Playa Manzanillo, Caribbean beach in Cahuita, Costa Rica
Playa Manzanillo is a sandy beach along the Caribbean coast featuring shallow waters and coral reefs just offshore. Dense tropical vegetation borders the shoreline, extending almost to the water's edge.
The area became part of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge in 1985 to protect coral reefs and sea turtle nesting grounds. This protection status has shaped conservation efforts along the coast ever since.
The beach serves as a nesting site for sea turtles, which return each year to lay their eggs in the sand. This natural cycle has shaped how locals view and protect this stretch of coast.
Water clarity is best and seas are calmest from February to April, making this the ideal time for snorkeling and swimming. Bring water shoes since the seafloor is rocky in certain spots.
At low tide, the offshore reef creates a natural pool with calm, warm waters perfect for easy snorkeling. This shallow area refills as the tide rises, maintaining the reef's ecological balance.
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