An evening paddle in one of our bays can take your breath away, especially when there is a new moon, during one of the seasonal upwellings in the Golfo de Papagayo. This is when plankton blooms occur and nature’s most delicate creatures—millions and millions of them—drift with the current just beneath the surface, performing an unforgettable underwater ballet known as bioluminescence.
Few experiences are more magical than touring the mangroves of Palmares—one of the jewels of the peninsula. Venture into this natural sanctuary, and explore a unique ecosystem of eerie “walking trees” able to survive (and thrive) in salty fresh water, creating a rich refuge for wildlife. Take a relaxing paddle through the mangroves in an outrigger canoe or, for a more strenuous workout, hop on one of our water bikes.
Peninsula Papagayo’s mangroves, estuaries and centuries-old seasonal forest is a wonderland for mountain biking. Choose from an exciting new collection of Santa Cruz mountain and cross-country bikes, plus new electric-assist off-road bikes by Haibike, both of which boast full-suspension. Escape the confines of pavement, connect with nature and journey out for the ride of your life!
Immerse in this world apart while exploring the turquoise waters of our surrounding bays in a traditional Hawaiian style canoe. Get inspired with the energy of your own body as you perfect your stroke, build endurance and experience the wonders of marine life along the peninsula’s dramatic coastline.
For bird lovers, the study of nature is one of the most fascinating adventures in the world. Join our resident naturalist with binoculars and telescope at the ready to see some of the 100-plus bird species that call the peninsula home—including trogons, the tiger heron, the black hawk, the laughing falcon, the turquoise-browed motmot, the manakin, the lineated woodpecker and the scissor-tail. It’s a wonderful opportunity to practice wildlife photography and have fun exploring the aviary world of Peninsula Papagayo.