Hello, we are looking to go to Costa Rica in Dec(8-23) with our kids who are 4 and 6. We know it's busy time but unfortunately the 6 year old will be in first grade and we're pulling him out of school for a week as it is. Both kids are great travelers and have been to Thailand, Argentina, Mexico, etc. Currently thinking of first night in San Jose, 3 nights in Manuel Antonio, 3 nights in Monteverde, 3 nights Arenal and then finish up on Guanacaste by the beach. We're not planning to rent a car but either bus, hire a driver or if totally necessary fly. I would appreciate any thoughts on travel times, ways to get around, best order to do things in, things not to miss etc. Also, we're looking at Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste but wondering what people think about that or what beaches people like. Thank you!

What a nice long time you are going to have! I would suggest things in a different order, putting the 2 areas that are closest to the airport at the beginning and end of your trip:

Alajuela (airport)-Arenal-- 3 hours
Arenal---Monteverde---3-4 hours
Monteverde--Guanacaste---4 hours
Guanacaste---Manuel Antonio--5 hours
Manuel Antonio-airport---3 hours

I know that puts your 2 beach locations together, but Guanacaste (especially the Hermosa area) offers a lot of great inland activities as well (Rincon de la Vieja Park, Palo Verde Tour, etc). You won't be backtracking so much and your time will be conserved. At least that is my perception!

We always rent a vehicle, but if you want transfers you might look into Interbus (www.interbusonline.com). Others enjoy hiring a driver.

Thanks for the reply Shillmac, neglected to say that we were thinking of flying into San Jose and home from Liberia. Reason we wanted Manuel Antonio first is that we thought it would be more crowded the closer we get to Christmas. But the order you list things in we wouldn't have any super long driving days as we would with MA to Arenal or Monteverde which would be nice too. Wanting to buy tickers soon but not totally positive aobut SJ vs. Liberia for return flight. Decisions, decisions. I'll take a look at interbus. Thanks!

check out this playa hermosa website:

http://costa.rica.typepad.com/playa_...ome/index.html

The Playa Hermosa website is great. Would you recommend Playa Hermosa as a good beach for kids? Fairly calm? Or would you recommend a different beach in the area? Thank you.

You are welcome. I see the logic in your plan now with the Liberia departure. That would work out nicely as well. I always forget about that option! Have a great time whatever you decide. Good locations you have chosen--some of the best of Costa Rica!