Background

Manuel Antonio Beach: A Tropical Paradise

Discover paradise at Manuel Antonio Beach: stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and tranquil waters await in Costa Rica's beloved national park.

4.6

Manuel Antonio Beach, nestled within Manuel Antonio National Park, is a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. It's renowned for its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making it a must-visit destination on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

A brief summary to Manuel Antonio Beach

  • Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Purchase park tickets online in advance through the SINAC website to guarantee entry, as the park has strict capacity limits.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy the beautiful beaches inside the park.
  • Pack a reusable water bottle, as single-use plastics are not allowed in the park. Refill it at the water fountains available inside.
  • Be aware of unofficial parking touts near the park entrance who may try to mislead you. Head to the recommended parking area on Google Maps.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the bus stop or parking area near Playa Espadilla Norte, follow the 'Beach Trail,' a charming path leading directly to the park entrance. The walk is short and scenic, taking you past lush greenery and over a small bridge. It's about a 5-minute walk from the roundabout to the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take the bus from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. Buses run frequently, approximately every 30 minutes during the day. The bus will drop you off at a roundabout near Playa Espadilla Norte. From there, follow the 'Beach Trail' to the park entrance. The bus fare is around 250 colones.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. A taxi from Quepos to the park entrance typically costs between $6 and $7. Ensure the driver knows you want to go to the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park.

  • Parking

    If driving, be aware that Manuel Antonio National Park does not have its own official parking lot. Several private parking lots are available near the park entrance. A recommended lot is 'Manuel Antonio National Park – Official Parking' on Google Maps. Parking costs approximately 4000 CRC for the day.

Unlock the Best of Manuel Antonio Beach

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Manuel Antonio Beach

Manuel Antonio Beach, located inside Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, is a tropical haven that draws visitors from around the globe. This beach is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, where the turquoise waters of the Pacific meet the lush, green rainforest. The park itself is relatively small but teems with biodiversity, making it one of Costa Rica's most popular national parks. The beach offers a serene escape with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The calm waters are ideal for families and those seeking a relaxing beach experience. The surrounding rainforest is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for capuchin, howler, and squirrel monkeys, as well as scarlet macaws and toucans. Manuel Antonio's history is rich, with the area originally inhabited by the Quepoa indigenous community. In the early 19th century, the area became a banana-producing region, later transitioning to palm oil and tourism. The national park was established in 1972 to preserve the area's biodiversity and protect it from private development, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty. Today, Manuel Antonio Beach continues to enchant visitors with its unspoiled beauty and diverse ecosystem. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring the rainforest trails, or spotting wildlife, Manuel Antonio Beach offers an unforgettable experience.

Popular Experiences near Manuel Antonio Beach

Popular Hotels near Manuel Antonio Beach

Select Currency