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Espadilla Beach: Manuel Antonio's Accessible Paradise

Discover paradise at Playa Espadilla: where soft sands, thrilling activities, and stunning sunsets create unforgettable memories in Manuel Antonio.

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Playa Espadilla, the largest and most accessible beach in the Manuel Antonio area, offers a kilometer of pristine shoreline perfect for surfing, parasailing, and enjoying stunning sunsets. Located just outside Manuel Antonio National Park, it's a hub of activity with vendors, rentals, and soft, sandy shores.

A brief summary to Espadilla Beach

  • Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Bring cash for vendors offering souvenirs, snacks, and activities like parasailing and surf lessons.
  • Be aware of unofficial 'parking guards' who may offer to watch your car for a small fee.
  • Visit during the dry season (December to March) for the best weather and to maximize your time soaking up the sun.
  • Consider staying until sunset to witness the breathtaking display of colors over the Pacific Ocean.
  • If you want a quieter experience, head to Espadilla Sur inside Manuel Antonio National Park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quepos, take the Quepos > Manuel Antonio bus from the central bus station or any bus stop along the main road. The bus runs every 20 minutes from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Get off the bus once it descends from the mountain to the beach level. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes. The bus fare is approximately $1 USD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Quepos. A taxi ride from Quepos to Playa Espadilla takes about 12 minutes. Expect to pay around $14-$17 USD for the trip.

  • Walking

    It is possible to walk from Quepos to Playa Espadilla, but it is a considerable distance (approximately 6.5 km). The walk will take over an hour. Follow the main road from Quepos towards Manuel Antonio. Be prepared for some hills and be mindful of traffic.

Unlock the Best of Espadilla Beach

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Discover more about Espadilla Beach

Playa Espadilla, also known as Playa Primera or Playa Numero Uno, is a captivating beach located in the heart of the Manuel Antonio area on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Stretching for over a mile, its soft, light-grey sands meet the emerald green waters, creating a picturesque tropical setting. The beach is divided into two sections: Espadilla Norte, which is free and easily accessible, and Espadilla Sur, accessible through Manuel Antonio National Park. Espadilla Norte is known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous vendors selling everything from souvenirs and jewelry to snacks and drinks. Here, you can rent chairs and umbrellas, take surf lessons, or try parasailing. The waves are generally medium-sized, making it a great spot for beginner surfers. Espadilla Sur, nestled within the national park, offers a more secluded and tranquil experience. To access it, you'll need to purchase a park ticket and walk through the lush rainforest, where you might spot monkeys, sloths, and various bird species. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Playa Espadilla has something for everyone. Enjoy a leisurely swim, soak up the sun, or take a stroll along the shore. Stay for the sunset and witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon.

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