Espadilla Beach: Manuel Antonio's Accessible Paradise
A stunning Pacific Ocean beach in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, offering relaxation, activities, and beautiful sunsets.
Playa Espadilla, a long sandy beach near Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica, is divided into two sections: Espadilla Norte, which is free and lively, and Espadilla Sur, accessible through the park for a fee. It is known for its stunning views, clear waters, and various activities.
A brief summary to Espadilla Beach
- Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to March) for the best weather and to maximize your time soaking up the sun.
- Bring cash for vendors offering snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and parking 'guards'.
- Be aware that Playa Espadilla is divided into two sections: Espadilla Norte (free access) and Espadilla Sur (access through Manuel Antonio National Park with an entrance fee).
- Take care of your belongings and don't leave them unattended to avoid theft.
- Stay for the sunset; the views are particularly stunning in the late afternoon.
Getting There
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Bus
From Quepos, take the Quepos > Manuel Antonio bus from the central bus station or any bus stop in Quepos. The bus runs every 15 minutes from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM, then every 30 minutes until 10 PM. Get off the bus once it descends from the mountains to the beach level. The fare is approximately $1 USD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Quepos and can take you directly to Playa Espadilla. A taxi ride from Quepos to Playa Espadilla typically costs between $14 and $17 USD. The journey takes around 12 minutes.
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Walking
If you're in Quepos and prefer to walk, head southeast on Avenida 2 towards Calle 3. Continue straight, crossing over the bridge until you reach Route 34. Turn right, and after about 1.5 km (approximately 20-30 minutes), you will arrive at the beach. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
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Car
From Quepos, drive on the main Manuel Antonio road (618) towards Manuel Antonio National Park. As you descend the last mountain near the beach, look for parking. Parking can be tricky, and unofficial 'parking guards' may offer to watch your car for a fee (around 3000 colones). Some paid parking lots charge around $5 USD.
Discover more about Espadilla Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Villa Punto de Vista - Luxury Villa
0.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Villa Punto de Vista, your private paradise in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Parking
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Quepos, Costa Rica, with this conveniently located parking lot as your starting point for unforgettable adventures.
El Faro Beach Hotel
0.9 km
Eco-friendly container hotel in Manuel Antonio, offering stunning ocean views, an infinity pool, and close proximity to the national park.
Manuel Antonio Nature Tours
1.0 km
Explore the exquisite biodiversity of Costa Rica with expert-guided tours at Manuel Antonio Nature Tours, a gateway to nature's wonders.
Xplore Manuel Antonio
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio with Xplore, where adventure meets sustainable tourism.
Vista Hermosa Estate - Luxury Beach Villa
1.0 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Vista Hermosa Estate in Manuel Antonio: stunning ocean views, private beach access, and world-class service.
The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio
1.0 km
Experience comfort and nature at The Falls Resort, your gateway to Manuel Antonio's rainforests, beaches, and Costa Rican charm.
Johan Chaves birding and nature tours
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's avian paradise with Johan Chaves Birding and Nature Tours in Manuel Antonio National Park.
Si Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge
1.1 km
Experience eco-luxury in Manuel Antonio at Si Como No Resort: stunning views, diverse wildlife, and sustainable hospitality await!
Agua Azul
1.3 km
Experience a fusion of flavors with breathtaking ocean views at this Quepos restaurant, offering fresh seafood and diverse culinary delights.
Manuel Antonio Adventure
1.3 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and thrilling adventures at Manuel Antonio Adventure, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural beauty.
El Patio de Café Milagro
1.3 km
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
1.5 km
Experience Quepos's vibrant nightlife at Ape Eclectic Social Bar, where creative cocktails, lively music, and an eclectic atmosphere await!
Things To Do Manuel Antonio
1.5 km
Explore stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and exhilarating adventures in beautiful Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio The Best
1.5 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Manuel Antonio, where lush rainforests meet stunning beaches, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dante's Water Sports & Tours
0.1 km
Experience thrilling water adventures at Dante's Water Sports & Tours in Manuel Antonio, from surfing lessons to unforgettable boat tours.
