Manuel Antonio Guide

Manuel Antonio

Even though Manuel Antonio Park is one of the smallest in the country, it is included among the most famous due to its sandy volcanic beaches. Manuel Antonio is connected to the town of Quepos via a seven kilometre paved road that winds over and around the peninsular of Punta Quepos. Along this road you will find many hotels, restaurants and boutiques hidden amongst the tropical forest along with great ocean views, which culminate in the National Park located at the roads end. The most spectacular beaches are found within the park and are noted for their absence of vendors and commercial activities; their white sand, sparkling water and the various animals that venture onto them are the only distractions you need in paradise. The beach front before the park entrance has all the tourist infrastructure and is also a great surf break. Unlike the national park beaches, this one is accessible the whole day and has deck-chairs for hire, surfboards for rent and on beach massages. Also lining the beach are restaurants, bars, street stalls and places to do internet.

The National Park of Manuel Antonio is the second most visited nature reserve in Costa Rica after the Poas Volcano. This is mainly due to its concentration of varied flora and an impressive mix of visible animals found within a tropical coastal setting. Guides are on hand to take you nature spotting through the reserve, though tours and activities extend far beyond the national park. A short distance from Manuel Antonio is the Damas Island Mangroves, where naturalist guides will float with you through the delicate eco-system that line the mangrove channels. Sailing cruises are offered around the tropical forested studded coastline in search of Dolphins and offering the chance to snorkeling within one of the many protected bays. Add to this horse riding, white water rafting, canopy tours, diving and much more allowing you plenty of activities to complement the days amongst beauty and nature.