Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group - Costa Rica Forum - Tripadvisor

Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

Atlanta, GA
Level Contributor
712 posts
20 reviews
16 helpful votes
Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

I am feeling very overwhelmed by all the wonderful places to see in Costa Rica and the need to drive precarious roads to get there. I have a family of 10-12 seeking to spend a week or 10 days. We love the idea of a trip with beach, wildlife, jungle and thermal springs. I am seeking any suggestions to narrow down to two areas of Costa Rica that are most unique to the country and hopefully not too difficult to travel between. Or one spot that has the most to offer. Also accommodations that are best for 10-12 adults (two couples and our adult children some of whom do not want to share a bed) without spending a fortune. Also how to travel with such a large group, I'd hate to rent multiple vehicles.

5 replies to this topic
Alajuela, Costa Rica
Level Contributor
64 posts
1. Re: Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

Tou do not need to rent many vrhicles , in Costa Rica is very popular to rent a mini van good for up to 14 passengers Toyota Hiace or similar nice diesel engine, twin AC etc...you can drive or hire van with a driver

Maybe good for you guys to check Osa Oeninsula just spectacular everting you are looking for or even more, also check Nicoya Peninsula, Great Guanacaste beaches, Rincon de la Vieja Volcanno, Arenal Volcano, Rio Celeste, , Sarapiqqui, Caribbean beaches,,,,and alot more

If you like dry days try to get here by the end of decmber, Jan, March until the end of july

Caramelo for sweet aeet advices

Ontario, Canada
Level Contributor
28,471 posts
70 reviews
184 helpful votes
2. Re: Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

jennifer,

Do you know when you are travelling and which CR airport/s you will be using? This might determine your itinerary.

If you decide to stay at Arenal as one of your 2 areas, you could look into the 2 villas or La Casona house located on the property of this lodge near the volcano - https://www.arenalobservatorylodge.com/room-rates/ . Your stay includes full breakfasts, a guided nature hike, use of the kms of own trails, etc. (free activities - https://www.arenalobservatorylodge.com/free-activities/). SkyAdventure Arenal park is not far from there - https://skyadventures.travel/ .

This company has vans and mini-buses for 11, and up to 15 passengers, with luggage - https://www.morphovans.com/ , with a driver, I.e. for private transfers or for hiring a van + a driver for a day.

Atlanta, GA
Level Contributor
712 posts
20 reviews
16 helpful votes
3. Re: Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

That looks amazing! Thank you.

Atlanta, GA
Level Contributor
712 posts
20 reviews
16 helpful votes
4. Re: Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

Thank you! So many beautiful areas.

Odessa, Florida
Destination Expert
for Monteverde, Arenal Volcano National Park
Level Contributor
18,580 posts
139 reviews
29 helpful votes
5. Re: Jungle and Beach for Big Family Group

I would say that can stay at any hotel or lodge that appeals to everyone. It might be nice for the group to split up into nearby rooms or cabins, without everyone sharing the same bathroom.

Two good locations to pair are the Manual Antonio and Arenal volcano areas. Check out Costa Verde near MA. There are many great lodges near Arenal.

If you aren’t driving yourselves, it’s best to be close to La Fortuna. Look at Lomas del Volcan, Hotel Kokoro, and Arenal Oasis Ecolodge.

As for driving, my preference is to move around independently. For your group, though, the only way to avoid multiple vehicles would be with one large van. Much of the space would be needed for luggage. This seems awkward to me, although at some point I may have to try this for my family.

Consider that not everyone may want to do the same activities. You can get separate taxis to get around locally, Uber may also be possible.

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