Located on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, Manzanillo Beach is known for its beautiful white sand which is lined with palm trees. One of the loveliest beaches in Puntarenas, visitors will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and de-stress in no time.
Activities to Enjoy at Manzanillo Beach
The beach itself is beautiful to walk, but you can also enjoy all sorts of activities along the shore. The peaceful waters make Manzanillo’s beach a great place to swim and play in the ocean. Or you can wake up in the morning and enjoy pilates or yoga on the sand.
In the water, snorkeling and diving to explore the life and beauty under the surface is a great way to spend an afternoon. A protected coral reef that covers about two square miles is located not far from the shore. There resides a large variety of Costa Rica’s sea life. You can see everything from sea anemones, colorful fish, sea urchins, sponges, lobster, and much more.
- A unique opportunity to view local wildlife is found only near Manzanillo Beach. Three different species of dolphins may be viewed in the area. Local fishermen may take you out to try and view them.
- Between March and May, the leatherback turtle is in its nesting season. A local guide will accompany you on a tour of their nesting areas.
- Kayaking, biking, or hiking are great ways to see the area. Several hiking trails are available around the wildlife refuge.
Insider Tip: There are many beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Discover out favorites!
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
One of the most beautiful regions in all of Costa Rica, the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is a must-see area. Home to one of the only natural mangrove oyster beds along the coastal reefs it also protects some of the region’s most endangered fauna and flora.
A natural wonder in Costa Rica, the biodiversity in the wildlife refuge is vast. In the Talamanca Mountains and rainforests you’ll find everything from wetlands and rivers to beaches and mountains. These protect vast varieties of wild animals such as sloths, howler monkeys, crocodiles, toucans, and jaguars. Manatees can also be found near lagoons where mangroves grow naturally.
Deeper into the lush, green tropical forest, you’ll find ocelots, crocodiles, sloths, Baird’s tapir, monkeys, parrots, toucans, iguanas, jaguar, and anteaters. The Gandoca estuary is one of the locations where you may be lucky enough to see dolphins and manatees playing among the waves.
Food to Enjoy
In the nearby village of Manzanillo, you’ll find high quality restaurants. Enjoy local cuisine and taste unique cocktails. Or, if you prefer, you can catch your own fish. Or ask a local fisherman to catch a fish for you to cook on your own grill. For great local seafood, check out the restaurant Maxi’s in Manzanillo’s village.
If you prefer to do your own cooking, there are a few small grocery stores located on the main road toward the village. A couple bigger grocery stores are located in nearby Puerto Viejo. For some local immersion, check out the farmer’s market in Puerto Viejo on Saturday mornings.
You won’t run out of ways to enjoy the unique atmosphere and nature of Manzanillo Beach. From the wildlife to the night life, you’ll have a wonderfully relaxing time in this gorgeous area of Costa Rica.
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