El Avión
Dine and drink inside a repurposed 737 airplane, offering stunning sunset views over the Pacific and jungle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unbeatable sunset views
El Avión
Best Time
Unbeatable sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dine and drink inside a repurposed 737 airplane, offering stunning sunset views over the Pacific and jungle.
"You are paying for the view and the airplane experience."
📸 Capture the Airplane
Explore the cockpit and interior of the 737 for unique photos. Great for kids!
🍹 Drinks Over Dinner
Many visitors recommend enjoying drinks and the atmosphere, as food portions can be small and pricey.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 737 Airplane
The entire restaurant structure
Dine and drink inside a real 737 airplane, a unique and memorable experience for all ages.
Sunset Views
Ocean-facing seating
Spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, jungle, and coastline, especially magical at sunset.
Wildlife Sightings
Around the restaurant tables
Occasional visits from local monkeys and other wildlife add an exciting, natural element to your dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Experience, Not Just the Meal
Sunset Views & Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Airplane
Explore the cockpit and interior of the 737 for unique photos. Great for kids!
🍹 Drinks Over Dinner
Many visitors recommend enjoying drinks and the atmosphere, as food portions can be small and pricey.
🐒 Don't Feed Wildlife
Enjoy sightings of monkeys, but please refrain from feeding them to protect their natural behavior.
🚌 Bus Stop Nearby
Save on taxis by using the bus stop right outside; buses run about every 30 minutes.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Airplane
Explore the cockpit and interior of the 737 for unique photos. Great for kids!
🍹 Drinks Over Dinner
Many visitors recommend enjoying drinks and the atmosphere, as food portions can be small and pricey.
🐒 Don't Feed Wildlife
Enjoy sightings of monkeys, but please refrain from feeding them to protect their natural behavior.
🚌 Bus Stop Nearby
Save on taxis by using the bus stop right outside; buses run about every 30 minutes.
💰 Splurge for the View
Prices are higher than average, so come prepared to pay for the unique experience and stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Avión is a highly unique destination celebrated for its novelty airplane setting and stunning sunset views over the jungle and ocean. While many visitors find the atmosphere and the experience of dining inside a 737 unforgettable, the food quality and pricing receive mixed reviews, with some suggesting it's best for drinks and the view rather than a gourmet meal.
"Okay this place is very cool to grab a drink only. We went because its an old 737 that crashed there many years ago so they built a restaurant around it. We had my 5 year old nephew and 3 year old niece who loved the cock pit and dancing inside the plane. Our waiter was good but in Costa Rica no one is in a rush and my brother acted like a typical American who wanted his food quick. So the waiter just let's people relax and enjoy the views and get some drinks. He was great. We literally saw monkeys while sitting at our table. Now the food I would pass on for sure. We had a variety of different dishes and the best thing we got was the kids meals with the chicken strips. It was very expensive and you got appetizer size portions for your entre. Do not recommend the food. I even went downtown after to go shopping next to the national park and the restaurant guys were like gross why would you eat there. So I would try downtown closer to the entrance of the National park. Again you are paying for the view and the airplane experience."
Michelle Dornak
"We stopped here for dinner on our last night in Costa Rica with a group of 15. Since we had made reservations, our table was ready as soon as we arrived. The atmosphere was wonderful, and the views were amazing. To top it off, we even had a surprise visit from a White-faced Capuchin and her baby—though they were mostly interested in swiping sugar packets from the table!
From appetizers to main courses and dessert, everything we ordered was delicious. The combination of great food, beautiful setting, and unique experience made this the perfect way to end our trip. Highly recommend!"
James Jennings
"Fun dinner on our last night in Manual Antonio. The grouper is one of the best that I've had. Everyone also enjoyed their entrees. The only negatives I would say were the sides. Most entrees came with flavorless white rice and undercooked vegetables. Service was fantastic. We came in without a reservation and it was not busy at all. It does definitely cater to tourist bith in their pricing and menu but the atmosphere was great if you want to splurge."
