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Curú National Wildlife Refuge: The mere 84 ha. of this coastal refuge are effectively enlarged by being part of the 1,214 ha. farm that surrounds the reserve and protects much more forested habitat than the typical farm/ranch found in the region. The ecological-mindedness of the Shutz family, the farm's proprietors, has maintained natural habitat along the ridges, rivercourses, and beach areas in the refuge and the farm. Several trails traverse the area and permit good wildlife viewing opportunities.
White-throated Capuchin Monkeys tend to be quite easily seen in the refuge, as are White-nosed Coatis, Variegated Squirrels, Nine-banded Armadillos, and White-tailed Deer. The bird life is representative of the tropical dry forest and includes Black-headed Trogons, Turquoise-browed Motmots, Rose-throated Becards, Thicket Tinamous, Lesser Ground-Cuckoos, and Canivet's Emeralds.
Additionally, an area of mangrove swamp and three picturesque beaches are part of the refuge. The largest beach, Curú Beach, is an excellent swimming beach with very little wave action. The crystalline waters off the other two beaches, Poza Colorada and Quesera, offer good snorkeling around some coral formations. On top of Quesera Point a large shell midden can be seen that is evidence of pre-Columbian habitation of this easterly end of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Getting there: From Puntarenas, take the Paquera ferry (lancha) across the gulf. The entrance to the farm is 5 km. south of Paquera, and from the farm gate (first one on your left after leaving Paquera) to the refuge is another 1.5 km. Phone: 661-2392.
Fishing: Although located on the Pacific coast, this area is not known as one of the deep-sea fishing hot spots, perhaps because it is too far into the Gulf of Nicoya or because of overfishing by the regional fishermen(?).
Climate: Hot and sunny mornings are the norm throughout the year. Afternoon showers are a possibility from May through November.
History: The desire of the late Federico Shutz and his family to spare this beautiful beach area from development and overharvesting of its marine resources, led to the creation of the Curú National Wildlife Refuge in 1983.
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