Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s perfect sweet spot where rainforest meets Pacific beaches. This compact paradise packs national park adventures, world-class surfing, and incredible wildlife watching into an area you can easily walk around.
Your biggest decision? Picking the right area to stay. From the buzzing heart of Manuel Antonio town to quiet clifftop hideaways, each neighborhood offers a totally different vibe. I’ll break down the five best areas with insider costs, fun stuff to do, and what makes each spot special.
Best Hotels in Manuel Antonio 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: La Mariposa Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Si Como No Resort & Spa
- 🛏 3-Star: Costa Verde Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio
- 🏢 Apartment: Agutí Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Parador Resort and Spa
- 🏩 For Couples: Issimo Suites Manuel Antonio
Quick Guide to the Best Areas 📃
- 👀 For the First Time: Manuel Antonio Town
- 🏞 For Nature: Manuel Antonio National Park Area
- 🏄🏻♀️ Best Beaches: Espadilla Beach
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Quepos
- 🕊 For Quiet Stay: Biesanz Beach
1. Manuel Antonio – Where to Stay for Costa Rica’s Best Beach Experience
Local Life. I found out that staying in Manuel Antonio town beats being near the national park for pure convenience. The main street is alive with sodas serving casado plates, fruit vendors, and that real Costa Rican energy you won’t find in touristy beach areas. You can walk to Playa Espadilla in just 8 minutes from the town center, while the national park entrance is an easy 12-minute stroll.
Food Scene. My go-to spot is Soda Sánchez on the central road – their gallo pinto costs ₡2,500 ($4.50/€4.20) and beats any resort breakfast hands down. The local market opens at 6 AM with fresh mangoes at ₡500 ($0.90/€0.80) each, plus fishermen show up with red snapper and mahi-mahi around 7 AM when prices are dirt cheap.
| Daily Expenses | Colones | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local lunch | ₡3,500 | $6.30 | €5.90 |
| Imperial beer | ₡1,800 | $3.20 | €3.00 |
| Beach taxi | ₡2,000 | $3.60 | €3.40 |
| Motorbike rental | ₡15,000 | $27.00 | €25.20 |
Getting Around. The bus terminal connects directly to San José every 2 hours from 5 AM to 6 PM at ₡3,200 ($5.75/€5.40). Early morning rides to Quepos marina cost just ₡800 ($1.45/€1.35), and the public beach shuttle runs every 15 minutes during busy season.
Night Scene. Town really comes alive after dark – Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s hottest beach destinations. Happy hour runs 5-7 PM with Imperial beer at ₡1,200 ($2.15/€2.00), plus live reggae at El Avión every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 PM.
Where to stay in Manuel Antonio
Expensive hotels
- Los Altos Beach Resort & Spa – This luxurious beachfront resort offers premium accommodations with spa services and stunning Pacific views in Manuel Antonio near Tulemar.
- Hotel Villas Lirio – A comfortable Manuel Antonio hotel offering quality accommodations with good amenities in a convenient location close to Tulemar Resort.
- ECOTICA Boutique Hotel – This resort provides a good balance of comfort and value with pleasant accommodations and standard amenities near Los Altos Beach Resort.
Medium price range
- Naoz Hotel – Located in Manuel Antonio, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities at a reasonable price point near Playa Manuel Antonio.
- Flor Blanca Hotel – An affordable option offering basic but comfortable accommodations with essential amenities for budget-conscious travelers near Biesanz Beach.
- Agutí Apartment – This apartment-style accommodation provides good value with self-catering facilities and comfortable living spaces on the route from Quepos to Manuel Antonio.
Budget options
- Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonioa – A comfortable hostel providing affordable accommodations with mountain views and easy access to Manuel Antonio attractions.
- Peace of Paradise Manuel Antonio – A budget-friendly option offering peaceful accommodations with basic amenities in a tranquil setting.
- House la Rose Second Floor – A comfortable one-bedroom apartment offering a living room, terrace, and free WiFi with good staff assistance.
2. Near Manuel Antonio National Park – Where to Stay for Rainforest & Wildlife
Animal Kingdom. Howler monkeys are my daily wake-up call here, with the park gateway just 200 meters from most places to stay. Three-toed sloths hang out from cecropia trees right outside breakfast areas while sneaky capuchin monkeys pull off impressive bag raids.
