Manuel Antonio National Park (683 hectares) is Costa Rica's most famous national park and one of its most visited. It comprises a small, forested area, heavily populated by monkeys and raccoons, and three exceptionally beautiful beaches. It is one of the few remaining areas in which the squirrel monkey is found. Trails pass through secondary forest and primary forest, dominated by bastard cedar and balsa and mangrove swamps. The beaches are fringed with coconut palm, as befits a tropical paradise. A tombolo makes a footbridge, connecting the mainland to what used to be an island, Punta Cathedral. Unfortunately there is no bridge across the river that has to be crossed to reach the park entrance and visitors arriving at high tide will have to wade through chest high water. Camping and accommodation are available within walking distance of the park. Distance from San Jose: 275 kms.