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Costa Rica Region

Manuel Antonio

Where Jungle Meets Sea

FamiliesFirst-time visitorsBeach loversAccessible wildlife viewing

About Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica's most popular national park packs incredible biodiversity into a compact area where rainforest tumbles down to white-sand beaches. Playful monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds are easily spotted, making it perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking accessible nature encounters.

Highlights

  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • White-sand beaches backed by jungle
  • Easy wildlife spotting - monkeys, sloths, toucans
  • Catamaran sunset cruises
  • Perfect for families

Wildlife to Spot

White-faced CapuchinsSquirrel MonkeysTwo-Toed SlothsIguanasToucansScarlet Macaws

Best Time to Visit

December to April for best weather. Park closed on Tuesdays.

Getting There

3.5-hour drive from San José or 25-minute domestic flight.

Plan Your Manuel Antonio Trip
Where to Stay

Curated Eco-Lodges

View All Partners
Luxury Eco-Lodge$$$$$

Arenas del Mar

Beachfront luxury within a private reserve. Two pristine beaches, sustainable design, and top-rated service.

Two private beachesPrivate reserveOceanview suitesAward-winning restaurant
CST Highest LevelGreen Globe
Boutique Hotel$$$$

Parador Resort & Spa

Cliffside resort with panoramic Pacific views, multiple pools, and full-service spa in a protected forest setting.

Clifftop locationMultiple poolsFull spaWildlife on grounds
CST Certified
Things to Do

Experiences in Manuel Antonio

National Park Guided Tour

Expert naturalist guide helps you spot wildlife that most visitors miss. Includes beach time.

4 hoursEasy

Catamaran Sunset Cruise

Sail along the coast with dolphins, snorkeling, and sunset cocktails.

4 hoursEasy

Rainmaker Conservation Project

Hanging bridges through private rainforest with exceptional birdwatching.

Half dayModerate

Mangrove Kayak Tour

Paddle through mangrove estuaries spotting monkeys, crocodiles, and wading birds.

3 hoursEasy
Sample Itinerary

Manuel Antonio Beach & Wildlife

The perfect introduction to Costa Rica's accessible wildlife and beaches.

3 Days
Manuel Antonio

This is a sample itinerary to inspire your journey. Our experts can customize every detail based on your interests, pace, and travel style.

Customize This Itinerary
1

Arrival & Beach

  • •Transfer from San José
  • •Settle into resort
  • •Beach afternoon
  • •Sunset cocktails
2

Park & Ocean

  • •Early park tour with guide
  • •Beach time in park
  • •Catamaran sunset cruise
3

Departure

  • •Mangrove kayak tour
  • •Lunch overlooking ocean
  • •Transfer out

Ready to Experience Manuel Antonio?

Let our Costa Rica specialists help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your interests, timeline, and travel style.

Start Planning Your Trip