Exploring Paradise: Top 10 things to do in Manuel Antonio

Esteban Acedo • Jul 10, 2023

Exploring Paradise: Top 10 Things to Do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica


Welcome to Manuel Antonio, a breathtaking coastal town located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Nestled amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches, Manuel Antonio offers a delightful blend of natural wonders and exciting activities. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, this tropical paradise has something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the top 10 things to do in Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour

#1. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Begin your journey by visiting the crown jewel of Manuel Antonio—the Manuel Antonio National Park. Home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and vibrant bird species, this protected area encompasses lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and hiking trails. Take a guided tour to maximize your wildlife spotting opportunities and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the park.

#2. Kayak and Snorkel at Playa Biesanz

With the best cove beach in Manuel Antonio, exciting water-sports, and a magnitude of wildlife, Playa Biesanz is one of Manuel Antonio best beaches and is a great place for Kayaking and the best Snorkeling in the area.  To learn more about this tropical paradise, visit our Playa Biesanz blog.

#3. Enjoy a Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Set sail on a catamaran cruise and be captivated by the stunning coastal views and vibrant sunsets. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Pacific, indulge in a delicious onboard meal, and keep an eye out for playful dolphins and graceful sea turtles. It's a romantic and memorable way to experience the beauty of Manuel Antonio. Click here to learn more about this tour or to make a reservation.

#4. Hike the Retomae

Known as the best Manuel Antonio hike (outside the national park), El Reto Mae hike is a 6km coastal hike with multiple panoramic "mirador" viewpoints, 5 different hidden cove beaches, and plenty of wildlife. For more information about this Hike, visit our El Reto Mae blog.

#5. White Water Rafting (Savegre River)

Travel deep into the rainforest for a full-day adventure on one of the cleanest rivers in Central America. This Savegre river trip includes a short hike to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area. This activity is not for the faint of heart but is truly one of the best experiences you can have in the Manuel Antonio. Click here to book this tour and to learn more about this experience.

Manuel Antonio Travel Guide

#6. Visit Incredible Waterfalls

Some of the Manuel Antonio area's waterfalls are on google maps and can be reached by car (usually with 4x4). Others may be harder to find or may only be accessible with a waterfall tour.  El Salto is a cool waterfall that is centrally located in Manuel Antonio and is free to get to. One of the biggest and most popular waterfalls in the area is Nauyaca Waterfall. Insured guided tours of these waterfalls are highly recommended, as navigating them yourself can be dangerous.  Guides provide interesting information about the areas flor and fauna but also help you navigate the safest paths, they do depth checks of the pools to ensure they are safe to jump into, and they are there to help in cases of falls or injuries.

#7. Surf Playa Espadilla or Playa Playitas

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, catch some waves and feel the thrill of riding the ocean swells. Local surf schools provide lessons  and board rentals for those looking to try their hand at these exciting activities. Don't forget to keep an eye out for curious monkeys and sleepy sloths that may make an appearance or may be hidden in the tree tops.

#8. Take a Canopy Zip-line tour with butterfly garden or reptiles

Feel the adrenaline rush as you soar through the rainforest canopy on a thrilling zip-line tour. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, cascading waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It's an exhilarating experience that combines adventure and natural beauty.

#9. Go on Jungle Night Walk Tour

Visit a private jungle preserve filled with a plethora of wildlife, living mostly in their natural habitats in Manuel Antonio. Witness the unique ecosystem of tropical rainforests and spot a variety of wildlife, such as crocodiles, sloths, bats, spiders, and scorpions. Learn about the importance of these vital coastal habitats from knowledgeable guides. Click here to learn more or to make a reservation.

#10. Visit the Quepos Farmers Market

Hosting a wide variety of farmers and craft vendors, the Quepos farmers market is easily one of the coolest regularly scheduled events in Quepos. This bountiful market is filled with organic and non-organic fruits and vegetables, craft jewelry, fresh pastries, high-end meats, cheeses, and seafoods. Prices are always fair, vendors are always friendly, and there isn't a better place to buy fresh coconut water. Make sure to try some meats from the German butcher and keep your eyes peeled for fresh banana bread or chocolate cream pies that melt in your mouth.

Honorable Mentions:

While these activities did not make our top 10 list, they are also phenomenal experiences and deserve recognition.

Contrast Therapy Cold Plunge Ice Baths and Saunas in Manuel Antonio and Quepos, Costa Rica

By Esteban Acedo • 28 Apr, 2024
Cold Plunge Ice Baths and Saunas in Manuel Antonio and Quepos Nestled along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica lies the enchanting region of Manuel Antonio and Quepos, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife thrives. While this tropical paradise is renowned for its natural beauty and adventurous spirit, it also harbors a hidden gem for wellness enthusiasts: contrast therapy. Contrast Therapy is new to this area and there aren't a lot of options for wellness seekers wanting the heat of a suana followed by the chill of a cold plunge. In this blog post we will share how to find contrast therapy in Manuel Antonio and Quepos as well as the benefits and dangers of engaging in this invigoration experience.

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By Esteban Acedo • 16 Mar, 2024
Villas Jacquelina Retreat Center Costa Rica Welcome to Villa Jacquelina, your ultimate retreat destination nestled in the serene beauty of Costa Rica. We invite you to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our lush surroundings. At Villa Jacquelina, we offer a sanctuary where you can rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you seek a peaceful getaway, an adventure-filled retreat, or a transformative wellness experience, our dedicated team is here to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Explore our website to discover the array of amenities, activities, and accommodations we offer, and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Costa Rica with us.

