Quepos, Arenal or Monteverde
 

We have 4-5 nights in Costa Rica and are trying to decide which way to go after flying into San Jose. We would like to do a canopy zip line, go white water rafting and go on some beautiful hikes. We also would like to be near a beach, if possible (but not completely necessary). Should we go south to Quepos and Manuel Antonio or should we go somewhere else entirely? Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thank you.

Hi Clang,
I'm sorry I can't speak for Montverde or Arenal although I've heard some wonderful things about them. I can tell you about MA were we stayed last spring and will be returning in Jan. There is so much to see and do in this one place.
We went white water rafting on the Savegre, Damas Island tour, Safari Canopy tour, ATV to the jungle and waterfall, and a couple nice days at the beach. I think Quepos/MA is a great place.
Have fun whatever you decide.
TRIP

For the time limits you have described as well as the activities you are interested in, I would have to agree with Trippie that Manuel Antonio would be a good location for you. Very nice area.

Hi Clang,

Quepos itself is not much of place to stay although it is where you book all excursions. It's a 10 minute bus ride to Manuel Antonio which is more pricey and very touristy but depending on what you are looking for - the beach is good and you can hike in the Rainforest Preserve which is a nice hike. I'd say you'd have more bang for your time in the Quepos area. Flights from Quepos to Liberia are cheap, frequent and efficient - so maybe you can do both.

You might want to consider La Fortuna/ Arenal Volcano for your trip? I just got back from CR (working on my trip report, will be up soon!) and we did a week with two days in Monteverde, two days in Arenal and three days in Tamarindo. Both my boyfriend and I agreed that we liked Arenal MUCH more than Monteverde. We did the horseback trip from MV to Arenal, which was amazing, then did a guided night hike of the volcano, saw lava rumbling down the sides of the cone, then hit the Tabacon Hot Sprins, which were AMAZING!! You could do a canopy tour up there that includes admission to the Tabacon Hot Springs (good deal since otherwise they cost $19 after 7pm or $29 anytime). You also could do a whitewater trip from Arenal very easily. And, the volcano is next to Lake Arenal, so you could do some windsurfing also. We LOVED Tamarindo, but it was completely different vibe. FYI, company we booked our tours with was amazing, on time, good deal: http://www.monteverdetours.com Good luck!