Costa Rica

Costa Rica is emerging as one of the must-visit destinations for 2025. I’ve traveled there three times over the past two years, and in this article, I’ll explain why you absolutely cannot skip Manuel Antonio National Park. I’ve visited the park twice: once as a backpacker, and again more recently during a trip with my partner : two very different experiences that revealed just how special this place really is. Nestled along Costa Rica’s lush Pacific coastline, Manuel Antonio National Park may be the smallest national park in the country but it’s certainly one of the most spectacular. With its blend of rich rainforest, white-sand beaches, and incredible biodiversity, it’s a must-visit for wildlife lovers, beach seekers, and travelers looking to experience the country’s wild magic. This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work! Before You Go : Tickets MUST Be Reserved Online Entrance to Manuel Antonio is strictly regulated, and you can’t buy tickets at the gate. Here’s what you need to know : Buy your tickets online in advance : several days ahead in high season. You’ll need to enter passport numbers for each visitor. You must select a 30-minute entry time slot. Arrive on time : late entry may be refused. The park is closed on Tuesdays. Prices & Tip : Standard entrance ticket: $18. With the GetYourGuide link here, you can join a 2h30 guided tour with a certified naturalist for only $11 more ($29 total) a much better deal and perfect for spotting wildlife you’d otherwise miss. Bag Check at the Entrance (Important!) Park rangers inspect all bags before you enter. You can’t bring : Food, Plastic water bottles, Snacks of any kind (yes, they will take them) & Cigarettes. This is to protect the wildlife and trust me, some monkeys here are very skilled at stealing. Bring instead: A reusable water bottle, personally i used this one : lifestraw Sunscreen & eco-friendly insect repellent  Swimsuit + quick-dry towel Comfortable walking shoes (I have this one) What to Expect Inside the Park Easy Trails & Scenic Viewpoints The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, with several miradores (viewpoints) overlooking turquoise water and emerald jungle. Beaches That Feel Like Paradise Two of the most beautiful beaches in Central America are inside the park: Playa Manuel Antonio : calm water, white sand, perfect for pictures, swimming & chilling Playa Espadilla Sur : Wilder, wider, fewer people, perfect for walking & relaxing Wildlife Everywhere Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see : White-faced capuchin monkeys, Howler monkeys, Sloths, Iguanas, Coatis & colorful birds like toucans and scarlet macaws. Walk slowly, look up, and enjoy the soundtrack of the rainforest. Where to Stay Depending on the style of your trip, here are two excellent accommodation options to consider. If you want to be right next to the action, Millenium Manuel Antonio Park & Beach is just steps away from the national park entrance. The hotel is comfortable, welcoming, and incredibly convenient : ideal for travelers who want easy, direct access to Manuel Antonio’s trails and beaches. Check availability and current rates at Millenium Manuel Antonio Park & Beach. If you’re looking for a slower pace, head further down the coast to Uvita and stay at Tucan Hotel. The atmosphere there is relaxed and social, making it a perfect base for long-term or slow travelers. See rooms, traveler reviews and prices at Tucan Hotel Uvita.  From Uvita, you’ll be well-positioned to explore the surrounding area, including Dominical and the stunning Costa Ballena coastline. Getting There by Bus No car ? No problem. San José → Quepos : direct bus (several daily) Uvita → Manuel Antonio Park entrance : buses every hours Quepos → Manuel Antonio Park entrance : local shuttle every ~10 minutes Cheap, easy, reliable. Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie Manuel Antonio is the perfect meeting point between accessible adventure and tropical beauty a place where time slows down, nature surrounds you, and every corner reveals something wild and wonderful. Book your tickets in advance, in the official WebSite or with a tour via GetYourGuide Go early (between 7:00 and 8:30 AM) → fewer crowds, more wildlife sightings. Hire a local guide: You’ll spot far more animals with the help of an experienced naturalist. No guide? No problem! Bring a pair of binoculars and casually hang out near the guided groups : you’ll still learn a ton just by listening in (but secretly). Don’t feed the animals: It’s harmful to them and strictly prohibited. A filter bottle is your best travel companion in Central America. (I use this one) Extra Tip : If you have a full week, consider basing yourself at Tucan Hotel in Uvita and exploring the coast at your own rhythm : Uvita → Dominical → Quepos → Manuel Antonio. If you’re planning your Costa Rica trip and need route ideas, accommodation suggestions, or help choosing where to base yourself along the Pacific coast, feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. Pura Vida! BISOUS