First and foremost, Costa Rica is not your typical beach destination, but the Pacific Beaches are undeniably beautiful. The sandy shores thread the coastline for over 800 miles, attracting surfers and nature lovers alike. Halfway between the Nicoya and Osa peninsulas, Manuel Antonio National Park is the smallest reserve in Costa Rica but also the most visited, due to its tropical forests and creamy white beaches. There are a number of endangered species here, so if you’re eager to spot spider monkey, howler monkey, sloth, iguana, armadillo or scarlet macaw this national park may suit you.