Manuel Antonio & Quepos
Living in Quepos, near Manuel Antonio, for more than 10 years, I know this part of Costa Rica perfectly.
I opened Villas Jacquelina with my dad in 2012 and at this time I started a blog to share my experiences and to help my hotel guests get the most out of the area by providing locals advice.
Manuel Antonio, a vibrant tourist hub, owes much of its fame to its National Park and abundant wildlife.
About 15 minutes away is the town of Quepos, a moderate-sized port city, where my hotel (Villas Jacquelina) is located. Named after the indigenous "Quepoa" natives, the town boasts a vibrant tourist scene with an abundance of dining options, nightlife, and amenities. Its fully equipped Marina Pez Vela enhances its allure, attracting avid sport fishermen from around the globe.
You can explore the charming town center of Quepos, or simply relax on nearby stunning beaches like Playa Espadilla and Playa Biesanz. Manuel Antonio's lush rainforests, tranquil beaches, clean rivers, and awe-inspiring natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica.
Manuel Antonio
Quepos
Things to do in Manuel Antonio & Quepos.
#1
Visit the Manuel Antonio National Park.
GOOD TO KNOW
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The park is open from 7 AM to 4 PM Wednesday through Monday and it's closed on Tuesdays.
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Try to avoid unlicensed park guides who may aggressively try to sell you parking or a guided tour of the park.
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You can't take any food or plastic (bags, bottles) inside the park.
Manuel Antonio National Park was created in 1972 to preserve the bounty of the forest and the unspoiled beaches.
Despite being the smallest national park in Costa Rica, it is recognized for being one of the most biodiverse parks on earth, encompassing almost 683 land hectares and 55,000 marine hectares. It is the home for many at risk species in Costa Rica and one of the most popular places to see two and three toed sloths.
Manuel Antonio National Park is where the rainforest meets the ocean. The beaches are wide, extensive, and covered with beautiful, soft, white sand. One of the areas best qualities are the evergreen trees and palms that extend onto the beaches, providing protection from the sun and a welcome home for sloths and monkeys to enjoy the cool sea breeze.
For hikers, there are plenty of self-guided and well-marked trails to explore the flora, faunna and incredible mirador vistas that are all prevalent throughout the park. It's best is to book your tickets for the park well in advance as tickets can sellout during any season. You can purchase tickets online on the SINAC National Park website (be careful of fake sites). You will need to create a profile and provide passport details for all visitors to complete your ticket purchase. To discover the park in its entirety, you can purchase maps at the park entrance, however, we highly recommend you book the guided tour to Manuel Antonio National Park so that you can make the most out of this unforgettable visit.
#2
Hike the Reto Mae and enjoy the beautiful
beaches of Manuel Antonio.
When many think of hiking in Manuel Antonio, their minds go straight to the trails within the national park, which do require an entrance fee. But if you're looking for a free hike near Manuel Antonio, consider the Reto Mae trail!
It's not an overly lengthy hike for seasoned hikers, but it's no walk in the park either. The trail winds along the rugged Pacific coastline, with plenty of ups and downs as it meanders through the jungle.
Along this stunning coastline, you'll be treated to breathtaking views. At various points, the dense jungle gives way to panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. As you trek, you'll encounter several small, secluded beaches such as Playa La Macha, Playa La Vaca, Playa Tulemar, and Playa Rocosa, as well as popular tourist spots like Playa Biesanz, Playa Playita, and finally Playa Espadilla.
Keep your eyes peeled, as you might be lucky enough to spot monkeys swinging through the trees, butterflies dancing among the flowers, squirrels, birds, and other wildlife along the way.
If you want more information and details, read this article.
#3
Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls
Costa Rica has plenty of stunning waterfalls but probably the most spectacular are is Nauyaca Waterfall. With two enormously powerful waterfalls measuring a combined 61 meters (200 feet) tall and a large natural pool for swimming, the Nauyaca Waterfalls are a beautiful sight to see.
The waterfall is 1 hour from Manuel Antonio National Park by car and 35 minutes from Marino Ballena National Park and is located in the private Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park. You can enjoy spending the day exploring the network of trails through dense virgin rainforest and cool off in the many natural pools below the waterfall.
While some may choose to pay the entrance fee ($10) and hike from the ticket office to the falls on their own (12 kilometers), booking a guided tour of Nauyaca Waterfall is recommended for the following reasons:
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Guided tours come with transportation to both the ticket office and from the ticket office to the main trailhead which gets you to the falls quickly and easily.
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Rocks are slippery around these falls, so having guides who know the terrain and help you navigate is extremely helpful!
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Guides will do depth checks in the pools to ensure you can dive without hitting any underwater debris.
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Guided tours include interesting information, transportation, lunch, snacks, and more.
#4
Book an organized tour: sport, adventure, or nature activity in Manuel Antonio.
