Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is an acclaimed destination in Costa Rica for both tourists and expats, renowned for its picturesque beaches and outdoor activities. It is often cited as one of the top beaches worldwide and is frequently visited for beach weddings, honeymoons, surfing, snorkeling, sailing, rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, and adventure parks.

However, the crown jewel of the region is the Manuel Antonio National Park, the smallest national park in Costa Rica, but rich in biodiversity. The park features lush jungle, coral reefs, rainforest, and stunning beaches and houses over 100 mammal species, more than 180 bird species, and hundreds of aquatic species. The park offers five beaches: Manuel Antonio, Escondida, Espadilla Sur, Espadilla Norte, and Playita.

The town is easily accessible through its domestic airport, which offers frequent direct flights from San José. Alternatively, visitors can reach Manuel Antonio via rental car, shuttle, or taxi. Accommodations and restaurants are abundant, catering to various budgets and tastes, and coworking spaces are available. However, visitors should exercise caution and use common sense, particularly at night, as with any touristy town.

Where is Manuel Antonio?

Map of Costa Rica

What's the climate in Manuel Antonio?

Climate Type: Tropical Rainforest

Manuel Antonio shares climate characteristics with sister city Quepos.  It is humid year round, but also has weather patterns that allow a good amount of time to get out and enjoy the natural beauty in the ocean, beach, mountains and rainforests that surround the town.  Like Quepos, temps are relatively constant, with lows 19 °C  to 26 °C (66 °F to 79 °F) and highs 33 °C to 35 °C (91.5 °F to 95 °F). 

How do I buy a house in Manuel Antonio?

While Nuevo Arenal has a range of housing options — condos and single-family homes available for rent or purchase at various budgets — we believe you should shift your focus when considering life in Costa Rica: buying real estate in Nuevo Arenal shouldn’t be your first step!

Investing in Nuevo Arenal property can offer fantastic opportunities, especially if you’re seeking residency, however it’s crucial to determine your lifestyle preferences beforehand. Many rush into property purchases only to realize that their decision does not fully meet their real estate needs in Costa Rica once the vacation mentality wears off.

Your Pura Vida operates differently.

We collaborate with a diverse network of trusted realtors in Nuevo Arenal and nationwide. Our approach emphasizes exploration without the pressure often associated with realtor relationships.

Our sole priority? Your contentment and sustained enjoyment in the country. When you’re ready to buy or rent a home in Nuevo Arenal, we’ve got you covered! When you’re ready, let’s talk.

Manuel Antonio Weather

loader-image
Quepos, CR
8:27 am
weather icon 26°C | °F
L: 26° H: 26°
light rain
Precipitation: 0.03 inch
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 5:49 am
Sunset: 5:24 pm

At a Glance

Popular Expat Neighborhoods: Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla, Playa Matapalo, Tulemar, Portalon

Largest Regional City: Puntarenas

Vibe: beach, ocean, resort, tourist, adventure-seeking

Distance to Nearest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport – 156 kilometers (97 miles) – approx. 3 hours without heavy traffic.

Rankings

Ready to make your dreams in Manuel Antonio come true?

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City Lead

We won't sell your information to anyone, promise! Pura vida!