Manuel Antonio: Tropical Beauty, Wildlife, and World-Class Snorkelling
Manuel Antonio National Park may be one of Costa Rica’s smallest, but it’s also one of the most stunning. Encompassing miles of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant jungle forests, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Home to 109 mammal species, including the endangered red-backed squirrel monkey, and hundreds of bird species, like toucans, kingfishers, and macaws, it’s a wildlife haven.
Manuel Antonio’s beaches are just as impressive. Playa Espadrilla, near the park entrance, is perfect for a post-hike rest, while Playa Biesanz and Playa La Mancha offer quieter, more secluded escapes.
Adventure seekers will love Manuel Antonio, where outdoor pursuits like rappelling down jungle waterfalls, ocean kayaking, horseback riding, and zip-lining through rainforests await. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply seeking to unwind, this destination offers it all.
Why Visit Manuel Antonio?
Easily accessible from other parts of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is perfect for families, friends, and solo travellers looking for a mix of beach relaxation, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventures. With luxury eco-resorts nearby, it’s an ideal place to experience nature without sacrificing comfort. Hikes are easy to manage, making it suitable for all ages.
Costa Rica
- 6 hours
Costa Rican colón (CRC (US Dollars accepted)
Scenic Hiking Trails
When is the best time to go to Manuel Antonio?
About Manuel Antonio and surrounding areas
Things to do in Manuel Antonio
- Explore Manuel Antonio National Park: Discover lush rainforests, wildlife, and pristine beaches in this iconic national park. It’s perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and relaxing on secluded beaches like Playa Biesanz.
- Visit Damas Island: Take a boat tour or kayak through the winding mangroves of Damas Island, an eco-rich destination home to diverse wildlife, exotic birds, and medicinal plants.
- Relax on Playa Espadilla: Just outside the park, Playa Espadilla offers golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and the perfect spot for beach activities, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Nauyaca Waterfalls: A 45-minute drive from Manuel Antonio, this stunning waterfall offers hiking opportunities and a refreshing swim in the natural pool beneath the 200-foot drop.
- Horseback Riding to Nauyaca Falls: Take a scenic horseback ride through lush rainforest trails to reach the awe-inspiring Nauyaca Waterfalls for a truly immersive experience.
- Take a Sunset Cruise: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific coast as you sail along the coastline. Watch for dolphins, catch a beautiful sunset, and enjoy the serenity of the sea.
- Snorkelling & Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater beauty of the Pacific at sites near Manuel Antonio, where you can snorkel or dive amongst vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Visit Hacienda Baru Wildlife Refuge: Located near Dominical, this refuge offers guided hikes through rainforests and opportunities to spot over 300 bird species, monkeys, sloths, and more in a peaceful, wildlife-rich environment.
- Zip-Lining Through the Rainforest: Experience an adrenaline rush as you soar above the jungle canopy on a thrilling zip-line tour. The aerial views of the rainforest and coast are spectacular.
- Explore Quepos Town: Immerse yourself in the local culture of Quepos, with its vibrant marina, dining options, local markets, and nearby beaches, making it a perfect base for your Manuel Antonio adventure.
- Go Surfing at Playa Dominical: Head south to Dominical for some of the best surf breaks on the Pacific coast. Whether you're a beginner or pro, this beach offers consistent waves all year round.
Highlights of Manuel Antonio
A place where adventure meets relaxation, with activities ranging from hiking through Manuel Antonio National Park to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and enjoying sunset views along the coast.
Manuel Antonio Travel FAQs
Can you surf, swim or snorkel in Manuel Antonio?
Yes, you can surf, swim and snorkel in Manuel Antonio. The main beach, Playa Espadilla, is ideal for beginner to intermediate surfers, while swimming is also popular in the calm, clear waters. Snorkelling is best around the rocky outcrops near the park beaches, where you may spot tropical fish and coral formations.
Do you need a guide for Manuel Antonio National Park?
You don’t need a guide to enter Manuel Antonio National Park, but we do offer guided tours as part of our holiday packages if you’d like a richer, more informative experience. Otherwise, you are free to explore at your own pace.
How long should I spend in Manuel Antonio?
Spending two to three days in Manuel Antonio is generally enough to explore the national park, relax on the beaches and enjoy other activities such as zip-lining and kayaking.
Is Manuel Antonio worth visiting?
Absolutely! Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations for good reason – it combines stunning white-sand beaches with lush rainforest and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure or nature, the area offers a bit of everything in a compact, accessible location.
Can you drink the tap water in Manuel Antonio?
In most parts of Manuel Antonio and the surrounding area, the tap water is generally safe to drink. However, visitors with sensitive stomachs may prefer to stick to bottled or filtered water.
What animals can you see in Manuel Antonio National Park?
Manuel Antonio National Park is teeming with wildlife. You can often spot sloths, white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, iguanas, toucans and a wide range of tropical birds and insects. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready – many of the animals are well camouflaged!