The Manuel Antonio area offers a wealth of activity options for travelers of all ages and interests. From world-class fishing to waterfall hikes, from ziplines to ATV tours, from paddle boarding to parasailing, there’s something for everyone. You can work directly with our concierge to book all kinds of discounted area tours.

Manuel Antonio National Park – Just a short drive from Casa Sarita, Manuel Antonio Park is often considered among the most biodiverse parks in the world. Spanning several natural habitats, this gem boasts more than 109 different species of mammals and 184 species of birds. Its four beaches cater to snorkeling, swimming and sun bathing. For hikers, there are plenty of well-marked trails to explore. Go early to avoid the heat and crowds, and be sure to buy your ticket online ahead of time. Closed Tuesdays.

Marina Pez Vela - This upscale, multi-phase project is constantly adding new restaurants and stores to suit all types of travelers. Visit during the day to catch a deep-sea fishing trip or relaxing catamaran tour, or swing by at night to experience the ocean breeze while dining at one of many excellent restaurants. Free shuttles available.

Rainmaker Conservation Park - Just outside of Quepos in Parrita, Rainmaker emphasizes environmental education. You can hike through the rainforest to swim in cascading waterfalls. On your way, you'll cross swinging bridges (optional) and see all kinds of flowering exotic plants, butterflies, bats, birds, monkeys and different types of frogs and snakes. We recommend a guide, who can help you spot the hidden wildlife and other interesting sights along the way.

There are many excellent restaurants in the Manuel Antonio area, and the best ones are within walking distance of Casa Sarita.. Check out our personal favorites:

  • Emilio’s Café - Friendly and local, stunning views, great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Fresh Mediterranean-style seafood and other meals. Live music. Save room for dessert! 40 meters before the Hotel Mariposa. 

  • Café Agua Azul - Often named “best restaurant” in the area. Ample servings of seafood, burgers, and more for lunch or dinner. Super-friendly service and a great view! On the main road just above Pacific Canyon Drive. 

  • El Patio/Café Milagro - Busy, colorful café with bright lights and live music most nights. Stop in for coffee, a smoothie, or a full meal served with craft beer. Great banana pancakes for breakfast! On the main road just north of the turn to Pacific Canyon drive.

  • Falafel Bar - Inexpensive, casual cuisine. Falafels and other Middle Eastern favorites with great vegetarian choices. On the main road, north of the turn to Pacific Canyon Drive. 

Asking for the check – In the United States, servers bring your bill without being asked, and that’s normal. In Costa Rica, bringing the bill before it is requested is considered rude. So when you're ready to pay, just flag your server and say “la cuenta (kwen-ta), por favor.” This will signal you are ready to settle your bill.

Tipping – Note that a 10% service charge is often automatically added to your bill. This is how things are done here. It’s nice to tip a little more if you found the service to be satisfactory; you also can challenge the charge if service was poor (rare). 

The beaches around Manuel Antonio are repeatedly named among the most beautiful in the world, and for good reason. There are several pristine beaches only five minutes driving distance from Casa Sarita. 

Beaches Outside of Manuel Antonio Park

  • Playa Espadilla Norte (also called Playa Primera or Playa Numero Uno). This long, popular curve of sand fronting Manuel Antonio village runs to the park exit, just outside the park itself. This is the main public beach with the most amenities including beachside restaurants, shops, street-vendors and a surf shop.

  • La Playitas. As the name suggests (-ita means small), this is a little, relaxing beach that sits on the far north end of Playa Espadilla. Make sure to time your walk around one hour before and after high tide, since the beach is inaccessible then. Wear sandals due to rocks. It is also notable that this beach can get good surf during the right swell and tide.

  • Biesanz Beach. A local favorite, this little secluded beach is reached by a rocky trail off the road leading to Hotel Parador, (don’t wear flip-flops).  Great for snorkeling, kayaking, Yoga, etc.

Beaches Inside Manuel Antonio Park

Entrance to the park is $16; use of all beaches is included. Note there are restrooms, changing rooms, and showers, but no other services such as food or drink, and park rangers restrict bringing snacks into the park.

  • Playa Manuel Antonio (also called Playa Tres or Playa Blanca). Immediately south of Punta Catedral, and in a deep and protected bay, Playa Manuel Antonio is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica and perhaps the world (see below photo). Great for swimming and snorkeling. 

  • Playa Espadilla Sur (also called Playa Dos or Playa Segunda). Espadilla Sur is the longest beach inside the park. It’s on the north side of Punta Catedral, and while usually fairly calm, beware the currents. Great tidal pools for snorkeling.

  • Playa Gemelas Playa Gemelas is a little beach accessed by following one of the park's nature trails. It's a fairly easy walk on mostly level ground. Note this beach is under water at high tide.

  • Playa Puerto Escondido Playa Puerto Escondido is a wide, horseshoe-shaped beach that can be viewed from the Puerto Escondido trail, but access is currently closed.

__IMG_2473.JPG