On the Central Pacific coast, very close to Quepos, the rainforest comes down to touch the sea. That meeting point is Manuel Antonio National Park, created in 1972. Although it is one of the smallest parks in Costa Rica, it is also one of the most visited, and that is no accident.
A landscape in a small space
In just a few hours of walking you pass through tropical forest, mangroves, cliffs and light-sand beaches surrounded by turquoise water. One of the most striking spots is Punta Catedral, a former island that became joined to the mainland by a strip of sand called a tombolo.
Wildlife
Manuel Antonio is famous for how easy it is to see wildlife. It is common to find:
- Central American squirrel monkeys, white-faced capuchins and howler monkeys.
- Two- and three-toed sloths resting in the trees.
- Raccoons, coatis, iguanas and a wide variety of birds.
Golden rule: do not feed the animals. Human food harms them and changes their behavior.
| Location | Quepos, Puntarenas |
| Created | 1972 |
| Main beaches | Manuel Antonio, Espadilla Sur, Gemelas |
| Great for | Short hikes, beach time and wildlife watching |
Tips for your visit
- Buy your ticket in advance on the official SINAC website; there is a daily limit.
- Check which day of the week the park is closed before planning your trip.
- Junk food and single-use plastic bags are not allowed inside.
- Arrive early to see more animals and avoid the strongest heat.
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