Manuel Antonio

Written by David Garcia, Maria Gaulto, Alejandro Vargas
02/08/2025
Stunning aerial shot of the lush coast and clear water at Manuel Antonio Beach in Costa Rica.
Jake Marsee, Pexels

Manuel Antonio National Park presents a distinctive combination of pristine beaches, verdant rainforests, and diverse wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to observe creatures such as monkeys and sloths. This location merges opportunities for relaxation on stunning coastlines with active exploration through its natural trails.

Manuel Antonio's social scene is generally relaxed, providing options for dining and drinks, often accompanied by scenic views or live music. The main road and the nearby town of Quepos feature a selection of restaurants and bars suitable for socializing.

Top 4 Things to do in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio offers a blend of immersive wildlife encounters, relaxing beach days, and thrilling water-based adventures.

1. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Step into a world where lush rainforest meets pristine coastline. The park boasts well-maintained trails leading to stunning beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur. As you wander, keep a keen eye out for diverse wildlife, including various monkey species and sloths, often spotted in the treetops. Arriving early is highly recommended to enjoy the park's tranquility and increase your chances of spotting animals before crowds gather. Consider hiring a certified guide for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience.

Cost: Entrance fee for foreign adults is $18.08 USD. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Guided tours are available, typically ranging from $31-$70 USD per person, which may or may not include the park entrance fee.

Transport: Public buses run frequently between Quepos and the park entrance, costing approximately $0.75 - $1 USD per trip and taking about 15-20 minutes. Taxis are also readily available, with fares from Quepos or the Manuel Antonio area typically ranging from 4,000-6,000 CRC (approximately $8-$12 USD). If driving, parking near the entrance is available for about 3,000-5,000 CRC ($6-$10 USD) per day.

2. Take a Surfing Lesson at Playa Espadilla

Manuel Antonio's main beach, Playa Espadilla, provides the perfect setting for learning to surf or refining your skills. The gentle waves are ideal for beginners, and numerous surf schools offer patient, professional instruction. Feel the exhilaration of riding a wave and enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere.

Cost: Group lessons generally cost between $49-$79 USD per person. Private lessons are also an option, with prices ranging from $59-$130 USD per person.

Transport: Playa Espadilla is centrally located along the main road of Manuel Antonio. Many surf schools include hotel pick-up. Otherwise, it's easily accessible by local bus (around $0.75 USD) or a short taxi ride from most accommodations in the area.

3. Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise

Embark on a relaxing catamaran tour to experience the stunning Pacific coastline from a different perspective. These cruises typically offer opportunities for snorkeling in clear waters, enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks, and often include a delicious meal. Keep an eye out for dolphins swimming alongside the boat, and if visiting during whale season (August and September), you might even spot humpback whales. Many tours offer both morning and sunset options.

Cost: Prices usually range from $84-$120 USD per person, which commonly includes food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment.

Transport: Catamaran tours typically depart from Marina Pez Vela in Quepos. Many tour operators provide complimentary round-trip transportation from hotels in Manuel Antonio and Quepos. Public buses run between Manuel Antonio and Quepos for about $1-$5 USD, taking 15-37 minutes. Taxis from Manuel Antonio to Quepos cost approximately 4,000-6,000 CRC ($8-$12 USD).

4. Experience White Water Rafting

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, white water rafting on the nearby Naranjo or Savegre Rivers is an unforgettable experience. The Naranjo River offers Class III and IV rapids, ideal for a half-day adventure, while the Savegre River provides Class II and III rapids, suitable for families and offering a mix of excitement and scenic floats through lush jungle. Certified guides ensure a safe and thrilling journey.

Cost: Half-day tours typically cost around $90-$115 USD per person, and full-day tours range from $95-$146 USD. Costs usually include transportation, professional guides, snacks, and sometimes lunch.

Transport: White water rafting tours almost always include convenient round-trip transportation directly from your accommodation in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area.

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