A trip to Costa Rica wouldn’t be complete without exploring one of its most famous national parks: Manuel Antonio National Park! Nestled along the Central Pacific Coast near Quepos, this park is known for its lush rainforest, abundant wildlife, and pristine white sand beaches. Whether you’re here for the stunning scenery, to spot the elusive sloths, or to lounge on Playa Manuel Antonio, this destination is a must-visit. With its vibrant ecosystem, diverse landscapes, and unique wildlife, it offers a variety of experiences for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to relax.
Top tips for visiting Manual Antonio National Park:
Costa Rica is an adventure lover’s paradise, where lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and incredible wildlife await at every turn. Each region of Costa Rica offers its own unique charm. The Central Valley is known for its cool climate and volcanoes, while the Caribbean Coast has a more laid-back vibe. But for many visitors, it’s the Pacific Coast, with spots like Manuel Antonio, that steal the show!
Manuel Antonio is one of those places that perfectly blends adventure and relaxation, making it a top pick for any Costa Rican getaway. But what really sets this place apart is how easily you can combine thrilling outdoor activities with the option to kick back and unwind.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, be sure to put Manuel Antonio National Park at the top of your list. It’s the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories, whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or just someone looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by nature’s beauty. Trust me—you won’t regret it!
Why Visit Manuel Antonio National Park?
Costa Rica is home to some of the most biodiverse national parks in the world, and Manuel Antonio is no exception. While it may be one of the smallest parks in Costa Rica, it’s packed with wildlife, hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views. You’ll find monkeys swinging overhead, iguanas basking in the sun, and even the occasional coati scurrying through the underbrush. The park boasts a delicate balance of tropical rainforest, dry forest, and coastal ecosystems, making it a fascinating destination for all types of nature enthusiasts.
The park offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. You can start your day trekking through the jungle, spotting white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, and exotic birds, then cool off with a swim at Manuel Antonio Beach or Playa Espadilla Sur. The park’s accessibility and relatively short trails make it a great choice for families, first-time visitors, and seasoned travelers alike. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, or simply unwinding by the beach, Manuel Antonio has something for everyone.
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Best Time to Visit Manuel Antonio National Park: Dry Season vs. Rainy Season
Costa Rica has two main seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). Each has its pros and cons when visiting Manuel Antonio:
Dry Season
Expect sunny days, minimal rainfall, and ideal beach weather. However, this is also the busiest time, so crowds will be larger, and you’ll have to book your tickets earlier. The dry season is perfect for beach lovers and those looking to hike without worrying about muddy trails. With clear skies and dry conditions, it’s the best time to fully enjoy the stunning coastline and diverse wildlife.
Rainy Season
Fewer tourists, lush green landscapes, and a higher chance of seeing more active wildlife. The rain is typically heavy but short, usually in the afternoon, and can cool off the sometimes intense heat. While the trails can get muddy, the rainy season also brings an incredible surge of life to the park. Vegetation flourishes, animals are more active, and you might be able to spot rarer species that tend to hide during the dry season. If you don’t mind the occasional rain shower and want a quieter experience with a greener landscape, this could be the perfect time to visit.
If you’re visiting during the peak dry season, be sure to book your tickets early in advance and opt for an early morning time slot to avoid the crowds. Early morning or late afternoon is when wildlife is most active, making these times perfect for spotting creatures.
How to Enter Manuel Antonio National Park
The main park entrance is just outside of Quepos, and there are designated time slots for entry to manage the number of visitors each day. Make sure to book in advance, especially during high season, as the park can become crowded, and you don’t want to miss out on your desired time slot. You’ll also need to pay a small entry fee to access the park.
Manuel Antonio National Park Parking
If you’re driving, park only in official parking lots near the entrance to avoid scams. Some locals will wave you down claiming the lot is full and direct you to private lots further away, often charging higher fees. Stick to the verified parking lot areas for a hassle-free experience. Many parking lots offer shuttle services to the entrance, making it easier to reach the park if you’re not in walking distance. Always confirm the parking lot’s location to ensure you’re not falling for a common scam.
Pro tip: Many guided tours (like the one we did!) provide shuttle services to and from your hotel.
Manuel Antonio National Park Tour
We opted for a guided tour, and it was one of the best decisions we made. While you can certainly explore on your own, hiring a guide enhances your experience a ton. These guides are experts in spotting wildlife, and they know exactly where to look for hidden creatures, from camouflaged lizards to well-disguised sloths. They also carry professional-grade scopes, allowing you to see intricate details of the wildlife up close without disturbing their natural habitats.
Plus, with a guide, you won’t have to worry about navigating the park’s entry process or missing any key sights. Our guide even airdropped photos to us at the end of the tour. So we left with professional wildlife shots to remember the trip! A guide can also provide in-depth knowledge about the park’s history, giving you a richer experience than you’d have exploring on your own.
