By Dana Perkiss ✔ Reviewed by travel expert Ben Braude
Boasting an abundance of beautiful beaches, verdant rainforests, and unique wildlife, Manuel Antonio stands as one of the best places in Costa Rica to visit.
Whether you want to experience the thrill of ziplining or glide down the water on a mangrove tour, keep reading to learn about some of the best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
With packages featuring flights, accommodations, and more, Great Value Vacations offers affordable vacation packages to Costa Rica that allow you to discover the best of Manuel Antonio and beyond.
Explore Manuel Antonio National Park
It goes without saying that exploring the lush Manuel Antonio National Park is by far one of the best things to do in Manuel Antonio. Filled with verdant jungles, well-maintained hiking trails, and local wildlife, it's easy to have a full day of adventure in the park.
Discover the scenic mangroves, visit the waterfall, and be sure to check out the four beaches inside (Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio, Gemelas, and Escondido). Don't forget to keep an eye out for animals who call the area home, including sloths and monkeys. Though you can explore the park independently, a guided tour will help provide in-depth knowledge and help you spot wildlife otherwise camouflaged.
If you're interested in learning more about Costa Rica wildlife, then check out our guide to some of the country's most exotic animals.
Check Out the Beaches
Interested in lounging in the sand and soaking up the sun? Manuel Antonio is perfect for you, filled with scenic beaches perfect for relaxing or enjoying activities like surfing. Along with the beaches inside the National Park (as previously mentioned), visitors can also check out Playa Biesanz for a fun beach day or indulge in a rejuvenating massage on Playa Espadilla Norte.
Whether you're simply enjoying the serenity of lying on a sunbed, trying local bites at a snack bar, or experiencing the fun of surfing, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy on the beaches of Manuel Antonio.
Feel the Thrill of Ziplining
If you're a traveler who loves adrenaline thrills, then going ziplining is one of the best things to do in Manuel Antonio. After a short training and informational session, you'll be harnessed in and sent flying over the rainforest. Soak up stunning views of the lush trees and hills as far as the eye can see, and perhaps even experience the one-of-a-kind Tarzan swing.
Looking for more exciting activities? Check out our guide to some of the most thrilling things to do in Costa Rica.
Enjoy a Mangrove Tour
Visit the nearby Damas Mangrove for a day full of wildlife watching and outdoor adventures! You'll gain a different perspective of the area by experiencing a mangrove tour, where instead of walking the trails, you'll be paddling. From peaceful kayaks to leisurely motorized boat rides, you can choose your ideal way to explore the beauty of the mangrove.
Taking a guided tour will allow you to learn more about the ecosystem and the wildlife that call the mangrove home. Iguanas, snakes like the boa constrictor, crocodiles, and tiger herons are just some of the animals you might spot on your tour.
Take a Day Trip to Nauyaca Waterfalls
Located just about an hour away, visiting the Nauyaca Waterfalls is one of the best day trips from Manuel Antonio. They stand at a staggering 200 feet tall and offer a large natural pool at the bottom, making for the perfect way to soak up the stunning scenery. Whether you're driving, taking a tour, or even going horseback riding, exploring the wonder of the Nauyaca Waterfalls is well worth the trip.
