[2] Most of the park is underwater[3] and it mainly protects marine ecosystems, including coral reefs[4] living on depths ranging from one to 30 meters.

[6] It was established in 1977 to protect the coral reef on one of the islands in the Islas del Rosario archipelago, originally extending 178 km2 (69 sq mi).

[7] The park is molded by the Caribbean and Panama currents, as well as freshwater from the Canal del Dique.

[8] Sediments brought from Magdalena River by the channel is having a negative effect of the park, as it deteriorates the reef.

[3] The park is home to 170 species of fish,[5] 52 corals, 25 sponges, hundreds of molluscs and crustaceans.