I am looking for a relatively quiet, clean (but $80 or less) place to stay in Tamarindo. Has anyone stayed in La Palapa? If so, I'd appreciate feedback, especially on its location.

Thanks,
Janet

Few hotels are on the beach in Tamarindo. I don't know about La Palapa, but can recommend Pasatiempo. It's a fun place!

Thanks again shillmac - You actually helped me on another question I had last week about Malpais! I've read that most hotels are not on the beach in Tamarindo, which is fine. I'm more concerned with being too close to the nightlife and the noise that usually accompanies it. I'd still like to be within walking distance of shops and restaurants, but just not in a noisy area of town. Below is our itinerary. I'd appreciate if you'd let me know what you think...
Sunday- arrive at 9:30pm, overnight near San Jose airport
Monday- whitewater rafting Rio Pacuare, overnight on river
Tuesday- whitewater rafting day 2, overnight in San Jose
Wednesday- fly to Tamarindo in AM
Wed-Saturday: Tamarindo
Sunday- fly into San Jose arriving at 6:50am
-fly back to New York at 8:30am

I stayed at the El Jardin del Eden which is not on the beach but overlooks it and it about a three minute walk. I enjoyed it. I stayed in a larger room during low season for about $70. The staff was really friendly and I found it quite convenient (went to the beach everyday). Their website is www.jardindeleden.com

I think you have an excellent plan. The rafting trip will be a wonderful adventure followed by a few days to relax at the beach. Tamarindo is a fun little town. Be on guard, though--crime is increasing there and has become more of a problem in recent months.

The previous poster mentioned Jardin de Eden--it's gotten several good reviews and would be an excellent option.

I am a little concerned about your arrival back in San Jose at 6:50 for an 8:30 departure flight. First of all, the early mornings are very crowded at SJO--VERY crowded. In October, when we were leaving, the security line alone took us 45 minutes or longer--AFTER we had already stood in line to pay exit tax and in another line to get boarding passes. And that was afternoon when it is less busy.

I wouldn't dream of arriving at the airport any less than a full 2 hours before a scheduled flight. Also, the domestic airlines have a rep for sometimes running behind schedule. It's risky--you might want to rethink that one. Otherwise, a big thumbs up!

Thanks for the feedback! I wasn't sure about flying in that morning either. Looks like we'll return to San Jose the night before we fly out instead.