Nestled on Costa Rica’s mesmerizing Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is a vibrant town bursting with coastal charm. 

From its sandy beaches to its lush rainforest, this hidden gem is a tropical paradise just waiting to be explored.

Manuel Antonio attracts surfers, animal and nature lovers, retirees, and relaxation seekers alike. 

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this town offers something for you.

Zip-lining through the dense Jungles with Capuchin monkeys cheering you on, hiking to breathtaking waterfalls, or simply walking just steps from the street and picking a fresh banana or mango Manuel Antonio offers something for everyone. 

As you venture through Manuel Antonio, you’ll discover the region’s abundant wildlife including hearing howler monkeys, seeing iguanas, and maybe even a sloth or two.

You can also see bananas, mangos, and other tropical fruit just walking through the streets of Manuel Antonio. 

But be mindful that Manuel Antonio is full of steep hills and walking can be challenging in certain areas. 

In this article, I will uncover things to do in the hidden gem of Manuel Antonio providing insider tips.

First we’ll talk about arriving at this tropical wonderland, you would have to fly into the international airport in San Jose Costa Rica. 

From there you would have to catch a bus to Quepos. The bus ride usually takes around 3 hours.

From Quepos you would catch a bus or a taxi to where you are staying in Manuel Antonio.

The bus ticket usually costs  around 250 colones or 50 cents. 

The taxis usually cost around 8 dollars. You can catch a colectivo ( unofficial taxi) for half the price of a taxi but they are unofficial and I recommend only taking those when you have a group of people. 

Once you get to where you are staying, get ready to live the “Pura Vida” lifestyle in this coastal paradise. 

Explore the natural beauty of manuel antonio national park

Manuel Antonio National Park is a true sanctuary of natural beauty. With its diverse ecosystem, it offers visitors a glimpse into the wonders of Costa Rica’s wildlife and lush rainforest. 

The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

While you walk the park’s well-maintained trails you’ll see stunning views of the sea, exotic wildlife, and secluded beaches. 

If you are wanting to find a beach with less crowds, then you will find it in the National Park. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s famous residents, such as adorable sloths lazily hanging from the trees or mischievous capuchin monkeys swinging through the branches. 

If you are traveling to the National Park it would be wise to arrive early to give yourself time to explore because the park is huge.

You will also beat the crowds if you arrive early. Pack water and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. 

Understand that you are in a tropical environment so the temperature is always hot and it can get really humid some days.

And when in Costa Rica there is usually a rain shower each day. It doesn’t usually last long, only about 10 to 20 minutes during the summer months. 

The showers last longer during the winter months. For a truly immersive experience, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide. 

A guide can provide you with fascinating insights about the park’s wildlife, flora and fauna. 

They can also lead you to hidden spots and help you spot elusive creatures that you might have missed by yourself. 

The entrance to the park is lined with local vendors selling everything from pineapples and water to hats and other tourist trinkets. 

You will also find the shops where you can find a professional guide in this area. The entrance fee is around 18 dollars per person for adults and 6 dollars for children 2-11.

Make sure to bring your camera along to capture the park’s natural beauty. 

From the vibrant colors of exotic birds to mesmerizing patterns of tropical flowers, Manuel Antonio National Park is a photographer’s dream. 

water activities and adventures in manuel antonio

Manuel Antonio is a Haven for water enthusiasts, offering a range of activities to satisfy your adventurous spirit. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. 

Surfing is really popular in Manuel Antonio because the beaches offer great waves thanks to its consistent warm waters.

Rent a surfboard and ride the waves along the coast, enjoying the thrill of catching the perfect wave!

For an adrenaline rush try your hand at kayaking or river rafting or a hiking tour to see one of the volcanoes or waterfalls of Costa Rica.

There are tours for every type of traveler in Manuel Antonio. You can also try your hand at a thrilling Zip-lining tour. 

Soar through the treetops and witness the beauty of the rainforest from a unique perspective. 

It’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you with incredible memories. 

dining and nightlife in manuel antonio

After a day of exploration, indulge in the culinary delights that Costa Rica has to offer. 

Manuel Antonio boasts a diverse range of restaurants and cafes, serving both local and international cuisine.

Sample the traditional Costa Rican dishes, such as gallo pinto (rice and beans) or ceviche (marinated seafood). 

Also try a casado, a Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat or fish. 

The word casado means married man in Spanish. They call the dish casado because they say before a man gets married that he eats junk food and horrible prepared meals and after he gets married that he eats full meals like the casado dish.

Pair your meal with a refreshing tropical fruit juice or a cold Imperial. Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in the world to watch the sunset.

You will find countless restaurants along the coast line offering the opportunity to dine while watching the sunset. 

My friends always ask me about the tipping etiquette in Costa Rica. It is not necessary to tip in Costa Rica, but if you feel like you received exceptional service then feel free to tip.

When I would go out to eat with my Costa Rican friends, they hated it when I would try to tip. They said that they weren’t raised to tip in their culture.

For those craving international flavors, you’ll find a variety of options, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian cuisine.  Treat yourself to everything from a wood-fired pizza to fresh sushi. 

As the sun sets, head to one of the beachfront bars or clubs for live music and cocktails. You can also catch a cab to the nearby town of Quepos. 

Quepos offers more nightclubs and bars for those wanting to dance the night away and enjoy delicious cocktails. 

