Manuel Antonio – Nature’s Playground by the Sea

Nestled along Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coastline, Manuel Antonio is a tropical haven that perfectly blends pristine beaches with lush rainforests. This enchanting destination offers a plethora of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From exploring the vibrant marine life in the azure waters to hiking through dense jungle trails, Manuel Antonio is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Costa Rica.

How to get to Manuel Antonio

🚗 By car: Driving to Manuel Antonio from San José is relatively straightforward and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. The journey is scenic, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming towns. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way. Consider renting a car through Sunny Cars for a hassle-free experience.

🚌 By bus: For a budget-friendly option, several buses run daily from San José to Manuel Antonio. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. This option allows you to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving. Some buses can be booked in advance on 12GO.

Your Guide to Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is the crown jewel of this region, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails. It’s one of the most biodiverse parks in the world and a popular park in Costa Rica. It is home to capuchin monkeys, sloths, and many other animal and bird species.

Explore the different trails

Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most famous destinations. It offers several well-marked trails that cater to different interests and fitness levels. Here’s a guide to the best routes through this stunning park.

Manuel Antonio Beach Trail (Playa Manuel Antonio)

📍 Distance: 1.3 km (0.8 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Easy
📌 Highlights: This trail leads you to the beautiful Manuel Antonio Beach, one of the park’s most popular spots. The path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all ages. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush rainforest and have the chance to spot wildlife such as monkeys, iguanas, and colorful birds. Once at the beach, you can relax, swim, or explore the nearby tide pools.

Cathedral Point (Punta Catedral)

📍 Distance: 1.4 km (0.9 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
📌 Highlights: Starting near Manuel Antonio Beach, this loop trail takes you to Punta Catedral, a scenic lookout point with panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. The trail involves some elevation changes and steps, but the vistas make it well worth the effort. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys and exotic birds.

Sloth Trail (Sendero Perezoso)

📍 Distance: 1.3 km (0.8 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Easy
📌 Highlights: True to its name, the Sloth Trail is one of the best routes for spotting sloths. This short and easy trail winds through dense forest, providing ample opportunities to see these slow-moving creatures along with other wildlife like white-faced capuchin monkeys and a variety of bird species.

Waterfall Trail (Sendero La Catarata)

📍 Distance: 0.4 km (0.25 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
📌 Highlights: A shorter trail that leads to a small but picturesque waterfall. This path is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience amidst nature. The terrain can be a bit rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Our tips

📅 Reserve your Tickets: Book your tickets in advance through Costa Rica’s official national park website. Please note that the park is only open 6 days a week, in 2025 the park is closed on Tuesdays.
⏰ Arrive Early: The park opens at 7:00 AM, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Plus, the chances of spotting wildlife are higher in the morning.
🧑‍🌾 Hire a Guide: For the best experience, consider hiring a local guide. They have a keen eye for spotting wildlife and can provide fascinating insights into the park’s flora and fauna. This is especially recommended if Manuel Antonio is the only national park you’re visiting.
🍎 Bring Snacks and Water: Since there are no restaurants inside Manuel Antonio National Park, it’s essential to pack snacks and plenty of water for your visit. While you can find shops near the entrance that sell drinks and snacks, it’s best to come prepared to ensure you have what you need. Remember, tin foil and plastic bottles are not allowed in the park. Pack your snacks in reusable containers and bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and environmentally friendly.
🏖️ Swim and Relax: After exploring the trails, take a dip in the calm, warm waters of the park’s beaches. Particularly Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur offer idyllic settings for relaxation and swimming.

Where to eat in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio offers a variety of dining options, whether you prefer to stay close to the national park or venture a bit further into Quepos for more choices. Here are some of our favorites.

• El Avion: Enjoy decent food paired with spectacular views, especially at lunchtime. Walking through an actual plane adds a unique touch to your dining experience. Next door, you’ll find El Wagon, known for its great pizzas.

• El Patio de Café Milagro: A charming spot that serves delicious meals and great coffee. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Bar & Restaurant El Chante del Parque: Another excellent choice offering a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu. Ideal for a relaxed meal after exploring the park.

Where to stay in Manuel Antonio

Millenium Manuel Antonio: Located close to the park, this hotel features a pool perfect for relaxing before or after your park visit. On-site parking makes it convenient, and breakfast, provided in collaboration with a nearby restaurant, is highly praised. Double rooms start at $75 a night.

The Falls at Manuel Antonio: This hotel offers a beautiful jungle garden and a refreshing pool. It’s a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying comfort. Rates start at $135 a night.

Issimo Suites: A luxurious adults-only accommodation with stunning sea views, perfect for a romantic getaway. Rates start at $280 a night.