The Manuel Antonio National Park was established as a nature reserve in 1972, encompassing 1,700 acres of rainforest and 136,000 acres of protected marine habitat. It features the most recognized natural landmark in Costa Rica, a striking geological formation called a "tómbolo." Originally a towering island, the tómbolo became joined to the mainland over millennia by the formation of a sandy isthmus, creating the unmistakable profile of a majestic cathedral-shaped peninsula. The summit, Punta Catederal, offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastal region and symbolizes the natural beauty of both the national park and Costa Rica. Wildlife abounds throughout Manuel Antonio, a community keenly intent on preserving the local natural habitat. Visitors are frequently delighted to encounter white-nosed coati mundi, iguanas, agoutis, three-toed sloths (with baby on board), as well as white-faced capuchin, squirrel, and the vociferous Congo monkeys. Colorful birds such as the chestnut-mandibled toucan, fiery-billed acari, orange-fronted parakeet, snowy egret, red-lored parrot, Cherrie's Tanager, and green kingfishers can also be seen throughout the day. The Carara Natural Reserve, located 20 miles northwest along the coast, offers nature trails winding through ancient dense forests that resonate with the unmistakable call of the Scarlet Macaw. The Akira Reserve overlooks the west end of a mile-long expanse of sandy beach comprising Playa Espadilla. Regarded as one of the country's finest beaches, it curves gently southeastward along the Pacific coast. Walking barefoot through the warm surf on coffee colored sand at noon or under a full moon, you reach the sheltered bay entrance of the Manuel Antonio National Park at the extreme opposite end. As the quintessential quiet beach setting, Playa Espadilla is perfect for sunbathing, walking, and swimming, especially in early mornings or evenings when the light plays off the water to accent the brilliant greens and yellow hues of the tree-laden coastline. Because there are several uninterrupted natural jungle corridors along Playa Espadilla, every type of bird, butterfly, and animal found in the national park is also found throughout the jungle surrounding the Akira Reserve. The warm Pacific Ocean waters provide an ideal setting for excellent annual sport fishing tournaments in Quepos. You can enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, coastal sea kayaking, sailing, and some of the finest surfing in the Western hemisphere throughout the year. Golf at Marriott's Los Sueños Resort and Marina, 45 minutes to the north, is available on one of the country's newest and most spectacular courses. The new 200-berth Pez Vela marina will soon serve the local community, complementing access provided by the regional airport located 10 minutes from the Akira Reserve. The surrounding jungle and region host adventure hiking, birding, river rafting, challenging mountain biking, horseback riding, and perhaps one of the most unique experiences anywhere: the rainforest canopy tour. Contact us now to learn more about home ownership in this tropical paradise.