Manuel Antonio National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled along the stunning Pacific coast of Costa Rica's Puntarenas region, Manuel Antonio National Park is a true tropical paradise. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, this national park offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
One of the main attractions of Manuel Antonio National Park is its breathtaking beaches. Imagine lounging on golden sands, surrounded by towering palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Playa Espadilla, the park's main beach, stretches for miles and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. For a more secluded beach experience, head to Playa Manuel Antonio, a hidden gem tucked away in the park's interior. Here, you can relax in tranquility and marvel at the untouched beauty of nature.
Beyond the beaches, Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. As you explore the park's dense rainforests and winding trails, keep an eye out for the incredible array of wildlife that calls this place home. From howler monkeys swinging through the trees to colorful toucans soaring overhead, the park is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. Don't forget to bring your binoculars, as Manuel Antonio is also a prime spot for birdwatching, with over 350 species of birds inhabiting the area.
For those seeking adventure, the park offers a variety of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Embark on a thrilling zip-lining tour through the treetops, soar above the canopy and take in the breathtaking views of the park from above. If hiking is more your style, the park boasts several well-maintained trails that wind through the forest, leading to stunning viewpoints and hidden waterfalls.
After a day of exploration, indulge in the local cuisine at one of the park's many charming restaurants. Feast on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Costa Rican dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the park's natural beauty.
Manuel Antonio National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Manuel Antonio National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Playa Manuel Antonio, Playa Gemelas, Playa Espadilla Sur, Playa Puerto Escondido. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Manuel Antonio National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Manuel Antonio National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Irazú Volcano (Cartago), Costa Rican Center of Science and Culture (San José), Mercado Central de San José (San José).
Best Time To Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Manuel Antonio National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Central American squirrel monkey
The Central American squirrel monkey or, also known as red-backed squirrel monkey, is a squirrel monkey species from the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and Panama.
Mammals
White-headed capuchin
White-faced capuchin, or white headed capuchin, can refer to either of two species of gracile capuchin monkey: Cebus imitator, the Panamanian white-faced capuchin, also known as the...
Mammals
Turkey vulture
The turkey vulture, also known in some North American regions as the turkey buzzard, and in some areas of the Caribbean as the John crow or carrion crow, is the most widespread of the New...
Birds
Mantled Howler Monkey
The mantled howler, or golden-mantled howling monkey, is a species of howler monkey, a type of New World monkey, from Central and South America. It is one of the monkey species most often...
Mammals
Green iguana
The green iguana, also known as the American iguana, is a large, arboreal, mostly herbivorous species of lizard of the genus Iguana. Usually, this animal is simply called the iguana.
Reptiles
Puntarenas