Manuel Antonio

Between the main town and the national park, there are several world-class beaches in the area. Here, you can enjoy the wide variety of activities such as swimming, hiking the Manuel Antonio National Park, surfing, or simply relaxing while watching a vibrant sunset. Manuel Antonio is one of only two locations in Costa Rica where you can see all four types of monkey; spider, howler, white faced and the endangered squirrel monkey, many of which can be visible from your hotel window. The area is also a prime destination for spotting sloths, both in and outside of the national park. This once tiny town has blossomed into the most popular Costa Rican beach destination. Available are all the amenities you would come to expect as well as a jumping nightlife. Access to the area is possible along Coastal Highway 34 from either the north or south. The drive itself is popular among tourists as pronounced steep cliffs crash into the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. There is also a domestic airstrip in Quepos, just 7km away.

Be sure to keep an eye on your valuables at all times. Theft is a significant problem on the beaches, not just by humans but also by white faced monkeys looking to steal a quick snack.