I have 5 nights and want to do 2 of the 3 areas. Which 2 would you suggest. This is our families first trip to Costa Rica and we want to experience all that we can. I always assume I may never get back to a place, so see the best that I can when I am there. There will be 5 of us, all adults ages ranging from 60 to 25.
Thanks

I am sitting in the Peace Lodge right now, at the end of our trip. Great country. We did Arenal, MA, and MV. If I had 5 nights, I would skip MA. We are not big beach hangers...if that influences you at all. All 4 of the places we've stayed were great. Email me if you have questions, but won't be back to answer till Monday.

I believe whether or not you are a "beach person" is a valid point ...... I have heard quite a few people here say that a lot of what you see in Monteverde you can see for the most part in Manuel Antonio .(plus beautiful beaches ) Both are " touristy " in the Costa Rica sense , and the drive to Monteverde can be backbreaking if you would have anyone who would have issues with this ..?? Discuss within your group if the beach is important etc. You should get a good mix of replys!!!! ( Good Luck ) . Faith . P.S. I am the opposite of the previous poster , our children love the beach and do not like long drives !!!

And we're the opposite of the opposite above. Beaches don't do anything for us, but we loved Monteverde. It is a matter of personal taste.

The primary draw of Arenal--what makes it stand out--is the opportunity to see a live volcano do its thing. Just be aware that many people who visit Arenal don't get to see a good show because of clouds. However, we did see it two nights running. It was fantastic, and I think the chance is worth taking.

Arenal is pretty cool !!! We loved it !

I just posted my trip report (Nature Lovers). If I only had two places to go I would chose Arenal and La Bosque de Paz (a cloud/rain forest lodge that is really a gem but not well known) that is more unique and easier to get to than Manuel. But if I were you I'd read up on everyone's reports and see which appeals to you.