Whether you are on vacation as a solo traveler, in a couple, with family or friends, Manuel Antonio and Quepos offer a multitude of fun activities to discover Costa Rica in all its forms. Horseback riding offers a great way to explore lush rainforest and secret waterfalls. Canyoning and rappelling provide an incredible adrenaline rush, and mangrove kayaking is sure to please athletic visitors who want a workout and adventure.
With so many fun and exciting activities to do in Manuel Antonio, it can be difficult to choose just one!
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Parasailing : enjoy a bird's eye view!
At Playa Espadilla Norte, the beach adjacent to the national park, you have the thrilling opportunity to experience parasailing. Soaring above, you'll be treated to an unparalleled aerial perspective of the national park, a sight inaccessible by any other means.
I embarked on this memorable 15-minute parasailing adventure recently with my cousin, etching a beautiful memory in our minds. Despite the brevity of time, those 15 minutes felt infinitely longer, each moment brimming with exhilaration.
Booking your parasailing session is conveniently done right on the beach. However, we strongly advise securing a fully insured tour in advance, especially during the bustling high season from December to April, or if you want to ensure you get the best time slot around sunset.
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Sunset Sail: Pristine coastal views with snorkeling, dinner, drinks, and a majestic sunset
Experience the unforgettable Manuel Antonio sunset cruise for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline. Sail along the coast, spotting marine life and unique rock formations. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming in pristine coves, complete with waterslides and diving platforms. End the journey with a delicious fresh fish dinner as you sail into the sunset.
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Jungle Night Walk : Become Indiana Jones !
If you want to see more wildlife, going for a jungle night walk is a very good alternative! Manuel Antonio is a fantastic place in Costa Rica to explore the jungle at night and see sloths, frogs, insects, snakes... Many of these incredible animals wake up when the sun goes down.
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Ziplining: fly like a bird!
For an adventure in Manuel Antonio, try a canopy ziplining tour! This is one of the most fun things to do, great for anyone looking for a rush of adrenaline that will spice up their vacation.
You will glide through the treetops on a series of zip lines, all while taking in the stunning views of the rainforest and wild animals. Experience the exhilaration of flying through the air like a bird, swinging from a rope like Tarzan, and repelling down waterfalls like a navy seal.
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White Water Rafting: conquer class 3/4 rapids
Are you looking for a fun adventure that will take you deep into the rainforest? White water rafting is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
With its diverse terrain, Manuel Antonio offers some of the best rafting opportunities in Costa Rica and the Savegre River trip includes a short hike to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area. In the rainy season (May through December), you will encounter big-water Class III rapids with roller coaster-type waves. In the dry season, (May through December) you can raft with a guide, or challenge the rapids one on one in your inflatable kayak (ducky). Experienced and professional guides will be there to help you navigate the rapids. Safety is always a top priority, making whitewater rafting in Manuel Antonio a thrilling and safe excursion.
#5
Visit the Quepos Farmers Market
In Quepos, don't miss the vibrant farmers market held twice a week: Fridays (12 pm - 9 pm) and Saturdays (6 am - 12 am) behind the central bus station. Despite its size, it's a fantastic alternative to grocery shopping, offering a surprising variety of goods, from seafood to fresh coffee and cacao. It's also a treasure trove for unique gifts and artisanal finds, often more affordable than typical souvenirs. Additionally, on Wednesdays, there's a smaller market near the church and main soccer field (8 am - 4 pm).
Engage with locals and immerse yourself in the community vibe at the Quepos Farmers Market.
#6
Catch a majestic Sunset from Quepos
or Manuel Antonio
Sunsets are a must-see in Manuel Antonio and Quepos, offering a perfect way to unwind. Most hotels in Manuel Antonio provide stunning views of nearby mountains or beaches for sunset enjoyment. If your hotel lacks a view, head to Playa Espadilla Norte, where you might even encounter white-faced capuchin monkeys.
For a scenic dining experience, hillside restaurants like Cafe Agua Azul, Rafaeles Las Terrazas, Emilio’s Cafe, and El Avion offer happy hour specials from 4 PM to 6 PM with breathtaking ocean vistas.
In Quepos, El Malecon, Parque Nahomi, or Bahia Azul offer unparalleled ocean views. Along El Malecon, you can find various seating options, and don't miss indulging in ice cream from Gelateria Amorosi at Marina Pez Vela while marveling at nature's beauty.
Bests hotels in Manuel Antonio : where to stay?
Finding the perfect place to stay is key to making the most of your visit to Manuel Antonio and Quepos. From luxurious resorts with breathtaking ocean views to charming boutique hotels tucked into the jungle and budget-friendly hostels ideal for backpackers, you'll find the best options for a memorable and comfortable stay in this vibrant destination known for its national park, beaches, and wildlife. Check out our blog post > Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio & Quepos – Where to Stay? to explore a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Best restaurants in Manuel Antonio & Quepos : where to eat?
