First time to CR in early February. We're experienced travellers, but will be coming with our son (5 1/2) and baby girl (15 months). Both are pretty good and laid back on the road, given their age.

We're flying into LIR and spending a couple of splurge days up in Papagayo. Then I thought we'd pick up a 4x4 and head down the peninsula to spend a week relaxing and easy exploring - short walks, waterfalls, sunsets, tide pools - that sort of thing.

We love the chill, secluded beach vibe (Tofino, BC and Koh Samui 10 years ago are some of our favorite places) but need family-friendly basics like a store, pharmacy, clinic, etc. A few other little kids around would be nice too.

Would Montezuma, Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, Cabuya, or somewhere else fit the bill? We'll have our 4x4 to get around. Samara/Nosara sounds nice too, but also built up, and we are already spending time in Papagayo among the big resorts.

Any nice hotels/villas in the southern Nicoya that would be appropriate for little ones? Something with a pool, kitchenette, $100/night or so, enough space so we wouldn't disturb other guests, would be perfect.