homeaway

We are heading to Costa Rica at the end of February with our two boys who will be 4 and 7 years old at the time of our travels. We are planning on spending the first and last night of the trip in San Jose to reduce any airport stress. Any suggestions on accommodations? We have the first leg of our trip booked (staying in a tree house in the rainforest in Santa Clara) close enough to take advantage of the Arenal area. Would love some advice for the 2nd leg, which we would like to spend at the beach (5 nights). Suggestions as to which beach region and accommodations with children? Gracias!

homeaway

since we're traveling in the high season we are hearing we might want to stay away from Manuel Antonio. In terms of lodging we are seeking something authentic (not as interested in the all inclusive large hotel experience) but do hope to have access to restaurants nearby. Thanks!

volcanogirl

Manuel Antonio is perfect for young families. We loved staying at Tulemar Bungalows - they have their own beautiful beach, and the villas have kitchens which would make it convenient for a family. They'll deliver groceries to you. There are also several very good restaurants that you can walk to nearby. They have a lot of wildlife right on site. We saw monkeys every day and also sloths and some cool birds like an aracari. There's tons to do in that area. I wouldn't consider February a busy season, maybe Easter or Christmas. For your time in San Jose, there's a really nice colonial style Marriott that has a great pool area and very good restaurants, and it's pretty close to the airport. We stayed there on points and ended up really enjoying it. Both of these spots have great service.

homeaway

Thanks volcanogirl. I've only spent time in Monteverde as a volunteer where transportation was 100% arranged for me. Now that I'll be in the driver's seat, I need to do more research. I haven't found the right spot in Manuel Antonio yet, a lot is booked already or really expensive. Any thoughts on an alternative beach to head to after our time in Santa Clara that is feasible to drive to? Appreciate your response.

volcanogirl

home, MA is where we go, but other popular spots are Puerto Viejo on the Carib. side or Samara on the Pacific side if you want to explore those. Also the Flamingo Beach area is popular with families. Montezuma is another popular beach area. MA is popular because it's so easy with a lot of infrastructure, and the roads are in good shape.

homeaway

Thanks volcanogirl! Appreciate the help. We have fortunately found we are looking for through Airbnb in between MA and Quepos. Lodging away from it all but close enough to access what MA has to offer with ease. We live in Minneapolis so getting away in February is going to be a dream come true Thanks again for your help!

volcanogirl

That's great - make sure you check on security. Friends of ours booked a place, and it turned out to be in a rough area; it was broken into while they were there. I don't think that's common, but definitely check out reviews, etc. You've probably already done all that. MA tends to be where tourists stay and Quepos is more industrial. CR will be like heaven in February for you! Manuel Antonio Expeditions is a good tour company if you want to do any guided tours of the park, the Damas mangrove tour, etc. The beach inside the park is really pretty and has lots of monkeys. Cafe Agua Azul and Barba Roja have good food and views.