B Phi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Avión is conveniently located along the main road in Manuel Antonio. Many visitors take a taxi or Uber. There's also a public bus that stops right outside the restaurant, running approximately every 30 minutes, which is a budget-friendly option.
Limited parking is typically available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Using public transport or a taxi is often more convenient.
Yes, the public bus that runs along the main Manuel Antonio road stops directly in front of El Avión, making it easily accessible without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter El Avión. It operates as a restaurant and bar, so you simply walk in.
El Avión is generally open for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most current operating hours, as they can vary.
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially if you're visiting with a larger group or during popular times like sunset. This helps ensure you get a good table.
There is no separate fee to enter or explore the airplane. It's part of the dining experience, and guests are welcome to go inside and take photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Avión offers a menu with a mix of international and Costa Rican dishes, including seafood, appetizers, and vegetarian options. However, many reviews suggest the food quality doesn't always match the price. +1
Reviews are mixed. While some guests found their meals delicious, others felt the food was overpriced for the portion size and quality, with some dishes being bland. The kids' meals were often highlighted as a better option. +1
Many visitors recommend focusing on the drinks and enjoying the atmosphere. If you do order food, the grouper and chicken strips (from kids' meals) received some positive mentions, but sides like rice and vegetables were sometimes criticized. +1
Yes, El Avión typically offers vegetarian options such as kale salad, nachos, and vegetarian pasta dishes.
Prices are generally considered higher than average, reflecting the unique location and tourist appeal. It's often described as a place to splurge for the experience rather than for a budget meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are inside the 737 airplane, especially in the cockpit. The panoramic views from the seating areas, particularly during sunset, also make for stunning pictures.
Absolutely! The restaurant's elevated position offers incredible sunset views over the ocean and jungle, making it a prime location for photographers.
Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos inside the airplane. It's a major part of the unique experience and a highlight for many visitors, including children.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the food might be a hit-or-miss for adults, the kids' meals, particularly the chicken strips, are often well-received and can be a more affordable option. The relaxed service pace also means you don't have to rush through the meal, allowing children to enjoy the unique environment. Keep an eye out for monkeys, which can be another thrilling sight for younger visitors, but remember to supervise and not let them feed the animals.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for a few cocktails or sharing some appetizers can allow you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the sunset views without breaking the bank. Utilizing the nearby public bus stop instead of taxis will also save on transportation costs.
couples
While the food might not be the main draw, enjoying cocktails or a shared appetizer while watching the sunset over the Pacific can be a truly special experience. Consider making a reservation to secure a prime table with the best views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Plane
The airplane itself is more than just a novelty; it's an integral part of the restaurant's layout. Guests can sit at tables within the fuselage, explore the cockpit, and even enjoy drinks at a bar set up inside. This immersive aspect makes it particularly engaging for families and those looking for a memorable adventure.
While the plane's history adds a layer of intrigue, it's important to note that the exact details of the crash and its aftermath are often part of local lore. Regardless, the transformation of the aircraft into a vibrant social hub is a testament to creative reuse and a unique tourist attraction.
Dining Experience: Views vs. Cuisine
When it comes to the food, reviews are often mixed. While some patrons have enjoyed their meals, a recurring theme is that the food can be overpriced for the portion sizes and quality. Dishes like the grouper and chicken strips have received some praise, but sides like white rice and vegetables are frequently described as bland or undercooked. The kids' meals are often cited as a better value.
Therefore, many travelers suggest approaching El Avión with the understanding that you are primarily paying for the unique airplane setting and the incredible views. It's an ideal place for drinks, appetizers, and enjoying the atmosphere, rather than a destination for a fine dining experience.
Wildlife Encounters
While these encounters can be thrilling, it's crucial to remember that these are wild animals. Visitors are strongly advised not to feed the monkeys or any other wildlife. Feeding them can disrupt their natural behaviors, make them dependent on humans, and potentially lead to aggressive interactions. The restaurant staff also typically discourages feeding the animals.
Observing these creatures in their natural habitat from the unique vantage point of the airplane restaurant is a memorable part of the El Avión experience. It’s a reminder of the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica and adds an element of surprise to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit