We are 3 families planning to travel to Costa Rica last week of December with +/- 1-2 days different travel dates.

To make it easier, lets say travel dates are December 26 to January 2.

At present, I can see round trip fares to LIR for $850 (1 stop). RT to SJO for same dates is much more expensive at $1200-1300 (1 -stop). Non stop is is way too expensive at $1800 beyond budget, Wondering if we should to see if southwest airlines opens with better fares.

I think it would be great to visit Arenal volcano, cloud forests, hiking, La Fortuna waterfall, hot springs, see some wild life and also add a beach.

Any suggestions for itinerary if flying in and out of LIR? Can reach LIR either at 12 PM or 2 PM.

I see more itineraries online from SJO but tickets are expensive for that airport.

Also need to figure out lodging/hotels/food as it will be expensive time of the year. ? all inclusive resorts as option. Can not do booking at one large place as travel dates will be different by +/- 1-2 days so best option each family books its own hotel/resort.

Will also need to add some tours.

Appreciate input.

Welcome to Fodors. We modified your thread title to include Costa Rica and added a CR tag.

You don't say where you're flying from. We'd all love to be able to fly nonstop everywhere, but most of us have to settle for a connection along the way. I think you have to go into it with the idea that they usually do work out.

I'm surprised that fares to LIR are more expensive than to SJO. It's usually the other way around.

Check out Playa Potrero, Costa Rica as an option. This charming beach town is located in Guanacaste along the gold coast and it is home to a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to please everyone in your group. Here are a some of the things you can find within an hours drive.

• Beautiful beaches: Playa Potrero is home to several beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
• Lush rainforests: Playa Potrero is surrounded by lush rainforests, perfect for hiking, biking, and zip-lining.
• A variety of wildlife: Playa Potrero is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
• Proximity to other popular destinations: Playa Potrero is located within driving distance of several other popular Costa Rican destinations, such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
• Affordability: Playa Potrero is a very affordable destination, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica.
• Safety: Playa Potrero is a very safe town, with a low crime rate.
• Friendly people: The people of Playa Potrero are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.

Day 1:

• Arrive in Playa Potrero and check into your hotel.
• Relax on the beach or by the pool.
• Have dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in town.

Day 2:

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park.
• Go swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at Manuel Antonio Beach.
• Hike to the top of the lookout point for stunning views of the park.

Day 3:

• Go zip-lining through the rainforest.
• Visit the Curu Wildlife Refuge to see monkeys, sloths, and other animals.
• Have dinner at a traditional Costa Rican restaurant.

Day 4:

• Visit Arenal Volcano.
• Go hiking, biking, or horseback riding in the national park.
• Relax in the hot springs at the base of the volcano.

Day 5:

• Visit Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
• Go swimming in the waterfalls.
• Hike through the rainforest.

Day 6:

• Relax on the beach or by the pool.
• Have dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in town.

Day 7:

• Depart from Playa Potrero.

I hope this helps! Pura Vida

For us flying in and out of SJO has always been less expensive. I'm surprised to hear that flying into LIR is more affordable for you. I really like the Arenal area; we've been there several times, tons to do. There's nice hiking at the Arenal Observatory Lodge. For natural hot springs, Tabacon is great if you want elaborate and upscale or Eco Termales for smaller with local charm. You could also visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges. Love Fortuna waterfall as well.