Espadilla Beach: Manuel Antonio's Coastal Gem
Discover the allure of Playa Espadilla: golden sands, thrilling activities, and Costa Rica's breathtaking natural beauty converge!
Playa Espadilla, near Quepos, Costa Rica, is a stunning Pacific beach divided into two parts: the publicly accessible Espadilla Norte and Espadilla Sur, located within Manuel Antonio National Park. Known for its golden sands, clear waters, and lush rainforest backdrop, it's a popular destination for relaxation and recreation.
A brief summary to Espadilla Beach
- Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Be aware of vendors; Playa Espadilla Norte has many, so bring cash if you plan to shop or eat.
- If driving, arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking.
- Stay for the sunset; Playa Espadilla offers stunning sunset views.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated; the sun can be intense.
- Be mindful of your belongings; avoid leaving them unattended.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Quepos, take the local bus towards Manuel Antonio National Park. The bus runs frequently, approximately every 20 minutes, from the Quepos bus station. The ride to Playa Espadilla is short, about 15 minutes, and costs around $1 USD. Get off the bus once it descends from the mountain, near the beach level. From there, it's a short walk to either Espadilla Norte or the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park for Espadilla Sur.
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Taxi
From Quepos, a taxi to Playa Espadilla takes about 12 minutes and costs approximately $14-$17 USD. Taxis are readily available in Quepos. Tell the driver you want to go to Playa Espadilla, either the public beach (Espadilla Norte) or the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park (for Espadilla Sur).
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Walking
From Quepos, it is possible to walk to Playa Espadilla, although it is a longer journey of approximately 6.5 kilometers, taking over an hour. Follow the main road (Route 618) towards Manuel Antonio National Park. Be prepared for some hills and warm weather. Once you reach the beach area, you can access Espadilla Norte directly or continue to the park entrance for Espadilla Sur.
Discover more about Espadilla Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Villa Punto de Vista - Luxury Villa
0.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Villa Punto de Vista, your private paradise in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
El Faro Beach Hotel
0.9 km
Eco-friendly container hotel in Manuel Antonio, offering stunning ocean views, an infinity pool, and close proximity to the national park.
Official Guide Costa Rica
1.0 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty in Manuel Antonio National Park: stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife encounters.
Costa Rica Wáköö Tours Manuel Antonio Park Tour
1.0 km
Discover Manuel Antonio National Park with expert guides, stunning wildlife, and pristine beaches. Personalized tours for unforgettable Costa Rican adventures.
Vista Hermosa Estate - Luxury Beach Villa
1.0 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Vista Hermosa Estate in Manuel Antonio: stunning ocean views, private beach access, and world-class service.
The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio
1.0 km
Experience comfort and nature at The Falls Resort, your gateway to Manuel Antonio's rainforests, beaches, and Costa Rican charm.
Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge
1.1 km
Experience eco-luxury in Manuel Antonio at Si Como No Resort: stunning views, diverse wildlife, and sustainable hospitality await!
Agua Azul
1.3 km
Experience a fusion of flavors with breathtaking ocean views at this Quepos restaurant, offering fresh seafood and diverse culinary delights.
El Patio de Café Milagro
1.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine and coffee at El Patio de Café Milagro in Quepos. A culinary gem you won't want to miss!
Ape Eclectic Social Bar
1.5 km
Experience Quepos's vibrant nightlife at Ape Eclectic Social Bar, where creative cocktails, lively music, and an eclectic atmosphere await!
Manuel Antonio The Best
1.5 km
Discover Costa Rica's smallest yet most biodiverse national park: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife await in Manuel Antonio.
Manuel Antonio Nat. Park Official Tour´s
1.5 km
Discover Costa Rica's paradise: stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park.
Peace of Paradise
1.6 km
Experience tranquility and convenience at Peace of Paradise in Manuel Antonio, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural beauty and adventure.
Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar
1.6 km
Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Enjoy delicious falafel, hummus, shawarma, and refreshing smoothies in a relaxed atmosphere.
