Has anyone been to Costa Rica with children?

[notyummy]

I am looking at organising a big family holiday to Florida and Costa Rica next Easter. DH and I gave been to theme parks and are happy with organising that side of things, but I am interested in hearing experiences from anyone who has been to Costa Rica with children. Good/bad/top tips/suggestions. We are taking one dd aged 7.

TIA

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Not with kids, but it's a fabulous place and there's loads to do, especially if you're into wildlife.

I went last November with a 4 yo and a 1 yo. Where in CR are you thinking of going?

That's the problem- we are not sure Burrito. We want to do wildlife and relaxing on the coast, ideally somewhere where there are a few different places to eat etc. Happy to factor on some exciting stuff like canoeing/zip wiring etc.

I've been twice to Tamarindo on the pacific coast, once about ten years ago pre kids and then last year with the LOs. Ten years ago it was great. Super cheap and relaxed- a sleepy little beach town. However, I was a bit horrified when I went back last year, there has been a lot of development with out much thought for the infrastructure or the local community. So without getting to much into it I don't recommend you go there.

But I think Costa Rica still has a lot to offer. It is unbelievably beautiful and the people are so nice. If you are thinking of going to the west coast I can ask my DF, who is a travel agent, and sends a lot of people down there for some ideas. The flight from Miami to Liberia is fairly good, particularly if you are doing Florida first and then heading home after Costa Rica. I don't know much about the caribbean coast but I imagine it's lovely too.

As for the food I wouldn't say that CR is a fine dining destination. The comida tipico is generally some grill meat/fish with some rice and beans. My very British DH wasn't too impressed. You also get a lot of Mexican restaurants which give me the rage catering to stereotypical americans who can't appreciate the differences amongst Latinos.

Sorry if this makes very little sense. I have two mischief makers tonight.....

If you have any questions you think I might be able to help with ask away.

Thanks a lot! I think we are definitely looking at going to somewhere around Manuel Antonio National Park. Is San Jose worth using as a base first, or is it best to get straight out of town?

We took our 2 DC there 3 years ago and loved it. Having stayed the night in San Jose we agreed we wouldn't bother staing there again if we ever go back and if had to overnight near the city again would go for one of the resort hotels outside the built up area. I love exploring cities but there really is NOTHING to see in San Jose- I did try! We stayed in Arenal which has tons to do, and the volcano to watch, and then at Manuel San Antonio. Had a really lovely trip, would highly recommend it.

Thanks!