Early Bird Gets the Worm. The park gates open at 7 AM sharp—show up by 6:45 AM to catch the best wildlife action before tour buses roll in. Foreigner entry costs $16 USD, with certified guides available at ₡25,000 ($45/€42) for groups up to 9 people.
| Wildlife Activities | Colones | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park entry (foreigner) | ₡8,900 | $16.00 | €15.00 |
| Guided jungle walk | ₡25,000 | $45.00 | €42.00 |
| Canopy adventure | ₡35,000 | $63.00 | €59.00 |
| Night wildlife tour | ₡28,000 | $50.50 | €47.25 |
Jungle Trails. The Cathedral Point trail takes 45 minutes each way through untouched rainforest where I’ve spotted bright blue poison dart frogs and Jesus Christ lizards. Wear closed shoes – humidity hits 85% by 10 AM and there’s no shade on the beach approach.
After-Dark Magic. The real wildlife show starts when the park closes at 4 PM. Night tours reveal kinkajous, spectacled owls, and sleeping birds you’ll never see during the day—Manuel Antonio Expeditions runs awesome nighttime walks for ₡28,000 ($50.50/€47.25).
Where to stay near Manuel Antonio National Park Area
Expensive hotels
- Si Como No Resort & Spa – This luxury eco-resort features a wildlife refuge, multiple pools, and premium spa services just a few minutes from the national park, perfectly located in Manuel Antonio.
- Hotel Playa Espadilla – An upscale beachfront property offering direct access to Espadilla Beach with elegant accommodations and stunning Pacific views, one of Costa Rica’s finest properties.
- La Vela Bar Boutique Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with vibrant local atmosphere and comfortable accommodations near the park area.
Medium price range
- Sueños de Amor – Peaceful retreat offering cozy rooms surrounded by lush rainforest, perfect for nature lovers.
- El Faro Beach Hotel – Modern hotel built high on a hill near the national park with stunning views of ocean and unique shipping container architecture along Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
- Hotel Villa Prats – Simple, clean accommodations on the walking path between the main beach and national park with basic amenities and a small pool.
Budget options
- Glamping Tomaselli – Unique glamping experience that combines outdoor adventure with comfortable amenities in a natural setting during any season in Manuel Antonio.
- Millenium Manuel Antonio Park and beach – Budget-friendly hostel offering affordable accommodations with easy access to beach and national park entrance.
- Casa Encantada Manuel Antonio – A charming guesthouse providing comfortable budget accommodations near the national park and the beach with authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
3. Near Espadilla Beach – Where to Stay for Surf & Sun
Wave Paradise. Playa Espadilla stretches 3 kilometers of perfect beach break that beginners love. You can rent boards right on the sand for ₡8,000 ($14.40/€13.50) daily, with the best waves hitting 2 hours before high tide when swells reach shoulder-high.
Beach Vibes. This strip buzzes with volleyball games, reggae music, and that classic Costa Rican surf culture. Fresh pipa fría from coconut vendors costs ₡1,500 ($2.70/€2.52), while Marlin Restaurant serves amazing grilled fish for ₡4,500 ($8.10/€7.60).
| Beach Essentials | Colones | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfboard rental | ₡8,000 | $14.40 | €13.50 |
| Chair & umbrella set | ₡3,000 | $5.40 | €5.05 |
| Fresh coconut water | ₡1,500 | $2.70 | €2.52 |
| Beachside meal | ₡4,500 | $8.10 | €7.60 |
Water Fun. Playa Espadilla Sur’s calm section is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Rocky areas during high tide are great for snorkeling with tons of tropical fish that even surprise the local guides.
Sunset Show. Every evening turns into an impromptu beach party with fire dancers, acoustic music, and cocktails served in coconut shells. Secret spot: the stretch from Playa Chocolate to Barba Roja has the best sunset views without the resort crowds—all-day parking costs ₡2,000 ($3.60/€3.40).
Where to stay near Espadilla Beach
Expensive hotels
- Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort – This luxury beachfront resort offers direct access to two pristine beaches with upscale accommodations and world-class spa services, a premium option in Manuel Antonio.
- Parador Resort and Spa – An elegant oceanfront resort featuring luxurious suites, multiple pools, and stunning Pacific Ocean views right on the Beach with convenient parking at Manuel Antonio.
