Si Como No | Tagged Posts
2017
4
November
Manuel Antonio vs. Tamarindo: Which Beach is Best for Families?
4
November
Question:
Humans say...
Heidi
Steve Dubb? Did you guys have a favorite beach?
Margaret
I was in Manuel Antonio ten years ago. I can't remember it as being a beach to lay back and suntan on although I did see wild monkeys, sloths and other creatures. If you get a chance go white water rafting on the Pacuare River. We did the overnight trip and that was wild, absolutely incredible with class 4 rapids.
Coreen
Thanks Margaret. We are definitely going white water rafting.
Erin
For beaching, I prefer around Manual Antonio rather than Tamarindo. A little more "off the track". However, get a good guide for the park - it is totally worth to spend more rather than grab some guy at the gate.
Coreen
Thanks Erin
Sharon
Manuel Antonio. Beach at tamarind is bit rocky
Jo-Anne
If you want a beach to just do beach stuff on, we enjoyed Jaco. it is a tourist zone, but the beach is sandy and large. Lots of hotels, and things to do. We also spent some time at
Jo-Anne
Esterillos Este. Beautiful beach, very long. Tide goes way out. It used to be mostly private houses, with a few small hotels thrown in. We stayed at http://hotelpelicancostarica.com/ It has changed hands since, but looks just as nice.
HOTELPELICANCOSTARICA.COM
Home - Hotel Pelicano Beachfront
Coreen
Thanks for all the suggestions
Shellie
Playa bejuco is about 1 hour north of Manuel Antonio. 8 miles of beach with very little people. It is a surfing beach. But we just played in it.
Colleen
Playa Bejuco, the most beautiful beach I have ever been to! Hotel Pelicano is awesome and right on the beach.
Derek
I would caution against sparsely populated areas.
Derek
Shellie Aside from common sense, a family friend visiting his friend n wife were violently attacked n robbed in their home by a local wielding a machete. Sadly, the friend he was visiting later succumbed to his injuries.
Shellie
Derek that is very sad but that could happen anywhere. Where we stayed had 3 smaller hotels and a couple gated communities mainly owned by Americans and Canadians. I felt very safe at all times.
Derek
Shellie Thus my suggestion to exercise caution in sparsely populated areas coupled w/ my mention of common sense. And yes, it was very sad, indeed.
Coreen
Thanks Derek
Derek
Coreen You’re most welcome, Coreen. I wish you a wonderful and safe trip.
Amber
If you surf - Tamarindo hands down
Susan
I head there Nov 9
Coreen
So is driving around Costa Rica pretty easy? I think we will see more if we rent a car.
Margaret
It was recommended that we rent, not a car, but a jeep as many of the roads weren't paved and the bridges were barely hanging in there. This was 2006. Downtown San Jose was scary driving through as it was so busy and seemed to have no rules of the road. Outside of the bridges, downtown traffic and some rough roads all went well. We drove from San Jose to the East coast, back up through Fortuna and then Southwest to Manuel Antonio. Never went up to the all-inclusive locations on the North Coast though. Some of the bridge decking, the planks, had huge gaping holes in them. Sometimes you'd be driving over the metal formwork and not the decking. Fortunately no vehicles fell into the river and no one seem to suffer any hardships. All went well.
Coreen
Margaret thanks so much for the info. I am thinking we might just get a Jeep for part of the trip.
Margaret
In today's local terms, it's really a four wheel drive you want. They may have called all of them jeeps back then.
Sara
We stayed at Si Como No in Manuel Antonio and loved it! Mariposa hotel is also really nice.
Susan
We are renting for our trip
Coreen
I would love to hear about your trip when you get back
Susan
Coreen were back November 24 pm me and I’ll fill you in . We are heading Kelowna to Calgary then non stop to Liberia airport
Chris
Samaria is nice
Chris
Samara
A.I. says...
Costa Rica Family Trip Recommendations
Planning a family trip to Costa Rica is an exciting adventure! Costa Rica offers a diverse range of activities and landscapes for families to enjoy. In March, the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it a great time to visit.
La Fortuna
La Fortuna is a popular destination in Costa Rica known for its stunning Arenal Volcano and hot springs. Families can enjoy activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and visiting the La Fortuna Waterfall. The town also offers a variety of restaurants and shops for visitors to explore.
Manuel Antonio vs. Tamarindo
Both Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo are beautiful beach destinations in Costa Rica, each offering a unique experience for families.
Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is known for its lush rainforest and pristine beaches. Families can explore Manuel Antonio National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife such as monkeys and sloths. The beaches in Manuel Antonio are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The town also offers a range of accommodation options and restaurants.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a popular surfing destination with a vibrant beach town atmosphere. Families can enjoy surfing lessons, boat tours, and exploring the nearby Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge. The town has a lively nightlife scene and a variety of dining options.
Recommendations
Both Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo offer unique experiences for families. If you enjoy a more laid-back beach town with abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lively surfing destination with a variety of activities, Tamarindo could be the ideal option.
Whichever destination you choose, Costa Rica is sure to provide unforgettable memories for your family trip. Enjoy your adventure!
Coreen
I am planning a family trip to Costa Rica in March. I would like to spend a few days in La Fortuna and then a few days in either Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo. Is one beach area more desirable than the other? I would love some recommendations. Thanks.