Costa Rica
In Manuel Antonio sloths hang above the trail and monkeys steal from beach towels. Few places bring you this close to wildlife with your feet in the sand. This is how to plan your days.
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In short: what is Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio is a small national park on the Pacific coast, where the rainforest runs right down to white beaches. You see sloths and monkeys before swimming in a bay surrounded by jungle. Stay in the hills between Quepos and the park, and allow three nights. Our first choice is Gaia Hotel and Reserve, adults only.
Our first choice: Gaia Hotel and Reserve in Manuel Antonio. Check availability and prices
Picolo has been to Manuel Antonio, and the advice below draws on our own trips.
The national park
The park is small, but its trails run through rainforest with sloths and capuchin monkeys and end at beaches you can only reach on foot. Tickets are bought online in advance, and the number of visitors per day is limited.
Bring a guide
Sloths are hard to spot on your own. A local guide with a telescope finds them and explains everything you would otherwise walk past.
Go early
The animals are most active in the morning, and it is cooler. Bring water, and keep food in your bag, because the monkeys are cheeky.
Rainforest and sea
In Manuel Antonio the jungle runs right down to the beaches.
The beaches
Playa Espadilla: the long beach outside the park, with sun loungers and surf schools.
Playa Manuel Antonio: inside the park, with calm water and jungle right down to the sand.
Playa Biesanz: a small cove in the forest below the hills, good for snorkelling in calm weather.
Where to stay in Manuel Antonio
Gaia Hotel and Reserve
Gaia is adults only and has its own nature reserve on the grounds. Breakfast is included, and more than 500 guests rate it 9.6, especially praising the staff. Best for couples who want calm and a sunset from the pool.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
Parador Nature Resort and Spa
Parador sits on a headland near Biesanz beach, with its own pool and spa. Nearly a thousand guests rate it 9.4. A good choice for families who want plenty in one place.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
Arenas del Mar
From Arenas del Mar you walk straight down to Playa Espadilla. Breakfast is included, it is rated 9.8, and the hotel belongs to the Cayuga Collection, which focuses on sustainability.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
Practical tips for Manuel Antonio
Driving time: around three hours from San José, along the motorway to the coast. See our guide to car hire in Costa Rica.
Swimming: follow local advice on currents, especially at Playa Espadilla.
Monkeys: do not feed them, and do not leave your bag open on the beach.
Frequently asked questions about Manuel Antonio
Do you need a ticket for Manuel Antonio National Park?
Yes. Tickets are bought online before your visit, and the number of visitors per day is limited.
Will you see sloths in Manuel Antonio?
Often, especially with a guide who has a telescope. They hang high in the trees and are easy to miss on your own.
How many days do you need in Manuel Antonio?
Three nights gives you a day in the park, a day on the beach and time to relax.
Where should you stay in Manuel Antonio?
In the hills between Quepos and the national park. Most hotels are here, with views over the sea.
Is it safe to swim in Manuel Antonio?
The beaches inside the park are usually calm. At Playa Espadilla there can be strong currents, so follow local advice.