Manuel Antonio National Park holidays

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s best-loved national parks and for good reason. It’s where lush jungle spills down to meet powdery white beaches, and wildlife seems to appear at every turn. Sloths, monkeys, iguanas, toucans, you’re likely to see them all in a single morning here, often just steps from the trail.

We love the balance Manuel Antonio strikes. The park itself is compact and easy to explore, with well-marked trails and plenty of shaded spots to rest. You don’t need to be an intrepid hiker to enjoy it, in fact, this is one of the most accessible places to experience Costa Rica’s biodiversity up close. A guided walk is well worth it, especially if you want to spot the more elusive species hiding in the canopy.

Outside the park, the surrounding area offers a great mix of local character and comfortable places to stay, from boutique beach hotels to jungle lodges with ocean views. There’s a wide choice of activities too, from ziplining and kayaking through mangroves to sunset catamaran cruises and surf lessons on Espadilla Beach.

Manuel Antonio works beautifully as a soft landing or a final stop on a longer Costa Rica journey. It’s got the wildlife, the beaches, and the ease all wrapped into one beautiful coastal region.