My husband and I are in Costa Rica right now. Near Coco Beach (NW/Pacific Coast near Liberia). Arenal is THE main attraction of Costa Rica. Do not miss it. We spent too much time at the beach (is there such a thing?) and didn't allow enough time for Arenal. Hot springs, volcano, cloud forest, etc. are not easy to find, but beaches are. Everyone told us to get a driver. Even with a driver, it took 5 hrs with no traffic to get from San Jose to Tamarindo (W. Coast), which ate up much of our day. It's all about the activities here. Whitewater rafting, fishing, surfing, zip lining ("canopy tours"), ATV riding, horseback riding, etc. Each activity is best in a different location. Note also that the weather can differ greatly. We were not aware that the beach would be 20 degrees F hotter than San Jose. It's just under 100 degrees today, and sweltering... The volcano area is higher, cooler and rainier. Like 2 different countries, just several hours apart. No matter what, you will love the trip. It's a fascinating, beautiful place..