Manuel Antonio
Beach and Wildlife Paradise
About this Tour
The most visited national park in the country, where the rainforest meets paradisiacal white sand beaches and unique biodiversity.
Manuel Antonio is unique in the world for combining incredible biodiversity in a small area with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific. Despite being the smallest national park in Costa Rica (only 683 hectares), it is home to an impressive diversity of species.
During our tour, you will have the unique opportunity to see wildlife in the morning and relax on paradisiacal beaches in the afternoon. It is the perfect balance between natural adventure and relaxation in paradise.
Tour Gallery
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Hotel pick-up
6:00 AMEarly departure from San José to Manuel Antonio (3-hour scenic drive)
Arrival in Manuel Antonio
9:30 AMOptional breakfast with a view of the Pacific
Manuel Antonio National Park
10:00 AMGuided hike through natural trails, wildlife observation
Beach within the park
12:30 PMFree time at Espadilla Sur Beach, swimming and relaxation
Lunch
1:30 PMFresh lunch with a sea view
Manuel Antonio Beach
3:00 PMMore beach time and marine life observation
Punta Catedral Viewpoint
4:30 PMPanoramic view and photographs of the 'Whale's Tail' formation
Return
5:30 PMReturn trip to San José (arrival approx. 8:30 PM)
What to Bring
Wildlife You'll See
White-faced Monkeys
Curious and photogenic primates, easy to observe
Sloths
Slow and adorable mammals in their natural habitat
Scarlet Macaws
Colorful and majestic birds, a symbol of Costa Rica
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Common Sightings
- White-faced Capuchin monkeys
- Three-toed sloths
- Howler monkeys
- Green iguanas
- Agoutis
Bird Paradise
- 184+ bird species
- Scarlet macaws
- Toucans
- Pelicans
- Magnificent frigatebirds
Beach and Marine Ecology
Manuel Antonio's beaches are not just beautiful; they're ecological treasures where rainforest meets ocean, creating unique intertidal zones rich with marine life.
Beach Features:
- White coral sand beaches
- Calm, protected waters
- Natural tide pools
- Coral reef formations
Marine Life:
- Dolphins (occasionally)
- Sea turtles
- Colorful tropical fish
- Hermit crabs
Conservation Success Story
Park Protection
Established in 1972, Manuel Antonio was saved from development to protect its unique ecosystems. Today it demonstrates how tourism and conservation can work together:
- Visitor limits: Maximum 600 people at once to protect wildlife
- Closed Mondays: Gives wildlife a rest day
- No plastic policy: Single-use plastics banned in park
- Revenue sharing: Entrance fees fund conservation projects
Best Wildlife Viewing Times
Early morning (7-9 AM) is prime time for active animals. Sloths are easier to spot on sunny days after rain when they climb higher to dry off. Monkeys are most active in late afternoon.
Beach Safety
Manuel Antonio beaches are generally calm, but always swim near lifeguard stations. Watch for rip currents at Espadilla Sur. The beaches inside the park are safer for families with children.
Up to 48 hours before the tour
Includes:
- Private transportation with A/C
- Certified naturalist guide
- Entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park
- Lunch by the sea
- Observation equipment (binoculars, telescope)
- Tour operator insurance
- Free time on the beach
- Tour photographs
Does Not Include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Optional water activities
- Personal travel insurance
- Sunscreen
Best Time to Go
All year round. Dry season (December-April) ideal for the beach. Green season (May-November) better for wildlife observation.
