Manuel Antonio National Park: Costa Rica's Coastal Gem
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty in Manuel Antonio National Park: stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife encounters.
Manuel Antonio National Park, despite being Costa Rica's smallest national park, is a biodiverse paradise. It features stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination on the Pacific coast. The park is known for its easy access, well-maintained trails, and incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A brief summary to Official Guide Costa Rica
- Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Puntarenas Province, 60601, CR
- +50661393240
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance through the SINAC website to guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking, as the park limits the number of visitors.
- Bring binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities, as many animals are high up in the trees.
- Be cautious of unofficial guides and vendors selling services outside the park entrance.
- Pack water and snacks, as food options inside the park are limited, and be aware that food might not be allowed to keep the impact on the environment low.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Quepos, a public bus runs to Manuel Antonio National Park approximately every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. The bus costs around 385 CRC one way and takes about 15-20 minutes. The bus stops at the roundabout near Playa Espadilla Norte, a short walk from the park entrance via the 'Beach Trail'. Pay in cash to the driver.
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Taxi
Taxis from hotels in Quepos or Manuel Antonio to the park are readily available. The fare typically ranges from $5 to $10, depending on the location. Ensure the taxi is a registered one. From the taxi drop-off point, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
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Driving
Driving to Manuel Antonio National Park involves taking Route 27 towards Caldera, then Route 34 towards Quepos. From Quepos, follow the signs to Manuel Antonio. Note that the park does not have its own parking lot. Private parking lots are available near the entrance for approximately 3000-5000 CRC per day. The parking lot called 'Manuel Antonio National Park – Official Parking' is recommended. Be aware of unofficial parking touts.
Discover more about Official Guide Costa Rica
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Official Guide Costa Rica
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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
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Discover Manuel Antonio National Park with expert guides, stunning wildlife, and pristine beaches. Personalized tours for unforgettable Costa Rican adventures.
El Faro Beach Hotel
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Eco-friendly container hotel in Manuel Antonio, offering stunning ocean views, an infinity pool, and close proximity to the national park.
The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio
1.6 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
1.7 km
Experience eco-luxury in Manuel Antonio at Si Como No Resort: stunning views, diverse wildlife, and sustainable hospitality await!
Villa Punto de Vista - Luxury Villa
1.8 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Villa Punto de Vista, your private paradise in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Vista Hermosa Estate - Luxury Beach Villa
1.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Vista Hermosa Estate in Manuel Antonio: stunning ocean views, private beach access, and world-class service.
Agua Azul
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Experience a fusion of flavors with breathtaking ocean views at this Quepos restaurant, offering fresh seafood and diverse culinary delights.
Manuel Antonio The Best
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Manuel Antonio Nat. Park Official Tour´s
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El Patio de Café Milagro
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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
2.2 km
Experience Quepos's vibrant nightlife at Ape Eclectic Social Bar, where creative cocktails, lively music, and an eclectic atmosphere await!
Peace of Paradise
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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
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Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Enjoy delicious falafel, hummus, shawarma, and refreshing smoothies in a relaxed atmosphere.
Soda El Angel
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mulguri Adventure
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Manuel Antonio Bio Adventure
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Radames Tours National Park Manuel Antonio
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Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve & Wildlife Refuge
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2nd Beach inside the park
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Espadilla South Beach
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Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio
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Espadilla Beach
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Manuel Antonio Beach
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Manuel Antonio
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Sunset Viewpoint Manuel Antonio
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Zip Coaster
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Playa Las Gemelas
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Mirador Playa Gemelas / Punta Serrucho
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Mirador isla olocuita
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Donde Alex
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Bar & Restaurant El Chante del Parque
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Natural Food
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Congo Restaurant at Hotel San Bada
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Restaurante Puerto Escondido
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Morpho Beach Bar
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Espadilla Restaurant
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Restaurante Manuel Antonio
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Restaurant Cafe Del Mar
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Bar las gemelas
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Restaurante Buru Seaside Manuel Antonio
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The Hawg 'N' Bi
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Baldi's Fresh Restaurant
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Restaurante Buena Vista Plus
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Casa Planta restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gelateria El Parque
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Supermarket Pura Vida
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Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
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JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
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Authentica Gift Shop - Manuel Antonio
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Indigo by Jungle Sol
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Jungle Avenue
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Mariposita Gift Shop & Gallery
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Mot Mot Handcrafted Gallery
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Supermarket
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Plaza vista, Manuel Antonio, Quepos
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Marea - Mara Cantarella Joyeria
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Souvenir quetzaltico
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Bam Bam Boo
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Cade Coast & BamBamBoo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Y Restaurante Relax
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B&B Beach and Drinks
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Cocos
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patatus bar
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Drunken Monkey
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Makanda Pool Lounge
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Tropical 32 bar y restaurante
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Quepoa by Agua Azul
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Rasta Bar y Restaurante
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Restaurante Blue's Bar
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Bambu Jam
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Double Hook Sports Bar
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Cuban Republik Disco Lounge
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Bar y restaurante El Valle de Tarrazú
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Restaurante Kasa Blanca
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