Tulemar appeals to us. Are children welcome? Is it in good proximity to things? Is it in a crowded area? What about Makanda or Nicholas Hotels? The Si Como No does not sound like our style. Open to suggestions.

Love to get your ideas. We have 3 year old and 7 and 9 years old.

My5--I'm sure you'd rather hear from someone who has stayed at Tulemar, but maybe I can help a bit. Tulemar was one of the places we were considering, so I've read quite a bit about it. Based on what I've read, I'd say children are definitely welcome. Tulemar bungalows seem to be on the larger side so that they can accommodate families. People have said that it's a pretty quiet place. Some liked it because they felt as though they were "away from it all," and others felt that their kids felt it was too out of the way without much to do. Since your kids have built-in playmates, I'm guessing they'd be fine there. Overall, the reports I've read about Tulemar have been very positive. It was my first choice in the Manuel Antonio area, but my husband felt it might be too quiet for us (our "kids" are young adults and are more into action than nature). I've also read great things about Villas Nicolas. People seem to find the accommodations to be very comfortable and the people really nice. I think they're much less expensive than Tulemar. Makanda, I believe, is more upscale and quiet and seems to appeals more to adults.

Sorry I don't have any firsthand experience, but hope I've at least helped a little bit.

JoBurritt, Thanks for the input! It sounds perfect for our kids. You hit the nail on the head with the built in entertainment and no need for night life. Do you know where it is located? Closer to the park or where?

We stayed at Tulemar last March with our kids--ages 11, 9 and 7. We loved it! Very laid-back atmosphere, loads of animals, great little beach, pretty pool. The kids still ask why we couldn't have stayed there the whole time instead of visiting three other places. The location is great. We had a vehicle, so it was no problem to go into Quepos or somewhere along the road for dinner. This was the most expensive place we stayed, but it was really special. With the sloths and the different monkeys and lizards all around us, it was a real experience. I don't think you'll find an unfavorable review of Tulemar on this site.

My5--I don't really know where it's located in relation to other things. I know people have said it has its own beach, but that's about all I know. Sorry.

I've posted before how much our family liked the beach, privacy, and rooms at Tulemar. My kids had a great time, they even had VHS tapes to borrow in the lobby. While not in a crowded area, the main road outside is quite busy. There is a nice restaurant on site as well as Karolis(sp) within walking distance. There is also a small market, bank, and a few shops in walking distance as well. A taxi to the park, Quepos, or anywhere along the strip can be had for a few dollars and are very convenient.

Just got back from Tulemar and loved it. It will be fine for kids. Only suprise was that I took my father and we all stayed in a premium bungalow which was fantastic but a good hike up from where car was parked. My daughter figured out to drop everyone off at restaurant above and let them walk down to bungalow while I drove car down. When they left bungalow they would walk down to car. I didn't mind, I needed the exercise after all the eating and drinking I was doing.

Thank you for responding about the Tulemar. We are considering staying in the premium bungalows as well. Do you think we need two bedrooms or one. Our three children are young. Please share the tours you think our family could all do in MA.

Thanks again, Judy