Manuel Antonio
Where rainforest, wildlife and white-sand beaches meet.
About Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica's most iconic destinations, where lush rainforest tumbles right down to white-sand beaches. Anchored by its famous national park, the area is known for easy wildlife sightings — sloths, monkeys and toucans — alongside hotels, restaurants and a walkable beach scene.
Cost of living
A well-established tourist area on the Central Pacific, Manuel Antonio carries beach-town prices that run higher than the Central Valley, especially for accommodation and dining near the park.
Climate
Warm and humid tropical climate year-round, with a drier season from roughly December to April and lush, frequent afternoon rain in the green season.
Is Manuel Antonio right for you?
For visitors
Visitors come above all for Manuel Antonio National Park — compact, wildlife-rich trails ending at swimmable beaches — plus catamaran tours, ziplining and the nearby town of Quepos.
Plan a Costa Rica trip →For expats & retirees
The area attracts a smaller community of expats and second-home owners drawn to its natural beauty and tourism economy, including those running or investing in hospitality.
Top things to do in Manuel Antonio
- Hike Manuel Antonio National Park and spot sloths and monkeys
- Relax on Playa Espadilla and the park's sheltered beaches
- Take a sunset catamaran tour along the coast
- Try ziplining or a canopy tour through the rainforest
- Go sport fishing or kayaking from nearby Quepos
- Enjoy the area's well-known restaurant and sunset-bar scene
Property in Manuel Antonio
Hillside homes and condos with ocean-and-jungle views are the signature property here, popular with vacation-rental owners and priced for a prime tourist market.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or investment advice. Always verify clear title and work with an independent local attorney.
Other destinations
Compare more of Costa Rica's most-loved towns.
Tamarindo
Surf, sunsets and Costa Rica's most established beach-town expat scene.
La Fortuna / Arenal
Volcano views, natural hot springs and waterfall adventures.
Monteverde
Misty cloud forests, hanging bridges and canopy zip-lines.
Nosara
A Blue Zone wellness haven for yoga, surf and a slow, healthy pace.
Atenas
Famous for the 'best climate in the world' and a longtime retiree favorite.
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