Searching for the most interesting activities to do in Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica? You are in the right place. It is a paradise in which a green jungle intersects with the Crystalline Pacific. Picture the white sand beaches with rainforest on one side with monkeys swinging in the trees and sloths sleeping over on the other side. Hiking paths lead to secluded beaches, falls and picturesque sights.
You can have an alternative perspective by taking a catamaran cruise on the coast and seeing dolphins or even whales. It is the combination of adventure, relaxation and nature that makes Manuel Antonio a place to visit in a must-visit list in Costa Rica.
Things you should know Before Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park
Before planning your trip you should keep the following things in mind:
- Park Hours: The park is open generally between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. except on Tuesdays.
- Tickets: It has a limited number of visitors per day so ensure that you purchase your entrance tickets online.
- Guided Tours: A local guide is likely to accompany you across wildlife such as sloths, monkeys and toucans.
- Weather: The dry season (December-April) is the best but in the rainy season there are fewer people and lush scenery.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Carry a reusable water bottle and do not use disposable plastic to save the environment of the park.
If you want to learn everything you need for your trip to Manuel Antonio, read our full Manuel Antonio Costa Rica Travel Guide now.
10 Best Things to Do in Manuel Antonio National Park
1. Hike the Main Trails of Manuel Antonio National Park
No trip to the park is complete without taking a walk through the system of properly marked hiking trails. As you stroll in the rainforest, you will get a glimpse of capuchin monkeys, sloths, toucans and iguanas. For the first time visitors, a guided hike is strongly advised. The local guides are aware of where they may see the hidden animals that most tourists may miss. Trails are moderate yet simple to follow and hence suitable to both the family and the experienced hikers.
2. Visit Playa Manuel Antonio Inside the Park
Playa Manuel Antonio is a powdery white sand beach with shallow and still waters, nestled within the national park. It is the best place to go swimming, sunbathing or just relaxing in the shade of the almond trees. You should go early in the day because the park is one of the most popular attractions and it can be easily filled.
3. Explore Punta Catedral & Park Viewpoints
Punta Catedral trail must be on your list in case you like taking scenic walks. This loop cuts through thick forest and then expands to reveal dramatic cliffs and views of the Pacific Ocean. The viewpoints are ideal to take photos, thus you should carry your camera. On sunny days, dolphins or whales passing by can even be seen when you are higher up.
4. Go on a Catamaran Cruise Along the Coast
This is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Manuel Antonio, because of being on the water. You can choose to sail with a catamaran cruise on the coastline and watch the dramatic cliffs of the park and relax on the deck with fresh tropical beverages.
In the morning, cruises are wonderful to snorkel and see wildlife and in the evening you can see lovely sights as the sky changes its colors to orange and pink. Snorkeling in the secret coves like Biesanz is also part of most catamaran tours. Therefore, it is a must do activity when visiting Manuel Antonio.
If you want to experience Costa Rica from the water, book your Shared Catamaran Tour in Costa Rica today and enjoy sailing, snorkeling and breathtaking views along the Pacific coast.
5. Snorkel in Hidden Coves and Bays
Manuel Antonio has a number of sheltered areas that have calm waters suitable to snorkel. A popular destination is Biesanz Bay where it is possible to see colorful reef fish and sea turtles occasionally just offshore. Numerous catamarans offer snorkeling equipment and tours experience so you might not find it hard to pair your cruise with a swim. Remember to take an underwater camera to record the colorful sea life.
6. Take a Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
The waters surrounding Manuel Antonio are infested with sea creatures. It is common to see dolphins all year round and playing around boats. The Humpback whales also migrate through these waters between August and October and also between December and April. It gives travelers the uncommon opportunity to view these kind giants. Reserving a wildlife tour boat will enhance the possibility of a memorable experience.
7. Experience the Mangrove & Damas Island Tours
The Damas Island Estuary is a maze of mangroves, which can be explored in a boat or kayak, just outside Manuel Antonio. These tours provide you a totally different ecosystem than the park. You have a chance of seeing crocodiles, herons, monkeys and even silky anteaters. Cruising among the mangrove roots through the narrow channels is a serene and exciting adventure that is worth taking half a day.
8. Try a Canopy Zipline Adventure
The rainforest canopy ziplining also provides an experience to adrenaline seekers in an unforgettable manner of spending your time in Manuel Antonio. You will fly on platform to platform with a bird eye view of the jungle and ocean out there. There are lots of adventure parks in the vicinity that provide suspension bridges, rappelling, and Tarzan swings, so you could choose what level of thrill fits you better.
9. Visit Local Waterfalls and Jungle Pools
There are also a few waterfalls in the area that you can visit if you plan to cool down after a hike with your family. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are one of the most magnificent in Costa Rica, which consists of falling tiers falling in natural swimming pools. You are also able to go there either on horse back, hiking or even on ATV tours. And the journey towards the destination is part of the adventure. Smaller jungle pools are also good refreshing escapes closer to Manuel Antonio.
10. Relax with a Manuel Antonio Sunset
Nothing is like a Costa Rican sunset and Manuel Antonio provides some of the finest. At Playa Espadilla, an oceanic terrace or on the deck of a catamaran cruise, you can see the sky change into beautiful colors of orange, pink, and purple. This experience is especially popular with couples and photographers who prefer to end the day with adventure.
If you want to end your day in style, book our Private Catamaran Deluxe for Large Groups and enjoy a breathtaking Manuel Antonio sunset with friends, family, or your travel group.
Where to Stay Near Manuel Antonio National Park
The accommodations include all price ranges within minutes of the park entrance:
- Luxury Resorts: Spend your time in beachfront hotels that have infinity pools, spa treatments and breathtaking ocean views.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels that are not crowded with comfortable rooms, restaurants, and are situated nearly at the park.
- Eco-Lodges: Experience the world of nature by staying eco-friendly in rainforests.
- Budget Hostels: Cost effective accommodation for backpackers including shared kitchen with social atmosphere.
If you want to know more about the best boat tours near you in Costa Rica, Read our full guide here.
Final Thoughts
The Manuel Antonio National Park is the ideal combination of adventure, tranquility and nature. Whether riding the jungle trails with the wildlife or relaxing under the sun on a crystal-white beach or sailing the Pacific on a catamaran, every minute spent on this island feels like a lifetime experience. Nature lover, thrill-seeker, or tropical flunky, everybody is welcome in Manuel Antonio. After proper planning you will not only go away with beautiful pictures but also have memorable experiences about the crown jewel of Costa Rica.
Ready to make the most of your Costa Rica adventure? Sail away on a catamaran tour and enjoy turquoise waters, ocean breezes, and incredible marine life. For easy bookings or questions, simply message us on WhatsApp and we’ll take care of everything.
FAQs
Why should I book a catamaran tour in Costa Rica?
One of the most appropriate ways of enjoying the Pacific coast of Costa Rica is by a catamaran tour. You will have breathtaking sights of tropical forests and cliffs, swim in secret bays, snorkel with colourful fish. You may frequently see dolphins or even humpback whales when they are in season. It is a relaxing adventure activity.
How long is a typical catamaran tour in Manuel Antonio?
The catamaran tours in Manuel Antonio take around 3-5 hours, based on the time you want to take either the morning tour or the sunset tour. Tours in the mornings typically involve snorkeling and dolphin-watching, whereas evening cruises inherently involve more eating and drinking as well as sightseeing.
Do catamaran tours in Manuel Antonio include food and drinks?
Yes, most tours involve fresh tropical fruit or snacks or even entire meals and drinks including soft drinks, cocktails or beer. Tour operators have slightly different packages that they sell and it is always better to verify that when booking.