I'm asking for a friend and I'm flying blind here as I don't know anything about Costa Rica. A fairly large multi family group (15 - 20 people or so total) is looking for a week's stay in Costa Rica. It's all ages and all interests, so don't ask "what do they want to do?" -- the answer is "everything". They want to know which area to stay in -- Monteverde or Quepos? Looking for a nice resort -- not top luxury -- with lots of activities for all ages, and a place that doesn't require a lot of transportation whenever they want to go somewhere. Does this make sense? Any general recommendations -- or more specific?

Manuel Antonio, Quepos area, Costa Verde, Studio Plus rooms have a magnificent view. . .

With a week, I'd do a split between Manuel Antonio and Arenal - that way you get beach time and volcano time, plus access to ziplines, natural hot springs, and wildlife.

I just got back from CR and spent 4 days in Arenal and 4 days in Manuel Antonio. Although MA was pretty, we very much preferred the Arenal area and would have easily stayed there the entire time if we could do it over again. There is plenty to do and its gorgeous and lush. We loved everything about that area.

Many people feel that same way about Arenal. We have friends who go every year (like us), but always make a point to include Arenal. We usually do as well, but not this year. . .

Arenal has something for everyone.

In Arenal, we loved the Lost Iguana; when we were there, they offered a free shuttle that went into town during certain times of day.