eabrooks715

Hi everyone,

My fiance and I have started planning our honeymoon for May 2018. We initially were thinking St. Lucia but now think it may push us a bit past our budget. We really want a good mix of nature/outdoors activities and relaxation by the beach, so I am thinking Costa Rica may be a hit. We are flying out of NYC and our budget is 6k for everything (airfare, food, excursions, etc.), for hopefully 7 nights, 8 if we can swing it. I have been speaking to a wonderful travel agency (I know it's 2017 but they make it so much easier!), and are looking into a package that combines the Arenal area (Nayara hotel) and Guanacaste (Westin Playa Conchal). Has anyone been to these hotels? I know the Nayara hotel gets amazing reviews but am a little nervous about the Westin. Some of the mixed reviews I've read state that the beach is not that great (I know the beaches aren't going to have white sand/crystal water, but I would still like a decent beach!), and that resort is kind of massive- too big. Does anyone have any other suggestions for good beach resorts? I'd like it to be AI just because the first hotel won't be, so it'll be nice to have that convenience. Any suggestions for excursions in these areas or general tips? Thanks so much!!

volcanogirl

We've stayed at Nayara, and it's a really nice hotel, sort of boutique feeling. Lots of good activities in the area including ziplining, rafting, hiking at the Hanging Bridges, volcano, and the waterfall, the Cano Negro tour to see wildlife, tubing at the Springs Resort and Spa, the Proyecto Asis animal rescue center, and the natural hot springs like Tabacon and Eco Termales. Have not stayed at the Westin; we like Manuel Antonio for beach time - Tulemar Bungalows, but it's not AI.

eabrooks715

@volcanogirl Thanks so much for your reply and suggestions! Since I'm going at the start of the green season in May (2nd week), I've heard that Manual Antonio can be a bit wetter and guanacaste is a bit drier. Do you know this to be true? Thanks again!

volcanogirl

Happy to help, e. Yes, that's part of why we like Manuel Antonio; things are more green and lush while Guanacaste tends to be more arid. MA also has tons of wildlife in the national park. We've never had all day rain there, but there are usually afternoon showers.