Manuel Antonio National Park: A Complete Visitor Guide

Small but spectacular, Manuel Antonio National Park packs rainforest trails, viewpoints, and white-sand beaches into an area you can explore in a morning. Because it is so popular, a little planning goes a long way.

Hours, tickets, and closed days

The park is open in the morning through mid-afternoon and is typically closed one day a week for conservation. Entry is by timed ticket with daily capacity limits, so buy in advance and arrive early. Rules change from time to time — always confirm current hours, the closed day, and ticketing before you go.

Trails and what you'll see

Well-kept trails wind through the forest to viewpoints over the Pacific. This is prime habitat for sloths, white-faced and squirrel monkeys, iguanas, and hundreds of bird species. Move slowly and quietly — most of the best sightings are found by scanning the canopy, not by covering distance.

The beaches

Inside the park, protected beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio offer calm water for a swim after your hike. Bring a swimsuit and reef-safe sunscreen, and keep food secured — the monkeys and raccoons are famously bold.

Tips for a great visit

Arrive at opening, carry water, and consider a guide with a spotting scope — you will see far more wildlife than exploring alone. Our guided park tour includes hotel pickup and a bilingual naturalist.