Manzanillo - Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge

(Local Name: Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo) This refuge extends southeast to the Panamanian border and lies on the coast around the Manzanillo village. One of Costa Rica's two living coral reefs is found here, approximately 200m/656ft offshore. The refuge protects 5,013ha/12,382ac of land and 4,436ha/10,957ac of adjacent sea.

A variety of habitats are protected in this refuge, including rainforest and the only red mangrove swamp found in Costa Rica. Hiking trails lead to beaches lined with coconut palms and are separated by rocky headlands. South of Punta Mona is an interesting 400ha/988ac swamp containing sajo trees and holio palms.

Atlantic tarpon spawn in the