Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and a warm ocean year-round. Manuel Antonio is known for lush tropical rainforest that runs right down to white sand. A lot of people in Costa Rica keep their favorite beaches to themselves. Here are ours, from the busy main beach to the quiet coves the locals love.
Main public beach · short bus ride or drive
The main public beach of the Manuel Antonio area (outside the park), with an average water temperature of 85°F/30°C. Rent chairs and umbrellas for shade only 9 degrees from the equator, and have fruity cocktails and cold beers brought to your spot. Local bars and restaurants line the beach, along with favorites like empanadas, ceviche, snow cones, and agua de pipa (fresh coconut water). There’s a small grocery store if you forget your sunscreen. Spend your time in the sand or in the water kayaking, boogie boarding, on the banana boat, or parasailing.
Local surf spot · just north of Espadilla
Locals surf here at high tide. With 4-wheel drive you can drive right onto the beach, or walk north along Espadilla until you reach it. Climb the big rocks along the shore for some exercise and a unique view of the coast. It’s a more secluded, scenic spot that’s popular for weddings and parties, with sunsets as the backdrop.
Espadilla Sur · Playa Manuel Antonio · Puerto Escondido
These three beaches inside Manuel Antonio National Park are less crowded and the best for snorkeling. Go early so you can explore all three before the park closes in the afternoon. We recommend a guided tour in the morning, then spending the rest of the day lounging in the coves. The park is closed one day a week and has an entrance fee, so check current hours and tickets before you go.
Calm bay · best for families
Tucked into the coastline off the beaten path, Biesanz is a short hike down from the road. You’ll find local families relaxing in the calm bay. It’s great for children, and the calm water is good for snorkeling or kayaking, both available to rent. If you want local flavor away from the tourists, this is your spot.
5-minute drive · away from the main beach
Quepos is a quick 5-minute drive from Jungle Creek, in the opposite direction from the main beach. The downtown covers about six blocks of hotels, restaurants, bars, gift shops, banks, and bakeries, with nightlife at several bars, a casino, and a nightclub. Visit on Friday at sunset or Saturday morning for the open-air farmers market, known locally as “La Feria,” for fresh mangos, pineapples, watermelon, avocados, and more. The produce is cheaper and fresher than the supermarkets, and the experience is worth it even if you don’t buy anything. Quepos also has the bus terminal, and just outside town the airport, hospital, and gas station. Pick up coffee, cigars, and souvenirs to take home; most shops open at 10:00 am.
Quepos waterfront
One of the largest marinas in Central America, Marina Pez Vela is a favorite for boating and fishing enthusiasts. It has restaurants, shops, and events. Sit and enjoy the sunset, admire the yachts, or watch the fishing boats come in with their catch of the day. In mid-December, don’t miss the boat parade of lights.
Established in 1972, Manuel Antonio National Park is a jewel of biodiversity on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It began as a private reserve, and its creation reflects the country’s commitment to conservation. Though it’s one of the smallest national parks, it packs in pristine beaches, rainforest, and mangroves, and it’s famous for wildlife like capuchin monkeys and three-toed sloths. Well-kept trails make it easy to explore.
Manuel Antonio’s food scene is built on fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and Costa Rican staples. Expect ceviche, grilled fish, gallo pinto, and plenty of fresh juice, with everything from beach shacks to restaurants with sunset views over the Pacific. Ask us for our current favorites.
Head out on a catamaran for whale watching and snorkeling. Humpback whales pass along this coast on their migration, and we’ve seen mothers with calves during green season. Between sightings you can snorkel the clear water and its marine life, making for an unforgettable day at sea.
Humpback mom and baby during green season
Staying with us? Ask us for directions to any of these spots.
JungleCreekRentals@junglecreek.com · Costa Rica: +506 8888-8850