The 14 BEST things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica!

Welcome to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica! This beautiful tropical paradise is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and have the time of your life. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do here. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just looking for some rest and relaxation, Manuel Antonio has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes

One of the best things about Manuel Antonio is the laid-back, positive vibe that permeates the entire area. The locals are friendly, welcoming, and always happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, and there’s a sense of community and connection here that you won’t find in many other places.

Weather throughout the year

The weather in Manuel Antonio is consistently warm and tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. It does tend to be a bit more humid during the rainy season, which runs from May to November, but even then the showers are usually brief and the sun always seems to come out eventually. Overall, the weather in Manuel Antonio is perfect for spending long days at the beach, exploring the rainforest, or just lounging in a hammock and soaking up the sun.

Why Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why Manuel Antonio is the best place to be! For starters, it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. The national park here is also home to an incredible array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a whole host of exotic birds. And of course, there’s the amazing food, which is a blend of traditional Costa Rican cuisine and international flavors. Add in the friendly locals and the stunning natural surroundings, and it’s easy to see why Manuel Antonio is such a special place.

Cost of Travel

The cost of travel to Manuel Antonio will depend on a variety of factors, including your mode of transportation, where you’re coming from, and the time of year you visit. That being said, Manuel Antonio is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination, with affordable accommodation options, reasonable prices for food and activities, and relatively low costs for transportation within the area.

Top 14 best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

1. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park: This stunning national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a whole host of exotic birds. Take a guided tour to make the most of your visit and learn about the park’s rich history and ecosystem.
2. Relax on the beach: Manuel Antonio is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so make sure to spend some time soaking up the sun and splashing in the crystal-clear waters. Pro tip: Playa Espadilla Sur is a local favorite.
3. Go surfing: The waves in Manuel Antonio are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers, so grab a board and hit the waves! There are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area to help you get started.
4. Take a boat tour: There are plenty of boat tours available in Manuel Antonio, ranging from relaxing sunset cruises to adventure rides.
5. Try your hand at sport fishing: Manuel Antonio is known for its excellent sport fishing, with a variety of species including marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a complete novice, there are plenty of options for you to try your hand at this exciting activity.
6. Explore the rainforest: The rainforest in Manuel Antonio is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, and there are plenty of ways to experience it. You can take a guided hike, go ziplining through the canopy, or even take a horseback ride through the jungle. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of this incredible ecosystem.
7. Sample the local cuisine: Costa Rican cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional and international flavors, and Manuel Antonio is the perfect place to try it all. Make sure to try dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a traditional plate of rice, beans, and meat), and arroz con pollo (chicken and rice). And of course, don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing cup of coffee or a cold cerveza (beer)!
8. Take a salsa dancing lesson: Costa Rica is known for its vibrant music and dance scene, and Manuel Antonio is no exception. Take a salsa dancing lesson to learn the steps and get a taste of this fun and energetic culture. Who knows, you might even end up on the dance floor at a local bar or club later on!
9. Go on a canopy tour: Manuel Antonio is home to a number of beautiful canopy tours, which take you high above the rainforest floor and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Zip from tree to tree, crossing bridges and traversing ropes, and get a unique perspective on the rainforest that you can’t get any other way.
10. Visit the local markets: Manuel Antonio is home to a number of local markets where you can find all sorts of interesting and unique souvenirs, including handmade crafts, local artwork, and traditional clothing. It’s a great way to support the local community and take home a little piece of Costa Rica with you.
11. Take a boat ride to Isla Damas: Just a short boat ride from Manuel Antonio, Isla Damas is a beautiful and secluded island that’s home to an array of wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. Take a guided tour of the island to learn about its history and ecology, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the peace and quiet.
12. Go birdwatching: Manuel Antonio is home to an incredible array of bird species, including toucans, parrots, and a variety of colorful tropical birds. Take a guided birdwatching tour to learn about these amazing creatures and see them up close.
13. Visit the local waterfalls: Manuel Antonio is home to a number of beautiful waterfalls that are well worth a visit. Take a hike through the rainforest to see them up close, or book a tour that includes a visit to one of these stunning natural wonders.
14. Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun and challenging way to explore the waters of Manuel Antonio, and there are plenty of rental shops and guided tours available. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying it out for the first time, it’s a great way to have fun and get some exercise while you’re here.

Conclusion



There you have it, the top 14 best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica! From relaxing on the beach to exploring the rainforest and trying new activities, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to be had in this beautiful tropical paradise. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to have the time of your life in Manuel Antonio!


Have you thought about staying in Manuel Antonio for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Manuel Antonio

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Costa Rica, such as Arenal, Playa Hermosa or La Fortuna.