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Aerial view of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, showcasing pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and turquoise waters, highlighting a coastal paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Your Ultimate Guide to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Explore Manuel Antonio, CR

Manuel Antonio, CR

Manuel Antonio: Costa Rica’s Coastal Rainforest Paradise

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. Located on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and nature. Whether you're hiking through Manuel Antonio National Park, spotting monkeys and sloths, or enjoying the region’s stunning beaches, this is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike.

Learn MoreAerial view of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, showcasing pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and turquoise waters, highlighting a coastal paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Manuel Antonio

    Manuel Antonio enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but some seasons offer different advantages:

    • December–April (Dry Season):Best for sunny days, clear skies, and peak wildlife activity.
    • May–August (Green Season):Ideal for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent wildlife viewing.
    • September–November (Low Season):Great for budget travelers, but expect occasional rain and quieter beaches.

    • Manuel Antonio National Park:One of Costa Rica’s most famous parks, home to monkeys, sloths, and stunning beaches.
    • Playa Manuel Antonio:A gorgeous white-sand beach inside the national park, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
    • Playa Espadilla:A lively public beach just outside the park with restaurants, surf rentals, and stunning sunsets.
    • Catamaran & Snorkeling Tours:Explore the coastline, spot dolphins, and snorkel in clear waters.
    • Damas Island Mangrove Tour:A guided boat or kayak tour through mangroves to see crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.
    • Rainmaker Conservation Project:A hidden gem for hiking, waterfalls, and hanging bridges.
    • Nauyaca Waterfalls (Day Trip):One of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls, perfect for swimming.
    • Marina Pez Vela:A modern marina in nearby Quepos with restaurants, bars, and sportfishing charters.
    • Sunset at El Avión:A famous cliffside restaurant inside a converted airplane with breathtaking ocean views.
    • Zip-lining & Canopy Tours:Experience Costa Rica’s lush rainforest from above on thrilling zip-line courses.

    • Casado:A traditional meal with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein (chicken, fish, or beef).
    • Gallo Pinto:Costa Rica’s famous breakfast dish of rice and beans.
    • Ceviche:Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice with onions and cilantro.
    • Patacones:Crispy fried plantains, often served with guacamole or black bean dip.
    • Chifrijo:A bowl of beans, rice, crispy pork, and pico de gallo.
    • Tres Leches Cake:A delicious sponge cake soaked in three types of milk.
    • Agua de Pipa:Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut.
    • Guaro Sour:A refreshing cocktail made with Costa Rica’s national liquor, Cacique Guaro.

    • Flights:Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, then take a shuttle or domestic flight to Quepos.
    • Car Rentals:Ideal for flexibility, but not necessary if staying in the main town.
    • Shuttle Services:Shared and private transfers available from San José and other popular destinations.
    • Taxis & Uber:Uber is limited, but taxis and tuk-tuks are common in Manuel Antonio.
    • Public Buses:Frequent, budget-friendly buses run between Quepos and Manuel Antonio.
    • Walking:Many hotels, restaurants, and beaches are within walking distance.

    • For U.S. travelers:No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
    • For international travelers:Check Costa Rica’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
    • Departure Tax:Some airlines include this in the ticket price, but if not, expect a small exit fee at the airport.

    Discover Manuel Antonio: Costa Rica's Coastal Rainforest Paradise

    • Currency:Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
    • Credit cards:Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
    • ATMs:Available in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, dispensing both colones and U.S. dollars.
    • Cash:Recommended for small businesses, taxis, and tips.

    • Spanishis the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
    • Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

    • Costa Ricans (Ticos) are friendly and welcoming—greet people with “Pura Vida!” (Pure Life).
    • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—most restaurants include a 10% service charge.
    • Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
    • Respect wildlife—avoid feeding animals or touching sloths and monkeys.
    • Do not litter—Costa Rica values sustainability and conservation.

    • Restaurants:A 10% service charge is usually included; additional tipping is optional but appreciated.
    • Bars:$1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
    • Hotels:$2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
    • Taxis:Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the fare is common.
    • Tour Guides & Excursions:$10–20 per person for great service.

    • For peak travel season (December–April):Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
    • For off-season travel (May–November):Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
    • For Manuel Antonio National Park tickets:Book at least a few days in advance, as daily visitor limits apply.

    • No COVID-19 test is required for entry,but check for updates before traveling.
    • Reef-safe sunscreen is requiredto protect Manuel Antonio’s marine ecosystem.
    • Manuel Antonio National Park does not allow food inside—plan accordingly.