Manuel Antonio and Quepos

The Manuel Antonio National Park and the area surrounding it are one of the most beautiful destinations in Costa Rica. It is also the most popular vacation place in Costa Rica, with locals and foreigners alike. The hilly evergreen forest providing shade from the tropical sun lines two gorgeous white beaches sloping to the gentle surf. Several trails lead through dense jungle growth to hidden sandy coves and magnificent lookouts over the ocean and beaches.

The views from the hills overlooking Manuel Antonio are spectacular; the beaches, particularly those inside the national park, are heavenly, and its jungles are crawling with white-faced and squirrel monkeys, among other species of exotic wildlife. Despite its small size and great popularity, Manuel Antonio manages to remain one of the premier nature spots in the country. The mountains literally meet the sea here and the ecosystem is teeming with land, sea and air species. If there is one place to visit in Costa Rica and be assured of seeing animals in the wild, this is it.

The town of Quepos lies at the bottom of a hill. The road that leads out of it, South towards Manuel Antonio, winds up and over it and is filled with hotels and restaurants. Many of the hotels are on large properties and reach into forests. It's possible to enter the grounds and go for a hike, or you can go horseback riding, sports fishing, kayaking or bird watching.