Soda El Angel
1.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda El Angel in Quepos: fresh, flavorful, and budget-friendly dining that locals and tourists adore.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sunset Viewpoint Manuel Antonio
0.4 km
Experience the stunning sunsets and breathtaking views at Sunset Viewpoint Manuel Antonio, a hidden gem along the picturesque coast of Costa Rica.
Playa Playitas (Manuel Antonio) - Playitas Beach
0.6 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Playa Playitas, a stunning beach destination in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Zip Coaster
0.7 km
Soar through the lush rainforest of Quepos on the thrilling Zip Coaster, an adventure that combines speed with stunning natural beauty in Costa Rica.
Radames Tours National Park Manuel Antonio
0.9 km
Discover the stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and lush rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve & Wildlife Refuge
0.9 km
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Manuel Antonio National Park: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife in a compact, accessible paradise.
Manuel Antonio National Park
0.9 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park. A must-see destination!
El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour
1.0 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through Costa Rica's breathtaking canopies at El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour, where adventure meets nature.
Manuel Antonio Bio Adventure
1.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio Bio Adventure, a national park with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches in Costa Rica.
Mulguri Adventure
1.0 km
Experience adventure and natural beauty at Mulguri Adventure in Quepos, Costa Rica. Thrilling outdoor activities await you in paradise.
Sukia Park and ZIP LINE Tours
1.2 km
Experience the thrill of zip lining through lush Costa Rican rainforests at Sukia Park, where adventure meets wildlife exploration.
Playitas Beach
1.2 km
Discover Playitas Beach: A tranquil escape with pristine sands, turquoise waters, and excellent surfing near Manuel Antonio National Park.
Espadilla South Beach
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Espadilla South Beach in Quepos, Costa Rica, where adventure meets relaxation along the Pacific coast.
Tulemar
1.6 km
Discover Tulemar, a stunning beach paradise in Costa Rica, where lush landscapes meet pristine sands and vibrant wildlife for an unforgettable getaway.
Manuel Antonio Waterfall Tour
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Manuel Antonio Waterfall Tour, a stunning journey through lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio Tours
1.6 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Costa Rica at Manuel Antonio Tours, your gateway to adventure and nature.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Buena Vista Plus
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Buena Vista Plus on Playa Espadilla.
Casa Planta restaurant
0.2 km
Discover diverse culinary delights at Casa Planta in Quepos - where local ingredients meet international cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Rafaeles Las Terrazas (Raphael's Terrazas)
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Rafaeles Las Terrazas in Manuel Antonio.
Baldi's Fresh Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience vibrant flavors at Baldi's Fresh Restaurant in Quepos - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional dining in Costa Rica.
Restaurante Buru Seaside Manuel Antonio
0.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood and vibrant live music at Restaurante Buru Seaside in Manuel Antonio – where coastal charm meets culinary delight.
The Hawg 'N' Bi
0.7 km
Experience exquisite beachfront dining at The Hawg 'N' Bi in Quepos - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Bar las gemelas
0.7 km
Discover Bar las Gemelas: A culinary haven in Manuel Antonio National Park offering authentic Costa Rican flavors amidst breathtaking nature.
El Wagon
0.8 km
Discover El Wagon in Quepos: where artisanal pizzas meet Costa Rican hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurante Puerto Escondido
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Puerto Escondido, where culinary delights meet stunning natural beauty.
Morpho Beach Bar
0.8 km
Discover Morpho Beach Bar: A tropical paradise where delicious Costa Rican cuisine meets stunning ocean views in Manuel Antonio.
Espadilla Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Espadilla Restaurant in Quepos - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Cafe Del Mar
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with stunning ocean views at Café Del Mar in Quepos.
El Avion
0.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at El Avion with stunning ocean views and unique ambiance in Aguirre's scenic landscape.
Natural Food
0.9 km
Discover exquisite vegan dining at Natural Food in Quepos, where fresh ingredients meet Costa Rican culinary traditions.
