About
Manuel Antonio is a coastal district in Puntarenas Province, on Costa Rica's Pacific side, in the area of Quepos. It is best known for its national park and the beaches that run along the shore beside it, and it draws visitors who want to combine a day of sand and sea with time among wildlife.
What to expect
The national park is the centre of a visit here. Its trails wind through forest to the water, and the coastline is one of the reasons people come. The beaches are described as pristine, so a stay often involves a good deal of time simply near the sea.
Wildlife is a major part of the appeal. Visitors commonly hope to see sloths and monkeys, which move through the trees of the park and its surroundings. Sightings depend on the day and on luck, so it helps to arrive with patience and an open schedule rather than a fixed expectation.
Planning a visit
- Allow time for the national park, ideally in the cooler parts of the day when animals are often active.
- Bring water, sun protection and sturdy footwear for the forest paths.
- Keep time free for the beaches, which pair well with a park visit.
- Check opening arrangements for the park before you travel, as these can change.
Because Manuel Antonio sits within the Quepos area, it suits travellers who want a base on the coast with nature close at hand. It is a place for slow days, careful walking and watching the trees and the shoreline.
