Puntarenas to Jaco/Playa Hermosa. 50 miles. August 29th & 30th, 2010

Our intent had been to go from Puntarenas to the RV park in San Jose but since we still have time before Danny and Nicole arrive, we will stay at one more beach before going to the city. Jaco is the closest beach to the capital and as such is the busiest but Playa Hermosa, which is just south of there, is supposed to be a little quieter and have better surf breaks. We are again winging it as far as overnight stays but we live in hope. On our first couple of tries, at hotel parking lots we struck out and were turned down to our suggestions of overnight parking, even with the offer of paying. We were instead directed to a public beach access with some parking. As we pulled in, we saw another RV, a little smaller than ours but with Nevada license plates. The RV belonged to a young (20's) English lady and her boyfriend. They had come from England and had purchased the motorhome in Las Vegas. Their plan was just to drive and hang out until either the vehicle disintegrated or their money ran out, whichever came first (oh to be that young and carefree again!). We talked about the expense of Costa Rica and like us, they had both enjoyed Nicaragua. We parked the RV with our door facing the ocean, so close that I was a little concerned about high tide but it turned out we were just fine. I do enjoy it when we have an unobstructed view of the beach. Winston also loves the freedom of the beach without worries from traffic, although because this is a public access there was some activity with surfers coming to check out the wave action. We also had a visit from the local police and after they knew we were staying for a couple of days, said that they would come by and check on us during the night to be sure all was well. Since there was another couple camping close by, we fely comfortable enough to sleep with just the screen door closed to let in the sea air and sounds. I spent my time under the shade of the palm trees, while Tom alternated between boogie boarding and reading. Winston played on the beach and with any other dog that happened to drop by. There are a few small cabina style hotels and we will probably bring the kids here to hang out whilst they visit.