Manuel Antonio Vs. Jaco
 

Oh boy are we having a hard time deciding on an itinerary. The new question is what are the main differences b/w MA and Jaco? We are most likely going to do 3 nights at the beach and 2 nights at Arenal or the Peace Lodge (that is the second question...Peace Lodge or Arenal?)

Thanks again!!

Jaco does not seem to get very good reviews on these boards. We've been to Manuel Antonio and liked it - good restaurants with beautiful views of the sun setting over the water. The national park is a good place to spot wildlife, but it can get crowded. We went to Arenal as well and loved it. Manuel Antonio seemed very Americanized to us after spending time in Arenal.

Arenal offers the volcano, hot springs, ziplines, and best of all Cano Negro. We loved it there. Peace Lodge gets good reviews also, and we're going to spend a night there on our next trip, but to us, Arenal is a don't miss.

Manuel Antonio, is a lot nicer than Jaco...Jaco is mostly a party town...a lot cheap bars...the beach is not one of our best beaches...good for surfing and get roasted!! Jaco offer almost all kind of hotels options..

Manuel Antonio...some of the hotels are just great...try tulemar.net or Si Como No, many options to mention..and the National Park Manuel Antonio is a nice place and easy hike...

Peace Lodge or Arenal...I will go to Arenal...a lot more to do...Peace Lodge is a great place but not a whole lot do ...once you do the about 2 hour self guided hike on the hotel propertie!!

R.A Luis

Just buckle up and enjoy the ride in paradise!!

Jaco for party lover, Manuel Antonio for animal lover. I prefere MA.
Cheers
crkl - www.costaricaweb.de

Another vote for MA over Jaco. Just depends on what you want...think quiet vs. party and make your decision. I also would do Arenal for a variety of things to do...

MA over Jaco anyday.