Manuel Antonio versus Playa Hermosa
 

We have narrowed our trip (8-10 people, single/ couples ages 25-30) down to the Manuel Antonio area (Hotel Karahe) or Playa hermosa (El Velero). Here are my questions-
1-which is the better town for nightlife?
2-any advice as to either hotel?
3-better adeventure sports in one town or the other?
If you have any general comparisons you'd like to offered it would be much appreciated.

I have not been to Manuel Antonio, but have been to Playa Hermosa several times now. Hermosa really doesn't have night life beyond the Pescado Loco (a local hangout right across the street from El Velero) and the newly re-opened Monkey Bar (a local hangout for 40-50something expats). If you want nightlife in Hermosa, you'll have to drive 10-15 mins. to Playa del Coco (or Coca, as the locals call it). It's a short drive. Coco has lots of bars and clubs to party in.

I have stayed at El Velero and liked its location right on the beach and its friendly staff. It's a short stumble to the Pescado Loco too. I now stay at Hotel La Finisterra, up the hill at one end of the beach. It's a small jewel with the best restaurant in Hermosa and views to die for. No AC, however, as the breezes at the top of the hill are usually adequate to make things pleasant. See http://www.finisterra.net/ Tell George and Sheila that Mike from Chicago sent you. They're great people and very knowledgable about the area. The inclusive breakfast at the hotel rocks!! I'll be heading there again in July.

From Hermosa, I've done fairly easy day trips to Nicaragua (Granada & Masaya), Santa Elena, Santa Rosa, Rincon de la Vieja, Palo Verde, Arenal, and the plethora of beaches along the Nicoya Peninsula. The scuba diving at the Bat Islands (Islas Murcielagos) from Playa Panama was pretty good in March. Sport fishing is, as always, hit or miss. Snorkeling depends on the day AND your guide. There's a pretty cool canopy tour off the road between Hermosa and Sardinal that I've heard several people comment favorably upon too.

I posted some pics and movie clips from my last two trips at http://www.speakeasy.org/~zebratoo/costarica/index.htm Check them out if you feel like it. Buena suerte! Pura vida!