My husband and I have decided to rent a "villa" in CR for a family week in May 2009. There will be 8 of us which include our 3 sons, ages 30,28,22 and the two older ones will bring their wives and the youngest, his friend. I have found lots of great places to rent but I am confused about which area best meets our criteria. The kids want to be within walking distance to the beach, close to some form of nightlife, close to places to explore and/or activities and close to restaurants and maybe even a casino. I have found great rental homes in the following areas - Playa del Coco, Manuel Antonio, Playa Tamarindo, and Ocotal. I am having trouble deciding which is the best area for us. Could someone suggest one of these areas or one I haven't mentioned? Thanks so much for the help. Kate

www.manuelantoniopark.com

would be my choice.

For me prettier area with rain forest
meeting the sea tons of activities.

www.tamarindo.com

not as pretty commercial more touristy
more strip shopping centresmore crime.

Your other areas more remote not as much night action would probably not
meet your needs.

Have Fun,

Buena Vista Villas (Manuel Antonio) should fit the bill nicely. The property is beautiful and has a private beach.

Manuel Antonio fits all of your requirements.

I agree with everyone else; Manuel Antonio is about as close as you're going to come. Most places in CR don't offer a lot in the way of nightlife, maybe some live music, but since the sun rises so early and sets so late, people tend to turn in pretty early. Have you check out Buena Vista Villas and Tulemar Bungalows?

Pueto Viejo?

MY

Thank you all for your insights. I don't think the kids want a wild and crazy nightlife but someplace they could go a couple of nights and hang out, have a beer and be safe. A change of scenery from the villa. All and all it sounds like the best fit for us will be Manuel Antonio. I don't find Buena Vista Villa's website. Does anyone know it's web address?
I will also check out Puerto Viejo. No one said any thing about the Coco Beach area - I assume that means it's not a great area?
Thanks again, Kate

kws, check out BVV on tripadvisor.com - there's lots of reviews over there and probably a lot of pictures you can check out too.

kws - try

buenavistavillas.net

I have been to Octotal and would not recommend it. It had very little character and if it's beach life that you want, it was mediocre and so was the nightlife.

For beauty, nightlife, and a very different experience of Costa Rica consider Puerto Viejo de Talamanca in the Southern Caribbean. I have been numerous times and like it very much. The beaches are beautiful and I guarantee the kids will love it.

For Buena Vista Villas and Casas...you can try...
www.tulemar.net

Luis