My husband and I are planning a trip to Costa Rica for 7 days with another couple. We want to see the rain forest, volcano, hot springs, etc and participate in activities there. We also like the beach and kayaking. We are really having a hard time trying to narrow down an itinerary and figuring out how far apart areas are. Any recommendations appreciated especially if we just need to stay in one area or will we be able to experience two.

With 7 days, pick 2 places. If you are flying in/out if San Jose, choose Arenal and maybe Manueal Antonio.

Thank you!

We did that combo for our first trip and thought it was a nice introduction to the country; both areas have good infrastructure so pretty easy to plan.

My favs:
Osa
Arenal
Monteverde

and Manual Antonio is a nice balance of beach and animals/eco.

To give you an idea of how far apart things are, both the Arenal area and Manuel Antonio are about three hours from SJO but in opposite directions. It would be about four and a half to five hours to go between the two.