Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most famous destinations, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and world-renowned national park. The town stretches along a winding, two-lane road that ends at Manuel Antonio National Park, making traffic a major drawback, especially during the high season. But despite the congestion, there’s no denying the area’s stunning landscapes, luxury resorts, and incredible wildlife.
The beach at the end of the road is one of the most scenic and popular in Costa Rica, with calm waters perfect for families. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and tour operators catering to visitors. The national park itself is worth visiting, but it’s not comparable to Corcovado National Park, especially if you’re traveling further south to Casa Roja. To fully enjoy Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll need a guide and an entrance ticket, and it can be quite crowded during peak travel months. Your hotel or various tour operators can arrange a guide and passes for you, or you can simply pull up to the gates and hire a guide on the spot. Be careful during peak season, however, as attendance is restricted during peak times, so t’s best to book ahead.
For those who enjoy high-end accommodations, the cliffside resorts in Manuel Antonio offer breathtaking ocean views, luxurious amenities, and, in some cases, private beaches. However, the town itself isn’t very walkable—restaurants, shops, and hotels are spread out along the main road, meaning you’ll likely need a car or taxi to get around.
Because of these factors, we don’t usually recommend Manuel Antonio as a stopover for guests traveling to or from Casa Roja, especially if they only have one night to spare. The traffic and logistics can make for a frustratingly short stay. However, if you have a few extra days and want to relax at a luxury resort with panoramic ocean views, Manuel Antonio can be a fantastic destination. Just be prepared for some crowds if you’re visiting during the high season.
