Manuel Antonio Travel Guide

Manuel Antonio is where Costa Rica’s wild, natural beauty meets boutique coastal charm.
Think emerald jungle spilling into soft, sandy beaches, white-faced monkeys peeking from the trees, and high-thread-count linens at night.
This is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic regions, and for good reason. Here’s how to do it right.

  • Easily accessible (under 3 hours from San José via private shuttle, rental car, or domestic flight)
  • Combines wildlife and relaxation (rare in beach destinations)
  • Famous for Manuel Antonio National Park (private tours available)
  • Excellent spa and dining scene
  • One of the few best places for Pacific coastal views in Costa Rica

Located on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, about 3 hours from San José International Airport (SJO) and 5 hours from Liberia International Airport (LIR).

The closest big town is Quepos, with easy access to Manuel Antonio National Park and surrounding beaches.

Where to Stay

Arenas del Mar

A beachfront rainforest retreat where sloths saunter by your balcony. Ideal for nature lovers who want luxe comfort.

Tulemar Resort

A private hillside village with luxe villas and coastal views. A dreamy choice for families or groups. want luxe comfort.

Makanda by the Sea

Sleek architecture, private plunge pools, and panoramic ocean views. This adults-only hotel is stunning!

Gaia Hotel & Reserve

An eco-resort with panoramic views, tiered pools, and a nature reserve. Sleek, serene, and perfect for wellness with a wild edge

Vacation Rentals

Skip the overwhelm. We’ve pre-selected a few of the most exceptional homes in the area.

Casa Fantastica

10 bedrooms | 13 bathrooms | Sleeps 26

Features include a hotel-sized infinity pool, private chef (2 meals/day included), an in-house spa, gym, game room, and 30-seat cinema.

Casa Nola

4 bedrooms | 6 bathrooms | Sleeps 10

This home features indoor-outdoor living with glass walls, a private infinity pool, hot tub, al fresco dining space, and BBQ area.

Villa Zest

4 bedrooms | 4 bathrooms | Sleeps 8

A contemporary hideaway with striking ocean views, rooftop saltwater infinity pool, and dramatic architecture. Perfect for a family getaway!

Saltwater Haven

6 bedrooms | 9 bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Unmatched panoramic views over the Pacific. The home includes a hotel-size infinity pool, cinema, game room, and a private spa.

The closest international airport is the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. Book Your Flight ->

Jan

☀️
88°F / 31°C
0.7 in / 18 cm rain

Feb

☀️
90°F / 32°C
0.4 in / 10 cm rain

Mar

☀️
91°F / 33°C
0.8 in / 20 cm rain

Apr

⛅
91°F / 33°C
3.0 in / 75 cm rain

May

🌧️
88°F / 31°C
11.2 in / 285 cm rain

Jun

🌧️
86°F / 30°C
12.4 in / 315 cm rain

Jul

🌦️
86°F / 30°C
11.4 in / 290 cm rain

Aug

🌦️
86°F / 30°C
12.8 in / 325 cm rain

Sep

🌧️
84°F / 29°C
21.3 in / 540 cm rain

Oct

🌧️
84°F / 29°C
21.7 in / 550 cm rain

Nov

🌦️
86°F / 30°C
9.8 in / 250 cm rain

Dec

⛅
86°F / 30°C
2.4 in / 60 cm rain

Manuel Antonio in Focus

See the beauty come to life. Here’s what you can expect to encounter.

white-sand beaches, rainforest wildlife, ocean cliffs, coastal trails

  • Árbol Food & Wine: A refined and romantic dining experience with a jungle-meets-fine-dining ambiance. Expect expertly crafted dishes, standout service, and a thoughtfully curated wine list. We love the decor here (and at all of the Hotel Makanda property)
  • Karola’s Restaurant (at Arenas del Mar): Set in a luxury eco-resort with ocean views, Karola’s is ideal for a relaxed yet upscale lunch or dinner. The menu focuses on fresh, sustainable ingredients with Costa Rican flair.
  • Medusa Restaurant: A sleek Mediterranean-inspired spot with creative plates, craft cocktails, and stylish décor.
  • Varuna Plant-Based Food & Juice Bar: A wellness-forward option serving colorful plant-based bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. This is our go-to for a light, nourishing lunch or post-beach pick-me-up.
  • Victoria’s Gourmet Italian Restaurant: Long-standing and beloved for a reason. Victoria’s serves hearty pastas and classic Italian fare in a cozy, candlelit setting. A great choice if you’re craving a comforting, carb-forward meal.

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Manuel Antonio Packing

Think a mix of resort-wear, hiking, and beach style