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Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast is scattered with a diverse range of stunning beaches and protected areas of natural beauty: a fantastic opportunity to experience nature, adventure, and relaxation within easy reach of San José.
Wildlife
Just a four-hour drive or a short flight from the capital, the national park of Manuel Antonio is a very important green zone, providing sanctuary for an incredible variety of wildlife. Hundreds of gorgeous butterflies, hummingbirds, scarlet macaws, brightly-beaked toucans and clambering monkeys are just some of the tropical life found here.
Manuel Antonio, with its 1,700 acres of land mass and 135,906 acres of marine reserve, is the smallest of the 20 national parks Costa Rica has put aside for total protection. It is a charming combination of rainforest, beaches and coral reefs.
Even so, it is the country's second most visited conservation area, after the Poas Volcano and whilst Manuel Antonio has some undoubtedly fantastic beaches it is busy and fairly built up so not to everybody's taste.
The entrance fee to Manuel Antonio National Park is US$18 per person.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Manuel Antonio by contacting one of our Costa Rica specialists
- 617-223-4965
- Make an inquiry
Suggested itineraries featuring Manuel Antonio
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Manuel Antonio, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Manuel Antonio
- Central Pacific Coast 24 kilometers away
- Dominical 35 kilometers away
- Esterillos 43 kilometers away
- San Gerardo de Dota 43 kilometers away
- San José & Central Valley 62 kilometers away
- Turrialba 77 kilometers away
- San Ramón 86 kilometers away
- Corcovado & Osa Peninsula 92 kilometers away
- El Silencio Lodge 95 kilometers away
- Northern Pacific Coast 105 kilometers away
- Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui 121 kilometers away
- Monteverde Cloud Forest 123 kilometers away
- Arenal Volcano 135 kilometers away
- Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast 148 kilometers away
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca 156 kilometers away
- Manzanillo 166 kilometers away
- Tenorio Volcano 173 kilometers away
- Caño Negro 183 kilometers away
- Tamarindo 212 kilometers away
- Playa Potrero 215 kilometers away
- Golfo de Papagayo 236 kilometers away
Photos of Manuel Antonio
Our expert guides to exploring Manuel Antonio
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Manuel Antonio, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Manuel Antonio at its best.
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What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
One of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, Costa Rica attracts nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. Country specialist, Nik, picks out some of the country’s highlights, from white-water rafting to wildlife spotting in the cloudforest.
Read this guide -
Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica
Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica
From the rainforests of Arenal Volcano to wildlife experiences in Tortuguero National Park and the surf breaks of Tamarindo, Costa Rica is ideal for families. Specialist Nik gives his advice on activities, hotels, and travel logistics for a family trip to Costa Rica.
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Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica
Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica
From birds to basilisks, Costa Rica specialist Holly lets you in on the country’s wildlife highlights. She also explains where exactly to go to increase your chances of observing all Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
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Accommodation choices for Manuel Antonio
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Manuel Antonio. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Hotel Si Como No
Manuel Antonio -
Arenas del Mar
Manuel Antonio -
Hotel Parador
Manuel Antonio