Central Pacific Coast
Why go?
Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s smallest, oldest
and most popular. Here you’ll see monkeys swinging languidly
through the trees, watch sloths climbing up trunks in slow motion,
and spot scarlet macaws flittering through branches, all from
well-maintained trails through the jungle which anyone can access.
There are beautiful beaches too and, while the whole area is
undoubtedly touristy, choose carefully and you’ll find
tranquillity in your chic hotel.
Nearby, the town of Quepos has some local charm, while Jacó
is condominium hell. Head instead to the unspoilt stretch of
pristine beach at Playa Esterillos, where you can surf superb waves
and wander for hours in utter seclusion.