Escape San José for a day on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific: a guided trip to Manuel Antonio National Park that combines wildlife-rich rainforest hikes with warm Pacific beaches and coastal viewpoints. This full-day tour times visits to avoid the worst crowds and includes breakfast, lunch and park entry.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light hits the Pacific and the road unwinds toward Quepos — palms lean like watchful hosts as the van climbs coastal hills. By the time you reach Manuel Antonio National Park the air is humid, birdcalls register as punctuation, and the trailhead feels like a threshold between city rhythms and rainforest time.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking on uneven trails and short stair sections for up to an hour at a time.
Wildlife
History
Manuel Antonio National Park was established in 1972 to protect coastal rainforest and marine habitats as development pressures increased along Costa Rica’s Central Pacific.
Conservation
Visitor limits, strict rules on feeding and plastics, and guided routing help reduce human impact; staying on trails and packing out waste directly supports park conservation.
Reserve your spot on the Manuel Antonio National Park; Beach & Sightseeing Day Trip from San Jose today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Plastic bottles are banned in the park; carry a refillable bottle and hydrate often in the humid climate.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails include roots, wet rock, and short stairs — closed-toe shoes with grip reduce slips and ankle strain.
Use insect repellent and sun protection
Shade and sun alternate quickly on coastal trails — combine sunblock with DEET or picaridin to stay comfortable.
Keep distance from wildlife
Guides will help you spot animals; never touch or feed them — it alters behavior and can be dangerous.
Closed-toe hiking shoes or sneakers
Trails have exposed roots and slick rocks — sturdy shoes give traction and ankle support.
Reusable water bottle
Plastic bottles are not allowed in the park; refilling keeps you hydrated and compliant.
Lightweight rain jacket
Afternoon showers are common in the wet season — a packable shell keeps you dry without overheating.
summer
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Bring optics to spot sloths, toucans and distant macaws without disturbing wildlife.