[SheilaQ]

Hey, DavidMarsden:

I think whether you rent a 4-wheeler or not depends not only on where you’re traveling but also when.

We were in CR in late April/early May. We rented a 4-wheel-drive because we thought we’d need it, but it turned out we could have gotten away without it. We drove all down the Pacific Coast, from Guanacaste province all the way down to Manuel Antonio Park. The roads were really quite good everywhere – there were only 2 EXCEPTIONS – the road to the Riu Guanacaste where we stayed in the north was TERRIBLE – didn’t matter that we had a 4 wheel drive – it was a dirt road and you could not travel more than 10 or 20 km/hr as it was so pothole ridden.

In the south, we stayed in Esterillos Oeste at this lovely apartment/hotel in town. The gravel road to get to it was fine – until it rained – and then it was really slick and a 4-wheel-drive came in handy. So if you’re going in rainy season I would say a 4 wheel drive is a must.

Otherwise, we were plesantly surprised with how good most of the roads were.

[SheilaQ]

Hi, westcoast1,

Just like “bzwtsky” – my husband and I also purchased a lot in Esterillos Oeste (guess we’ll be neighbours, “bzwtsky”!)
From the criteria you listed, I think this area would meet your needs.
– Only 1 1/2 hours from San Jose via the beautiful new highway
– Just 20 minutes south of Jaco, where you have all the amenities you would want
– Unlike Jaco, this is a very quaint and quiet, lovely little village. We went down in early May, and I went with reservations, not expecting much as I didn’t want to be disappointed. We fell in love with the place.
– There is a large expat community. We met several expats who either live there or have bought lots there.
– The developer has been very easy to deal with and very upfront. Has followed through on everything he says and responds to emails promptly
– It’s [u]right on the beach[/u] – don’t know if this is important to you, but there is nothing like being able to walk from your home to the beach every morning.
– The beach is spectacular – 6 miles long and some of the best surf in Costa Rica
– This place has been described as Malibu in the ’60s
– Lots were very affordable compared to other areas, especially for beachfront

The only thing I am concerned about is the heat – it was very hot and humid every day except for one day when it rained. Some people like this but some people I’m sure would prefer the more temperate climate of the Central Valley.

Anyway, those are just a few of our experiences. My husband loved it so much he went back 2 weeks later “to check out the property” – at least that was his excuse! 🙂

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