Manuel Antonio Costa Rica Information

Adventure and serenity in equal measure

Nestled within the vibrant embrace of Costa Rica's natural wonders, Manuel Antonio stands as a gifted haven of abundant beauty. Renowned for its lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and playful inhabitants like the swinging monkeys, this destination beckons to all who seek adventure and serenity in equal measure. With its Pacific blue waters lapping against verdant hillsides cloaked in jungle greenery, Manuel Antonio offers an enchanting backdrop for every outdoor enthusiast's dream. Whether you're drawn to hiking through emerald forests, casting lines in crystal-clear streams, or navigating thrilling white-water rapids, this coastal gem promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature's splendor.

The National Park

Discover Manuel Antonio National Park, situated along Costa Rica's Pacific coast, a vibrant natural sanctuary bursting with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Explore lush forests, pristine beaches, and vibrant ecosystems as you wander along scenic trails. Encounter playful monkeys, colorful birds, and other fascinating creatures amidst the lush greenery. Relax on secluded beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands, framed by majestic cliffs. Manuel Antonio National Park invites nature lovers and adventurers to experience the beauty of Costa Rica's coastal paradise firsthand.

Visiting the Park
Manuel Antonio National Park welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, operating from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To ensure a more enjoyable experience, the park restricts the number of visitors to 600 on weekdays and 800 on holidays and weekends. Therefore, it's advisable to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.

Climate

Manuel Antonio boasts a sub-tropical climate with refreshing coastal breezes. As part of Costa Rica's tropical landscape, it experiences two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. Typically, the weather is moderately humid, with temperatures ranging from the 80s during the day to the 70s at night.

Throughout the year, Manuel Antonio maintains relatively stable temperatures. The dry season, from December to April, brings hot and sunny days, perfect for exploring the park and beaches or engaging in water activities like fishing. Meanwhile, the rainy season, spanning May to November, sees heavier rainfall, particularly in September and October. While some paths in the national park may become muddy, the lush greenery thrives, offering a unique opportunity to witness the rainforest in its full glory.

During the rainy season, expect a few hours of rain each day, but don't fret—there's still plenty of sunshine to enjoy. Plus, cooler evenings provide relief from the daytime heat. Witness spectacular sunsets around 5:45 p.m. daily, thanks to Costa Rica's proximity to the equator. Temperatures range from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the dry season and 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the rainy season. Regardless of the season, humidity remains high, hovering around 90-100% throughout the year.

Quepos: The Gateway to Manuel Antonio

Quepos, a charming port town, serves as the gateway to Manuel Antonio, located just seven kilometers to the south. Nestled along Costa Rica's western coast, this humble beachside destination offers easy access, being only 2.5 hours from the capital, San Jose, and 45 minutes from Jaco.

Initially renowned for its banana plantations during the 1930s, Quepos thrived as a banana-exporting port until a disease wiped out the plantations in the 1950s. Today, African palms have replaced bananas, and Quepos welcomes day-trippers from all walks of life.

As the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos offers access to some of Central America's most stunning white-sand beaches and emerald bays. Visitors can explore lush rainforests and spot colorful parrots, sloths, toucans, and monkeys, including the elusive squirrel or 'titi' monkeys.

A man fishing on boat deck with rod in hand near Los Altos Resort

Sportfishing in Quepos

Manuel Antonio and Quepos offer some of the world's most exhilarating sport fishing experiences, set against the backdrop of Costa Rica's stunning coastal scenery. Numerous fishing companies dot the charming beach towns, offering a variety of packages for both offshore and inshore fishing adventures. Charter boats are available for half-day, three-quarter, and full-day excursions, as well as customized multi-day trips.

In these rich fishing grounds, anglers can target a diverse range of sport fish, including Marlin, Snapper (mahi-mahi), Wahoo, Sailfish, Jacks, Roosterfish, Snook, Tuna, Dorado, and more. Fishing experiences can be divided into two categories:

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice fisherman, the waters of Manuel Antonio and Quepos promise unforgettable fishing experiences amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking coastal beauty.

A man holding a large fish on a boat near Los Altos Resort

Offshore Fishing

Sailfish: Known for their speed and acrobatic leaps, Sailfish are abundant year-round, with peak season from January to July.
Blue Marlin: These powerful predators roam the waters year-round, with peak season from October to December.
Amberjack, Dorado, and Tuna are also prized catches in the deep blue sea.

Two persons posing with a giant fish & a fishing rod near Los Altos Resort

Inshore Fishing

Wahoo: These sleek, fast fish offer a thrilling challenge for anglers and are commonly found along the Pacific coast.
Barracuda: Known for their aggressive nature, Barracuda provide exciting action for anglers targeting smaller baitfish.
Roosterfish: With their formidable strength, Roosterfish offer thrilling battles for anglers using light tackle.
Red Snapper and Snook are prized for their flavor and are commonly found near river mouths and mangroves.