Playa Mantas: A Tranquil Cove in Puntarenas
Discover Playa Mantas in Puntarenas: A serene beach escape with calm waters, perfect for families and swimming, near Jaco and Playa Blanca.
Playa Mantas is a picturesque beach located in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, known for its calm turquoise waters and lush jungle backdrop. Popular with locals and families, it offers a relaxing escape with opportunities for swimming and exploring nearby Playa Blanca.
A brief summary to Playa Mantas
- Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot and enjoy a less crowded beach experience.
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the clearest turquoise waters.
- At low tide, walk to neighboring Playa Blanca for snorkeling and white sand.
- Bring water shoes, as some areas have pebbles, shells, and sea coral.
- Pack food and drinks, though there is a convenience store and pizza restaurant near the entrance.
Getting There
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Driving
From Jaco, take Highway 34 north for approximately 15-20 minutes. Look for the turnoff to Punta Leona; Playa Mantas is just before the main entrance. Turn onto Calle Vieja, a road that turns to dirt. Follow the road to the parking area near the beach. Parking costs vary; the main lot charges around 10,000-20,000 colones per car depending on the day. An alternative dirt lot is available, with informal attendants accepting tips (2,000-3,000 colones). Be aware that parking fills up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transport
From San José or Quepos, take a bus to Jacó and disembark at the Quebrada Ganado / Punta Leona stop on Route 34. From there, take a taxi or ride-share (Uber/DiDi) for the remaining 5km to Playa Mantas; this should cost approximately $15. Alternatively, a taxi directly from Jacó to Playa Mantas costs $20-$30.
Discover more about Playa Mantas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Playa Fantasia Costa Rica
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CostaCat Cruises
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Jaco Rafting
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Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva
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Horizon Church Jaco
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Rolling Thunder Saloon
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Jaco Park Condominiums
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Guy Trip
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Jaco Tours Sportfishing
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Diamante del Sol - Jaco Paradise
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The Beer House
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The Back Room
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Tattoo House
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Broke Guys
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INFIERNO - Wood Fired Pizzeria & Grill
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Unmissable attractions to see
Playa Blanca
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Mirador Pita
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Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park
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Sealounge Catamaran Costa Rica
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Playa Herradura
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Costour - Tours & Transfers
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Crocodile Man Tour The Original
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Jose´s Crocodile River Tour
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Jungle Crocodile Safari & Bird Watching Tour
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Jungle Crocodile Safari Private Dock
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Rainforest Adventures Jaco
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Costa Rica Paragliding.
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Tranopy Tour
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Pura Vida Gardens And Waterfall
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Adventure Tours Costa Rica
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Essential places to dine
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Tiko Restaurante Mirador
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El Manglar Restaurante y Bar
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Isaga
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Zona K
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Las Olas
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SeaSalt
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Sunrise Breakfast Place
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Sépalo Restaurante
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Tacos Locos
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The Pizza Shop
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Restaurante Gallo Pinto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Boutique La Tienda
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Exxxotica
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L'aroma Cigar Shop, Cuban Cigars, Jaco
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K Store Jacó
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Deja Vu Souvenirs
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Alquimia
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Smoke Valley Jaco Smoke Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Yard Jacó
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Orange Pub
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La Garza
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Tiki Bar
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Elixir Bar Calm & Chill (A Kava Lounge)
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Cocal Beach
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Gspot
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Sloppy Tuna Costa Rica
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El Deck
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Nido de Águilas
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Ericka Centro de Uñas
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D'Todos
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