Been there several times but not in the last 5 years as I've stayed in different parts of the country. Pretty chill surf town that has become a lot more touristy over the years. I enjoyed surfing there and a buddy of mine went fishing near there and had a good time. Other activities in the area are horseback riding on the beach, zipline, white water rafting. No shortage of restaurants and bars. I liked it but last few years have been to Nosara as it is less crowded and better surfing.
Pretty safe area but watch out for petty crimes like pick pocketing, breaking into car, taking belongings off beach....never has happened to me but just store valuables out of view in car, have someone stay with stuff on the beach, etc.
Blue Marlin Bar is fun.....but in San Jose....if not with wife or girlfriend, Blue Marlin and Key Largo are fun in San Jose and Jaco has the Beetle Bar and other strip club/brothels with some nice honies.
Pura Vida