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CENTRAL PACIFIC GEMS - BEACHES IN COSTA RICA
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Island refuges, rainforest reserves and white water rivers
are just a few of the natural attractions available along
the country´s Central Pacific Coast. The port town
of Puntarenas, due west of San José, is the gateway
to the Gulf or Nicoya and the southern tip of the peninsula
of the same name.
Though the beach that stretches along the city is a bit urban, the coast by the
mouth of the nearby Barranca River offers a more natural setting, and excellent
conditions for surfing. Ferries cross the Nicoya´s gulf from Puntarenas,
passing rugged and wild islands, and providing access to the southern tip of the
Nicoya Peninsula.
An array of natural assets includes calm seas, gorgeous beaches, rainforest reserves
and waterfalls. Montezuma!
The road that follows the coast south from Puntarenas not only winds past some
impressive panoramas, it leads to two of the country´s most popular beach
resorts: Jacó
and Manuel
Antonio. The palm-lined, sugar-sand beach of Jacó
was one of the first in Costa Rica to be developed as a resort, and it consequently
boasts an abundance of hotels, restaurants, shops and services. A popular spot
for surfers, who are drawn there by its consistent waves, Jacó lies near
several natural attractions that are worthy excursions for travelers who tire
of beach life. Nearby you will find Punta Leona, which includes an extensive forest
reserve. Further to the south lies the equally popular resort of Manuel Antonio,
which is famous for its unforgettable coastal scenery, exuberant tropical nature
and ample selection of outdoor adventures.
Manuel
Antonio protects beaches, rainforest, reefs and islands, but there is also
plenty of beach and forest outside the park that is easy to explore, and with
pastime possibilities that include sportfishing, horseback riding, white water
rafting, snorkeling, sea kayaking, sunset cruises and a bit of nightlife, you´ll
never be at a loss for what to do.
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