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Luxury Manuel Antonio
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Explore the untamed paradise of Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica's most popular beach and reserve destination

With its accessibility, teeming national park, turquoise marine reserve, white coral beaches and range of luxury hotels, Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Some of the highlights here are hikes to stunning waterfalls, discovering the local cuisine at markets and cooking classes, going on private snorkeling tours and exploring Manuel Antonio National Park on private wildlife tours.

It has been considered a more developed coastal resort than others in the country but it has also managed to retain a small-scale charm with plenty of tranquility to suit those looking to relax, lots of adventure activities for the thrill-seekers and ample wildlife for nature lovers.

The Manuel Antonio National Park with 1700 hectares of extremely biodiverse protected rainforest and 136,000 acres of marine reserve it is the smallest national park in Costa Rica, but the second most popular. Green kingfishers, squirrel monkeys, butterflies, hummingbirds, collared hawks and howler monkeys all reside in its evergreen woods which crawl right up to the tide lines and are laced with expedition trails. Keep an eye out for quetzal and toucans as well. Dolphins and whales can be spotted swimming in its bays and in between its 12 islands.

This region also has some of the most stunning white-sand beaches including Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio, the latter of which has a coral reef. We’ll introduce you to some of the best boutique hotels in Manuel Antonio and craft the most memorable trip for you.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our destination specialists

Watch marine life from the shore

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Spend time on the shore spotting dolphins and whales in the bay

Relax on the beaches

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Dig your toes into the white sands of Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio

Spot howler and squirrel monkeys

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Venture into the rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park and be on the lookout for squirrel and howler monkeys

Slide down natural rock chutes

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Head out on adventure to Portalon, Uvita and Pavon waterfalls, slipping down natural rock slides and cooling off along the way

A word from one of our experts

Manuel Antonio offers you pristine rainforests, stunning beaches and abundant wildlife. Discover national park trails, encounter playful monkeys and sloths and unwind in elegant lodges, all while enjoying the region's breathtaking natural beauty.

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Lizzie Slater

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Manuel Antonio

There are many incredible places to stay in Manuel Antonio. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Manuel Antonio

El Parador
Perched on the Punta Quepos promontory, this luxury eco-hotel is just a short walk from the beach, and a 15-minute drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. Surrounded by 12 acres of lush rainforest, the hotel is surrounded by a wide variety of nature trails which take you close to the region’s stunning wildlife and lead to clifftop views. The resort’s 129 spacious rooms and suites blend a relaxed tropical style with contemporary comfort, and some include private balconies. The décor and grand style of the hotel is more European than Costa Rican with conquistador and Hispanic influences. High ceilings, heavy and ornate wood furniture with a touch of faded glamour does hold a certain homage to the colonial past. The rooms are well-appointed with the modern amenities, although if you are after a spacious, light room with a good view of the ocean or gardens then anything above the category of premium plus is recommended. Whether you’re craving seafood, Mediterranean specialities or heaty local dishes, you’ll find it at the resort’s three ocean-view eateries. From casual light meals, to private dining, there are a range of options. And at the end of the day, spend some time recounting tales of your Costa Rican adventures at one of the four bars. While away the hours at the swimming pools, on the tennis courts, or on go exploring through the rainforest. There is also a selection of adventure sports to choose from, like zip lining, white water rafting, horse riding, kayaking and jet skiing. Then treat yourself to beauty treatments or relaxation therapies at the spa.
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Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip Inspiration

Get inspired with our Manuel Antonio example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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10-Day Trip

Classic Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests and the Pacific Coast

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Costa Rica Wildlife Explorer

11-Day Trip

Costa Rica Wildlife Explorer

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11-Day Trip

Costa Rica Wildlife Explorer

A ten-day private nature tour to see Costa Rica's wildlife and natural wonders
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Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Manuel Antonio adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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When to visit

The dry season runs from mid November to April, and most areas are dry, warm and sunny. Occasional blustery winds blow during January and February bringing the temperature down. During the wet season, from May to mid November, expect afternoon rains and sunny mornings.

Caribbean coast

May–November

Sea turtle nesting

May–November

Pacific Coast for winter sun

December–April

Birdwatching

Year round

When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

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Plan your trip to Manuel Antonio

Whatever you want from your adventure in Manuel Antonio, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.