Sunset Viewpoint Manuel Antonio
0.4 km
Experience the stunning sunsets and breathtaking views at Sunset Viewpoint Manuel Antonio, a hidden gem along the picturesque coast of Costa Rica.
Aguas Azules Parasailing Tours (Espadilla Beach Site)
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures with Aguas Azules Parasailing Tours at beautiful Espadilla Beach in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Antonio Miguel Beach
0.6 km
Experience the serene charm of Antonio Miguel Beach in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Playa Playitas (Manuel Antonio) - Playitas Beach
0.6 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Playa Playitas, a stunning beach destination in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Manuel Antonio
0.7 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Playa Manuel Antonio, a tropical paradise blending stunning beaches and vibrant wildlife in Costa Rica.
Zip Coaster
0.7 km
Soar through the lush rainforest of Quepos on the thrilling Zip Coaster, an adventure that combines speed with stunning natural beauty in Costa Rica.
Playa Espadilla Norte
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Playa Espadilla Norte, a serene picnic ground in Quepos, where golden sands meet lush landscapes and ocean waves.
Radames Tours National Park Manuel Antonio
0.9 km
Discover the stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and lush rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve & Wildlife Refuge
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio National Park
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park, a premier eco-tourism destination in Costa Rica.
Official Guide Costa Rica
1.0 km
Explore Costa Rica's stunning Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife awaits.
Costa Rica Wáköö Tours Manuel Antonio Park Tour
1.0 km
Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park with Wáköö Tours, your premier travel agency in Costa Rica.
El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour
1.0 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining through the breathtaking Costa Rican rainforest at El Santuario Canopy Adventure, a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Manuel Antonio Bio Adventure
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant wildlife and stunning landscapes of Manuel Antonio Bio Adventure, a national park in Costa Rica that promises unforgettable experiences.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Buena Vista Plus
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Buena Vista Plus on Playa Espadilla.
Casa Planta restaurant
0.2 km
Discover diverse culinary delights at Casa Planta in Quepos - where local ingredients meet international cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Rafaeles Las Terrazas (Raphael's Terrazas)
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Rafaeles Las Terrazas in Manuel Antonio.
Baldi's Fresh Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience vibrant flavors at Baldi's Fresh Restaurant in Quepos - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional dining in Costa Rica.
Restaurante Buru Seaside Manuel Antonio
0.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood and vibrant live music at Restaurante Buru Seaside in Manuel Antonio – where coastal charm meets culinary delight.
The Hawg 'N' Bi
0.7 km
Experience exquisite beachfront dining at The Hawg 'N' Bi in Quepos - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Bar las gemelas
0.7 km
Discover Bar las Gemelas: A culinary haven in Manuel Antonio National Park offering authentic Costa Rican flavors amidst breathtaking nature.
El Wagon
0.8 km
Discover El Wagon in Quepos: where artisanal pizzas meet Costa Rican hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurante Puerto Escondido
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Puerto Escondido, where culinary delights meet stunning natural beauty.
Morpho Beach Bar
0.8 km
Discover Morpho Beach Bar: A tropical paradise where delicious Costa Rican cuisine meets stunning ocean views in Manuel Antonio.
Espadilla Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Espadilla Restaurant in Quepos - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Cafe Del Mar
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with stunning ocean views at Café Del Mar in Quepos.
El Avion
0.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at El Avion with stunning ocean views and unique ambiance in Aguirre's scenic landscape.
Natural Food
0.9 km
Discover exquisite vegan dining at Natural Food in Quepos, where fresh ingredients meet Costa Rican culinary traditions.
The Gallery
0.9 km
Discover The Gallery in Manuel Antonio - where exquisite cuisine meets stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Supermarket Pura Vida
0.7 km
Explore Supermarket Pura Vida in Manuel Antonio for fresh local produce, international snacks, and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
0.7 km
Explore Souvenir Colores de Costa Rica for unique, handcrafted treasures that celebrate the vibrant culture and beauty of Costa Rica.
JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate beachwear selection at JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach, where style meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Gelateria El Parque
1.0 km
Discover the refreshing taste of Gelateria El Parque, where delicious ice creams meet the stunning backdrop of Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio.
Authentica Gift Shop - Manuel Antonio
1.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican crafts at Authentic Gift Shop in Manuel Antonio, where every purchase tells a story of local culture and artistry.
Mariposita Gift Shop & Gallery
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at Mariposita Gift Shop & Gallery, where every piece tells a story of local craftsmanship.
Indigo by Jungle Sol
1.3 km
Indigo by Jungle Sol: Your go-to boutique for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique souvenirs in Quepos.
Mot Mot Handcrafted Gallery
1.3 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at Mot Mot Handcrafted Gallery, a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted gifts and souvenirs.
Jungle Avenue
1.3 km
Jungle Avenue: Your boutique destination in Quepos for unique clothing and exquisite local jewelry, reflecting Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Supermarket
1.3 km
Discover fresh produce and local delicacies at the Supermarket in Quepos, your gateway to authentic Costa Rican flavors.
Plaza vista, Manuel Antonio, Quepos
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant Plaza Vista in Manuel Antonio, a shopping paradise filled with local culture, delightful dining, and unique shopping experiences.
Marea - Mara Cantarella Joyeria
1.3 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry at Marea - Mara Cantarella Joyeria in Quepos, where local craftsmanship meets elegance.
Souvenir quetzaltico
1.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir Quetzaltico in Quepos, where local artistry meets unforgettable memories.
Bam Bam Boo
1.4 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at Bam Bam Boo, a vibrant clothing store in Quepos that embodies local culture and style.
Souvenir Yorusti 3
1.4 km
Discover unique and authentic Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir Yorusti 3 in Quepos, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cocos
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cocos, the perfect bar in Quepos for exquisite cocktails and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
B&B Beach and Drinks
0.7 km
Experience the best seafood dining with stunning ocean views at B&B Beach and Drinks, a hidden gem near Manuel Antonio Beach.
Bar Y Restaurante Relax
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Y Restaurante Relax, a must-visit restaurant in Quepos offering delightful local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
patatus bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Patatus Bar, a charming tapas bar in Quepos offering delicious small plates and a cozy atmosphere.
Makanda Pool Lounge
1.4 km
Experience the tropical charm of Makanda Pool Lounge, a serene bar and swimming pool retreat in the heart of Manuel Antonio.
Drunken Monkey
1.5 km
Discover the lively Drunken Monkey bar in Quepos, Costa Rica - a vibrant spot for drinks, music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tropical 32 bar y restaurante
1.9 km
Experience the fusion of breathtaking nature and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tropical 32 Bar y Restaurante in Manuel Antonio.
Quepoa by Agua Azul
1.9 km
Discover Quepoa by Agua Azul in Quepos: Family-friendly dining with fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for all ages.
Restaurante Blue's Bar
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Restaurante Blue's Bar in Quepos, Costa Rica, where refreshing drinks and live music create unforgettable evenings.
Rasta Bar y Restaurante
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Rasta Bar y Restaurante, where local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in Quepos.
Bambu Jam
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bambu Jam, a grill offering delicious cuisine in a serene setting with an inviting outdoor pool.
Double Hook Sports Bar
3.8 km
Experience the thrill of sports in Quepos at Double Hook Sports Bar, where delicious food and vibrant energy meet.
Cuban Republik Disco Lounge
4.3 km
Unleash your spirit at Cuban Republik Disco Lounge, Quepos' top destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences filled with dance, music, and vibrant energy.
Bar y restaurante El Valle de Tarrazú
31.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican dining at El Valle de Tarrazú, where flavorful dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
32.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Kasa Blanca, a culinary gem in San Marcos, perfect for tourists seeking a delightful dining experience.
