A Complete Travel Guide to Manuel Antonio National Park
Author : Mapache Tours Costa Rica | Published On : 27 Feb 2026
If you’re dreaming of white-sand beaches, emerald rainforests, and wildlife encounters that feel straight out of a nature documentary, Manuel Antonio National Park should be at the top of your list. Located along Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast near the town of Quepos, this small but biodiverse park is one of the country’s most beloved natural treasures.
Despite being one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park is often considered the most beautiful — and for good reason. It combines dense tropical jungle, pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich array of wildlife all in one easily accessible destination.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know before visiting Manuel Antonio National Park — from wildlife spotting and hiking trails to travel tips and sustainability.
Why Visit Manuel Antonio National Park?
Costa Rica is home to over 25% of its land protected in national parks and reserves. Among them, Manuel Antonio stands out for its unique combination of:
White-sand beaches
Lush rainforest trails
Abundant wildlife
Easy accessibility
Family-friendly hiking paths
Unlike larger parks such as Corcovado National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park allows visitors to experience incredible biodiversity without venturing too far off the beaten path.
It’s ideal for first-time travelers to Costa Rica, families, couples, and even solo adventurers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.
Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park
One of the biggest draws of Manuel Antonio National Park is its extraordinary wildlife.
Monkeys
You’re almost guaranteed to see monkeys here. The park is home to:
White-faced capuchins
Mantled howler monkeys
Squirrel monkeys (a rare subspecies found only in this region)
Watching capuchins skillfully navigate treetops or hearing howler monkeys roar through the forest canopy is an unforgettable experience.
Sloths
Both two-toed and three-toed sloths inhabit the park. They’re masters of camouflage, so hiring a guide with a spotting scope significantly increases your chances of seeing one.
Other Wildlife
You may also encounter:
Iguanas
Basilisk lizards (often called “Jesus Christ lizards”)
Coatis
Toucans
Scarlet macaws
Hundreds of butterfly species
Because Manuel Antonio National Park is relatively compact, wildlife sightings are frequent and accessible, even along short trails.
The Best Beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park
One of the park’s defining features is its stunning beaches, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world.
Playa Manuel Antonio
The park’s most famous beach offers calm turquoise waters and soft white sand framed by jungle-covered hills. It’s ideal for swimming and relaxing after a hike.
Playa Espadilla Sur
Located inside the park, this beach is less crowded than its public counterpart outside the entrance. It offers breathtaking sunset views and excellent photo opportunities.
For a more secluded experience, you can explore smaller coves and hidden stretches of shoreline accessible via trails.
Hiking Trails in Manuel Antonio National Park
Although not known for strenuous trekking, the park offers scenic and well-maintained trails suitable for all fitness levels.
Main Trail (Sendero Principal)
This flat and easy path connects the entrance to the park’s main beaches. It’s perfect for families and wildlife spotting.
Punta Catedral Trail
For panoramic ocean views, hike the Punta Catedral loop. This moderate trail leads to elevated viewpoints overlooking dramatic coastlines and rocky formations.
Mirador Trail
Short but rewarding, this trail provides stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding forest.
The trails are clearly marked, and many visitors choose to explore with a certified guide who can point out hidden wildlife and explain the park’s ecosystems.
When to Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica has two primary seasons:
Dry Season (December–April)
Sunny skies
Less rain
Higher visitor numbers
Ideal beach weather
Green Season (May–November)
Fewer crowds
Lush landscapes
Afternoon showers
Better wildlife visibility
If you want fewer tourists and a more serene atmosphere, the green season can be surprisingly rewarding.
