Took less than an hour to get to the condo. Papagayo Peninsula is a gated community - the landscaping is unbelievably manicured & lush. The condo was VERY clean. It's huge, well appointed and has a beautiful view. We had the pool to ourselves but didn't find time to use it much. Kids loved the bumper pool table.
We stayed 4 nights after 3 in La Fortuna. We went to Tamarindo for surf lessons - it was a lot of fun but a little more of a drive than we expected. We also did a boat trip where they picked us up at the nature center area beach. Left our golf cart there and took the boardwalk to the beach. The water was like glass, warm and gradual drop off. Boat took us to caves, fishing, snorkeling and inner tubing. Was a blast! Used Ever at thebestdayevercr.com He is very responsive and helpful.
Last day was spent at Prieta Beach Club (per person charge to enter). Includes 3 pools, lounge chairs, boogie boards, pool table, drink and food service as well as several restaurants. All the food and drink were delicious but I felt the drinks were a little pricey even for how upscale everything was. Free water, sunscreen and towels.
The beach here is volcanic black "sand" and white sand. There are boulders in the surf. I recommend water shoes. It's a bit of a cove with one wave the entire beach. The waves were huge but there was a nice lull between them.
Would return to CR and Terrazas! I would recommend you take groceries & try to make dining reservation in advance.