Downtown / Central Market – grab gallo pinto (rice and beans breakfast) and fresh fruit smoothies before hitting the road for day trips.

Playa Hermosa (30–40 min from the airport) – calm bay, soft waves, and long, walkable shoreline that works for sunrise walks and kid-friendly swims.

Playas del Coco area – busier beach town vibe with souvenir shops, local eateries, and an easy home base for snorkeling boat tours.

Stays near the airport or in Playa Hermosa – look for AC and a pool; January brings dry skies and daytime highs around 90–92, so mid-day breaks matter.

Liberia bus terminal area – use public buses or shared shuttles to reach nearby beaches if you don’t want to drive; stock up on water and snacks before boarding.

Mornings over afternoons – plan hikes, beach time, and boat tours early, then nap or pool time mid-day when the sun and wind peak, heading back out for golden-hour sunsets.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park – about 45–60 minutes by car – volcano views, boiling mud pots, easy Las Pailas loop, and nearby Rio Negro hot springs for a post-hike soak.

Llanos de Cortez Waterfall – roughly 45 minutes south – short trail to a vast waterfall, shallow swimming area, and plenty of shade for a simple half-day with kids.

Palo Verde National Park – about 60–90 minutes – guided boat along the Tempisque River with crocodiles, monkeys, and serious bird-watching, all from a shaded riverboat seat.