If you're planning on staying at a resort and just relaxing, that's a nice place.
I've heard quite a few stories from friends about crime there lately. I mean people will steal your flip flops if you leave them on the beach to take a dip even.
I like Panama over CR but that's just because I like shopping, sight seeing and feeling "safe" walking around.
I like reading the expat sites to also get some ideas of what places are like by Americans who live there.