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Manuel Antonio Things To Do And See

By Frances Keith


Costa Rica has become a very popular travel destination over the years. Rainforests, volcanoes and sunny tropical beaches draw people from all over the world. On the Pacific coast, roughly in the middle of the country from north to south, lies Manuel Antonio and the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park. As one of the best-known tourist spots in all of Central America, this area has something to offer just about any kind of visitor. Following are a sampling of Manuel Antonio things to do.

One of the main reasons why so many people come to this area are the beaches that line the Pacific Ocean. They are scenic enough to simply while away hours doing nothing, but visitors who long for more active pursuits will find them to be an enticing playground as well.

Surfing is one of the most popular pastimes for foreigners in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio isn't known as a premier spot, but there are places to catch some waves for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Lessons and board rentals are available at many of the area beaches. Other ocean-based activities that one can enjoy include snorkeling, scuba diving, ocean kayaking, sportfishing and catamaran tours.

One need not be at the beach to enjoy water-based activities. Whitewater rafting can be a thrilling way to spend some time, while a mangrove kayak tour is a more relaxed alternative.

The sun and sand of the beaches and the lush greenery of the nearby tropical rainforest makes for a splendid combination and is part of the attraction of this region. With an impressive amount of biodiversity, the rainforest is a haven for birdwatchers as well as anyone who wishes to catch a glimpse of other wildlife such as snakes, sloths, iguanas and several types of monkeys. A guide can provide valuable information and may even help one to be more likely to spot such fauna.

Touring can be done on an ATV rather than on foot for those who prefer a faster way to get around and want to see some spots that may be difficult to reach by walking. Another faster and far-reaching but more mellow method is to go horseback riding, while a canopy tour gives one an opportunity to view the rainforest from above.

When the time comes to do some souvenir shopping, there is no shortage of places to visit. Shops abound selling a variety of items such as shirts, magnets, stuffed animals, books about the rainforest and handmade crafts.

No trip to a foreign country would be complete without enjoying the food that can be sampled. Being a tourist destination, there is a plethora of places to choose from, ranging from cafes and restaurants serving a variety of types of foreign dishes to local spots where one can sample more typical Tico fare.

Everyone has different desires when it comes to their holidays. No matter what these wants may be, there's a good chance that they can be filled amongst the many Manuel Antonio things to do.




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