We're leaving in 5 days for Costa Rica! I pretty much have our itinerary worked out. I do have one pocket of time between Arenal and MA. We have one night open, and are wondering if we shd just meander down that way, and stay somewhere overnight on the way. Or stay another night at Arenal, and do the drive all in one day. What do you all think? Is there somewhere not far off the beaten path that would be nice?

Since it sounds like you will have lots of time in Manual Antonio, I'd consider stopping in or around Jaco. Some people hate it, we've only driven through it. It looked like an interestng place to wander for a few hours and maybe spend a night. There are also a few small hotels right on the beach listed in the Lonely Planet guidebook that are between Jaco and Quepos. I don't have any personal experience with any of them, but you might want to take a look.

On the other hand it's only about 65 kilometers to Quepos from Jaco. So you're almost there if you want to keep going. I'd play it by ear, drive into Jaco, look around and see what you think.

Hi again,
There are a couple of places you could stop. Near Jaco but also near Carara (fantastic nature reserve) and the Rio Tarcoles (croc watching-can't miss it, you will see people lined up on the bridge). Carara is a great place to see wildlife and a nice little day trip. The paths are well maintained and easy to get around on. You could stay at a hotel near by and do a quick hike in the morning and then head on down to MA.

Hotel Villas Lapas is a comfortable but not real fancy all inclusive with a pool. It is right next door to Carara and is set down in a little valley along a stream with neat birds to watch. The food was good and served buffet style. The rooms weren't fancy but did have a/c.
Another option would be to stop for the night at Villa Caletas. The sunset viewing from there is legendary and we have been there to enjoy it. They have a beautiful infinity pool. I have heard that the food is so-so. There are a couple of restaurants down the road in Jaco right on the beach that are very good.
Both of the places mentioned are easy to get to on your way to MA. Villas Lapas is only 1/2hr from Jaco. We went and viewed the sunset at Caletas and then headed into Jaco for dinner and then went back to Villas Lapas for the night. Good roads between them. My husband has the business card of the restaurant we ate at and when he gets home I can get it from him if you are interested.
Regarding MA, haven't been there recently enough to feel like I can give you the best info. I have heard wonderful things about RioSPAraiso. Of course Manuel Antonio itself is a great place for wildlife viewing.

I've gone from Arenal to Manuel Antonio and stayed one night at Villa Caletas. It's a nice hotel, and a good value if you're paying low season prices. I think we paid about $120 when there last September? Beautiful place with a delightful swimming pool that sits up high overlooking the Pacific below -- an incredible place to hang out and enjoy the view. Also has a nice jacuzzi tub that'll get those hiking kinks out of your back/legs. Food is overpriced for quality. Eat your dinner elsewhere.

Thanks everyone! I'm going to keep all your suggestions in mind.
Suzie, if you can get the name of the restaurant you refer to, that would be great. Thanks!

In Jaco, check out the Hotel Cancion del Mar; on the beach, all suites, modern AC, nice pool, and a short walk to all kinds of restaurants. We stayed there a few years ago and still see good reviews of it on this site and others. Good luck and have a great trip!