Costa Rica's Central
Pacific coast is a tropical playground, year-round. Its evergreen
forests and sandy beaches provide a unique setting.
The Central Pacific
region is a distinct geographical region, a thin, virtually ruler-straight
coastal plain narrowing to the southeast and backed by steep sided
mountains. The coastal is lined by long gray-sand beaches.
There are marked wet and dry seasons
along the Pacific coast. The rain season is from May to November
and then the dry season start on December for the following months.
The region is a
transition zone between the tropical dry forest of the north pacific
and the wet forests of the nearby south pacific coast. Temperatures
average about 30 C (86 F) in dry season (Dec-Apr), slightly lower
in rain season. Despite the fact that the region's protected
areas are among the smallest in the country, they are vibrant habitats
alive with an amazing variety of flora and fauna. These pristine
green zones provide sanctuary for many endangered species. The two
most well - know areas, Carara Biological Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park, are readily accessible natural
laboratories that nature lovers will enjoy immensely.
There is a lot to
do along this part of Costa Rica's Pacific Coast, and not all of
it has to do with beaches and water. The rivers and mountains
behind the beaches hold a wealth of activities for the adventurous
traveler.
Major attractions: Beaches (Herradura, Jacó, Punta Leona, Tambor, Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas
and much more), Carara
Biological Reserve, Iguana Park, Canopy Tour, Manuel Antonio National Park
Activities available: Surfing, Hiking, Bird watching, Horseback riding, Pacific Island
Cruises, Rafting, Sport fishing, Snorkeling, Kayaking & boat
tours, jet skiing, parasailing. |