Manuel Antonio at a glance

Manuel Antonio is a paradise that will captivate even the most discerning travelers. With world-class beaches and breathtaking views, unique to this region, it’s a destination every traveler should have on their list.

A variety of accommodations are available, from hilltop retreats with panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters to beachfront villas where you can soak up the sun, relax in a hammock, and let the cool sea breeze wash away your worries. For adventure seekers, there are plenty of exciting activities to choose from, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and zip-lining.

Although Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s smaller parks, it boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including 109 mammal species and 184 bird species. One of the park’s most beloved residents is the two-toed sloth, adored by locals and visitors alike. The park is divided into three main areas: the national park itself, the beaches, and the surrounding hills. The nearby town of Quepos is just a 10-minute drive from the nearest beach, and the scenic coastal Highway 34 offers a beautiful route to the park. You can also take a short flight to Quepos National Airport.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a wedding destination, or simply a peaceful retreat, Manuel Antonio offers a truly enchanting experience.

Start planning your Costa Rican adventure today!

Travel times to popular destinations in Costa Rica

From Manuel Antonio to
*Approximate driving times
San José
3h
Jacó
1h 15min
San Ramón
2h 30 min
Aeropuerto de Alajuela
2h 45min
Volcán Arenal
4h 30min
Monteverde
3h 30min
Liberia
4h

How to get to Manuel Antonio?

Although Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations, it’s located about 3.5 hours by car from San José, near Juan Santamaría International Airport. However, there are several ways to reach this beautiful destination, each offering a unique and enjoyable experience.
A short 20-minute flight from San José to Manuel Antonio operates several times a day. Once you arrive at the Quepos Regional Airport, a taxi will quickly take you to your hotel.
If you prefer the flexibility to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a popular option. A 4x4 is recommended, especially from May to November during the rainy season.
For those who want to immerse themselves in Costa Rican culture, traveling by bus is an excellent option. At approximately $20 round trip, the bus is an economical and scenic way to travel. Express buses depart three times a day, and the journey takes about the same amount of time as driving yourself. Reservations are not required, and the trip is usually quite comfortable.

Buses run daily between Quepos and Manuel Antonio from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (until 9:30 p.m. on weekends). Buses depart every hour and half hour. There are also additional buses that depart at 5:45 a.m., 6:45 a.m., and 10:00 p.m. We recommend calling or inquiring beforehand if you have any questions about the schedule.

From Manuel Antonio to Quepos, buses operate daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:25 p.m., departing every hour and 25 minutes past the hour. On weekends, there is also a bus at 6:00 a.m. and another at 10:00 p.m.

Taxis are available in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Official red taxis have meters, while unofficial taxis, known as "pirates," are usually cheaper but do not offer passenger insurance. You can check fares to estimate the cost.

For the more adventurous, renting a scooter in Quepos is a fun way to explore the area. You can also rent a bicycle. Both options are inexpensive, but be prepared for the challenge of navigating some of the area's steep roads.

Main Tours and Attractions

Manuel Antonio offers a wide variety of opportunities to enjoy its unique natural beauty. A popular option is the canopy tour, where you can explore the forest from above, with breathtaking views of the wildlife and landscape. For a more adventurous excursion, consider a coastal kayaking trip on the open sea, along one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular coastlines.
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