Manuel Antonio National Park

 Manuel Antonio is the smallest national park in Costa Rica, but it is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. 

You'll definitely want to take a guided tour to help you spot the animals and insects. The guides not only know where to look, but they carry high-powered spotting scopes to zoom in on things you would never see on your own. The picture of the crown-nymphed hummingbird below is one such example.

We took a two-hour guided hike down the main trail in the park to the snack area where we were treated to fresh fruits and juices (and later saw a group of white-faced monkeys raiding the trash bins for leftovers). Note: The snack area is the only area in the park where food is available, and no outside food may be brought into the park.

There are two beaches at the park. Changing rooms and restrooms are available.

We spent 5-6 hours in the park, hiking several trails and enjoying the beach.