1 week in Manuel Antonio: what to do?

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, a place where lush rainforest meets powdery white-sand beaches and wildlife is never far away. Whether you’re wandering through jungle trails, spotting monkeys and sloths, relaxing on the beach, or seeking adrenaline-filled adventures like ziplining, surfing, or white water rafting, Manuel Antonio truly has something for everyone. Here is all our favorite activities if you're wondering what to do during 1 week in Manuel Antonio.

From family-friendly excursions to solo travel adventures, this small town is bursting with natural beauty, exciting activities, and delicious local cuisine, making it the perfect base for exploring the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

Planning where to stay is just as important as planning what to do. To make your trip effortless and memorable, check out our guide to the best hotels and accommodations in Manuel Antonio here.

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Relaxation

• Morning: Arrive in Manuel Antonio and check into your hotel or hostel.

• Afternoon: Relax at Playa Espadilla, the main public beach. Swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the shoreline.

• Lunch: Stop at Emilio's Cafe for a relaxed, flavorful Costa Rican meal with an amazing view.

• Evening: Enjoy sunset views with a drink at El Avión, a unique restaurant built around a real airplane and stop at Mangata Restaurant for a Peruvian dinner (our favorite in Manuel Antonio)

Tip: If you have some time and would like to go hiking, take the opportunity to do the RETO MAE. It's one of our favorite hikes, and it gives you access to all the beaches in Manuel Antonio. For more information, check our article El Reto MAE: A Local's Guide to Manuel Antonio's Hike.

Day 2: Manuel Antonio National Park & Wildlife

• Morning: Arrive at Manuel Antonio National Park early to avoid crowds (even if everyone has probably the same idea). Hike the trails and spot sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and colorful birds. Don’t forget your swimsuit for the park’s hidden beaches. They are just beautiful.

• Lunch: Eat at Donde Alex, a small local spot near the park entrance, perfect for traditional Costa Rican dishes.

• Afternoon: Return to the hotel and chill by the pool. You will probably be quite tired after a morning frolicking in the park.

• Evening: Optional Jungle Night Walk for nocturnal wildlife sightings and order some fresh sushi from Zack's Food (delivered at your Airbnb/hotel)

Day 3: Mangrove Boat, Kayak Tour or Los Campesinos

• Morning: Explore Quepos Damas Island mangroves by kayak or boat. Keep an eye out for monkeys, herons, kingfishers, and crabs or choose to go to Los Campesinos. It's one of our favorite places in the area, and it's ideal if you didn't get the chance to visit Monteverde or La Fortuna to enjoy the hanging bridges.

• Lunch: Stop at De La Finca in Quepos on the way back for a delicious, comforting lunch break or eat at the restaurant of Los Campesinos.

• Evening: Enjoy local seafood at Ronny's Place for a casual dinner and an amazing sunset.

Day 4: Adventure Day: Nauyaca Waterfalls

• Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls—You can easily get there by car, or the best option (if your budget allows) is to book an organized tour that picks you up directly from your hotel in Manuel Antonio / Quepos and takes you to the Nauyaca Waterfalls. Don't miss it!

• Evening: Dinner back in Manuel Antonio; enjoy a fresh pizza at La Lambretta Pizzeria and maybe some live music.

Day 5: Ocean Adventures – Catamaran & Snorkeling

• Morning: Take a morning catamaran tour along the coast. Snorkel in crystal-clear water and watch for dolphins, flying fish, and turtles.

• Afternoon: Chill on the beach at Playa Biesanz, a calm beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing or explore nearby shops.

• Evening: Optional sunset catamaran for romantic views and photography, or at Espadilla Beach. Enjoy a Dinner at the Marina Pez Vela in Quepos.

Day 6: Surfing & Parasailing

• Morning: Take group surf lessons at Playa Espadilla. Learn to ride beginner-friendly waves.

• Lunch: Eat at Buru Seaside, right in front of the beach.

• Afternoon: Go parasailing for panoramic views of Manuel Antonio’s coastline and rainforest. Around sunset is a perfect timing to see Manuel Antonio changing colors at the golden hour, really amazing.

• Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Patio de Café Milagro, great for international and Costa Rican cuisine.

Day 7: Optional Thrills – Skydiving or White Water Rafting

• Morning: For adrenaline seekers, go skydiving over the Pacific for unforgettable aerial views. Alternatively, take a white water rafting tour on the Savegre River.

• Lunch: Pack a lunch provided by the tour or stop at a soda on the way back.

• Afternoon: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a final stroll along Playa Espadilla.

• Evening: Celebrate your last night with dinner at Agua Azul, and enjoy the beautiful view.

Conclusion

Manuel Antonio truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters in the rainforest, adrenaline-pumping adventures like ziplining, surfing, or white water rafting, or simply a chance to relax on pristine beaches and soak up the tropical sun, this destination delivers it all. With its mix of natural beauty, exciting activities, and laid-back coastal charm, Manuel Antonio is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

Whether you need transportation from the airport, shuttle services between towns, guided tours, or adventure activities, we’ve gathered all the essential links to make your trip seamless. Check out our complete transportation options, tour bookings, and activity guides below to plan every day of your Manuel Antonio adventure with ease.