Top Things to Do in Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s top-visited destinations for its dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and tree-swinging monkeys.
Picturesque bluffs rise from the Caribbean-blue waters, while jungled hills create a stunning photo-ready backdrop. Upscale hotels and unique restaurants are nestled within the hills, making it an ideal location for adventure enthusiasts.
Here’s what you don’t want to miss in Manuel Antonio.
1. Visit the National Park
Address: Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2777 5185
No visit to Manuel Antonio is complete without a trip to the Manuel Antonio National Park. Although the crowds can become overwhelming (as this is Costa Rica’s most visited national park), it remains worthwhile to see the monkeys frolic in the trees and the anteaters exploring the underbrush.
Arrive early to avoid crowds (the park opens at 8 a.m.) and remember to pack a lunch as there are no food stands inside. A nature guide is not essential unless you have endless questions or prefer some company during your exploration.
2. Enjoy Happy Hour on the Esplanade
The bars overlooking the public beach in Manuel Antonio offer 2-for-1 deals on mojitos, Cuba libres, and daiquiris from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This is a perfect vantage point for people-watching or watching the sun dip below the horizon.
If bars aren’t your scene, consider browsing the artisan stalls for local crafts or taking a moment to relax on a park bench in the recently renovated cul-de-sac.
3. Have Dinner at El Avion
Address: Puntarenas Province, Aguirre, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2777 3378
Relish in the catch-of-the-day at this hilltop restaurant, which features a massive U.S. military plane serving as a unique centerpiece. Not only can you enjoy breathtaking sunsets, but you can also appreciate the historical significance of the Fairchild C-123 aircraft, linked to U.S. involvement in past conflicts.
4. Take at Least One Adventure Tour
When in Manuel Antonio, ensure that you participate in at least one thrilling adventure tour. Options include rafting, ziplining, scuba diving, or deep-sea fishing—essential activities that highlight the area’s offerings. For scuba diving adventures, consider checking out Oceans Unlimited. A great ziplining experience can be found at Titi Canopy Tour and Dream Forest Canopy. For whitewater rafting, take on the Savegre and Naranjo rivers with Amigos del Rio. Also, Bluefin Sportsfishing provides reliable deep-sea fishing experiences.
5. Indulge in a Spa Visit
Your visit to Manuel Antonio wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a world-class spa experience. The Rain Drop Spa offers a unique chocolate therapy massage that nourishes the skin with vitamins C and B12. Alternatively, Spa Uno presents a 50-minute warm stone massage using stones sourced from a nearby river, while the Serenity Spa at Hotel Si Como No offers exfoliation treatments featuring organic Costa Rican products.
Consider the 50-minute Bamboo Lemongrass experience for a refreshing treatment. Additionally, explore the luxurious Gaia Hotel & Reserve and its Terra Spa for a lavish escape.
