Costa Ricans are more ecologically aware than most of the world. For years the government and its people have succeeded in keeping Costa Rica environmentally pristine, slowing development and sustaining natural habitats. Mareas follows this rich tradition and is committed to ecological consciousness and providing a healthy environment for your stay.

Olive Ridley and Hawksbill Turtles can be seen laying their eggs on night visits to the beach between May and November. The largest numbers arrive on the waning moon, usually in September.

Costa Rica is passionate about nature and adventure, comprising only 0.01 percent of the earth’s landmass yet it is home to five percent of the planet’s animal and plant species. There are more species of plants and animals per acre in Costa Rica than anywhere else in the world. Biodiversity is evident everywhere: 10,000 species of plants, 850 species of birds, 800 species of butterflies, 500 species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Going for the Green - Green Practices at Mareas:

• Organic and locally grown foods are served which reduces packaging and improved the quality of our meals. In fact, many foods are grown on site.
• Recycle programs; from composting to sorting we reuse material whenever possible.
• Native species of plants were used for landscaping instead of imported ornamentals.
• Landscaping is watered from stream fed sources
• Biodegradable products are used for laundry and cleaning supplies.
• Our water conservation program gives our guests options for frequency of sheet and towel changes
• We support “green” vendors whenever possible.

You don’t have to travel far within the country to experience a different and unique ecosystem:

• Mountains over 12,000 feet; active volcanoes, cloud and rain forests, waterfalls and tropical jungles
• Banana, sugar, pineapple, coffee, cacao and papaya plantations
• Mangrove forest, coastal swamps, and beaches
• Marine environments that support a variety of waterfowl, fish and crustaceans

Approximately 30 percent of Costa Rica is protected as national parks, biological and archeological reserves, and wildlife refuges.