Background

Manuel Antonio National Park: A Costa Rican Jewel

Discover Costa Rica's smallest yet most biodiverse national park: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife await in Manuel Antonio.

5

Manuel Antonio National Park, despite being Costa Rica's smallest national park, is a biodiverse paradise. It features rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A brief summary to Manuel Antonio The Best

Local tips

  • Book your park tickets online in advance through the SINAC website to guarantee entry and avoid long queues.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, secure parking, and spot more wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience, as many animals are high up in the trees.
  • Be aware of monkeys and other wildlife; do not feed them, and keep your belongings secure.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quepos, the nearest town, take the public bus to Manuel Antonio National Park. Buses run frequently, approximately every 15-30 minutes, from early morning to late evening. The bus fare is around 410 Costa Rican Colones (CRC) or about $0.75 USD per trip. The bus will drop you off near the beach, from where it is a short, five-minute walk to the park entrance. From Jacó, public bus services leave at 7 am and 9 am.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. A taxi ride from Quepos to Manuel Antonio National Park typically costs between 4,000 to 6,000 CRC ($7.50 - $10 USD). Ensure the driver is an official, red taxi with a yellow triangle. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Manuel Antonio on Route 618. Be prepared for winding roads and hilly terrain. There is no official parking at the park entrance, but several private parking lots are available. Parking costs range from 3,000 to 5,000 CRC ($5-$10 USD) for the day. Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking fills up quickly. Be cautious of unofficial parking attendants who may try to direct you to remote lots or scam you. Lock your car and take all valuables with you.

Unlock the Best of Manuel Antonio The Best

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Manuel Antonio The Best

Manuel Antonio National Park, located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast near the town of Quepos, is a vibrant tapestry of rainforest, beaches, and coral reefs. Although the smallest national park in Costa Rica, its 683 hectares (1,690 acres) teem with an extraordinary array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas. The park's stunning beaches, such as Manuel Antonio Beach and Espadilla Sur, are renowned as some of the most beautiful in the country, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing in a tropical paradise. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. Several trails wind through the rainforest, providing visitors with easy access to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The Sendero Espadilla Sur trail leads to the beach, while the Sendero Mirador trail offers panoramic views of the coastline. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Playa Gemelas offers a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches. Manuel Antonio has become increasingly popular, drawing many tourists. To manage crowds, the park limits the number of visitors allowed at any one time. Reservations are required and can be made online through the SINAC website. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid crowds and secure parking. **A few things to note:** The park is closed on Tuesdays. Outside food is not allowed in the park to minimize environmental impact, but water and non-alcoholic drinks are permitted.

Popular Experiences near Manuel Antonio The Best

Popular Hotels near Manuel Antonio The Best

Select Currency