ashley_zanchetta2

My husband and I will be travelling to Costa Rica during the first 2 weeks of April for 14 nights. We're 29 years old, foodies, like to relax on the beach but not too much relaxing, I don't necessarily enjoy hiking but I will do it, we want to go zip lining, see some animals and we're well travelled. We also don't like to spend a lot of the day lazing away so I don't want to be secluded with out anything to occupy us. We usually try to keep away from the tourists but will go somewhere tourist if it's worth it. We tried surfing in Bali but we're still beginners. We want to go to Arenal for 3 nights, Monteverde and probably Tamarindo for 3/4 nights. I am wondering if we should head over to Manuel Antonio or stay around the area and go to Santa Maria/Mal Pais. We plan to rent a 4x4. What are good beaches for swimming ?What are your thoughts?

Austin_Molly

I've been planning a trip to Costa Rica in February, and I've been doing a lot of research to prepare.

Costa Rica isn't really a top destination for foodies, but Tamarindo does have some nice, upscale options. I think this list is probably a good place to start:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restauran...uanacaste.html

Tamarindo is nice because it has a lot of tourist infrastructure, but on the flipside it's also one of the most touristy places in Costa Rica. It's definitely a good place to find surfing lessons!

Tamarindo, Mal Pais, and Manuel Antonio are all pretty far apart! If you want to go to go hiking while you're in Tamarindo, look into visiting Santa Rosa National Park. This park has lots of tropical forest in addition to nice beaches. There's more info about hikes you can take in Santa Rosa here: http://www.anywherecostarica.com/att...ark/santa-rosa

Based on what I've read, Tortuga Island has some of the best swimming in the Nicoya Peninsula. You can arrange to take a boat there from Tamarindo.

Happy travels!

MichelleY

I am thinking to skip Manuel Antonio. Too far out of the way unless you fly home from San Jose.

ashley_zanchetta2

We are flying in and out into SJ. Thanks for the advice!

gemel1859

We went to Manual Antonia for 4 days as part of a two week trip.. We would not go again. Too many tourists, blazing hot and mostly a jungle ( the park ) . Beaches were pretty but very crowded. Plus, we had to fly back to San Jose to avoid a four hour road trip.. Whatever you do, relax and enjoy your trip. Everything moves at a very slow pace ( which is good ) , so be patient ..It is the most beautiful country and most friendly people we have ever seen. !! Enjoy !!