- Hotel Costa Verde – Famous for its unique airplane suite, this clifftop resort offers panoramic ocean views and comfortable accommodations with tropical gardens, among the best luxury hotels in Manuel.
Medium price range
- Buena Vista Plus – A beachfront hotel offering direct beach access with private sunlounger areas, spacious rooms with large balconies, and exceptional service from friendly staff.
- Jungle Beach Hotel – This hotel combines beach proximity with jungle surroundings, offering a perfect balance of nature and coastal convenience connecting Manuel Antonio and Quepos.
- Hotel Karahe – A mid-range option providing comfortable accommodations with good amenities and convenient beach access near the national park and the beach.
Budget options
- Verde Mar Hotel – Budget-friendly hotel providing comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to beach and local restaurants.
- Costa Linda Art Hostel – A creative hostel featuring artistic decor, social atmosphere, and affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers during any season in Costa Rica.
- Igloo Beach Lodge – A charming beachside lodge offering comfortable rooms with easy beach access and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families during any season in Manuel Antonio.
4. Quepos Town – Where to Stay for Boating
Real Deal. Authentic Costa Rican life happens in Quepos where construction workers grab ₡800 ($1.45/€1.35) morning coffee and weekend soccer is everything. Mercado Municipal has incredible seafood—whole red snapper straight from fishing boats costs ₡8,000 ($14.40/€13.50) per kilo.
Marina Life. Marina Pez Vela is a fancy marina with sport fishing charters, yacht services, and upscale dining overlooking million-dollar boats. Half-day fishing trips start at $800 USD while sunset sailing with open bar runs ₡45,000 ($81/€75.75) per person.
| Quepos Experiences | Colones | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local bus transport | ₡500 | $0.90 | €0.84 |
| Market fresh fish/kilo | ₡8,000 | $14.40 | €13.50 |
| Marina dining | ₡12,000 | $21.60 | €20.20 |
| Sunset cruise | ₡45,000 | $81.00 | €75.75 |
Weekend Fun. Friday nights bring live marimba music to the central park while weekend farmers’ markets have exotic fruits like rambutan and cas at prices that make resort mini-bars look crazy expensive. Hidden gem: soda Típica La Parcela serves the best chifrijo around for ₡2,800 ($5.05/€4.70).
Transportation Hub. Quepos is your gateway to everywhere with direct bus connections to San José, Uvita, and Jacó. The local airstrip handles charter flights—I’ve grabbed last-minute San José seats for $85 USD when roads flood during heavy rains.
Where to stay in Quepos Town
Expensive hotels
- Wide Mouth Frog Backpackers – A popular option offering comfortable accommodations with a social atmosphere and good value for money in the heart of Quepos with stunning views in Manuel Antonio.
- Best Western Kamuk Hotel & Casino – This established hotel provides reliable accommodations with modern amenities, plus entertainment options with its on-site casino connecting Quepos and Manuel Antonio.
- Boutique Hotel Las Cascadas – This upscale oceanfront property offers stunning panoramic views and luxurious accommodations with easy access to both Quepos amenities and beach activities, competing with many hotels in Manuel Antonio.
Medium price range
- Sueño Tranquilo – A peaceful retreat offering comfortable accommodations with tranquil settings in the Manuel Antonio area and easy access to local attractions.
- Villas Ensueño Private Jungle Villas – Private jungle villas offering secluded accommodations surrounded by nature, perfect for tours in Manuel Antonio with authentic rainforest experiences.
- Bonding Coffee Roaster Café & Hotel – A charming hotel featuring an on-site coffee roaster, art gallery, and one of the area’s top restaurants.
Budget options
- Mochis Hotel – An affordable option providing basic but clean accommodations with essential amenities.
- Apartamentos Mansión Tropical – Traditional Costa Rican cabinas offering authentic local experience with budget-friendly rates and tropical garden settings ideal for extended stays.
- Casa Quepos – A simple guesthouse providing affordable accommodations in central Quepos with easy access to local markets, restaurants, and transport connections for convenient exploration.
5. Biesanz Beach – Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio for Luxury & Spa Retreats
Hidden Gem. Biesanz Beach is Manuel Antonio’s best-kept secret—a gorgeous cove you can only reach by footpath where I’ve swum with sea turtles and spotted reef sharks in crystal-clear water. The 15-minute hike down involves some rock hopping that keeps most tourists away.