Manuel Antonio and Quepos offer a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere with a wide variety of dining options. Despite their small size, these towns are home to some of Costa Rica’s best restaurants, featuring a mix of local flavors and international cuisine. From upscale fine dining with ocean views to casual beachfront eateries and affordable local sodas, there’s something for every type of traveler. Visit our blog post > Best Restaurants in Manuel Antonio & Quepos – Where to Eat? for a detailed look at some of our recommended dining spots.
How to get to Quepos & Manuel Antonio?
Best International Airport to Fly Into
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José is the best international airport to fly into when heading to Manuel Antonio or Quepos. It’s the busiest and most centrally located airport in Costa Rica, offering numerous international connections and convenient access to the Central Pacific Coast. Alternatively, Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia is an option, though it's farther and better suited for travelers exploring the northwestern region of Costa Rica.
Best Domestic Airport to Fly Into
Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP) is the nearest domestic airport, located just minutes from Manuel Antonio. It receives several daily flights from San José (SJO or SYQ) via domestic carriers like Sansa. Flying into Quepos is a quick and scenic alternative to driving, especially for those short on time. You can book your domestic flight here.
Main Connecting Highways for Driving from the Airport
From San José (SJO):
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Take Route 27 west toward Caldera.
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Exit at Orotina and follow Route 34 (Costanera Sur) south.
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Turn off at Quepos and follow signs to Manuel Antonio.
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Approximate drive time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
From Liberia (LIR):
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Take Route 21 south to Route 18, then connect to Route 1.
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Head south toward Puntarenas and merge onto Route 27 or Route 23.
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Join Route 34 (Costanera Sur) and head south to Quepos and Manuel Antonio.
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Approximate drive time: 4.5 to 6 hours.
Is 4x4 Recommended?
A 4x4 vehicle is not necessary to reach Manuel Antonio or Quepos, as the main roads are paved and well-maintained. However, if you plan to explore more remote beaches, waterfalls, or nearby mountain areas during the rainy season, a 4x4 could come in handy.
Private and Shared Shuttles
Several private and shared shuttle services are available from both San José and Liberia airports to Manuel Antonio and Quepos. These can be booked in advance for a comfortable, safe, and hassle-free journey. Travel time from San José by shuttle is typically around 3 hours.
How to get around in Manuel Antonio?
Scooters and ATVs
While biking is not practical in Manuel Antonio due to steep hills and narrow, winding roads, renting a scooter or ATV is a popular and adventurous way to get around. These are great for short distances between the beach, your hotel, and the national park. Several rental agencies in Manuel Antonio and Quepos offer scooters and ATVs at reasonable daily rates.
Public Buses
Public buses are the most budget-friendly way to get around Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Regular buses run between the town of Quepos and the beach area near the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park, making it easy and affordable to move between the two. The bus ride takes about 15–20 minutes and costs under $1 USD.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in both Quepos and Manuel Antonio. They are a convenient option for quick trips to the beach, restaurants, or hotels, especially if you’re not renting a vehicle. Be sure to ask the driver to use the meter (“¿Puede poner el maría, por favor?”) or agree on a fare before your ride. Some taxis also offer longer rides to nearby attractions.
Where to go after Manuel Antonio & Quepos ?
Uvita & Dominical (Southern Pacific Coast)
If you're looking to slow down and reconnect with nature after the activity-packed days of Manuel Antonio, heading south to Uvita and Dominical is a perfect choice. These neighboring beach towns are known for their relaxed, authentic vibe, strong surf culture, and commitment to eco-tourism. Uvita is famous for its stunning Marino Ballena National Park, where you can walk along the iconic whale-tail sandbar at low tide and, during the right seasons, join unforgettable whale watching tours.
Dominical, just 15 minutes north, offers a vibrant surfing scene, bohemian cafes, and beautiful sunsets. The area is also home to lush waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, yoga centers, and hidden beaches—making it a fantastic next stop for nature lovers, surfers, and wellness seekers alike.
Sierpe & Drake Bay (Osa Peninsula)
For a more adventurous and remote experience, traveling south to Sierpe or continuing by boat to Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula opens the door to one of Costa Rica's most biodiverse and untouched regions. Sierpe is the gateway to this incredible area, where a scenic riverboat ride through mangroves leads to the remote paradise of Drake Bay. Once there, you're surrounded by dense rainforest, secluded beaches, and rich marine life. It’s the perfect place for travelers who want to immerse themselves in wild nature.
From Drake Bay, you can explore Corcovado National Park, often described as the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s national parks, or take a snorkeling or diving trip to Caño Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life. This destination offers a truly unique and off-the-grid experience for those craving a deeper connection with Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Where to stay, where to eat, what to do in Manuel Antonio, Quepos? Discover our travel blog
Discover the perfect blend of accommodation and dining options amidst the beauty of Manuel Antonio, Quepos. Whether you seek luxurious retreats nestled in lush greenery or crave delectable culinary delights overlooking stunning ocean vistas, our blog unveils the hidden gems awaiting your exploration in our Costa Rican paradise.
