Hi all - I'm heading to CR for a week in Feb. I have been there before - my sister lives on Lake Arenal. I will spend time at her house, but my issue is beaches. Last time we spent a night at Hermosa and a night at Samara. This time we will spend my first night at Hermosa, then she is asking if I would prefer Tamarindo or Grande. I would like to swim so I'm picking Tamarindo. However, I've heard from her and from you all that it's a party town (my sister is 50, I'm 32, we won't be bar-hoppping!) Is it so much a party time that it won't be enjoyable? I don't mind being somewhere with lots to do, but I also don't want to feel like I'm way too old to be walking around. Any advice? What about other beach suggestions? I'd like to keep it within an hour of Hermosa so I'm not pushing my luck with my sister, as she'll be the one driving.

There will be lots of people in Tamarindo besides the revelers. We aren't party people either and always enjoy a day or so in Tamarindo. There are good restaurants, fun shops, and always something new going on (unfortunately these days a little too much). I doubt you would feel uncomfortable. It is a popular tourist location, and not everyone is there to barhop!

We haven't stayed at Grande, but I think it would be an excellent choice if you'd like a little quiter atmosphere.

Sorry, that would be "quieter" atmosphere!

Well, I think we've decided on Tamarindo. Any suggestions for inexpensive places to stay? I'm looking for less than $100 a night.

I recently made a trip to Tamarindo(it's really built up in the past few years!) and stayed at Villas Macondo on a recommendation. Short walk to the beach and great prices. Their web site is www.villasmacondo.com

And we liked Hotel Pasatiempo--under $60 3 years ago. Not sure now!