Clifftop Views. Punta Quepos places sit on 200-foot cliffs above the Pacific with amazing views from Jacó to Dominical on clear days. Morning fog lifts by 9 AM showing off the coastline while afternoon breezes are perfect for watching frigatebirds and brown pelicans.
| Exclusive Experiences | Colones | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biesanz parking fee | ₡2,000 | $3.60 | €3.40 |
| Hidden cove kayaking | ₡18,000 | $32.40 | €30.30 |
| Private spa treatment | ₡35,000 | $63.00 | €59.00 |
| Romantic dining | ₡25,000 | $45.00 | €42.00 |
Bird Paradise. The rainforest here has over 350 bird species—I’ve spotted scarlet macaws, colorful trogons, and even the rare harpy eagle from hotel balconies. Howler monkey groups pass by at 5 AM and 6 PM like clockwork, creating natural alarm clocks you’ll either love or learn to live with.
Romance Central. This area is perfect for couples with private beach access, infinity pools, and spa treatments overlooking the jungle. Book sunset dinners early during dry season and bring bug spray for evening wildlife watching – the DEET-free stuff works fine here.
Where to stay near Punta Quepos & Biesanz Beach Area
Expensive hotels
- Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio – An upscale boutique property featuring elegant suites with panoramic ocean views and premium amenities in a secluded setting on the route from Quepos to Manuel Antonio National.
- Issimo Suites Manuel Antonio – Luxury suite-style accommodations offering spacious living areas, private terraces, and high-end finishes with spectacular views in the area Manuel Antonio is known for.
- La Mariposa Hotel – A 4-star boutique hotel on Manuel Antonio’s highest point with stunning 360-degree ocean views, infinity pool, and premium amenities.
Medium price range
- Jungle Vista Boutique Hotel – A comfortable mid-range option providing quality accommodations with ocean landscapes and good amenities at reasonable rates near the entrance to the Manuel Antonio.
- Mango Moon Hotel – A charming boutique hotel featuring comfortable rooms with tropical decor and peaceful surroundings perfect for couples’ retreats.
- Zen Zaru Hidden from the Busy Road – A peaceful bed & breakfast in a quiet neighborhood offering air-conditioned rooms, free breakfast, and 15-minute access to Manuel Antonio Beach.
FAQs about Visiting Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
What’s the best hotel in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica?
The best hotel really depends on what you’re looking for, but luxury spots like Arenas del Mar offer beachfront access with stunning ocean views. Manuel Antonio has tons of hotels from cute boutique places to fancy five-star resorts that work for different budgets.
When’s the best time to visit Manuel Antonio?
The best time to visit Manuel Antonio is during dry season from December to April when you’ll get the most sunshine. But the rainy season in Costa Rica from May to August can actually be great in Manuel Antonio with fewer crowds and better deals.
What are the best things to do in Manuel Antonio?
Visit Manuel Antonio National Park to see sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds in the rainforest. You can also enjoy tours in Manuel Antonio like zip-lining, sunset sailing, and exploring the beautiful beaches and park areas.
Where’s the best place to stay in Manuel Antonio?
The heart of Manuel Antonio town gives you easy access to restaurants and nightlife, while areas near Manuel Antonio offer quieter spots. Pick based on whether you want the social scene or peaceful rainforest settings with great views in Manuel Antonio.
Are there budget hotels in Manuel Antonio available?
Yes, budget hotels in Manuel Antonio start around $39 per night, especially if you stay in Quepos rather than right in the park area. Manuel Antonio has lots of hotels with different price ranges, from backpacker hostels to mid-range places throughout the area.
How far is the national park entrance from hotels?
The main entrance to the national park is walking distance from most places in Manuel Antonio. Hotels closest to the Manuel Antonio park entrance give you the best access for early morning wildlife watching.
What makes Espadilla Beach special in Manuel Antonio?
Espadilla Beach stretches 3 kilometers with consistent surf breaks perfect for beginners learning to surf. This main beach and national park area gives you easy access to both ocean activities and wildlife watching.
Can I visit Manuel Antonio National Park year-round?
Manuel Antonio National Park is open daily except Tuesdays from 7am to 4pm, so you can visit any time during the season in Costa Rica. It’s the smallest national park in Costa Rica but has incredible wildlife whether you visit during dry or rainy season in Manuel Antonio.
