Playa Venao’s

International Schools

Playa Venao has become an increasingly popular destination for expat families seeking a unique and enriching lifestyle. Its laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere, combined with a stunning natural environment, offers an ideal setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The area is known for its world-class surfing, beautiful beaches, and a wide array of outdoor activities, all of which contribute to a healthy and active way of life.

For parents considering a move, the presence of two international schools located in the area of Playa Venao provides a crucial advantage, ensuring a smooth transition and the availability of a quality education for their children.

Playa Venao is home to two unique educational institutions that embrace a holistic approach to learning: The Creating Center and Manglares School. Both offer a break from traditional classrooms, while they each have a distinct approach to their curriculum.

The Creating Center Playa Venao

Located in the hills behind Playa Venao, The Creating Center is an international school that combines a U.S.-based curriculum with a focus on creativity and innovation. The school’s methodology emphasizes flexible learning environments, individualized paths, and hands-on enrichment activities. Students receive an internationally accredited education that prepares them for universities worldwide, while also participating in a variety of extracurricular activities. The curriculum is led by qualified teachers and is accredited by Cognia and the College Board, ensuring a rigorous academic foundation.

Manglares School

Just minutes from Playa Venao and within walking distance of a warm, tight-knit residential project, Manglares Discovery School offers one of the region’s most distinctive educational experiences. Tucked at the entrance of a lush forest, with a waterfall and creek running through campus, Manglares is an internationally (WASC) accredited PK–8 private school that blends academic excellence with hands-on, place-based learning. A top choice for relocating families seeking an international-caliber education in a close-knit, environmentally rich community, Manglares follows the CGC framework—developed by Kevin Bartlett, founder of the IB Primary Years Programme—which emphasizes deep understanding, transferable skills, and real-world application.Students engage in interdisciplinary projects rooted in their surroundings, from mapping biodiversity to building sustainability exhibits. Manglares nurtures the whole child—intellectually, socially, and emotionally—through a child-led approach that values curiosity, compassion, and voice. The forest is a classroom, the community is a collaborator, and learning is a lifelong expedition.

After-School Activities

Outside of school, the kids growing up in Playa Venao stay busy enjoying the wide variety of activities that are available, all of which contribute to a healthy and active way of life. The many options at hand include surfing, futbol, Brazilian jiu jitsu, gymnastics, horseback riding, balet, chess club, footvolley and more.
 
Playa Venao’s 2 international schools are a great advantage for expat families – as well as the many other benefits and conveniences it offers. The tight-knit local community, healthy active lifestyle, and stunning natural environment make Playa Venao a great option for families looking for a safe, welcoming and unique community to live.