Manuel Antonio National Park
Created in 1972 to preserve the richness of the forest and the idyllic beaches, Manuel Antonio is home to many of Costa Rica's endangered species. Don't let the size fool you, the smallest of Costa Rica's National Parks, which encompasses almost 1,700 acres of land (683 terrestrial hectares) and 136,000 acres of ocean (55,000 marine hectares), is regarded as one of its best.
More about Manuel Antonio National Park
Located 120 miles (192 km) from San Jose on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is internationally recognized as being one of the most biodiverse parks on the planet. Lush tropical forests, lagoons, mangroves and pristine white sandy beaches make up one of the most diverse ecosystems imaginable. Among the 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds, some of the frequently viewed residents include white-faced and howler monkeys, two and three toed sloths and iguanas. The endangered squirrel monkey calls the park home as well.
The park contains a great system of well marked trails to allow visitors to explore (maps may be purchased at the park entrance). The four beaches in the park, Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio, Escondito and Playita, are some of the best in the country. Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio offer very good snorkeling when the water is clear, which is best during the dry season. At 236 feet (72 m) high, Cathedral Point lies between Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow land bridge and if you&re up for the hike, provides a memorable view. Playa Manuel Antonio offers a glimpse into the past with pre-Columbian turtle traps made of stone. Surfing, swimming or just relaxing under the sun are favorite activities for park goers.
Manuel Antonio National Park is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:30 am to 4 pm. Regulations have been in effect to limit the amount of visitors to 600 on weekdays and 800 on weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, early morning from May to November may be the best time to experience the park. Peak months are from December to April. Petty theft is common around the park so be sure not to leave your possessions unguarded.
Moments to look forward to
Big Multi Family Group Adventure
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that juxtaposes bustling urban energy with lush, untouched rainforests, delivering a dynamic escape from everyday routine. From San José’s lively streets you’ll head to Monteverde’s cloud‑forest canopy for sky tram rides and hikes, then dive into Rio Celeste’s turquoise waters and trek El Silencio’s volcanic paths. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides will immerse you in coffee farms, rainforest sounds, and volcanic vistas, leaving you with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s spirited hospitality and natural wonder.
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour
60th birthday jungle adventure
If you like the outside at all, Costa Rica is for you! It truly is a rich coast. The diversity of wildlife is mind blowing. It is spectacular.
Manuel Antonio National Park and Surf
Dream Honeymoon Adventure in Costa Rica
Embark on a honeymoon that swaps city bustle for Costa Rica’s emerald rainforests and sun‑kissed beaches, where romance meets adventure in every sunrise. From Monteverde’s misty cloud forest trails to Arenal’s volcanic hot springs, then Playa Conchal’s Pacific surf and Damas Island’s mangrove kayak tours, you’ll hike, soak, and sail. Friendly local guides and vibrant community flavors will weave unforgettable memories, leaving you with a deeper connection to nature, Costa Rican warmth, and each other.
Manuel Antonio National Park & Surf & Beach Day
Costa Rica Family Adventure Quest
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican family adventure that weaves together rainforest mist, volcanic fire, and Pacific surf, offering a dynamic contrast of nature’s extremes. Your journey moves from the sun‑kissed beaches of Manuel Antonio to Monteverde’s misty hanging bridges, then into Arenal’s volcano and waterfalls, ending with surf lessons in Tamarindo. Friendly local guides and coffee‑farm hosts will share traditions, flavors, and stories, leaving your family with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and adventurous spirit.
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour (From Jaco)
Solo Exclusive Trip
An incredible country which went beyond expectations. Absolutely amazing & so many memorable experiences. The welcome from all the people & the hospitality everywhere is fantastic. I always felt safe
Manuel Antonio National Park and Beach Day
Family Fun in Costa Rica
This trip was perfect for our family of 4! It was full of adventure for EVERYONE! Usually our vacations consists of entertainment for the kids but on this vacation we all got to enjoy so much. We have a 5 and 9 year old and we did zip lining, safari boat tour, coffee/chocolate tour, hot springs, waterfall hike, manual Antonio national park and so much more!! We were here for 11 days (2 of them travel days) and it was just enough time! I can’t wait to come back!
Manuel Antonio National Park One Day Tour
Deep Journey into the Heart of Costa Rica
From misty cloud forests to sun‑kissed Pacific beaches, this Costa Rican adventure weaves together vibrant wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and endless ocean horizons. You’ll trek Monteverde’s canopy bridges, soak in Arenal’s hot springs, kayak mangroves at Drake Bay, and snorkel coral reefs off Manuel Antonio. Friendly local guides and community hosts will share traditions, cuisine, and conservation stories, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit.
Guided Tour Manuel Antonio National Park
My Pursuit of Pura Vida
HECK YES! The entire experience - from coordinating the trip with Jose to my final transportation to the airport - was flawless. It was 100% stress-free, which made my visit to Costa Rica one of the best trips I've ever taken.
A Coast to Coast Family Adventure
Our trip went very smoothly with all of our pick ups on time. The hotels, destinations and tours recommended by Roy Soto, our tour organiser were all of an excellent standard. For future reference, a lot of our trips were very early so we often missed breakfast at our hotels. It may be useful for fellow travelers to have a list of local cafes/hotels in each location that open early for breakfast. All in all our trip was very enjoyable, the scenery is suberb, the beaches beautiful and unspoiled, the wildlife abundant and incredibly diverse, and the people of Costa Rica are friendly and very hospitable. I would recommend a trip to Costa Rica for an unforgettable experience and I'd recommend Anywhere as a fantastic way to organise the trip of a lifetime, tailored specifically for you.
A Romantic Adventure in The Making
Our favorite part of the trip was experiencing all of the wildlife, monkeys, birds, butterflies and the scenery was GORGEOUS! Each portion of our two-week stay went according to plan, and we have many fond memories for our next trip!
Senior Couple Nature Explorer
We had a wonderful trip. All arrangements were handled promptly and on time. With howler monkeys outside our windows and being able to walk right onto the beach, it doesn’t get better than this.
An Adventure Family Vacation to Remember
We all loved Costa Rica and had a great time. It was nice to see sustainability practices at the hotels although it was not what we really considered when choosing a hotel. However, it was nice to see.
A Real Taste of Costa Rica
We wanted to take the kids to Costa Rica to appreciate the ecotourism. Monteverde region blew us away with the Twilight Walk, Children's Eternal Rainforest and the cabins and greenhouse at Los Pinos, including the cabins designed to profit from natural light in the washrooms. The butterfly garden tour in Monteverde was my father's favourite of the many tours that we took and my children appreciated the coffee tour in Arenal for the hot chocolate that we made and for Gustavo's enthusiasm and interaction with the kids. Exposure to the nature was one thing but seeing how the society embraces nature for conservation was truly impressive.
The Most Memorable Honeymoon Ever
Our first but definitely not last time in Costa Rica. We loved all the areas, people, activities, food, everything. Been gushing about our trip to our family and friends since we got back.
Celebrating Our Anniversary in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a lovely country! I am very impressed with all you do to preserve the beauty and wildlife so abundant.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
