Parrita rarely makes the classic Costa Rica itineraries, and that is exactly its charm. Between Jacó and Quepos, on the central Pacific coast, this small town lives to the rhythm of palm plantations, mangroves and an immense beach: Playa Palo Seco, twelve kilometres of sand where you meet more herons than people. This is where you will find Beso del Viento.
From the hotel, most of the region’s best-known sights are an easy day trip away, with no need to change rooms every other night. Here are the eight experiences we recommend most often to our guests, from the famous to the little-known.
Manuel Antonio National Park, 40 minutes away
It is the country’s most famous national park, and it lives up to its reputation: rainforest running down to white-sand coves, with capuchin monkeys, sloths and iguanas. Allow about 40 minutes’ drive from the hotel.
Good to know. Visitor numbers are limited and tickets must be bought online, in advance. The park also closes one day a week, so check before you go. Arrive at opening time, when wildlife is most active and the trails are quietest. A naturalist guide with a spotting scope makes all the difference for finding sloths.
A mangrove boat tour, starting right next to the hotel
Behind the beach, the mangrove forms a maze of channels where fresh water meets the ocean. By boat, with a local guide, you glide between the mangrove roots looking for crocodiles dozing on sandbanks, herons, kingfishers and monkeys venturing down to the water’s edge.
It is the easiest excursion to organise from Beso del Viento: the boats leave from close by, and half a day is enough. Go in the morning or late afternoon, for the light as much as for the wildlife.
Carara and its scarlet macaws
Carara National Park sits in a transition zone between dry and humid forest, which explains its exceptional biodiversity. It is one of the best places in the country to see scarlet macaws, which you often hear before you see them fly past in pairs, in a flash of red and blue.
Carara lies on the road from San José to Parrita, making it a perfect stop on your arrival or departure day. Right next to it, the bridge over the Tárcoles River gives a bird’s-eye view of some impressive crocodiles.
Private reserves: hanging bridges and waterfalls
To walk through the rainforest away from the crowds, the region’s private reserves are a lovely alternative. Rainmaker, close to Parrita, is known for its hanging bridges in the canopy, its waterfalls and natural pools. Rainforest offers well-kept trails through lush vegetation.
Bring shoes with a good grip and a swimsuit: a dip in a freshwater pool after the climb is part of the pleasure.
La Cangreja: primary forest without the crowds
Still little known to travellers, La Cangreja National Park protects primary forest crossed by trails leading to waterfalls. It is the choice for those who prefer birdsong to tour groups, and who enjoy a good walk.
Marino Ballena and the humpback whales
Further south, about an hour and a half’s drive away, Marino Ballena National Park is famous for its whale-tail-shaped sandbar, visible at low tide. In season, humpback whales come here to breed, and boat trips let you watch mothers with their calves.
Plan a full day, and read our article on the Pacific coast climate, season by season to find the best months.
Sport fishing, rafting, zip-lining: for thrill seekers
- Sport fishing from the Quepos marina, renowned for it: sailfish, marlin and mahi-mahi depending on the season.
- Rafting on the region’s rivers, between rapids and calm stretches, with local guides.
- Zip-lining, to fly over the canopy from one platform to the next.
- Diving, quad biking or horse riding, arranged to suit you.
Or simply: the beach, the pool and the sunset
It would be a shame to leave without spending at least one day doing nothing at all. Playa Palo Seco is made for long walks at low tide, feet in the water, with only seabirds for company. In the afternoon, the pool and a good book are all you need. And every evening, the sun sets over the Pacific, straight ahead.
Our tips for planning your days
- Start early. Wildlife is more active in the morning, the heat is gentler and the sites are quieter.
- Alternate. A day out, a day of rest: that is the rhythm of a great stay.
- Book what is limited. Manuel Antonio tickets, boat trips and guides should be booked ahead, especially in high season.
- Ask us. Elisabeth and Bernard know the region well and will help you put together a programme that suits you, depending on the season and your wishes.
Find all the parks and activities on our Your holiday page, and discover our rooms to choose your base.
