Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Costa Rica, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. The park is located on the Pacific coast of the country, near the town of Quepos, and a couple hours from off-the-beaten-path Uvita and Dominical.The Manuel Antonio area’s main attraction is its beautiful beaches, with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The surrounding area of Manuel Antonio offers a variety of activities, including sport fishing, ATV tours, horseback riding, and canopy tours. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby Marino Ballena National Park, which is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Manuel Antonio and Nearby Beaches
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About
Types of Travelers Who’ll Enjoy this Region
Adventure
Family
Nature
Romantic
Region Highlights
Don't miss these attractions if you're in the area!
- Manuel Antonio National Park: The beaches inside the National Park are some of the most beautiful. Additionally, you can try to spot Costa Rica’s four monkey species (spider, howler, white-faced, and squirrel).
- Espadilla Beach: This is a long, flat, white sand beach located outside the National Park. You can rent beach lounges and an umbrella and enjoy drinks and snacks from the surrounding restaurants and bars.
- Damas Island Estuary Reserve: Here, you can find primary mangrove forests with slow, tranquil waterways that meander through, providing the perfect place for kayaking and boat tours.
Flora and Fauna
The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including over 184 species of birds and 109 species of mammals. Visitors can spot monkeys, sloths, and iguanas as they explore the park’s winding trails. The waters around the park are also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. The nearby mangrove forests are home to a wide range of birds, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, and many migratory species.Elevation: 16 feet (5 meters)
Where is
Where is Manuel Antonio National Park Located?
- 3 hours from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose (SJO) to downtown San Jose (11 mi/18 km)
- 4.5 hours from Guanacaste Airport in Liberia (LIR) (138 mi / 222 km)
What to Do in this Region
Travelers who are interested in ecotourism, wildlife observation, and outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and beach-going will enjoy Manuel Antonio National Park and its surrounding areas.
Activities in this Region Include
- Manuel Antonio National Park Tour
- Zipline
- Wildlife Sighting
- Waterfall Adventure
- Sailing & Boat Tours
- Jungle Night Tour
- Mangrove Boat Tours & Kayaking
- Damas Island Excursion
- Surf Lessons
Mid Pacific Region Weather
Golden season
December to April
Green season
May to November
Average temperature
84 °F (29°C)
Average rainfall
145 inches 3,745 mm)
History and Culture
The area around Manuel Antonio and Quepos was very important for the native Quepoa people who fished its waters. More recently, the room was a hub for banana plantations, although the economy of modern-day Manuel Antonio is largely based on tourism. Over the last several decades, the area has developed into an excellent destination with a good tourism infrastructure that includes many hotels, resorts, spas, restaurants, bars, clubs, and tour operators.
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Wondering where to travel in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica may be a small country, but it actually has 18 different main regions, each with its own geography and culture. It’s not always easy deciding where to travel in Costa Rica, with so many landscapes and microclimates. However, we are confident that no matter where you choose, you’ll have a wonderful time, full of awe and memories.
