Fodor's Expert Review McBean Lagoon National Natural Park

This national park covers the coral reef off the east coast of the island, as well as the sheltered McBean Lagoon and the spiny forest and the mangroves around Iron Wood Hill. The mangroves can be explored on foot, or from a kayak down Oyster Creek. The park's biggest (and busiest) attraction is Crab Cay (Cayo Cangrejo), lying less than a mile off the coast at Maracaibo. Rent kayaks near Deep Blue hotel to paddle out (or swim) to the islet, where there is usually good snorkeling; if you still have energy, climb to the top of the cay for one of the best vistas in La Providencia of the multicolored sea. Wherever you choose to enter the reserve you will have to pay the entry fee. A visit to Crab Cay is also often included on full-day snorkeling tours.