Manuel Antonio is a popular resort district near beaches and coastal jungle, with buzzing malls, outdoor bars, and seafood restaurants geared toward vacationers. Tour operators offer water sports equipment and sailing excursions, plus treks and ATV drives through the adjoining national park. Greentique Wildlife Refuge encompasses a butterfly atrium and crocodile lagoon, with guided night walks into the forest. ― Google
Dry Season (December–April) – Best for beach days, hiking, and spotting wildlife in sunshine.
Green Season (May–November) – Rainy afternoons, but quieter and greener. Wildlife is still very active.
Peak travel time: Christmas, Easter, and July can be crowded — book ahead.
From San José (~3 hours):
By car: Scenic drive on Route 27 & 34 (Costanera Sur). Easy and popular route.
By shuttle: Shared or private, door-to-door options.
By bus: Daily service from San José to Quepos, then a short taxi/bus to Manuel Antonio.
By plane: Sansa flights from San José to Quepos Airport (~25 minutes), then 15-min taxi.
Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica’s most famous park, home to sloths, monkeys, iguanas, toucans, and pristine beaches.
Espadilla Beach (Playa Espadilla) – Popular public beach with surf, restaurants, and beach vendors.
Playa Manuel Antonio – Inside the park, stunning white-sand beach surrounded by jungle.
Playa Biesanz – Quieter cove with calm waters, perfect for kayaking and snorkeling.
Rainmaker Conservation Park – Less-visited trails and hanging bridges just outside town.
El Santuario Canopy Adventure – One of the longest ziplines in Central America.
Damas Island Mangroves – Explore by kayak or boat to spot crocodiles, birds, and monkeys.
Wildlife spotting – Sloths, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, coatis, iguanas, and exotic birds.
Hiking – Inside the national park or Rainmaker Reserve for jungle and waterfall trails.
Beach hopping – Spend time at different beaches for swimming, surfing, or relaxing.
Ziplining – Fly through the jungle canopy with stunning views.
Surfing or boogie boarding – Playa Espadilla offers great beginner waves.
Snorkeling or kayaking – Around Biesanz Beach or offshore boat tours.
Sunset sailing or catamaran tours – Great for dolphin watching and scenic relaxation.
Luxury:
Arenas del Mar, Makanda by the Sea, Gaia Hotel & Reserve, Hotel La Mariposa
Mid-range:
Hotel Costa Verde, Si Como No, Jungle Beach Hotel
Budget:
Millenium Hostels, Selina Manuel Antonio, Wide Mouth Frog Hostel
Eco-lodges & jungle stays available throughout the hills
Costa Rican staples:
Casado, gallo pinto, fresh fish, ceviche, patacones
Recommended spots:
El Avión – Iconic restaurant built around a crashed cargo plane
Emilio’s Café – Great for coffee, breakfast, and views
Cafe Agua Azul – Known for seafood and ocean views
Falafel Bar, Manuel Antonio Falafel, The Market Restaurant – Healthy and casual options
Beach bars and street vendors – Try local smoothies and empanadas
Manuel Antonio blends eco-tourism with a laid-back beach town vibe.
Locals (Ticos) are friendly and accustomed to international visitors.
Strong environmental focus — most guides and businesses promote sustainable tourism.
Quepos (nearby town) is more local and budget-friendly with authentic eateries and markets.
National Park is closed Tuesdays – Plan accordingly.
Buy park tickets online in advance (SINAC website, or on-site if not full).
Hire a local guide for the park — you'll spot far more wildlife.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray — and don’t feed the animals!
Start park hikes early (7–8 AM) for cooler temps and more active animals.
Avoid leaving items on the beach unattended — monkeys and raccoons are known thieves!
4WD not essential but helpful if your hotel is on a steep hill.