On our next trip to Italy we are going to the Cinque Terre for the first time. I think we want to stay in Monterosso or Vernazza, but we are open to suggestions about other towns to use as a base, and we would apprectiate hotel/b and b suggestions.
We really liked Vernazza. Monterosso had the only wading beach in the area and supposedly some night life. If those are important Monterosso may be a good choice.
Vernazza. But stay farther from the railroad station. Trains go all night.
We're going this July, and we're staying at La Mala', in Vernazza. It's definitely a splurge, but it looks worth it.
Sherry,
I used Mar-Mar Rooms in Riomaggiore on my visit to the C.T. and would certainly recommend them. You might also consider www.torrettas.com in Manarola, as it looks like a nice location (I know someone that stayed there a few years ago, and they were very pleased with the accomodations).
Happy travels!