The refuge protects coastal and forest habitats in the southern Caribbean. Choose an authorized visitor route, follow current local guidance and observe animals from a distance.
Quepos
Quepos brings everyday coastal life into a visit to the Central Pacific. Walk a public waterfront, discover market ingredients and notice the boats that connect the town with the sea. Nearby Manuel Antonio and separate forest or mangrove outings add different ways to explore.
Puntarenas — City
Puntarenas city invites families to slow down beside the Gulf of Nicoya. Explore its public waterfront, notice the working port from permitted spaces and discover local stories through food, architecture and marine learning.
Playas del Coco
Playas del Coco brings a coastal town and a Pacific bay together. Discover everyday life along the waterfront, notice the boats and birds, and ask how the sea connects with the community around it.
Monteverde
Monteverde invites families to look into the layers of a living forest. Mist, leaves and bird calls create a different rhythm from the coast, while nearby Santa Elena provides a base for learning about the area’s communities and conservation.
Damas Mangrove Outing
A separate guided excursion near Quepos introduces tidal channels and mangrove roots around Damas. Departure times and routes depend on the tide. Confirm the meeting point, flotation equipment and suitability for your group, and avoid touching or feeding wildlife.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Forest paths, coastal views and beaches meet in this protected area. Plan admission through SINAC and follow current entry instructions. Choose open routes suited to your group and let wildlife remain wild: watch quietly without feeding or approaching animals.
Parque Marino del Pacífico
The marine park provides a setting for learning about Pacific marine life in the city. Check its current visitor program and access directly before going. Follow staff guidance and use the visit to ask questions about ocean conservation.
Curi-Cancha Reserve
This private reserve offers forest and more open habitat for guided observation or permitted walks. Ask about current routes and choose an outing for your family’s abilities. Watch birds and other wildlife from a respectful distance.
City Nature in San José
Parks, trees and green public spaces help make nature visible within the capital. Choose one leaf shape or bird call to investigate together. Observe without collecting, feeding animals or entering planted areas.