If you’re searching for a tropical coastline which has great amenities but also secluded beaches, look no further than a holiday in the Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio. With a winning combination of gorgeous sandy beach, lush jungle trails and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder why Costa Rica’s smallest national park has always had strong appeal.
Heading into the park, you’ll be greeted with the screech of howler monkeys and the squawk of vibrant birdlife; follow nature trails which snake beneath the leafy rainforest canopy whilst spotting sloths, coatis and the colourful-billed toucan, before emerging onto the dazzling white shores of Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio.
Discover picturesque islets off the coast which jut out from shimmering turquoise water; explore the volcanic formations of the coast’s underwater world with a snorkelling expedition; or paddle along the coastline in a kayak to explore the area’s tangled mangroves. Sit back on the white sandy beaches to take in the breathtaking Pacific sunset.
Further south, you’ll discover the little coastal village of Uvita, lined with farms and guesthouses on one side and white sand beaches and crystal clear waters on the other. Though primarily a surfer's, the beach is great for any watersport and those visiting between December and April may see humpback whales and bottle-nosed dolphins from the shore.
A highlight of any trip to Costa Rica, Osa Peninsula, where virgin rainforest meets pristine beaches, teems with wildlife both in and out of the water. With many of the eco lodges reached only by boat, this is the place to totally unwind, rid yourself of technology, and surround yourself with nature. Taking an al fresco shower at one of the award winning lodges, you’re likely to greeted by curious monkeys, sloths, toucans and macaws, whilst explorers in the Corcovado National Park may be lucky enough to glimpse a jaguar. Offshore lies Cano Island, an ancient Indian burial ground ringed by coral reefs – snorkelling and diving heaven.
