Spotlight on Manuel Antonio National Park 

When making your Costa Rican vacation plans make sure that you include a visit to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast. It’s one of the premier beach destinations in Costa Rica. It boasts all the amenities you would expect. From backpacker style accommodations to luxury hotels (and everything in between), Manuel Antonio has it all.

So what drives so many people to Manuel Antonio?

It has some of the best beaches in the country and one of the best, and most accessible, National Parks. It’s an easy 3-hour drive from San Jose and the international airport.

Manuel Antonio National Park was established in 1972 and is Costa Rica’s smallest park. In 2011, it was awarded the distinction of  one of the world’s “Top 12 Most Beautiful Parks” by Forbes magazine, and for the many visitors who passed through the park’s gates before then, it came as no surprise.

There are four beaches within the park itself, Manuel Antonio, Espadilla Sur, Teloro and Playita, that have well-marked trails making for easy access.

If beaches are not your thing, then maybe the wildlife is. The park has 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds within its borders.

You are almost guaranteed to find both types of sloths and 3 of the 4 species of monkeys found in Costa Rica – Howler, Squirrel and White Headed Capuchin).

Other than the National Park, Manuel Antonio is a magical playground for families, newlyweds and solo travelers alike. There are endless options to keep yourselves occupied, with some of the most popular activities being snorkeling, jetski riding, surfing, ziplining or simply lying on the beach and relaxing.

So why not include Manuel Antonio in your itinerary? It’s one of the most famous destinations in Costa Rica. Contact us today to see how Costa Rica Rios can help include it in your vacation package.