I'd be interested to know which stops should definitely be made during these routes:

San Jose to Arenal

Arenal to Monteverde

Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio to San Jose

You'll see lovely scenery along the way. The only stop that comes to mind, though, that you should not miss is the Rio Tarcoles bridge between Monteverde and MA. The crocodiles in the river are pretty cool! Someone needs to stay with the car, so take turns looking--theft a problem in this area.

Well, a cute little shop on the western shore of lake arenal, is Toad Hall. It is not far from Lost Iguana and the dam at the southern end of the lake.
it is a nice place to have a cup of coffee on their "deck" and look out over the lake, watch many birds, and have a dessert. Plus, they have a good selection of local art to look at and to buy.

For a landmark, I believe it is very close to the La Mansion hotel. Perhaps someone could help you with more specifics.

ekellyga
We've seen Toad Hall several times as we drove by--never stopped. I'm glad you reminded me of it. We'll be that way again in July and will make a point of checking it out this time! Thanks!

We stopped in Zarcero on the way to Arenal from San Jose. You'll see all the elaborate topiary. It's fun to wander through the grounds and go into the church.

Sandy