Central Pacific · Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio

Where the rainforest meets the Pacific

About Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica's most visited national park — a small gem where tropical rainforest meets white-sand Pacific beaches. The park is home to monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and hundreds of bird species.

The town of Quepos, a few kilometres from the park, offers a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, and activities. It is an ideal destination for those looking to combine nature, beach, and local life.

Highlights

Manuel Antonio National Park
White-sand beaches
Monkey & sloth spotting
Rainforest hiking
Kayak & snorkelling
Pacific sunsets
Quepos town
Local cuisine

Experiences in Manuel Antonio

Available on request

Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour

Expert naturalist guide through the park — spot sloths, white-faced monkeys, iguanas, and over 100 bird species on the forest trails.

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Available on request

Mangrove Kayak Tour

Paddle through the mangrove estuary of the Paquita River — a quiet ecosystem where white-faced monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and birds are commonly seen.

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Available on request

Caño Island Biological Reserve Day Tour

A boat trip of just over one hour to Caño Island — ranked #1 for snorkelling in Costa Rica. Two snorkel sessions with hawksbill turtles and manta rays.

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Getting there & around

Manuel Antonio is connected to San José and other destinations by private transfer and shared shuttle. The journey from San José takes approximately 3 hours.

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How long to stay

2–3 nights is the sweet spot for Manuel Antonio. One full day in the park, one day for water activities or a boat tour, and a relaxed morning before departure. Longer stays suit those who want to slow down and enjoy the beach.

Best season

The dry season (December–April) offers the best beach weather and clearest conditions in the park. The green season (May–November) brings lush vegetation and fewer visitors — the park is beautiful year-round, though some trails may be muddy after heavy rain.

Combine with

Manuel Antonio is 3 hours from San José and 1.5 hours from Dominical — a natural South Pacific extension. Uvita is 2 hours south. Many travelers combine Manuel Antonio with La Fortuna (5 hrs) for a classic Pacific-volcano itinerary.

Travel tips

The park has a daily visitor limit — book tickets in advance.
Visit early morning for the best wildlife sightings.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
Do not feed the monkeys — it is dangerous for them and for you.
Sloths are much easier to spot with an expert guide.

Tips by traveler type

Wildlife enthusiasts

A certified naturalist guide makes an enormous difference in the park — they spot sloths, monkeys, and birds that most visitors walk past. Book a morning tour for the best wildlife activity.

Families

The park beaches are safe for swimming and the wildlife is abundant and approachable. Children love the white-faced capuchin monkeys — but do not feed them, it is harmful to the animals.

Beach lovers

Playa Biesanz (outside the park, 10 min from Quepos) is a quieter alternative to the park beaches. Playa Espadilla Norte is the main town beach — good for surfing and sunset walks.