Hotel Options in Tamarindo?

Hi! I'm taking a vacation to Tamarindo, Costa Rica with my family and I don't know how long we will stay there. If it feels like home, maybe a month or so! Any tips or advice? I'd love any advice or pointers on where to eat and what to do. We are still looking for place to stay, some flat close to Tamarindo beach and will have a rental car. We also heard that Tamarindo isn't the greatest place to stay, but I don't know why.

Get away from Tamarindo!! This place is infested with drug dealers and thieves. The sewerage problem is out of control here as well. Too much litter! Go to Flamingo Beach-just up the road. Marie's is a great chicken place near Flamingo beach. The Flamingo Beach resort has music and dancing. There are more hotels on Flamingo Beach, and some of them are pretty cheap!