The Things to Do in (and reasons to love) Manuel Antonio

Welcome to the sun-drenched oasis of Manuel Antonio, a gem tucked away on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica that embodies the perfect blend of tropical luxury and unspoiled natural beauty. This coastal paradise is not just a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, beachgoers, and adventure seekers—it's also an idyllic setting for anyone looking to call a slice of heaven their home. With an array of Manuel Antonio real estate options, you can secure your own piece of paradise. 

Whether it's waking up to the sounds of the rainforest, basking in breathtaking ocean views, or indulging in the laid-back lifestyle, Manuel Antonio offers a diverse range of experiences that makes it an enchanting place to live and buy property. Join us as we explore the vibrant activities and tranquil retreats in this coastal haven, where the pura vida lifestyle isn't just a saying—it's a way of life.

Explore Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, offers a plethora of activities and attractions for both locals and tourists. Providing an incredible mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, Manuel Antonio really has it all. Here are some things to do in Manuel Antonio;

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park, established in 1972 to preserve one of Costa Rica's most enchanting and biodiverse environments, is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Visitors can traverse a network of hiking trails, including The Sloth Trail and The Mangrove Trail, for a chance to witness a rich array of wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and macaws in their natural habitat. 

The park's idyllic beaches, especially Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio, offer serene spots for swimming in crystal-clear waters. For a more educational experience, guided tours provide insights into the park’s ecosystem, and night tours reveal the nocturnal life stirring within this protected paradise. Additonally, A trip to the Butterfly Gardens is a must.

Renowned for its combination of beauty and adventure, Manuel Antonio National Park stands out as one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated national jewels. 

Relax By The Beach

In Manuel Antonio, the beaches are as inviting as they are diverse, each offering its own slice of paradise for sun-seekers and adventurers alike. Playa Espadilla Sur, the park's largest beach, offers tranquil surroundings with stunning coastline views, while Playa Manuel Antonio, known for its crystal clear waters and golden sands against a lush rainforest backdrop, is perfect for relaxing swims and nature walks. Wildlife enthusiasts will revel in the opportunity to spot playful monkeys and other animals in their natural habitat​​.

Venturing out of the national park, Playa Espadilla is a bustling hub with a 3-kilometer stretch populated with hotels, bars, and restaurants, so you have plenty of options to dine after you’re beach day.

For a more secluded experience, Playa Biesanz is a hidden gem where visitors can indulge in water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, or explore the underwater world through snorkeling. This beach is embraced by verdant greenery and offers clear, calm waters, with rentals and guided tours readily available to enhance your beach day​​.

Take a Chocolate & Coffee Tour

Embark on a sensory-rich expedition at a private ranch in Londres (a 30 minute drive from Manuel Antonio), with the chocolate, coffee, vanilla, and spice tour. This immersive experience takes you through the stages of how organic coffee, cacao, and vanilla are cultivated, harvested, and transformed into delightful treats and sacred medicines. 

 As you wander the verdant organic gardens, you'll encounter farm animals and end your tour with a nutritious, organic farm-to-table lunch. This educational and delicious journey promises an engaging encounter with Costa Rica's agricultural heritage, perfect for creating lasting memories with family or friends​​. 

There are many chocolate and coffee tours around Manuel Antonio to choose from, you’ll come away from them wiser and smelling delicious!

Hop Aboard a Sunset Sailing Tour

Set sail on a sunset tour in Manuel Antonio and witness the mesmerizing transformation of the sky as the sun dips below the horizon. Aboard a spacious catamaran or trimaran, you can relax and bask in the golden hour's glow. These tours typically offer a blend of leisure and adventure, including snorkeling opportunities where the vibrant marine life of Costa Rica's Pacific coast comes to life. 

As the vessel glides through the waters, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales, making for an unforgettable encounter. With refreshments and meals provided, this experience combines the allure of the ocean with the comforts of hospitality, making it an essential part of any visit to Manuel Antonio​​​​.

Visit the Nauyaca Waterfalls

A visit to the Nauyaca Waterfalls is a breathtaking highlight for any traveler to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Located in the lush rainforest, these majestic waterfalls cascade down nearly 200 feet, offering a stunning display of nature's grandeur. 

Adventurous visitors can embark on a hike along a well-trodden 4-kilometer trail, winding through the lush landscape to the waterfall's base, encountering various wildlife en route. For a more unique approach, horseback tours provide a unique vantage point and a gentler journey through the terrain.

At Nauyaca, the roar of the falls and the serene beauty of the surrounding rainforest create an awe-inspiring experience, with the opportunity to connect with nature at every turn​​. After your hike to the falls, indulge in a refreshing swim in the pools below the powerful, cascading waterfalls. 

Escape to Los Campesinos Reserve and Lodge

Los Campesinos Reserve and Lodge is a serene escape located around an hour drive from Manuel Antonio's centre, offering an authentic Costa Rican experience away from the typical tourist path. Within this 35-hectare reserve of both primary and secondary forest, you can explore nature trails that lead to a spectacular hanging bridge, one of the longest in Costa Rica, offering panoramic views of the lush surroundings. 

There's also a cable car that takes you across a valley and trails that culminate at viewpoints overlooking the expanse of Manuel Antonio National Park. The reserve offers a variety of tours, from horseback riding to guided hikes, and showcases a medicinal plant garden. 

Visitors can witness the rich biodiversity of the area, and after exploring, enjoy a local lunch made with organic produce. For those wanting to immerse themselves fully, staying a night or two at the lodge provides a unique chance to connect with nature and experience local hospitality​​.

Shopping in Manuel Antonio

While Manuel Antonio is a nature lover's paradise, there are also a few options around for the shopaholic in us all. Manuel Antonio offers a variety of shops and boutiques. For boutique clothing and unique finds, places like Luna Llena and Jungle Avenue are ideal for stylish clothing and accessories perfect for the tropical climate. 

Indigo and Studio 24 also offer a range of clothing options from beachwear to casual outfits. For surf gear and sportswear, the surf shops in central Quepos are the go-to spots. Souvenir shopping is plentiful, with pop-up shops near the National Park entrance offering the best deals. Marina Pez Vela also hosts several retail stores for a more upscale shopping experience​​.

Take a Guided Wildlife Tour

Guided wildlife tours in Manuel Antonio provide an immersive experience into one of the most biologically diverse habitats on the planet. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, these tours often last around four hours and are highly recommended by travelers for the depth of insight and the opportunity to spot a variety of creatures in their natural environment. 

Nature walks through Manuel Antonio National Park are particularly popular, with trained guides helping visitors understand the complex ecosystems and spot elusive wildlife. These tours are educational and allow you to get up close and personal with some of the most magnificent exotic animals in the world.

Fall in Love with Manuel Antonio

As the sun sets on the Pacific and the vibrant hues of Manuel Antonio fade into twilight, it's clear that this coastal paradise has much to offer beyond its spectacular sunsets. Whether you've spent your days lounging on pristine beaches, exploring the lush trails of the national park, or greeting exotic creatures on an exciting wildlife tour, Manuel Antonio leaves you with memories as rich and vivid as its landscapes. 

From the adrenaline of adventure sports to the serenity of a sunset sail, each moment here is a chance to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. Come and experience the beauty of this Costa Rican gem for yourself, we promise you won't be disappointed!