Marino Ballena National Marine Park is one of the most unique natural reserves in all of Costa Rica. Just a 5 minute ride from El Paraiso, along the Central Pacific coast in South Puntarenas, the park protects more than 13,000 acres of ocean and 9 miles of coastline. Beyond the infamous "Whale's Tail" natural beach formation, you will find unspoiled mangrove forests, coral reefs and further stretches of beach in either direction. This national park is one for travelers who want to view fragile wildlife while escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The whale watching and mangrove tours depart from here, and tickets purchased include a full day pass for the National Marine Park. There are parking lots and restaurants along the entrance road as well. 

Head out for a horseback ride, hike or cowboy experience through this family-run ranch and National Wildlife Refuge. Rancho La Merced preserves 506 hectares of primary and secondary wet forest, along with pastures mangroves and beach located on the Pacific Coast near Ballena Marine National Park. You can hike on the reserve’s trails to admire the tropical rainforest and mangroves, ride horses down the beach and learn about the ranchers way of life, while supporting them in their mission to protect their land and nature.

If you are looking for a one of a kind experience in Costa Rica, then the Cascada Verde Waterfall is for you. Located just minutes from El Paraiso there is a unique opportunity to take a ride down a waterfall, or cliff dive, if you dare! You will enjoy a walk through the jungle on a cleared path, under the shade of the jungle canopy to the Falls. there are several natural pools in the stone formations to enjoy along the way. On your way back to El Paraiso, if you make a left at the fork at the base of the mountain, you can also enjoy a shaded walk along the river through a dense bamboo forest.

Some beaches are for sunbathing and swimming, and some are for sailing and other watersports. Dominical is for surfing. In fact, it’s world-renowned, drawing surfers from all over the globe to this small village 20 minutes to the north of El Paraiso on Highway 34. Waves can grow to 10 feet off the shore of Dominical, tall enough to please even hard-core thrill-seekers. In addition, many local artisans, several restaurants and small shops line the beach. Nightlife in Dominical is active as well.

Playa Hermosa is a ten minute ride, just north of El Paraiso on the Costanera (34).

We HIGHLY recommend Playa Hermosa for swimming, for one great reason: LIFEGUARDS! The rip tides, particularly during rainy season, can be a force to be reckoned with. In addition to having eyes on you while you are in the water, there is a small concession stand, and a local artisan or two. Showers are available for a small fee.

Playa Ventanas is one of the most beautiful, secluded, and wonderful beaches in all of Costa Rica. The best news is that is only 25 minutes from El Paraiso, directly south on the Costanera  Rt. 34)...Playa Ventanas is one of the most popular destinations for our guests. Simply bring a towel, a snack and enjoy the unspoiled beach, magnificent cave formations and stunning view of the mountains and jungle. It is STRONGLY suggested that you do NOT enter the caves, regardless of the tide levels. There is a nominal parking fee, and 4WD is suggested, as you will cross a small tributary on the way in. 

The unspoiled jungle of Southern Costa Rica contains some of the most pristine and incredible natural attractions, and the Cascada El Pavon is one of them. Cascada El Pavon in Ojochal is well known for the massive boulder stuck right in the middle of the waterfall. Looking for a photo op? You have come to the right place.

Nauyaca Waterfall is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Costa Rica. You can walk in, travel in by horseback, or ride in the back of a pickup truck, (for an additional fee.)

Located an hour south of El Paraiso, The Sierpe Mangrove Boat Tour is ideal for all ages and nature lovers. This is also one of the most highly acclaimed tours by our guests. This is a low speed, comfortable boat ride through the mangroves. Quietly cruising channels and waterways, visitors can spot a great variety of wildlife; toucans, parrots, herons, egrets, sloths, jacanas, snakes, crocodiles, fruit bats, white-faced capuchin, squirrel and howler monkeys. 

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, sick and orphaned wildlife here in Costa Rica. Thier ultimate objective is to assist in the recovery and release of native wildlife. They also provide lifetime care to those that cannot return to the wild, and have a well-equipped veterinary clinic with a qualified and experienced veterinary team to provide high quality veterinary treatment to all animals. Tours are available.

Manuel Antonio National Park is located in Quepos, an hour north of El Paraiso. The park's wildlife includes monkeys, sloths, birds, reptiles and butterflies. It is best to visit the Park early on weekdays, to avoid the crowds. Tour guides are not required, but they are readily available. You will experience the lush rainforest, and enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches at the top of the park. Please note that the first parking attendants you will encounter are dressed in what looks to be issued uniforms. They will have whistles and try to get you to park in the upper lots. These lots are far from the park entrance. Just wave at them and continue down the hill. Follow the road and you will find available parking close to the entrance. You will walk along a cyclone fence to the main street and the Park entrance. To purchase tickets, make a left and head up the street to the bank, where the tickets are issued.