🌴 Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica📍 Location

• On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

• Near the town of Quepos, in Puntarenas Province

• About 2.5 to 3 hours by car from San José

• Costa Rica’s smallest national park – but one of the most biodiverse

• Combines lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and wildlife

• Great for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike

• Sloths (both 2- and 3-toed!)

• White-faced capuchin monkeys (often near the beach)

• Howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys

• Iguanas, raccoons, coatis, and toucans

• Colorful butterflies, frogs, and birds

• Playa Manuel Antonio: postcard-perfect, turquoise water

• Playa Espadilla Sur: quieter, often fewer people

• Playa Gemelas: small, hidden twin beaches – a great escape

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)

• Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM)

• Tickets:

  • Adults: ~$18–20 USD

  • Children (ages 2–11): ~$6 USD

  • Buy online only at www.sinac.go.cr

• Trails are easy and well-maintained

• Main Trail (Sendero Principal): great for spotting monkeys and sloths

• Punta Catedral Trail: offers stunning cliff and ocean views

• Mirador Trail: lookout points with photo opportunities

• Arrive early (7:00 AM) for fewer people and active animals

• Consider a licensed guide – they spot things you’d miss!

• Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for sloths and birds

• No food allowed in the park (to protect animals)

• Only reusable water bottles permitted

• Don’t feed or touch wildlife – it’s illegal and harmful

• Restrooms and showers are available near the main beaches

• Refillable water bottle

• Comfortable shoes (for walking trails)

• Swimsuit and towel

• Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent

• Camera or phone with zoom

• Many options in Quepos or Manuel Antonio:
  Boutique hotels, eco-lodges, luxury resorts, hostels, and Airbnbs

• Book early in high season (Dec–Apr) – it’s popular!

• Dry Season: December – April → sunny, best for beach & photos

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