We are pretty seasoned travelers who love St John in the USVI due to the laid back nature of the island, the sailing, and snorkling. But we'd like to try either Belize or CR maybe for a week next year.
We are mid 50's, in pretty good shape, don't need fancy, hate highly commercialized locations, but I don't want to do eco-tents on this trip like we do on St. John- would prefer something a little more "civilized". Being on the beach is important and I would LOVE to NOT have to take all day to get somewhere. I've noticed on a quick search that alot of Belize accomodations are on cays where you have to take puddle jumpers to get there. A huge, added bonus would be a place where there was music at night somewhere to enjoy, but again, nothing fancy.
Can anyone recommend some place either on the mainland coast, or via a water ferry/taxi on the coastline of Belize or Costa Rica that we might want to check out?
Thanks all!

Hi, Karrie - if snorkeling is really important to you, I would go to Belize rather than CR. CR is not known for great snorkeling. We've been to St. John and loved it, but I don't think you'll find any comparable snorkeling in CR. That being said, we love CR - it does have sailing and beautiful beaches - you may want to check out the Manuel Antonio area - lots of nice accomodations and good restaurants, a National Park full of wildlife, mangrove tours, horseback riding, ziplines - it's a really popular spot for first timers. Most of the nicer hotels in the area are up on a hill with beautiful views of the water, but you can walk or take quick taxi ride to the beach; the one inside the park is the nicest and prettiest.

Different area, but have you guys ever gone to Kauai? If you loved SJ, you would probably love that too.

I've been to both Belize and CR... you'll be happy in either location, though I must admit I have a slight preference for Belize. As mentioned above, if snorkeling is a priority, Belize's is world class. Also seems to me to have a bit more of the laid back atmosphere that you're looking for. San Pedro or Caye Caulker sound like the place for you (CC is less commercial than SP). I really liked Mata Rocks Hotel in SP... it was a bit outside of town so nice and peaceful, though easy enough to walk to restaurants, etc.

However, be aware that in most places in Belize, there isn't really a beach to speak of. You can sit on a chair and enjoy the peaceful waterfront, but it's not miles of white sand as you might expect. In most places you take a boat out to the reef to do your snorkeling. The flight from Belize City to San Pedro is very short and simple, so don't worry that it will be a big hassle.

Or split your trip between the beach and a lodge on mainland Belize close to Mayan sites, caves with artifacts, river, jungle and horse trips, lots of different cultures, friendly English speaking people. Placencia is on the mainland coast and closer to day trips on the mainland.

Thanks all, the suggestions are welcome! No, VG, we haven't been to Hawaii at all but will someday. We're coming from the Boston area and with only a week, we try to find places where we can spend minimal time going to and from. Now its time to check out these suggestions!

Hi, Karrie - you're right - coming from Boston would make Hawaii a long trip. It takes us 8 hours to get to Hawaii and only 3 to get down to CR. Have a great trip and let us know where you end up.

I will VG! My guess is Belize but we'll be seeing my husband's family shortly and his brother and wife loved CR so we'll see what they say. This message board carries way more info about Latin American places than Slow Travel Talk (which is great for other locations) so I will be visiting back and forth here for info as we plan further.

Should you decide on CR, I second the Manuel Antonio area. 3 hours from the international airport (SJO)--it offers a lot. Couple that with the Arenal area, and you have a nice mix!

Yes, we loved Arenal too - great to see the active volcano, go to Cano Negro to see wildlife like monkeys and sloths, and then visit the natural hot springs.