Best things to do in Manuel Antonio

Within a national park, Playa Manuel Antonio allows you to combine a bit of history with a lot of classic sun-and-sand fun. The stone turtle traps here bear witness to the area's pre-Colombian tribes, while a family-friendly vibe and plenty of sandy space invite visitors to picnic or play sports. Backed by lush vegetation, the beach remains a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and soaking up some warm Caribbean sun. The surrounding area boasts an impressive diversity of wildlife, including over 100 species of mammals and nearly 200 species of birds.

Splash down the rapids of the wild Naranjo River on a rafting and tubing trip in Manuel Antonio National Park. Your experienced guide will tackle sudden drops and steep runs, skillfully paddling around rocky curves while you catch a glimpse of cattle ranches and palm plantations. During the rainy season (May-October), this adrenaline-kicking trip gets even more exciting with water levels rising rapidly. Most tours last approximately 3 hours.

Venture off the beaten path as you step onto the cream-colored sand of Playa Biesanz. The beach is small and secluded, reached by a short trail through tropical rainforest. The trail begins at a small break in a fence between hotels Shana and Parador. Shade trees border the beach, where you can read a book or just admire the view. Go snorkeling in the clear waters, or kayak offshore to go exploring. A nearby submerged rock is known for being a good snorkeling spot.

Delight your senses with a tour of Villa Vanilla Spice Tour & Shop, a biodynamic spice farm set in the verdant rainforest overlooking a national park. Renowned for its vanilla plantations, the farm also grows quality pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and cocoa, plus an array of fruits and medicinal herbs. Learn about the painstaking process of vanilla cultivation, experience the aromatic tastes and smells of the organic herbs and spices, and tour the scenic grounds to see the production firsthand. During the tour you can sample beverages and treats made from fresh farm ingredients. Afterwards, browse the gift shop for some additions for your spice rack at home.