I wouldn't go to a birding lodge for that long with a 2-year old. I think he would probably be bored, and I think you have to be fairly quiet if other people are trying to go birding. I would definitely go to Manuel Antonio; that's really popular with young families because of the nice beach inside the park and the easy access to wildlife. Monteverde is kind of a pain to get to, so I'd pass on it with a child that young. We love the Arenal area, but it's a lot of hiking and adventure activities, so you'd have to find things you could do with your son - he would probably love the Proyecto Asis animal rescue center and the natural hot springs. The waterfall hike is great if you could carry him, but it's a lot of steps. The Hanging Bridges is also very pretty.

Thanks Volcanogirl. Will plan on adding MA to the trip.

Any thoughts on the Liberia area ?

Is it worth the trip there ? Seems far from San Jose area.

You could fly into Liberia, and then it's 20 minutes to stay at beautiful beaches.
Lots of wildlife in the Guanacaste region (and national parks), plus volcano day trips.

I would have to agree with volcanogirl.

As much as I love Monteverde (I own a home there), I think that there really isn't that much for a two year old. True, there is the Rainaro (Frog zoo), and Serpantarium (reptile zoo). But I don't think hiking in the woods will be all that interesting for such a little kid.

I would look at a combo of Arenal and Manuel Antonio. I don't know your budget, but there are a couple things to look at in both regions.

If you have the budget, Tulemar / Buena Vista Luxury Villas has a great beach for a little one. Any guide book will tell you to watch out for the currents in this area. This property has a private beach in a protected cove, and is a great place to take a little one. The surf is more gentle, and I have seen kids fascinated for hours by all the little hermit crabs on the beach.

The Hotel San Bada has a great kiddie pool area with little water falls going into a pool about a foot deep. It is very close to the entrance of the National Park too.

The Springs Resort and Spa in Arenal is an amazing hotel, and beautiful hot springs. But the rooms are pretty expensive. If this isn't in your budget, you can still buy two day passes. The springs are fun, and you can bring your child to the wildlife rescue. Lots of big cats!

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer more advice.

Warm Regards,

Pat Hewitt
Travel Professional

travel, we haven't been to Liberia so can't help you with that, but I do think Arenal and Manuel Antonio is a nice combo.