Manuel Antonio - Costa Rica

The town of Manuel Antonio is well known as a tourist destination because of the national park of the same name.

The road from Quepos winds a few kilometers up green hills before it drops down to the center of Manuel Antonio. A large number of the hotels, restaurants and bars were constructed in the hills; this offers their guests a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.

Playa Espadilla Norte is the public beach at Manuel Antonio, a few hotels and restaurants are located in front of it.

Due to the popularity of the place some of the prices here are slightly higher than in other parts of Costa Rica. Some of the beach vendors fragrantly ask four times the regular price of what a coconut usually would cost.

None the less each tourist should be able to find something in the price range he is looking for in Manuel Antonio, there are even hostels for backpackers in here. In the low season there are often more accommodations than guests and rooms can be found for lower prices than in Jaco. The beaches inside the park, this is a photo of Playa Manuel Antonio, are safe for swimming.The beaches inside the park, this is a photo of Playa Manuel Antonio, are safe for swimming. Many weekend travelers drive to the beaches like Jaco that are closer to San Jose.

Tanning between monkeys and raccoons...

The most beautiful beaches are located in the national park. White sand, palm trees and the protected bay make Playa Manuel Antonio a phantasmagoric beach. Monkeys and raccoons come close to people on the beach and food has to be well protected and hidden.

Besides the national park one can go horseback riding or sport fishing in Manuel Antonio. In the evening casinos, bars and discos offer more action for holidaymakers.

Manuel Antonio on the map

Manuel Antonio on the map

Facts about Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

  • Manuel Antonio is located in the province of Puntarenas.

Driving times and distances

  • Distance from San Jose to Manuel Antonio: 173.2 kilometers respectively 107.5 miles.
  • Travel time from San Jose to Manuel Antonio: 3.09 hours.
  • Distance from Liberia to Manuel Antonio: 255.3 kilometers respectively 158.6 miles.
  • Travel time from Liberia to Manuel Antonio: 4.37 hours.