What to Do in Manuel Antonio National Park
Explore the Hiking Trails
The park has several well-maintained trails that take you through tropical forests, past scenic overlooks, and down to secluded beaches. Some of the best trails include:
- Sendero Perezoso (Sloth Trail): A relatively easy walk with a high chance of spotting sloths lazing in the trees. This trail is perfect for families and first-time visitors, with a chance to see some of the park’s most iconic wildlife.
- Sendero Punta Catedral (Cathedral Point Trail): A more challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic ocean views. This trail offers a slightly more strenuous adventure but rewards you with incredible views of the coastline and surrounding rainforests.
- Sendero Playa Gemelas & Puerto Escondido: Leads to a beautiful hidden cove, perfect for a peaceful break away from the crowds. It’s a great spot for a quiet picnic or to simply enjoy the natural beauty of the park away from the more popular beaches.
Relax at the Beaches
After your hike, head to one of Manuel Antonio’s picturesque beaches. The park offers a variety of beaches to suit different moods:
- Playa Manuel Antonio: The park’s most famous beach, featuring white sand and calm, clear waters. Perfect for swimming and relaxing. The warm waters here are ideal for a post-hike dip, and the beach is well-equipped with shaded areas for picnicking or simply unwinding.
- Playa Espadilla Sur: A quieter alternative, located just a short walk from the main beach, ideal for those looking for a more tranquil experience. This beach offers a laid-back vibe with fewer visitors and great opportunities for bird watching or just soaking up the serene surroundings.
Spot Wildlife
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for:
- White face monkeys, howler monkeys, and squirrel monkeys playing in the trees.
- Sloths hanging lazily in the treetops.
- Iguanas sunbathing along the trails.
- Coatis sniffing around for food.
- Exotic birds like toucans and scarlet macaws.
For the best chance at spotting wildlife, arrive early in the morning when animals are most active. Be sure to keep your distance from the animals, as tempting as it may be to get close for a photo. This is their home, and respecting their space helps protect their natural behaviors and habitats.
Where to Stay Near Manuel Antonio National Park
Finding the perfect place to stay can enhance your visit to Manuel Antonio. Here are some top recommendations:
Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
A beautiful boutique hotel offering eco-friendly accommodations with ocean views, a wildlife refuge, and an on-site restaurant. It’s perfect for travelers looking for comfort and convenience near the park. The resort has excellent guided tours and plenty of activities on-site, making it ideal for families or couples. This is where we stayed while i the area, and we thought it was the perfect place to relax in between activities.
Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
A luxury eco-resort with direct beach access, stunning views, and top-notch service. It offers a more intimate experience with a focus on sustainability and relaxation, making it a perfect choice for those looking to treat themselves after a day of exploring the park.
Hotel Costa Verde
Known for its unique airplane suite and incredible jungle surroundings, this hotel is great for adventure seekers and families. The hotel offers a range of room options and easy access to the park, along with great views of the ocean and surrounding nature.
The Falls Resort
A mid-range boutique hotel with lush gardens and a peaceful ambiance, just a short drive from the park entrance. This resort offers a relaxing atmosphere without sacrificing convenience.
Additional Travel Tips for Manuel Antonio National Park
Wear proper footwear
Skip the flip flops and opt for hiking boots or sturdy sandals, as trails can be uneven and sometimes muddy. You’ll want footwear that can handle both the jungle trails and beach walks comfortably.
Pack wisely
Bring a backpack with sunscreen, bug spray, water, a swimsuit, and a towel. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photos, as many creatures are found at a distance in the trees.
Arrive early
The park gets crowded, and the earlier you arrive, the better chance you’ll have of seeing wildlife before it retreats deeper into the forest. This also allows you to experience the park’s quieter, more peaceful hours.
Respect the wildlife
Don’t feed the animals, and keep a safe distance, especially from the mischievous monkeys who might try to snatch your snacks! Let animals roam freely without human interference to ensure their natural behaviors remain intact.
Plan for the park closing time
The park closes at 4 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your day. This gives you ample time for a morning hike, a beach stop, and some wildlife watching.
Manuel Antonio National Park is truly one of the most incredible national parks in Costa Rica. Whether you’re hiking through the jungle, spotting white-faced monkeys, or soaking up the sun on Playa Manuel Antonio, this park offers something for everyone. It’s a place where adventure and relaxation meet, and where you can get an up-close look at Costa Rica’s abundant natural beauty.
Make sure to plan ahead, hire a guide, and take the time to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking slice of Costa Rican paradise. Don’t forget—when you exit, stop by the vendors near the parking lot for some fresh coconut water and local souvenirs! You’ll leave not only with unforgettable memories but also with a piece of Costa Rica’s charm to take home.
If you are interested in more resources to help plan your trip check out my other blog posts, including 15 Adventurous Things To Do in Costa Rica, and you can follow me on Instagram at @sierrainthecity.
You can book a guided experience at MANP here: Manuel Antonio National Park Wildlife Tour
Book your stay at Si Como No in Manuel Antonio here: Si Como No
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