Manuel Antonio National Park Information

🦥 A Guide to Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

🌴 Why Visit Manuel Antonio National Park?

Manuel Antonio National Park (Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio) is one of the most iconic destinations in Costa Rica—and for good reason. Despite being the smallest national park in the country (just 19.8 km²), it's a vibrant oasis where lush tropical rainforest meets white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.

This world-renowned park, located on Costa Rica’s stunning Central Pacific Coast, is a must-visit for travelers seeking a perfect mix of wildlife encounters, scenic hiking trails, and picture-perfect beaches. It's consistently ranked among the top national parks in Central America and is one of the most visited attractions in the country.

Whether you're planning a relaxing beach vacation or an active ecotourism adventure, Manuel Antonio offers an unforgettable experience for solo travelers, families, couples, and nature lovers alike.

📍 How to Get to Manuel Antonio National Park
Location:

Province: Puntarenas

Nearest Town: Quepos

Distance from San José: Approximately 157 km (3–3.5 hours by car)

🚗 By Car:

Driving Conditions: Fully paved roads; 4x4 vehicle not required.

Tip: Roads become narrow and winding after Quepos—drive cautiously.

Parking: Ignore scammers waving you down—official parking is located just 150 meters from the main entrance. Look for marked lots near Playa Espadilla Norte.

🚌 By Public Bus:

From San José to Quepos: Buses depart regularly from Tracopa Terminal.

From Quepos to the Park: Local buses run every 30 minutes (5:30 AM–9:30 PM) and drop passengers just a short walk from the entrance via the Beach Trail.

🕓 Park Hours, Entry Fees & Tickets
🗓️ Opening Hours:

Open: Wednesday to Monday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed: Every Tuesday

Beach Access: Ends at 3:00 PM sharp

🎟️ Entrance Fees (as of 2025):

Adults (non-residents): $16 USD + tax
Children (ages 2–12): $5 USD
Under 2 years: Free

⚠️ Important:

No tickets sold at the entrance. Tickets must be purchased online via SINAC

Book early during high season (December to April and national holidays) as daily capacity is limited and tickets sell out fast.

🐾 What to Do Inside Manuel Antonio National Park

🦜 Wildlife Watching

Manuel Antonio is a biodiversity hotspot, home to:

109 species of mammals (sloths, capuchins, howler and squirrel monkeys, raccoons)

184 species of birds (toucans, motmots, hawks)

Iguanas, agoutis, frogs, butterflies, and even dolphins and whales offshore

Top wildlife spotting trails:

Main Trail
Mangrove Trail (Sendero Playa Espadilla Sur)
Universal Trail (Sendero Pérezoso)

* Bring binoculars and a camera—you never know what might cross your path!

🥾 Best Hiking Trails in Manuel Antonio

All trails are well-marked, beginner-friendly, and offer stunning scenery.

Main Trail: Leads to beaches and key viewpoints ~ 45 mins.
Sendero Universal (Pérezoso Trail): Wheelchair-accessible; Braille signs ~ 45 mins.
La Catarata Trail: Waterfall views and jungle wildlife ~ 30 mins.
Punta Catedral Loop: Panoramic ocean views, former island ~1 hour.
Sendero Playa Gemelas → Puerto Escondido → Congo Trail: Remote beaches and rugged coastline ~ 2 hours.

Tip: Start early in the morning to beat the heat and increase your chances of seeing wildlife.

🏖️ Manuel Antonio’s Beaches

Few national parks offer beaches this stunning inside the park itself.

Playa Manuel Antonio: Postcard-perfect crescent bay with calm waters—ideal for swimming.
Playa Espadilla Sur: Quieter, scenic beach backed by rainforest—great for relaxing.
Playa Gemelas: Twin hidden beaches, often less crowded.

🏊‍♀️ Note: No lifeguards are on duty—always swim with caution.

🍽️ Park Amenities & Services

Restrooms: Available at the entrance and throughout the park
Cafeteria: Light snacks, drinks, and meals available near the central trailhead
Lockers: Approx. $10/day to store your belongings
Trash Policy: Strict “Leave No Trace” rules; single-use plastics are discouraged
Food: Outside food may be restricted—check current signage or guidelines

✅ Travel Tips for Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park

Buy tickets online early—especially in peak season
Arrive before 8:00 AM for the best wildlife activity
Bring: Sunscreen, water bottle, hat, rain gear, insect repellent, binoculars
Don’t feed the animals—it harms their health and disrupts natural behavior
Respect trail signs and boundaries—stay on marked paths only

🧭 Book the Best Manuel Antonio Tours

🎯 Top Recommendations:
1. Manuel Antonio Park Guided Tour:

Budget-friendly, perfect for first-time visitors

Includes a professional naturalist guide, transportation from your hotel (round trip). Approx. $59 USD per person

2. Deluxe Private Guided Tour:

Ideal for families, photographers, or wildlife enthusiasts.

Personalized experience at your pace.

👉 Pro Tip: Choose tours with park entry included for convenience. Not all do!

🔗 Book your guided tour of Manuel Antonio Park here >>

🌱 Sustainable Travel in Manuel Antonio

Help protect Costa Rica’s rich ecosystems:

Carry a reusable water bottle
Say no to single-use plastics
Avoid loud noises or flash photography
Never approach or feed wildlife
Support eco-certified guides and local businesses

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Manuel Antonio is Worth It

Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica’s crown jewel—a rare place where you can hike through dense jungle, spot monkeys overhead, and then cool off in crystal-clear Pacific waters, all in the same day.

Whether you’re into eco-adventures, birdwatching, beach lounging, or simply want to explore one of the top national parks in Latin America, this tropical haven delivers.

Don’t miss out—book your visit to Manuel Antonio today and experience one of the most magical corners of Costa Rica.