Hi Everyone, Looking to go to Costa Rica for 1 week in February with 3 kids. Would love a mix of great beach, wildlife (monkeys, sloths, etc) and volcano. Any idea how to structure my itinerary? Don’t want the trip to be too choppy or have to jump around too much, but open to ideas.

What is the best beach area in Costa Rica? Also, is there a region which combines excellent beaches with wildlife? How far is volcano from these areas?

Also, looking for a very nice set of family accommodations - doesn’t have to be 5 star luxury, but want to be nice.

Lastly, is Costa Rica safe to travel around for a family? Thanks for any recommendations!!

We did Manuel Antonio paired with the Arenal/La Fortuna area for our first trip. That gives you beach with lots of monkeys and sloths and volcano with adventure activities, natural hot springs, ziplines, and hanging bridges. Each is about three hours from SJO airport but in opposite directions. They're about five hours apart. I'd consider both of these areas to be safe, but we always stay somewhere that has security like a hotel vs. renting a VRBO or Air BnB.

Thanks VolcanoGirl!

How would you compare the beaches in Manuel Antonio vs other beach regions?

also, if we fly into San Jose and start in Manuel Antonio, how many nights would you stay in each place for 1 week?

any other recommendations on hotels, excursions, etc. are much appreciated! Thank you!

Tulemar Bungalows is a nice property in the Manuel Antonio area, and they have a beach.