Manzanillo Costa Rica: travel information and destination guide. This region of the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica remains one of the most pristine travel destinations in Costa Rica. It's located just south of Puerto Viejo. Manzanillo offers a distinctly different tourist flavor than its neighbor to the north. The little village is lovely. For those looking for a quiet and authentic cultural experience, Manzanillo is off-the-beaten-track and attracts far fewer travelers. The beaches are postcard perfect. They are sandy white and protected by a headland. One of the reasons to visit Manzanillo is for the beaches. These beautiful stretches of sand offer visitors lovely sunbathing, surfing and snorkeling.

One of the main travel attractions in Manzanillo is the National Refuge of Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo which was established by the locals.

National Refuge of Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo protects nearly 70% of the southern Caribbean coast and encompasses 5,013-hectares (12,400-acres) of land plus 4,436-hectares (11,000-acres) of sea.

One of the main travel attractions is the long stretch of beach with coral reef where one can find lobster, sea fans and long-spined urchins. The endangered manatee is also found in this reserve.

Mostly a rainforest, this refuge is filled with a variety of trees and vegetation. Many tropical birds are attracted to this reserve and the area is known for the raptor migration where millions of birds fly overhead in the fall.

This corner of Costa Rica is considered on of the most scenic spots in the country. There is no administration of the reserve at this time, which means little signage, no official park entrance and no entrance fee.

Manzanillo Costa Rica travel activities are as follows:

• Snorkeling in the living coral reefs where there are five different types of coral and 400 species of fish and crustaceans. Try Punta Mona or Manzanillo for snorkeling right near shore. Snorkel rental is available.
• Diving in the same area is also available with Aquamore Talamanca Adventures.
• Kayaking the wildlife refuge or padding on the reef with a local outfitter is possible.
• Sport fishing is offered by several outfitters and charters in town.
• Observing dolphins with a local guide where there are three species and one that was recently discovered in Costa Rica.
• Watching turtles, especially leather backs, green hawksbill and loggerheads which nest on the beach. From March to July, the leatherbacks nest. April and May is the peak season.
• Volunteering to collect nesting eggs is also possible through the Asociacion Nacional de Asuntos Indigenas.
• Touring the local reserve with a guide offers the opportunity to identify medicinal plants, exotic birds and animals. Treks last from four to five hours.

Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels

Manzanillo Costa Rica hotels are as follows:

• Near Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels — La Isla Inn is located in Playa Cocoles about 2-km (1 mi) south of Puerto Viejo. This charming family-owned hotel overlooking the beautiful sandy beach which has perfect breaks in December and March. There are a variety of rooms. Some are budget friendly while others are more luxurious and offer air conditining, cable tv, kitchenette and fridge. Budget rooms start at US$55. Apartments start at US$105/double.
• Near Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels — Totem Hotel is a beachfront resort in Playa Cocoles about 2-km (1 mi) south of Puerto Viejo. This is a 20-room hotel with private pool and ocean view. It's a charming hotel with palpa roof. Rates for standard rooms start at US$65/double.
• Near Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels — La Costa de Papito offers a variety of cabins with charming decor and mesquito netting. It's built on 5 acres of jungle and has a restaurant, bar, Inernet cafe, wireless Internet acces, gear rental, satellite tv, and pool table. Budget cabins start at US$60/double. Two bedroom bungalows start at US&90/double.
• Near Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels — Cariblue has bungalows and a house for rent. Cariblue is located in Playa Cocoles about 2-km (1 mi) south of Puerto Viejo. In a jungle location on the beach, these bungalows have air conditioning, Sky tv, safety deposit box, private bath. Rates start at US$110/double.
• Manzanillo Costa Rica Hotels — Almonds and Corals is located in the Gandocal Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. This hotel is beautifully appointed and offers charming bungalows with terrific amenities such as Jacuzzi tubs. There's a restaurant, bar and spa on site. The rates include breakfast, dinner and room. Rates start at US$300/double.