at CV again, but definitly in a studio plus.

MY

I really like Posada, it's a sweet, intimate little spot and I've recommended it in the past....it's along the same line as Mango Moon.

Wanted to be sure people knew you don't open the door with foot in sand, lol!

But it IS close indeed....

Faithie