There is also a casino in Manuel Antonio and Quepos for those who are feeling lucky. 

shopping and local crafts in manuel antonio

Explore Manuel Antonio’s charming streets and you’ll find an array of shops and boutiques. 

Take home a piece of Costa Rica by purchasing handmade jewelry and local clothing. 

Visit the local markets and sample the traditional snacks. You’ll find an abundance of coffee beans and spices to take home. 

For the early risers there is a farmers market every Saturday morning near the shore in Quepos.

There you can buy fresh produce from the local farmers for a great price. 

You will also find a multitude of other places to shop in downtown Quepos. 

If you’re interested in supporting local artists, visit the art galleries and studios scattered throughout. 

Admire the talent of the painters, and Sculptors. Maybe you’ll find something to decorate your home. 

wildlife spotting in manuel antonio

Manuel Antonio is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The town’s proximity to the National Park means that you’re likely to encounter a variety of fascinating creatures during your visit. 

One of the most iconic residents of Manuel Antonio is the Capuchin monkey.

These playful creatures can be spotted swinging through the trees or snacking on fruits.

Keep a safe distance and admire them from afar, as they are still wild animals.

You will notice that they have ropes that stretch from one treetop to the next.  They do this to give the monkeys a safe passage to cross the streets. 

You can also hear howler monkeys howling while you are shopping or lounging on the beach. 

There might even be the occasional iguana who pops out of a storm drain. 

If you’re lucky, you might also spot colorful toucans, vibrant butterflies, and elusive reptiles during your explorations.

Remember to respect the wildlife and their natural habitat by observing from a distance. 

exploring nearby attractions and day trips from manuel antonio

While Manuel Antonio itself offers a wealth of attractions, there are also several nearby destinations worth exploring as well. 

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Quepos known for its vibrant markets and lively nightlife. 

Stroll along the waterfront, visit the local shops and try some of the fresh seafood. 

On Saturdays you can find a farmers market near the water where you can tropical produce and support local farmers. 

You can also find a shopping center that is owned by retired Americans, here you will find a few stores from the United States for those looking for a slice of home.

If you are in the area on the 4th of July go down by the water before 7 pm and you can enjoy a fireworks show. 

The retired Americans put on a spectacular fireworks show from the water every year on the 4th of July. 

If you are looking for a quick meal that is served fast and delicious, visit Pollolandia. They have hot fresh chicken, the service is fast and the food is excellent. 

It was one of my favorite restaurants for a quick bit while I was in Quepos. 

If you’re craving more adventure, head to nearby Nauyaca Waterfalls. 

Embark on a hike through the rainforest and be rewarded with the sight of cascading waterfalls. 

Perfect for swimming and cooling off from the tropical heat.

You can also visit the nearby Marina Ballena National Park. This protected marine area is home to humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles. 

It’s around 40 minutes from Manuel Antonio and admission to the park is around 6 dollars per person. 

If you have a drone and want a cool shot, then this is the beach for you because the beach has a point that is shaped like the tail of a whale. 

You can only see it if you are flying above the beach. This breathtaking beach is also surrounded by large mountains I highly recommend visiting. 

Also take a boat tour if possible to see the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 

accommodation options in manuel antonio

Manuel Antonio offers a range of accommodation options to fit every budget. 

From luxury resorts to guesthouses and hostels there is something for everyone. 

For those seeking a pampered experience choose one of the upscale resorts offering stunning ocean views with the sunset at your balcony. 

These resorts often have their own restaurants and bars, providing guests with the full vacation experience. 

If you prefer a more intimate setting opt for a boutique hotel or a cozy bed and breakfast. 

These charming accommodations offer personalized service, comfortable rooms, and a homely atmosphere. 

Many of them are nestled between lush gardens providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of town. 

You will very likely be able to view the Capuchin monkeys playing in the trees from the property. 

Budget-conscious travelers will also find affordable options, such as hostels and budget hotels. 

These accommodations provide basic amenities and a comfortable place to rest after exploration. 

If the wonders of Costa Rica have you mesmerized and you want to spend more time in Manuel Antonio then go visit my friends at Máximo Nivel.

Máximo Nivel is an amazing language learning school in Manuel Antonio that I spent time in myself. 

This wonderful school offers a wide range of services. You can get certified to teach English or you could enroll in their Spanish immersion program.

Máximo Nivel offers all sorts of programs for travel lovers. You can volunteer in one of the local communities, study in Costa Rica, or have a gap year experience. 

My time spent at Máximo Nivel was one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made. They gave me the opportunity to teach English while living in a foreign country. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with Máximo Nivel!!

If you would like more information while you are in Manuel Antonio, just walk in the building and tell the ladies at the desk that you are interested in joining one of the programs. 

Conclusion: why manuel antonio should be on your travel bucket list

• Manuel Antonio National Park 
• Surfing, kayaking, river rafting and zip-lining 
• Casados and other local delicacies 
• Exotic animal watching 
• Exotic places to stay 
• Fun day trips 
• Breathtaking sunsets 

Manuel Antonio is a coastal paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culture. 

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on secluded beaches, thrilling water activities, or encounters with exotic wildlife, this hidden gem has it all.

From exploring the wonders of Manuel Antonio Park to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there’s something for every traveler in this vibrant town. 

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the coastal charm of Manuel Antonio, and create memories that will last a lifetime.