Damas Island Mangrove Estuary

Tip

Book a morning tour on a rising tide for the best wildlife, and bring insect repellent and a hat.

Be careful

Keep hands and feet inside the boat or kayak, because the channels hold crocodiles and caimans. Sun and insects are strong.

Getting there

Reachable only on a guided boat or kayak tour from the Damas Island dock; price varies by operator (roughly US$50–80).

Places nearby

• Rancho LeónFood & CoffeeRoadside rancho on the Costanera at Paquita, just north of Quepos, known for its ceviche and typical food; also rents rooms and hosts parties.
• Monkey Mangrove Tour ChinoParks & Wildlife · from $55Mangrove boat and kayak tours on the Damas estuary, where white-faced monkeys, caimans, iguanas and birds come close to the boat.
• Sabromar MarisqueríaFood & CoffeeCasual seafood restaurant by the water in Boca Vieja, Quepos, praised for fresh fish at reasonable prices: ceviche, seafood pasta in white sauce and octopus.
• Tiquicia DeliciasFood & CoffeeBusy Costa Rican restaurant in downtown Quepos near the bus station with big portions of local dishes, fresh fruit drinks and breakfasts.
• Catamaran Manuel AntonioSurf, Boats & DivingMorning and sunset catamaran cruises from Marina Pez Vela, with lunch or dinner, open drinks, a water slide and snorkeling gear on a four-hour trip along the Manuel Antonio coast.
• Sunset Sails ToursSurf, Boats & DivingCatamaran trips from Marina Pez Vela along the Manuel Antonio coast with snorkeling, swim stops, a meal and open bar; the sunset sail passes the cliffs at dusk.