Digital Nomads Costa Rica

By Esteban Acedo • 14 Feb, 2024
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Youth Tour Packages - Opportunities for young adults to travel in Costa Rica

By Esteban Acedo • 25 Jan, 2024
Youth Tour Packages - Opportunities for young adults to travel in Costa Rica Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Villas Jacquelina! We are thrilled to introduce our newest venture tailored just for youth groups – Youth Group Retreats in the tropical paradise of Costa Rica. Get ready for an unforgettable blend of adventure, self-discovery, and the renowned Pura Vida lifestyle.

Best Waterfall Tour in Costa Rica

By Jessica Jørneas • 13 Jan, 2024
Best Waterfall tour in Costa Rica - Full Day Waterfall Adventure with Paddle 9 If you are spending some time in the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area of Costa Rica and want to see (and jump off of) some of the area's magnificent waterfalls- then a full day waterfall tour is well worth it! Here is an outline of my full day waterfall tour with Paddle 9: I started my day with delicious breakfast at Villas Jacquelina , my eco hotel here in Quepos. After finishing breakfast, I was picked up by my guides directly at my hotel. I was immediately introduced to all the guides and the rest of my group, a family, an elder couple and a younger couple. This warm introduction made me feel very welcome, as I was traveling solo. The tour consists of 3 waterfalls, a lunch, and a beautiful beach stop to end your day. The drive is about an hour to the first waterfall, during which, the guides gave detailed information about the area, its history, and extensive knowledge about its wildlife and agricultural traits. This made the drive very pleasant, along with the stunning views along the coastal road.

Ziplining in Manuel Antonio - Canopy Safari

By Esteban Acedo • 13 Jan, 2024
Embark on an Unforgettable Zipline Adventure with Canopy Safari Located right outside the city of Quepos on a thriving jungle property, this thrilling zipline tour offers an experience like no other in the area. If you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure surrounded by lush tropical beauty, you've come to the right place. What Sets Canopy Safari's Zipline Tour Apart? In a region known for its zipline offerings, Canopy Safari's Zipline Tour stands out for several compelling reasons: Immersive Rainforest Experience: This zipline course meanders through the heart of a pristine rainforest. Zip through towering trees, over cascading waterfalls, and above vibrant flora and fauna. The sights, sounds, and scents of this lush environment make for an unforgettable adventure. Safety as a Priority: At Canopy Safari, your safety is paramount. Their experienced guides are extensively trained to ensure that every aspect of your ziplining adventure is secure. They utilize state-of-the-art equipment and follow strict safety protocols to give you peace of mind. Various Tour Options: Whether you're an experienced zipliner looking for a rush or a first-timer seeking a memorable experience, their tour is suitable for all skill levels. Educational Component: Their knowledgeable guides not only ensure your safety but also provide insight into the local rainforest ecosystem. Learn about the incredible biodiversity and the importance of preserving this vital environment. Eco-Friendly Operation: Canopy Safari is dedicated to environmental sustainability. Their zipline tour is designed to have minimal impact on the rainforest.

Breakfast at Villas Jacquelina - Quepos Costa Rica

By Esteban Acedo • 28 Nov, 2023
Breakfast @ Villas Jacquelina Book direct for more than one night and get your first mornings breakfast for free Show us a review (good or bad) at check-out to get one (1) free breakfast

Medical Care Manuel Antonio and Quepos

By Esteban Acedo • 24 Nov, 2023
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Things to do in Costa Rica - Day Trip to Uvita

By Yessica Kuhfß • 17 Nov, 2023
Things to do in Costa Rica - Day Trip to Uvita from Quepos / Manuel Antonio Costa Rica  Located on the pacific coast of Costa Rica, both Quepos / Manuel Antonio and Uvita offer a mixture of natural beauty and relaxing vibes for you to enjoy during your Costa Rica vacation. While Quepos / Manuel Antonio is celebrated for its lively atmosphere and its close proximity to the Manuel Antonio National Park (where one o.f the best beaches in Costa Rica can be found), Uvita is known for its diverse marine life, the Envision Festival and the famous "Whale's Tail" sandbar located in the Bahia Ballena National Park. Uvita is worth the visit, but if you are not spending a lot of time in Costa Rica or simply need to save money, a day-trip will definitely do. If you are staying in Quepos or Manuel Antonio it is easy to get there, with and without a rental car! With this blog post we will take you from Quepos to Uvita, explain how to get there and tell you about all the must do's on the way and in Uvita itself.

International Influencer Retreat - Quepos, Costa Rica

By Esteban Acedo • 15 Nov, 2023
Join us for your next Influencer Retreat in Quepos, Costa Rica  Are you an influencer with a community of dedicated followers and fans? Are you looking for a new way to make unique and exciting content while also making some quick income ? Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with up to 20 of your biggest supporters from your community? As someone who inspires and empowers your community, we are excited to offer you a unique opportunity to lead your own tropical influencer retreat at Villas Jacquelina in Quepos, Costa Rica! Villas Jacquelina is a retreat center located in one of the most magical parts of Costa Rica. We specialize in creating custom retreat experiences for influencers of all trades and take care of all the leg work that can make a retreat like this difficult to execute. Our all-inclusive retreat packages are carefully designed to offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and personal growth. We believe that your influence and leadership can make your retreat an exceptional and life-changing event for your devoted community.
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