Manuel Antonio National Park
Located only 25 miles north of Punta Dominical near Quepos, this park is relatively small in area (only 1,687 acres), but it is rich in inhabitants. Over 100 species of animals and nearly 200 species of birds live in the park. All three species of monkeys found in Costa Rica reside in the park – the white-throated capuchin monkeys, the endangered squirrel monkeys, and the white-faced monkeys. In addition to monkeys, you can expect to see colorful birds, iguanas, sloths, and other animals. Because the number of visitors is limited, it is best to visit the park in the morning and during the week, if possible. The park is closed on Mondays. Just off the beaches of Manuel Antonio lies another world worth exploring. Snorkeling reveals bright, florescent colored fish swimming among the corals. Further out, the park encompasses twelve islets just off the coast where it is possible to see dolphins and migrating whales.