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Manuel Antonio National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is a stunning coastal national park in Costa Rica, renowned for its lush biodiversity, tropical beaches, and rich rainforest.

National Park1,680+4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,680+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is a stunning coastal national park in Costa Rica, renowned for its lush biodiversity, tropical beaches, and rich rainforest.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Manuel Antonio National Park, situated along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, is famous for its extraordinary natural beauty and vibrant ecosystems. Though one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica, this park encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including primary rainforests, beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove swamps. Established in 1972, it attracts visitors with its easy access to tropical flora and fauna. Among the wildlife are three species of monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and over 100 species of birds. Pristine beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur offer opportunities for swimming and relaxation. Hiking trails wind through the rainforest to rewarding viewpoints of the ocean and coastline. The park’s compact size allows visitors to experience remarkable biodiversity relatively quickly, making it an ideal destination for both casual tourists and seasoned nature enthusiasts.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Manuel Antonio National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Wonders of Manuel Antonio National Park★ 8.9⌖ 0 miWildlife Watching
Manuel Antonio National Park

Discover the Wonders of Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos, Costa Rica, known for diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches. Trails offer moderate hikes with wildlife watching opportunities. Highly visited year-round, especially during the dry season.

Wildlife WatchingView Details→
Biesanz Beach: A Coastal Gem in Quepos★ 8.5⌖ 2 miSnorkeling
Biesanz Beach

Biesanz Beach: A Coastal Gem in Quepos

Biesanz Beach in Quepos, Puntarenas, offers calm waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Explore nearby trails in Manuel Antonio National Park. Spot exotic wildlife like monkeys and birds. Ideal for adventure seekers, best visited during the dry season.

SnorkelingView Details→
Swimming in the Refreshing Waterfalls of Savegre Valley★ 7.8⌖ 13 miSwimming
Savegre Valley

Swimming in the Refreshing Waterfalls of Savegre Valley

Explore the refreshing waterfalls of Savegre Valley, Costa Rica, offering lush surroundings and cool, clear waters for swimming. Accessible via moderate hikes, this adventure is best from December to April. Enjoy birding, guided tours, and serene escapes in less crowded settings.

Waterfall Wonders of Dominical★ 8.4⌖ 21 miWaterfall Exploration
Dominical

Waterfall Wonders of Dominical

Explore the stunning waterfalls in Dominical, offering majestic views and adventure activities. Located in Puntarenas Province, this area is a haven for nature lovers, famed for biodiversity. Visit from December to April for best conditions. Ideal for waterfall exploration, surfing, and hiking.

Waterfall ExplorationView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The stunning Playa Manuel Antonio, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.✦ The diverse wildlife including white-faced capuchin monkeys and howler monkeys.✦ The Punta Catedral trail offering striking views of the Pacific coastline.✦ The hidden Gemelas beach for those seeking more secluded experiences.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Manuel Antonio National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Manuel Antonio National Park
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Manuel Antonio National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Manuel Antonio National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Manuel Antonio National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entry tickets required; purchase online in advance.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Manuel Antonio National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Quepos
⌖ 3.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Quepos, Puntarenas Province

A lively coastal hub that pulses with tropical energy, offering lush rainforests, Pacific surf, and world-class marine adventures.

December to AprilExplore Town
Quepos
⌖ 3.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Quepos, Puntarenas

A vibrant coastal town serving as a gateway to lush rainforests and pristine beaches, ideal for both relaxation and adventure in Costa Rica.

December to AprilExplore Town
Parrita
⌖ 15.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parrita, Puntarenas

A tranquil coastal gateway with lush tropical surroundings, offering access to rainforests, river paddling, and quiet beaches for relaxed outdoor exploration.

December to April (dry season)Explore Town
Palmar Norte
⌖ 18.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Palmar Norte, Puntarenas

A gateway town with easy access to lush rainforest, rivers, and coastal adventures blending adventure with local culture in Southern Pacific Costa Rica.

December to April (Dry Season)Explore Town
Dominical
⌖ 20.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dominical, Puntarenas

A laid-back coastal town known for consistent surf, lush rainforest hiking, and rich biodiversity along Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast.

December to April (dry season)Explore Town
Dota
⌖ 21.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dota, San José Province

A serene mountain town set in Costa Rica’s verdant cloud forest, renowned for birdwatching, cool mountain air, and access to biodiverse protected parks.

December to April (Dry Season)Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.