Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem

Home to Costa Rica's Most Beautiful Beaches!

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Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is one of our top recommended destinations a great location to experience the best rainforests, white sand beaches and adventure activities that Costa Rica has to offer. About 4 hours away from the capital, San Jose, it is located on the Central Pacific Coast and home to the fantastic Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio is a magical combination of rainforest, beaches, hills, and coral reefs, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the world and one of the most visited in Costa Rica. Whether you want to relax on white sandy beaches or trek through the jungles looking for wildlife, Manuel Antonio is sure to please all types of travelers.

Highlights of Beaches in Manuel Antonio

Flora and Fauna 

villas nicolas manuel antonioDespite being one of the smaller national parks in Costa Rica, there are still 184 species of birds and 109 species of mammals within the park and almost 80 species of fish in the surrounding water. The diversity of rainforest plants and animals you will find walking through the Manuel Antonio national park is unparalleled anywhere else in Costa Rica.

Quepos

Quepos Costa RicaQuepos is in the Northern part of Puntarenas and it’s most famous for big-game sport fishing. It’s a great place for both novice and expert anglers. Popular fish you can catch off the coast include big eye tuna, marlin, snapper, wahoo and yellow fin. Quepos is also popular because it is located so close Manuel Antonio, meaning you’re only minutes away from some of the best wildlife in Costa Rica!

Canopy Tours 

Manuel Antonio Canopy for kids Costa RicaFly through Manuel Antonio National Park on some of the best ziplining tours in the world! You’ll hike up to the cables with  with certified bilingual guides who will help you have a safe and amazing time. Enjoy the view of native Costa Rican trees and the Pacific ocean while you glide through the rainforest.

Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding Manuel Antonio MountainTour the rainforest on horseback for a truly unique experience! Tours are available for children as young as five and can last half or full days. You can ride through the forest while you watch for monkeys, sloths and toucans and then end your tour with a swim under thundering waterfalls!

Wildlife Tours 

Manuel Antonio National Park SlothManuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife. Hire a guide to help you spot monkeys, birds, sloths, iguanas, and more. The guides know the best places to find hiding animals and use special telescopes to see up into the trees. Don’t forget your camera!

White Water Rafting

White water raftingJust 30 minutes to an hour away from Manuel Antonio and Quepos you’ll find excellent white water rafting. A rafting trip can include both hiking and rafting and last a half or full day. Manuel Antonio visitors will get their blood pumping on the adventurous rapids while they see Costa Rica’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

Beaches

Manuel Antonio BeachThere are five fantastic beaches to visit in Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla, Playa Manuel Antonio, Playa Gemelas, Puerto Escondido and Playa Biesanz. All of the beaches offer various activities including swimming, surfing and scuba diving. Make sure to pack your sunscreen because these stunning beaches are incredibly sunny.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving Manuel AntonioDiscover the aquatic life off the coast with a private or public tours, or with a catamaran tour that includes a stop for snorkeling and a chance to see the beautiful Costa Rican sunset on the sea. You can also dive down to 60 feet below the surface with an expert guide and discover a mesmerizing world of marine life. Manuel Antonio is a great place to see a huge variety of marine life, including Starfish, Sea Turtles, and White Tip Reef Sharks. Whale watching is another popular option.

Surfing

Surfing LessonDon’t forget to plan a morning or afternoon for surfing on the Manuel Antonio beaches. The gentle but regular waves are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers looking to practice their new skills. There are also surf schools and surfing lessons available for those just starting out. Plan your vacation between May and November for the best breaks.

Catamaran Tours 

Catamaran Manuel AntonioCatamaran tours are a great way to tour Manuel Antonio waters! You’ll ride the waves while you look for dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Then you will get the chance  to snorkel, paddle board or swim in the sparkling water. Many offer a traditional lunch on the boat and tropical cocktails, which you can enjoy while you soak up the sun with your family and friends.

Parasailing

Parasailing Costa Rica Manuel Antonio Rocks

Are you ready to see Manuel Antonio from 600 feet above? Parasailing lets you get a bird’s eye view of the Beaches in Manuel Antonio and National Park and it is an experience you won’t want to miss. Some parasailing tours also come with 30-60 minutes of jet ski time as well.

Kids Saving the Rainforest

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary Helping the RainforestKids Saving the rainforest was founded by two 9 year olds on a mission to save the planet’s natural resources. Their serve as a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned wildlife and are also very well known for their reforestation projects. Visit them and help plant trees or maybe even sponsor a sloth!

