Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica

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Hours

Park is open every day year-round, except Tuesdays 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. This includes beaches and trails inside the park.

Public beach outside the park (Espadilla Norte) is open daily 5 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Cost

Here are the costs for general admission to Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio - tickets must be purchased online prior to visit:

  • Adults: $18.08
  • Children (ages 2-11): $5.65

Check their website for Guided Tour Options with costs ranging from $70 - $85 (adults) $57 - $63 (children)

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

Phone+506 8745-5658
WebsiteVisit Website

About

Imagine entering a world where lush rainforests meet pristine sandy beaches, and wildlife roam as free as the warm coastal breezes. Welcome to Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, also known as Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica's thriving natural wonder.

It was established in 1972 to preserve the area's astonishing biodiversity. Although this park may be one of the smallest in Costa Rica, it offers a breathtaking array of wildlife, landscapes, and adventures.

Since its inception, the park has been a beacon for conservationists, researchers, and nature lovers. Its creation marked a significant chapter in Costa Rica's environmental protection efforts, safeguarding the land and creatures like sloths, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species.

The adventure tours available at Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio are unique. While you can explore the park yourself, guided tours offer visitors everything from up-close nature adventures to ziplining, whitewater rafting, snorkeling, and more.

Visitors to Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio are treated to its visual splendor, demonstrating how natural beauty can be preserved and enjoyed.

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is a treasure trove of natural wonders and fascinating tidbits. On a per-square-mile basis, the park is home to one of the most impressive biodiversities in the world. This compact ecosystem hosts more than 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds.

Among its most celebrated residents are the charismatic monkeys, including the endangered red-backed squirrel monkeys seen leaping through the treetops. These playful creatures are synonymous with the park, delighting visitors with their antics and adding a unique charm to the lush surroundings.

Since most rainforest creatures are active after sundown, consider booking a night tour on safe pathways. With UV and flashlights provided, you can see tree frogs, nocturnal birds, snakes, spiders, and scorpions. You may also spot nocturnal mammals like anteaters, coatis, raccoons, deer, ocelots, opossums, armadillos, kinkajous, and sloths.

Aside from the allure of the land, coastal beaches, such as the beautiful Playa Manuel Antonio, offer a serene escape. Here, the forest meets the ocean, creating a picturesque setting for relaxation and adventure alike. Adventures abound, such as sailing, snorkeling, and other water tours.

While food is not allowed in the park, Puntarenas Province eateries like Hartley Ranch and Anfiteatro are not too far away. Here, you can replenish with delicious fare and beverages as you relive your day at Manuel Antonio National Park.

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio embodies the spirit of conservation and the joy of discovery. Natural wonders are preserved and cherished here, and each visit contributes to the ongoing story of environmental stewardship.

Whether you're a wildlife, beach, nature, or adventure lover, Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio provides a unique blend of experiences, making it a must-visit destination on any Costa Rica vacation.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio from San Jose:

  • Begin in San José, taking Route 27 towards Orotina.
  • Continue on Route 27 until you reach the exit for Jacó, which leads to the Costanera Sur (Route 34), which heads towards Quepos.
  • Follow the Costanera Sur past Jacó, Parrita, and through Quepos.
  • Once you exit Quepos, drive approximately 7 kilometers south until you see the signs for the park.
  • Follow the signs to reach the park's main entrance.
  • Address: Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica

Local Tips

  • Caution: unauthorized vendors posing as park employees offer tickets and tours. ONLY Purchase tickets at the park entrance or online.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suited for uneven terrain.
  • The park is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Consider a guided tour for a more educational and enriching experience.

Location

Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions

The dry season, roughly December through April, brings sunny days and is ideal for beaches. The green season, May through November, offers lush scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices, with rain usually falling in the afternoon.

Most visitors fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport near San José or Daniel Oduber in Liberia. Liberia is closer to Guanacaste's beaches, while San José puts you near central regions and mountain destinations.

There are several distinct regions to choose from within Costa Rica. Whether looking for peaceful relaxation to heart-pounding activities, and from inner wellness to outdoor adventure, Costa Rica is an ideal destination.

  • Puntarenas is one of the most popular tourist destinations and home to Monteverde Cloud Forest. The Nicoya Peninsula, known for great surf, wildlife refuges, and as a global “blue zone” (where many live exceptionally long, healthy lives) is part of both Puntarenas and Guanacaste.
  • Guanacaste is renowned as the cradle of Costa Rican folklore, showcasing tropical dry forests, lowland mountains, and pristine beaches.
  • The Central Pacific Coast is a top destination for surfing, fishing, and further exploration into the Manuel Antonio National Park.
  • Central Valley is home to Costa Rica’s capital San Jose and offers some of the best museums in the country, including that of Costa Rican Art and the National Theatre.
  • The Caribbean side of Costa Rica, encompassing about 130 miles of coastline, combines nature reserves and Afro-Caribbean culture into a distinct tropical vibe.
  • The Arena Volcano towers over the Northern Plains region, where you can take in waterfalls, rivers winding through lush forests, and natural hot springs.
  • Ecotourism abounds in the South Pacific part of Costa Rica, which is home to the Corcovado National Park and Isla del Caño Biological Reserve

A rental car gives you freedom to explore remote beaches and small towns. Roads can be rough in places, so a 4x4 helps. Shuttles and domestic flights work well if you prefer to skip driving.

Definitely! Kids love the wildlife, gentle beaches, and easy adventures like wildlife tours and hanging bridges. Many rentals offer space, pools, and kitchens that make traveling with family comfortable and simple.

Costa Rica is roughly the size of the state of West Virginia. The country spans 19,730 square miles, with just about 630 miles of coastline on the Pacific side and 130 on the Caribbean.

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