I'm planning a first trip to Costa Rica w/ husband and 2 kids, ages 11 and 13, for early July. Plan on flying into San Jose and staying a week. Can't decide on renting a house or doing a hotel/resort. Does not need to be luxurious - but safe, clean. If there are spots that attract families w/ kids our ages, that'd be great.

Anyone able to suggest an itinerary? The active otions appeal most to us.

Anyone been there at that time and have a comment on the weather?

Thanks!

Most first timers do a combo of Arenal/La Fortuna with Manuel Antonio. It gives you both volcano time and beach time.

I agree with vgirl's suggestion--both amazing places with plenty of clean and moderately priced lodging options. I think you kids would be thrilled with the range of activity at both places.

Think about this: IF you can manage it, try very hard to stretch your time to 8 nights. You may have to spend the first and last nights near the airport, depending on arrival/departure times. You really need 3 nights each location.

Good luck! Enjoy the planning! Early July a good time to go. . .

Agree! Arenal & Manuel Antonio is always a great first trip. You can look into Los Lagos or Arenal Paraiso in Arenal, both are large & have pools to keep the kids happy and in Manuel Antonio you can look into Costa Verde or Si Como No.

I think early July is a great time to go too; things are green and pretty, but the September rain hasn't set in yet. We got rain showers every afternoon in Arenal and MA, but it didn't affect us - you just need to do things early in the day. Didn't get any rain at all in the Osa, and we felt really lucky. We stayed at Lost Iguana in Arenal, but I agree that Los Lagos would be a great suggestion for you; your kids would love it.