Costa Rica . . . Beachfront & rainforest accessibility
 

Friends are interested in taking an 11day vacation in Costa Rica at an all inclusive resort. They are looking for a beach for relaxation & the ability to take a tour or 2 of the rainforest & other attractions within a reasonable distance.

Any recommendations are appreciated.

I'd try to look at something other than an AI since those aren't very popular or common in Costa Rica. We love Tulemar Bungalows in Manuel Antonio, and there are lots of restaurants you can walk to close by. The beach in the national park is pretty and full of wildlife like monkeys and sloths.

I agree with Volcanogirl. Split your time between 2 locations would be ideal for that time frame.

Manuel Antonio combined with the Arenal/La Fortuna area makes a very nice trip. They definitely have time with that many days.

Thanks for the input. Do you have a recommendation for accommodation in the Arenal/ La Fortunate area? The Tulemar Bungalows look amazing!

Yes, we love Tulemar! Have stayed in three different spots there; I'd recommend getting one with a balcony if they can. We really liked both Lower Mot Mot and Lower Casa Panorama.

We've stayed in a few places in the Arenal area - have really liked The Springs Resort and Spa, Nayara, and the Lost Iguana, all very different but all very good.

In Arenal, we stayed at the Arenal Observatory Lodge. In Manuel Antonio, we stayed at Costa Verde. Both were great.

Regarding the Springs Resort and Spa, we stayed there on a Groupon deal. It's a pricey property, but very nice. Since they like AI's they would probably enjoy everything that comes with the property - there's a beautiful river that runs through it, and they have tubing and kayaking, also horseback riding, and several restaurants. The rooms are posh. The Lost Iguana is more rustic and set away from town out by the lake, but it has a very jungly feeling that we like. Nayara is smaller, but also very nice with a more designed feeling to it. The Lost Iguana would have more wildlife than the others since it's set away from town, so would AOL that Michelle mentioned.