This region borders the southern section of Guanacaste and has a similar warm, dry climate. It includes the Peninsula of Nicoya which is also known for its beautiful beaches such as Santa Teresa, Malpais, and Montezuma.  A rare tract of tropical dry forest is on the southern tip of the peninsula at the Cabo Blanco Preserve. There are several islands in the Gulf of Nicoya that serve as variously as wildlife refuges, home to small island communities, and one serves as a day trip destination for small cruise tours. Carrara National Park and the Tarcoles River are two popular destinations to see wildlife and especially Scarlet Macaws.