Isla del Caņo, Biological Reserve, Costa Rica
Isla del Caņo consists of approximately 200 hectares (500 acres) and lies 15 kilometers offshore.
It was taken over by the Costa Rican government and declared a Biological Reserve in 1976, just before the last private owner was going to level the top of the island for an airstrip and construct a casino. It restores your faith in governments doesn't it?
Before it nearly became a Latin Las Vegas the island was used for other less primitive activities.
Pre-Columbian people crossed the open ocean in small boats to make a religious site. Pottery dating from 200-800 A.D. has been found, as have several perfect stone spheres. It may have been a trading post during the Middle Ages. More recently, it is rumored that Sir Francis Drake left some of his gold treasure here. Today the island is an oasis of calm and beauty and well worth your visit.
The waters at Isla del Caņo are also filled with treasure. As a diving site the island is fantastic.
However, if you prefer snorkeling, you will not be disappointed. The blue water is home to many tropical Pacific reef fish.
Just a few meters from the white sand beach you will find creatures ranging from angelfish to the occasional small reef shark.
This tour lasts all day and includes a picnic lunch and snorkeling equipment.