La Fortuna has no shortage of great places to stay, from full-service resorts to smaller eco lodges, and the options keep getting better. Since you will likely spend most of your days out on activities, it can be tempting to just pick anywhere and call it a night. But with so many great properties in the area, we think it is worth staying somewhere you can actually enjoy when you do slow down. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Nayara Tented Camp - Our top pick and one of the best family resorts we have come across anywhere. Each tent-style room is its own private jungle retreat, fully immersive but with five star service, food, and amenities including multiple pools and hot springs. Wildlife sightings right on the property are common, and despite plenty of families around, the whole place feels remarkably peaceful and secluded.

• Nayara Gardens - Beautifully renovated property on the same grounds as Nayara Tented Camp, sharing the same great amenities and service. Slightly less private and secluded than Nayara Tented Camp, with a price point that reflects that, but every bit as beautiful and a wonderful place to stay in its own right.

• Noah's Forest by Tifakara - A boutique property just outside the center of La Fortuna, set along a river with private bungalows tucked into the jungle. A more intimate and understated option, with a pool, private jacuzzis in select rooms, and the same access to wildlife and activities as the larger resorts, at a friendlier price point.

The food in La Fortuna, like much of Costa Rica, is fresh, simple, and reliably good. The menus tend to be approachable enough that even picky eaters will find something they like. You are not going to find anything that blows you away, but you are unlikely to have a bad meal either. A few we enjoyed:

• La Street Bistro - A modern, casual spot in downtown La Fortuna serving a mix of Costa Rican and Central American dishes. A solid lunch or dinner option if you are heading into town.

• Ayla at Nayara - Our favorite of the Nayara restaurants. Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with local ingredients, with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and the infinity pool. The service is warm and attentive, and it is a lovely way to end a day of activities without leaving the resort.

• Sodas (Local Roadside Diners) - Do not overlook the small local restaurants scattered around town. Simple, honest Costa Rican food at very reasonable prices, and some of the most enjoyable meals we had were at places just like these.

La Fortuna is one of those places where the options are endless and every combination you can think of seems to exist, from tortilla making and chocolate and coffee farm tours to ziplining, canyoning, kayaking, and hiking. Our must dos:

• White Water Rafting - A must for any family with a sense of adventure. The Balsa River offers a great mix of Class 2 and 3 rapids with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting along the way, with more challenging rivers available for experienced rafters. Not quite ready for the rapids? A float down the Peñas Blancas River is just as rewarding for wildlife spotting at a much more relaxed pace. No need to do both, just pick the one that suits your group.

• Sky Adventures Arenal - Take the tram up through the jungle canopy and zipline back down with sweeping views of the lake, volcano, and surrounding rainforest. The equipment is top notch and the operation is well organized, with ziplines so long you sometimes could not see the platform at the other end.

• Nature Walk - Whether at your hotel or across one of the area's hanging bridge trails, a guided nature walk is essential. Going with an experienced guide is what makes the difference between a nice stroll and a truly eye opening experience.

• Chocolate Tour - A hit with kids and adults alike. Learn the history of chocolate, see how simple the process really is, and let the kids make and taste their own chocolates right then and there.

Tip: The company you choose does make a difference. Most outfitters in the area are well run, but having an experienced local guide with a sharp eye makes all the difference in how much you see and take in.

Most of La Fortuna's shopping is concentrated along the main road that runs through downtown, and you can easily cover it all in an hour on foot. It won't take long, but there are a few spots worth seeking out:

• Vita Café - A takeaway coffee shop run by people who are serious about their craft. A great spot to pick up specialty coffee beans (roasted on-site) to take home, with knowledgeable staff who are happy to walk you through the different varieties.

• Wandering - Less of a souvenir shop and more of a well curated boutique, with linen clothing, jewelry, and a thoughtful selection of gifts.

• Lava Collective - A tiny shop with locally designed goods that stand out from the generic souvenir fare you'll find everywhere else in town. Worth a quick browse.