The best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
- Esteban Acedo
- 1 hour ago
- 7 min read
Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, where lush rainforest meets powdery white-sand beaches, and wildlife abounds. For travelers — whether backpackers, families, or solo adventurers — it’s a place that truly has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-do activities in and around Manuel Antonio, share insider tips, and help you make the most of your stay.
On a budget? Check out our blog: Top 10 cheap and free things to do in Manuel Antonio and Quepos.
Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is the crown jewel of the region — a breathtaking mix of jungle trails, hidden beaches, and vibrant wildlife. As you walk along its paths, you’ll be surrounded by towering ceiba trees, lush ferns, and the sound of monkeys rustling in the canopy. This is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see sloths, squirrel monkeys, toucans, iguanas, and colorful crabs up close.
You can choose to explore the park on your own at your own pace, or join a guided tour with a naturalist who will point out animals you’d never spot by yourself and share fascinating facts about the ecosystem.
Hiking here feels like stepping into a living National Geographic documentary, and with beaches inside the park, you can cool off with a swim after exploring.
Tips:
Arrive at opening time (7 am) for fewer crowds or book a jungle night tour for more wildlife
Bring a metal water bottle, a swimsuit, and binoculars.
Food is not allowed, but there a snacks inside the park or restaurants nearby.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance on SINAC.
Mangrove Boat or Kayak Manuel Antonio
For a serene and immersive nature experience, few activities compare to exploring the mangroves of Damas Island. Whether you glide quietly by kayak or cruise gently on a motorboat, the calm water and dense green canopy create a tranquil world where wildlife thrives just a few feet away. It’s a perfect escape from the crowds of the main beaches, and a chance to see Costa Rica’s rainforest from a completely different perspective.
As you move through the winding channels, keep your eyes peeled—you never know what might appear:
White-faced monkeys swinging gracefully or even leaping toward the boat, giving you a playful wildlife show
Snakes resting along branches, perfectly camouflaged but fascinating to observe
Herons and kingfishers hunting patiently along the water’s edge
Crabs and other small creatures scuttling over the roots, adding movement and life to the scene
Tip:
Choose a tour at high tide—the channels are fuller, the wildlife is more active, and paddling is easier for a smooth, effortless experience.
Zipline Through the Jungle Canopy
Few experiences capture the thrill of Costa Rica like flying above the rainforest canopy. In Manuel Antonio, ziplining means gliding through lush green treetops, listening to tropical birds, and feeling the warm jungle breeze as you soar from platform to platform. It’s an exciting mix of adrenaline and natural beauty—perfect for families, backpackers, and anyone craving adventure.
From the high platforms, the views stretch across jungle-covered hills and, in some places, all the way to the sparkling Pacific. The guides are friendly, professional, and great at helping first-timers feel comfortable, making it a safe and fun activity for all ages.
Most Zipline Parks Include:
High viewpoints with sweeping jungle scenery
Hanging bridges suspended between giant trees
Rappel stations for an extra burst of excitement
Butterfly or reptile gardens to learn about local wildlife
Traditional Costa Rican snacks after your adventure
Morning or Sunset Catamaran Boat Tour
There’s something truly magical about cruising along Manuel Antonio’s rugged Pacific coastline. From the water, the jungle-covered cliffs rise dramatically, their vibrant green contrasting perfectly with the deep blue of the ocean. The salty breeze cools your skin on hot tropical days, while the gentle rocking of the catamaran creates a sense of pure relaxation and adventure at the same time.
Most catamaran tours combine snorkeling, refreshments, and breathtaking scenery, making them a perfect way to spend a few hours or an entire afternoon.
And if you’re lucky, the wildlife might put on a show:
Playful dolphins racing alongside the boat
Flying fish leaping gracefully from the water
Sea turtles gliding near the surface
Humpback whales breaching during migration season (July–October & December–March)
Tip:
Morning tours are ideal for calm waters and better snorkeling, while sunset cruises offer the most romantic views, perfect for couples or anyone wanting to capture the golden glow over the ocean.
White Water Rafting on the Savegre River
For adventure lovers visiting Manuel Antonio, white water rafting on the Savegre River is an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the lush Costa Rican rainforest, the Savegre combines exciting rapids with stunning natural scenery—a perfect mix of adrenaline and tropical beauty.
The river’s clear waters flow through jungle-lined banks, where toucans and kingfishers dart overhead and the air smells of wet earth and wildflowers. Depending on the season, you’ll navigate class II–III rapids, ideal for beginners and intermediate rafters, making it a family-friendly adventure that’s still thrilling enough for solo travelers and thrill-seekers.
What to Expect:
Exciting rapids that get your heart pumping
Calm stretches perfect for floating and taking in the rainforest scenery
Lush jungle views with waterfalls, tropical birds, and wildlife along the riverbanks
Professional guides ensuring safety while sharing local knowledge
Easy transportation from Manuel Antonio with organized tours
Tips:
Wear quick-drying clothes and secure shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Bring waterproof sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap.
