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 60 miles.

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, Puntarenas Province
⌖ 3.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Quepos, Puntarenas Province

Quepos is a vibrant eco-adventure town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, famed for sport fishing, rainforest hikes, zip-lining, and rich wildlife watching—perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

December to April
Explore Town
Quepos, Puntarenas
⌖ 3.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Quepos, Puntarenas

Quepos is a vibrant spot for adventure seekers in Costa Rica. From hiking in lush national parks to surfing on pristine waves, it offers an amazing mix of rainforest and ocean excitement.

December to April
Explore Town
Parrita, Puntarenas
⌖ 15.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parrita, Puntarenas

Parrita, Puntarenas offers a mellow coastal escape with rainforest hikes, river paddling, and beachcombing. Ideal for travelers seeking wildlife, quiet beaches, and laid-back outdoor adventures near Pacific coast national parks.

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

Palmar Norte, Puntarenas

Palmar Norte blends riverside charm with rainforest access, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. It’s a tranquil base for exploring Costa Rica’s southern Pacific biodiversity hotspots.

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

Dominical, Puntarenas

Dominical is a peaceful surf and adventure town on Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast, perfect for catching waves, hiking rainforest trails, and spotting incredible wildlife. It’s an ideal base for outdoor lovers seeking a relaxed vibe and natural wonders.

December to April (dry season)
Explore Town
Dota, San José Province
⌖ 21.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dota, San José Province

Dota is a tranquil mountain town nestled in Costa Rica’s cloud forests, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and coffee tours. Rich in biodiversity and cool climate, it’s ideal for travelers seeking quiet nature adventures.

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.

Twenty Miles Out: A Full-Day Trophy Fishing Quest off Uvita
ADVEXPEDITION
Uvita, Puntarenas Province
FishingADV Bookable

Twenty Miles Out: A Full-Day Trophy Fishing Quest off Uvita

An 8.5-hour private fishing charter from Uvita that takes you 20 miles offshore to target Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna and other prized species—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Morning Surge: Four Hours of Offshore Sportfishing Out of Herradura
ADVEXPEDITION
Herradura, Provincia de Puntarenas
FishingADV Bookable

Morning Surge: Four Hours of Offshore Sportfishing Out of Herradura

A focused, 4-hour offshore trip from Los Sueños Resort and Marina that targets roosterfish, mahi‑mahi, snapper and sailfish while offering an all‑inclusive short-format option for families and first‑timers.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip