Central America - Need some advice on planning a Costa Rica trip

I would like to plan a first trip to Costa Rica in early December for around 10 days and was wondering where should i go/stay? Basically i'm 28 so like to have some nightlife while i'm there, but also mainly i like to be in a area where there are a lot of restaurants (cheap and fine dining) plus i don't really like staying at low end hotels. I'm not much into sight seeing (but will go and visit things which are truely worth while) and like places to be convenient but don't mind cabbing inorder to stay at a better hotel/resort. On or near beach areas is bonus but not a must.

Appreicate the feedback, cheers

Let me move this from the South America to the Central America forum, in hopes of getting better responses for you.

SanDiego1K
Senior Moderator

Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific coast has much of what you describe: beaches, nature, good hotels and restaurants and some nightlife. Ten days would be a long time to spend just there, so I might also include Arenal/La Fortuna in northern Costa Rica. You have the active volcano, plus a decent selection of hotels and restuarants, hot springs, and many nature- and adventre-themed activities.

Arenal + Manuel Antonio is kind of the classic first-timer's trip to Costa Rica, and with good reason.

Wherever you choose to go, I'd start making plans soon. Places are filling up for December.

Cheers thanks for the info

Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific coast has much of what you describe: beaches, nature, good hotels and restaurants and some nightlife. Ten days would be a long time to spend just there, so I might also include Arenal/La Fortuna in northern Costa Rica. You have the active volcano, plus a decent selection of hotels and restuarants, hot springs, and many nature- and adventre-themed activities.

Arenal + Manuel Antonio is kind of the classic first-timer's trip to Costa Rica, and with good reason.

Wherever you choose to go, I'd start making plans soon. Places are filling up for December.

I just got back from a week at Flamingo Beach and had a great time. They mentioned that they are almost sold out for high season so you might want to book everything before you go as lots of things will be sold out. Also during season prices are 2-3 times higher. If you plan on renting a car I would do Manuel Antoino, Arenal, Tortuga (spelling is wrong) and if you have time Guancasta for some beach time

I would imagine you are flying into SJO. San Jose will have the most night life and restaurant options. El Pueblo is a sort of complex there full of discos, bars, etc.

Some of the large beach towns also have night life options, mainly Jaco and Tamarindo. Puerto Viejo (on the other coast) also has some fun night life and a more laid back vibe.

Even small towns like La Fortuna (by the Arenal Volcano) have a disco, but it's only open close to the weekend.