Go early in the day—the river is calmer, and wildlife is more active along the banks.
Group Surf Lessons Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio isn’t just about jungle trails and wildlife—its turquoise Pacific waters are perfect for catching your first wave or improving your surf skills. Group surf lessons are an ideal way to dive into the sport, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, all while enjoying the spectacular tropical scenery.
The beaches near Manuel Antonio, especially Playa Espadilla, offer gentle, consistent waves that are perfect for learning. Warm water, soft sandy bottoms, and professional instructors make it a safe and fun experience for all ages. Plus, learning in a group adds an extra layer of fun, camaraderie, and encouragement—you’ll cheer on fellow surfers as you all take turns conquering the waves.
Why It’s Special:
Surfing in Manuel Antonio combines adventure, exercise, and stunning coastal views
Great for solo travelers wanting to meet people, or families and friends sharing a fun activity
A safe way to try surfing, even if you’ve never been on a board
Tips:
Check the tide: High and low tides can affect wave conditions—morning lessons are often calmer, while mid-tide can give bigger, more exciting waves.
Sunset surf: Evenings are spectacular for surfing, with golden skies reflecting on the water and perfect photo opportunities.
Wear comfortable swimwear and be ready to get wet—surfing is all about fun in the water!
Nauyaca Waterfall Tour
For a day of adventure and natural beauty, a trip to Nauyaca Waterfalls is hard to beat. Located about an hour and a half from Manuel Antonio, these majestic twin waterfalls plunge into turquoise pools surrounded by lush rainforest. Hiking or riding horseback through the jungle to reach them feels like stepping into a tropical paradise.
What to Expect:
Stunning waterfalls perfect for swimming and photos
Jungle trails filled with tropical birds, butterflies, and wildlife
Natural pools where you can relax, float, or cliff-jump (safely!)
Options to explore on horseback, by hike, or via guided tour
Tips:
Bring water shoes—the rocks can be slippery.
Pack a swimsuit, towel, and waterproof bag for valuables.
Bring snacks or lunch but do not leave any waste behind—some tours include traditional Costa Rican meals.
Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful jungle atmosphere.
Try Costa Rican Flavors in Manuel Antonio
No trip to Manuel Antonio is complete without tasting the local cuisine. From casual sodas (small family-run diners) to ocean-view restaurants, the region offers fresh, flavorful meals made from local ingredients.
What to Try:
Casado – The classic Costa Rican dish: rice, beans, plantains, salad, and meat or fish
Ceviche – Fresh fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, perfect for a light snack
Fresh seafood – Grilled fish, marlin, or shrimp straight from the Pacific
Tropical fruits – Mango, papaya, pineapple, and coconut water
Tips:
Eat where locals eat—sodas are cheap, authentic, and delicious.
Try dinner at sunset—many restaurants have breathtaking views over the ocean.
Stay hydrated—Costa Rica’s tropical climate makes fresh coconut water a must.
Parasailing in Manuel Antonio
For a bird’s-eye view of Manuel Antonio, parasailing offers a thrilling and peaceful experience all at once. Lifted gently above the sparkling Pacific, you’ll soar with panoramic views of rainforest hills, hidden beaches, and turquoise waters.
What to Expect:
Safety briefing and harness fitting from professional guides
Gentle takeoff from a boat, rising slowly into the sky
Stunning views of Playa Espadilla, Cathedral Point, and surrounding jungle
A sense of weightless freedom as you float above it all
Skydiving in Manuel Antonio
For adrenaline junkies, skydiving in Manuel Antonio is the ultimate adventure. Jumping from thousands of feet above the Pacific, you’ll experience an unmatched rush of adrenaline combined with incredible aerial views of the rainforest, coastline, and sparkling ocean.
What to Expect:
Tandem jumps with certified instructors.
Stunning aerial views of Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla, and nearby islands
Freefall followed by a peaceful parachute glide to the landing zone
Professional team ensuring maximum safety and fun
Conclusion
Manuel Antonio truly has something for everyone—whether you’re exploring rainforest trails, relaxing on white-sand beaches, or seeking adventure on the water and in the sky. From wildlife encounters in the national park and mangroves, to ziplining, surfing, and thrilling activities like white water rafting, parasailing, and skydiving, every moment is an opportunity to connect with Costa Rica’s incredible nature.
Pair these experiences with the delicious local cuisine, breathtaking sunsets, and the warm “Pura Vida” spirit of the region, and you have a destination that will leave lasting memories for backpackers, families, and solo travelers alike. Manuel Antonio isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience, explore, and fall in love with Costa Rica.
For more information about things to do in Manuel Antonio, check out our blog: Top 10 cheap and free things to do in Manuel Antonio and Quepos.