Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Costa Rica. Take in incredible views of the beaches from many hotels and restaurants on the main road going up the hill. There is literally something for everyone from hiking in the national park, nature tours, water sports, horseback riding, zipline tours, fine dining, spas and of course happy hour.

Public Beaches
The Manuel area offers several beaches to spend time on. Some of the most popular are inside the national Park. Yet if you’re just looking for a relaxing place to spend time the beaches outsides the national park are just fine. The main one is Playa Espadilla.

For those interested in a more secluded beach and in good shape to climb over large rocks check out La Playita (also known as Playa Dulce Vida) north of Espadilla. It’s popular with gays and guest of Hotel Arenas del Mar. Be careful not to get caught their during hide tide.

National Park & Beaches
The entrance fee is $10 for foreigners to Manuel Antonio Natural Park (506.2777.0654).

Manuel National Park has 3 main beaches: Playa Espadilla Sur (South), Manuel Antonio and Escondido. Manuel is considered the most beautiful with white sand. Playa Espadilla, also know as Second Beach.

The park boosts a wide network of nature trails that lead into a tropical forest. Perezoso Trail is very popular. On your first trip it is recommended to hire a local guide at park entrance. They will give you better insight into the wildlife and plants. Most importantly they will show you which trees and plants to avoid. Sap from certain plants will irritate the skin. The most common one is the Manchineel tree (manzanillo).

Wildlife
Common wildlife includes 3 species of monkeys, slothes, iguanas, toucans, scarlet macaws, marmosets, ocelots and river otters. Monkeys include white-faced (capuchin), howler (mono congo) and the near extinct squirrel (mono titi). Locals refer to

It is illegal to feed the monkeys!
This is for the monkey’s own survival. Several illness and diseases are linked to them eating human food. Or food contaminate with human illnesses. In additional the Costa Rican National University has studies showing an increase in heart disease among monkey’s that eat human food.

Safety, Parking, etc
-Do not leave anything valuable in your car. Never leave anything in plain site.
-When on the beaches be careful where you leave your bag and belongings while swimmining. Monkeys and people will steal your things. Simple luggage locks will keep the monkeys out, but people will steal your entire bag. Remember this isn’t Disneyland. It’s a developing nature with close to 20% of the people living in poverty.
-The main road where most hotels and restaurants are located is very narrow and widy. It can be very dangerous to walk. Take the public bus for less than .50 cents. They pass every 15-20 minutes. Or take a taxi. Many hotels and resorts offer their own private shuttles. It is not recommended to walk at night. Costa Rica are crazy drivers. Cars always have the right of way!

Accommodation
- Manuel Antonio Hotels & Resorts
- Manuel Antonio Vacation Rentals
- Manuel Apartment Rentals

Gay Travel
Manuel is a popular gay and lesbian destination. Learn more about Gay Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

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