Manuel Antonio

How many days: 3 to 4

Three to four days gives you enough time to explore Manuel Antonio National Park, visit nearby beaches and take a separate excursion around Quepos or the surrounding forest. Extra flexibility is useful when rain affects outdoor plans.

Dedicate one day to the national park and its marked trails. Spend another exploring public beaches and coastal viewpoints, then use the remaining time for mangrove wildlife, Quepos or a slower return to the beach.

What to do in Manuel Antonio

Walk Manuel Antonio National Park

Follow designated forest trails through one of Costa Rica's best-known coastal protected areas. Check the official site for entry arrangements, permitted items and access rules.

Look for monkeys in the forest

Watch the canopy for capuchin, howler and squirrel monkeys in suitable habitat. Keep food secured and never feed or approach wildlife.

Visit the park's beaches

Explore the sandy beaches within the national park where access is permitted. Check local swimming conditions and keep belongings secure from wildlife.

Walk the Punta Catedral trail

Follow the marked route around the forested headland for coastal views and opportunities to observe wildlife. Wear suitable footwear because paths can be slippery after rain.

Relax on Playa Espadilla

Spend time on the long public beach outside the national park. Choose a suitable swimming area and remain alert to currents and changing surf.

Explore Quepos

Walk around the nearby town to see its waterfront, local streets and everyday commercial activity. It provides a different perspective from the visitor-focused coastal road.

Look for sloths with a guide

Explore forest habitat with someone familiar with local wildlife. Sloths can be difficult to identify in the canopy, so binoculars can help.

Visit the Damas mangroves

Explore mangrove habitat north of Quepos through an appropriate guided excursion. Look for birds, reptiles and other animals while respecting the waterways and surrounding vegetation.

Walk coastal viewpoints

Visit accessible viewpoints along the Manuel Antonio coastal road and surrounding public areas. Stay on established paths and avoid unstable edges.

Watch for rainforest birds

Look for toucans, tanagers and other birds in forested areas. Move quietly, avoid playback that disturbs wildlife and keep a respectful distance.

What to eat and drink

Casado

Choose rice, beans, plantain, salad and a protein for a traditional Costa Rican meal. It is widely available in casual eating places around Quepos and Manuel Antonio.

Grilled fish

Try locally available fish prepared simply with rice, vegetables or plantain. Ask about the catch and preparation rather than assuming every species is locally sourced.

Ceviche

Eat citrus-marinated fish or seafood with onion and seasonings. Choose a reputable establishment with appropriate seafood handling.

Arroz con pollo

Try rice cooked with chicken, vegetables and seasoning. It is a familiar Costa Rican dish often served with salad or other accompaniments.

Patacones

Order twice-fried green plantain pieces as a snack or side dish. They are often accompanied by beans, sauces or other toppings.

Tropical fruit

Try fresh pineapple, papaya or other available fruit after a walk. Choose prepared fruit from a clean establishment and stay hydrated in the coastal heat.

Getting around

The main road between Quepos and Manuel Antonio is steep and winding in sections. Local buses and taxis connect the town, beaches and national park area. Walking is possible in some sections but is less comfortable where pavements are limited.

Quepos is the main regional transport hub, with road connections to other destinations. Confirm your departure point and route before travelling, particularly if changing between local and longer-distance buses.

Domestic flights may serve the Quepos area, subject to airline operations. Check the relevant airport and onward transport arrangements. A hire car can be useful for excursions, but parking and access around popular coastal locations require planning.

Good to know

• Expect humid coastal conditions and frequent rain in the wetter season.
• Wear breathable clothing and shoes suitable for forest paths.
• Keep food and loose belongings away from monkeys and other wildlife.
• Never feed wild animals, even when they approach you.
• Check the official site for national park entry and permitted items.
• Be cautious of rip currents on exposed beaches.
• Use insect repellent and carry drinking water.