The Gallery
0.9 km
Discover The Gallery in Manuel Antonio - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Supermarket Pura Vida
0.7 km
Explore Supermarket Pura Vida in Manuel Antonio for fresh local produce, international snacks, and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
0.7 km
Explore Souvenir Colores de Costa Rica for unique, handcrafted treasures that celebrate the vibrant culture and beauty of Costa Rica.
JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate beachwear selection at JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach, where style meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Gelateria El Parque
1.0 km
Discover the refreshing taste of Gelateria El Parque, where delicious ice creams meet the stunning backdrop of Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio.
Authentica Gift Shop - Manuel Antonio
1.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican crafts at Authentic Gift Shop in Manuel Antonio, where every purchase tells a story of local culture and artistry.
Mariposita Gift Shop & Gallery
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at Mariposita Gift Shop & Gallery, where every piece tells a story of local craftsmanship.
Indigo by Jungle Sol
1.3 km
Indigo by Jungle Sol: Your go-to boutique for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique souvenirs in Quepos.
Mot Mot Handcrafted Gallery
1.3 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at Mot Mot Handcrafted Gallery, a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted gifts and souvenirs.
Jungle Avenue
1.3 km
Jungle Avenue: Your boutique destination in Quepos for unique clothing and exquisite local jewelry, reflecting Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Supermarket
1.3 km
Discover fresh produce and local delicacies at the Supermarket in Quepos, your gateway to authentic Costa Rican flavors.
Plaza vista, Manuel Antonio, Quepos
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant Plaza Vista in Manuel Antonio, a shopping paradise filled with local culture, delightful dining, and unique shopping experiences.
Marea - Mara Cantarella Joyeria
1.3 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry at Marea - Mara Cantarella Joyeria in Quepos, where local craftsmanship meets elegance.
Souvenir quetzaltico
1.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir Quetzaltico in Quepos, where local artistry meets unforgettable memories.
Bam Bam Boo
1.4 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at Bam Bam Boo, a vibrant clothing store in Quepos that embodies local culture and style.
Souvenir Yorusti 3
1.4 km
Discover unique and authentic Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir Yorusti 3 in Quepos, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cocos
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cocos, the perfect bar in Quepos for exquisite cocktails and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
B&B Beach and Drinks
0.7 km
Experience the best seafood dining with stunning ocean views at B&B Beach and Drinks, a hidden gem near Manuel Antonio Beach.
Bar Y Restaurante Relax
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Y Restaurante Relax, a must-visit restaurant in Quepos offering delightful local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
patatus bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Patatus Bar, a charming tapas bar in Quepos offering delicious small plates and a cozy atmosphere.
Makanda Pool Lounge
1.4 km
Experience the tropical charm of Makanda Pool Lounge, a serene bar and swimming pool retreat in the heart of Manuel Antonio.
Drunken Monkey
1.5 km
Discover the lively Drunken Monkey bar in Quepos, Costa Rica - a vibrant spot for drinks, music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tropical 32 bar y restaurante
1.9 km
Experience the fusion of breathtaking nature and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tropical 32 Bar y Restaurante in Manuel Antonio.
Quepoa by Agua Azul
1.9 km
Discover Quepoa by Agua Azul in Quepos: Family-friendly dining with fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for all ages.
Restaurante Blue's Bar
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Restaurante Blue's Bar in Quepos, Costa Rica, where refreshing drinks and live music create unforgettable evenings.
Rasta Bar y Restaurante
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Rasta Bar y Restaurante, where local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in Quepos.
Bambu Jam
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bambu Jam, a grill offering delicious cuisine in a serene setting with an inviting outdoor pool.
Double Hook Sports Bar
3.8 km
Experience the thrill of sports in Quepos at Double Hook Sports Bar, where delicious food and vibrant energy meet.
Cuban Republik Disco Lounge
4.3 km
Unleash your spirit at Cuban Republik Disco Lounge, Quepos' top destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences filled with dance, music, and vibrant energy.
Bar y restaurante El Valle de Tarrazú
31.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican dining at El Valle de Tarrazú, where flavorful dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
32.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Kasa Blanca, a culinary gem in San Marcos, perfect for tourists seeking a delightful dining experience.