Tips for Manuel Antonio Beach in Costa Rica

  • Get to the park early: Try to arrive by 7am. It is the best time to see the animals. Also avoid the crowds and the heat!
  • Find a licensed expert: Look for uniformed tour guides at the entrance of the park. Avoid paying tour guides who are not in uniform and outside of the park.
  • Beware of snakes: Sometimes snakes are mistaken for jungle vines. Hike with a licensed guide to see the wildlife from a safe and enjoyable distance.
  • Bring your camera: The tour guides have special telescopes to get a closer look at the wildlife and you can take pictures of the animals through the telescope.
  • Don’t use flash: The monkeys can sometimes react aggressively to flashing cameras. Follow the guides instructions at all times to have a great, safe, time.
  • Seal your food: Pack your food and belongings in tightly sealed bags. Monkeys, raccoons and iguanas are very curious on the beach and they know you have food! Don’t worry though, they are not aggressive, they’re just hoping you will share some snacks! That being said…
  • Don’t feed the animals: It is bad for them and only teaches them to rely on tourists for food.
  • Bring lots of water and sunscreen! The Costa Rica Manuel Antonio beach is stunning and SUNNY. Stay hydrated and covered in sunscreen to have a relaxed, incredible vacation, free of dehydration or sunburn.

Getting There

sansa airline airportClosest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)

Getting to Manuel Antonio is easier than ever. For the fastest and most convenient transportation, rent a car right from the airport upon your arrival. You will drive through Quepos to get to the national park. There are also shuttle services available from San Jose or Guanacaste. Private transfers are a little more expensive, from $200-$300, but won’t have to make extra stops. Shared shuttles, however, are more affordable from $50-$100. Finally, you can fly there. You can use Sansa Air to fly to Quepos from San Jose. The flight costs about $75 dollars and takes approximately 10 minutes. 

Staying in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio HotelsThere are many hotels in Manuel Antonio to choose from, so you are sure to find the perfect accommodations for a visit to this beautiful area. They range from the super luxurious like Arenas del Mar, to vacation rentals like Tulemar Resort, to the Mid-Range Hotels like Hotel Costa Verde, the Falls Resort, the Hotel Karahe Manuel Antonio. They all offer excellent service, views and food. Enjoy the sounds of the white-faced capuchin monkeys from your king size bed or private balconies!

Dining

Los Altos Resort Manuel Antonio RestaurantManuel Antonio has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. It is also home to the notorious El Avion. An old Fairchild C-123 airplane was refurbished and turned into one of the coolest bars and restaurants in Manuel Antonio. Also visit the Shana Restaurant Lounge Pool Bar for high-end Italian food, the Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar for Mediterranean food or El Mirador for fantastic Costa Rican food like the traditional casado and gallo pinto, all served with a beautiful view. 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

    • 1. What are the best activities to do in Costa Rica Manuel Antonio beach?

      Top activities include exploring Manuel Antonio National Park, ziplining, horseback riding, white-water rafting, parasailing, surfing, snorkeling, and taking catamaran tours to see dolphins and whales.
    • 2. What wildlife can I expect to see in Manuel Antonio National Park?

      Visitors can spot capuchin monkeys, sloths, toucans, iguanas, and over 184 bird species. The park also has a diverse marine life, including sea turtles and reef fish.
    • 3. What is the best time to visit Beaches in Manuel Antonio?

      While Manuel Antonio is great year-round, the dry season (December to April) offers sunny days and clear skies, ideal for beach and outdoor activities. For fewer crowds and lush greenery, visit during the rainy season (May to November).
    • 4. Are there family-friendly activities at Beaches in Manuel Antonio?

      Yes, activities like wildlife tours, horseback riding, and canopy tours are great for families. Many tours cater to children, and attractions like Kids Saving the Rainforest provide educational experiences.
    • 5. What are the accommodation options in Beaches in Manuel Antonio?

      Options range from luxury resorts like Arenas del Mar to mid-range hotels like Hotel Costa Verde and budget-friendly stays like Plaza Yara. Vacation rentals like Tulemar Resort are also available.
    • 6. What dining options are available in Manuel Antonio?

      The area offers diverse dining experiences, including El Avion, an iconic airplane-turned-restaurant, and other spots serving Costa Rican, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine. Fresh seafood and local dishes like casado are popular choices.

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem - Get Info

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem Map

Manuel Antonio is located 4 hours from San Jose on the Central Pacific Coast. It is easily accessible by rental car, private transfer or plane!

Click to Enlarge Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem Map

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem Vacation Packages

Get the best of what Manuel Antonio has to offer with any of our vacation packages. 

Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Luxury Family Getaway with Hacienda AltaGracia

Luxury Family Getaway with Hacienda AltaGracia

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

Caribbean Dream with Manuel Antonio

12
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Caribbean Dream Extended Stay

Caribbean Dream Extended Stay

16
SJO
Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

Best of Costa Rica with Peace Lodge (4 Star)

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Perfect Combination with Corcovado

Perfect Combination with Corcovado

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Coast to Coast

Coast to Coast

SJO
Extended Stay

Extended Stay

13
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Nature & Wildlife in Costa Rica!

Nature & Wildlife in Costa Rica!

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

Coast to Coast with Puerto Viejo

12
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Complete Costa Rica Extended

Complete Costa Rica Extended

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Birding in Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

Birding in Costa Rica’s Top Three Destinations

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

Costa Rica’s Seventh Heaven

7
SJO
$1000-$1500 p.p.
Pacific & Caribbean Combo

Pacific & Caribbean Combo

10
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Highlights

Extended Costa Rica Highlights

20
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Best of Costa Rica

Best of Costa Rica

7
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Extended Costa Rica Southern Package

Extended Costa Rica Southern Package

SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Costa Ballena Exploration

Costa Ballena Exploration

9
SJO
More than $2000 p.p.
Two Oceans & A Volcano

Two Oceans & A Volcano

$1000-$1500 p.p.
Where the Wild Things Are

Where the Wild Things Are

7
SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Escape to Nature

Escape to Nature

SJO
$1500-$2000 p.p.
Luxury Getaway

Luxury Getaway

7
SJO
Less than $1000 p.p.

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem Hotels

Enjoy great service, delicious food and world-class service at the hotels in Manuel Antonio. 

La Mansion Inn

La Mansion Inn

5
2
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Si Como No

Hotel Si Como No

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel El Parador

Hotel El Parador

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Gaia Hotel and Reserve

Gaia Hotel and Reserve

5
4
From: $200 - $300
Hotel San Bada

Hotel San Bada

4
5
From: $200 - $300
Arenas Del Mar

Arenas Del Mar

5
5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel La Mariposa

Hotel La Mariposa

4
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Costa Verde

Hotel Costa Verde

3
2
From: $125 - $200
Hotel Playa Espadilla

Hotel Playa Espadilla

3
3
From: $125 - $200
Espadilla Gardens

Espadilla Gardens

3
From: $200 - $300
Makanda by the Sea

Makanda by the Sea

5
From: Over $300
Santa Juana Lodge

Santa Juana Lodge

3
5
From: $125 - $200
Tulemar Resort

Tulemar Resort

5
From: $200 - $300
Hotel Shana

Hotel Shana

5
From: $200 - $300
Plaza Yara

Plaza Yara

3
From: Under $125
Hotel Karahe

Hotel Karahe

3
From: $125 - $200

Beaches in Manuel Antonio: Paradise Found in Costa Rica’s Coastal Gem Tours

See some of the most diverse wildlife in the world on a guided tour through the Manuel Antonio National Park! 

Parasailing Tour Costa Rica Adventure

Parasailing Tour Costa Rica Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Catamaran Adventure Tour with Planet Dolphin

Catamaran Adventure Tour with Planet Dolphin

Surf Lesson with MASS (Manuel Antonio Surf School and Camp)

Surf Lesson with MASS (Manuel Antonio Surf School and Camp)

Jungle Tubing Savegre River

Jungle Tubing Savegre River

From: Under $50
Manuel Antonio National Park tour with Tucanes Tours

Manuel Antonio National Park tour with Tucanes Tours

Savegre River White Water Rafting with Tucanes Tours

Savegre River White Water Rafting with Tucanes Tours

Horseback Riding Tour with Tucanes Tours

Horseback Riding Tour with Tucanes Tours

Damas Island Estuary Mangrove Tour with Tucanes Tours

Damas Island Estuary Mangrove Tour with Tucanes Tours

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour

From: $75 - $100
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling with Tucanes Tours

Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling with Tucanes Tours

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Horseback Riding in Mulguri with San Bada

Horseback Riding in Mulguri with San Bada

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour with Si Como No

Santa Juana Rural Mountain Adventure Tour with Si Como No

ATV Rainforest Adventure in Manuel Antonio

ATV Rainforest Adventure in Manuel Antonio

From: $75 - $100
Canopy Tour with Canopy Safari

Canopy Tour with Canopy Safari

Coast Jet Ski – Manuel Antonio Adventure

Coast Jet Ski – Manuel Antonio Adventure

From: Over $100
Canopy & ATV Tours at Safari Adventures

Canopy & ATV Tours at Safari Adventures

From: $50 - $75
Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with Expediciones Tropicales

Scuba Diving Tour Costa Rica Adventure

Scuba Diving Tour Costa Rica Adventure

From: $75 - $100
Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

From: Under $50
Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary

Kids Saving the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary

From: Under $50
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