Camping Under the Stars at Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio
Adventure Destination

Camping Under the Stars at Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio

Experience camping on the secluded Playa Biesanz beach in Manuel Antonio. Enjoy the calm waters, bioluminescent nights, and morning wildlife. Access via a short hike from near Hotel Parador. Best in dry season. Suitable for adventure seekers.

Camping7.8/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Camping

Typical Duration

Overnight

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Playa Biesanz, a secluded beach in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, is a fantastic destination for those seeking a peaceful night under the stars. Surrounded by lush rainforest and calm waters, this hidden gem offers a unique camping experience away from the crowds of Manuel Antonio National Park. The beach is known for its gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing night by the ocean, accompanied by the sounds of nature.

Editorial Assessment

Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio is a beautiful beach offering great opportunities for outdoor adventure, including swimming and camping. While it’s a picturesque location ideal for relaxation and exploration, it lacks the distinctive geological features that would elevate it to a top-tier, globally iconic status.

Camping Under the Stars at Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio

Adventure Guide to Camping Under the Stars at Playa Biesanz in Manuel Antonio

1

#

  • Highlights:

2

Secluded Beachfront Camping

  • Location:

    Playa Biesanz is a short hike from the main road near Hotel Parador. A narrow trail through the rainforest leads to this sheltered beach.

  • Why It’s Special:

    The isolation provides a quiet and intimate camping experience, perfect for those who prefer nature over crowded campgrounds.

  • Key Features:

    Soft sand, calm waters, and natural shade from trees create a pleasant camping environment.

3

Nighttime Bioluminescence Viewing

  • Location:

    Offshore waters near Playa Biesanz.

  • Why It’s Special:

    On certain nights, plankton in the water emit a blue glow, creating a magical effect when the waves move or when disturbed by swimmers.

  • Key Features:

    Best observed on moonless nights; swimming in the glowing water is an unforgettable experience.

4

Wildlife Encounters at Dawn

  • Location:

    Surrounding rainforest and beach area.

  • Why It’s Special:

    Howler monkeys, toucans, and sloths often move through the trees in the early morning, providing a unique wake-up call for campers.

  • Key Features:

    Birdwatching and peaceful nature sounds enhance the experience.

5

Local Insights

  • Details:

    Playa Biesanz remains one of the lesser-known beaches in Manuel Antonio, making it ideal for those looking to avoid tourist-heavy areas.

  • Details:

    There are no facilities at the beach, so campers must bring all necessary supplies, including food and water.

6

Visitor Tips

  • Best Time to Visit:

    Dry season (December–April) for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

  • What to Bring:
  • Details:

    Tent or hammock with mosquito netting.

  • Details:

    Flashlight or headlamp for nighttime visibility.

  • Details:

    Portable stove since open fires are discouraged.

  • Details:

    Plenty of water as there are no sources nearby.

  • Driving Directions:

    From Quepos, take Route 618 toward Manuel Antonio, then turn onto the road leading to Hotel Parador. Park nearby and walk 10–15 minutes down the trail to the beach.

Reviews

U
Ugo Bensonin the last week

Beach in the jungle, at high tide the beach is very very small, some locals sell food and drinks, Showers provided by locals. Access to the beach is by road, do not go all the way, locals will park you for a few columns. But if you are brave you have to park higher up (free) but the return is difficult. The water is very, very hot. There are animals, sloths and toucans on the beach. Nothing to see underwater

M
Mathias Mirandain the last week

Beautiful beach in Manuel Antonio, access is complicated in several points. To get there you have to go through some important slopes and many curves. If you walk it is demanding, if you go by car you have to be careful as in that entire area. There is a car park there that charges you parking, I think it's around 2000 colones, about U$D4. Then the beach is small, surrounded by vegetation, they offer drinks, meals, and water activities. We bought a drink and went kayaking. Super recommended to visit.

M
Meilyn Moyaa week ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

M
M Nga week ago

Walked down the beach in the morning, not many people, quiet and massage service. Right and left have a lot of sharp rocks. Suggestion, swim in the center is the best, sand feel soft and comfortable. Walked up from the beach around 11am, a lot of people like a family and friends came to enjoy the beach ⛱️.

S
Shahin Shahkaramiin the last week

This beach was suggested to us. It is quite an average beach! Went there on a Friday and it was quite busy and a lot of kids, so not very relaxing and calm. Also not the best for snorkeling. There is a quite short hike to the beach.

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