Beach + Arenal (or Rincón)
 

I am planning a 4 night, 5 day trip to Costa Rica for first week of March. We fly into Liberia and my main goal is to see as much lush, exotic jungle vibrancy with waterfalls and wildlife as possible, with 1 night at the beach when we first get there. I'm thinking that first night will be at Playa Conchal and then we will drive either to Arenal or Rincon. I was looking at http://www.thespringscostarica.com/ which looks like absolute paradise to me, though I know it's several hours further than just going to Rincon. Can someone let me know if I'm making the right decision or needlessly driving 3 hours out of my way to get to an amazing lush jungle. We would then fly out of SJO if we stick to this plan.

thanks!

you hit the nail on the head.... you'd be needlessly driving and wasting a half day on unnecessary transportation. CR is a very relaxing destination and with less than a week you'll feel shortchanged if you spend anything less than a few days in one place. Why not make it a week instead of only 5 days? If you want to combine the rainforest and beach experience i invite you to check out Manual Antonio. you can watch monkeys run around, spot a sloth in the tree, get some sun etc.

Mostly because I had my heart set on Arenal... everyone says it's the ultimate costa rica experience. Especially at a place like http://www.thespringscostarica.com/

Since only 4 nights, I'd have to agree to skip Arenal and come back when you have more time. You'll waste too much of a short time in transport. Look into Borinquen Resort or Blue River.

The Arenal area is fantastic. It's our favorite area. Any chance you can just stay there the entire time? We've stayed at The Springs Resort, and loved it. They have a beautiful river at the base of the property where you can go kayaking and tubing, good food, beautiful views, nice balconies. I would definitely recommend it. You can do the waterfall hike and do the Cano Negro tour to see wildlife. The area is lush and green. Personally I would go for it, but that's just me.