
Playa Mantas
A tranquil beach near San Jose, offering warm, calm waters, abundant wildlife like monkeys and macaws, and shaded relaxation spots.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Playa Mantas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil beach near San Jose, offering warm, calm waters, abundant wildlife like monkeys and macaws, and shaded relaxation spots.
"A fun beach where you can swim peacefully unlike Jaco! It was clean from debris, it was soft smooth sand that feels amazing on your feet."

🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for around $10-$40. Consider an Uber for easier access if parking is tight.
💰 Bathroom Access
Bathrooms are available for a small fee, often with multiple entries included.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abundant Wildlife
Throughout the beach
Spot playful monkeys and vibrant macaws in their natural habitat. A true jungle-beach experience!

Peaceful Swimming Waters
Near the shore
Enjoy warm, calm waters perfect for a relaxing swim, a welcome change from busier nearby beaches.

Shaded Relaxation Spots
Under palm trees
Find natural shade under the trees for a comfortable day out, escaping the midday sun.

Artisan Souvenirs
Beachfront stalls
Browse unique, locally made crafts and souvenirs from friendly artisans.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wildlife Encounters
Tide Times for Optimal Swimming
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for around $10-$40. Consider an Uber for easier access if parking is tight.
💰 Bathroom Access
Bathrooms are available for a small fee, often with multiple entries included.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The seabed has coral bits and shells; water shoes can enhance comfort for swimming.
🐒 Wildlife Etiquette
Observe monkeys and other wildlife from a distance; never feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available for around $10-$40. Consider an Uber for easier access if parking is tight.
💰 Bathroom Access
Bathrooms are available for a small fee, often with multiple entries included.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The seabed has coral bits and shells; water shoes can enhance comfort for swimming.
🐒 Wildlife Etiquette
Observe monkeys and other wildlife from a distance; never feed them.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of wildlife and the beautiful coastline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Mantas is praised for its clean, warm waters perfect for swimming and its abundant, fascinating wildlife, including monkeys and macaws. Visitors appreciate the natural shade and the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs from local artisans. However, some note the seabed can have coral bits, and parking and bathroom facilities come with a fee.
"A fun beach where you can swim peacefully unlike Jaco! It was clean from debris, it was soft smooth sand that feels amazing on your feet. Great warm waters to swim in. You might get a chance to see some fish like I did. Plenty of spots with shade also. There’s artisans for great souvenirs! I got to see monkeys all over which was amazing to see."
Elvenezolano2156
"Pretty beach near San jose! Park near the beach and pay the locals how much ever you can. Remember the public parking would cost $40.
There are bathrooms for $5 and you get to access them twice.
The water is clean and warm to swim, there are a lot of monkeys and iguanas."
Meghana Battineni
"Beautiful beach. Locally popular but that’s also part of the experience. Most folks concentrate at the entry. Swimming is better at high tide. The beach is covered in coral bits and shells (take photos only), there are birds around, monkeys, and just a wonderful feeling of being in paradise. Parking is tight, so be prepared or take an uber. You can access Playa Blanca but you have a short climb up and down over rocks so at two different points. The one further away might be a bit easier but you still need good mobility to access."
Glynis T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Mantas is a relatively close beach to San Jose, making it a great day-trip option. You can drive and find paid parking lots for around $10-$40, or consider taking an Uber for a more convenient arrival, especially if parking is limited.
While direct public transport might be limited, many visitors opt for driving or ride-sharing services like Uber. Check local bus routes if you prefer public transit, but be prepared for potential transfers.
Parking is available near the beach, with options ranging from free spots to paid lots costing around $10-$40. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable for better parking choices.
Yes, you can access Playa Blanca from Playa Mantas by navigating a short climb over rocks. It requires good mobility, so assess your comfort level before attempting the trek.
While the main beach is accessible, reaching Playa Blanca involves rocky terrain, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Playa Mantas itself, but parking and bathroom facilities may incur charges. Paid parking typically ranges from $10 to $40.
Playa Mantas is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a natural beach, so official operating hours are not strictly enforced, but it's best to visit when it's safe and light.
No, tickets are not required for Playa Mantas as it's a public beach. You only need to consider payment for parking and potentially bathroom access.
The main potential costs are for parking (around $10-$40) and using the restrooms ($5 for a couple of entries). Be prepared for these minor expenses.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. There are also artisans selling souvenirs, but food vendors are not as common.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa Mantas is ideal for swimming in its warm, calm waters, relaxing in shaded spots, observing wildlife like monkeys and macaws, and browsing local artisan crafts.
Yes, the water at Playa Mantas is clean and warm, making it excellent for swimming, especially during high tide when it's more comfortable.
Visitors frequently report seeing monkeys and various bird species, including macaws, at Playa Mantas. You might also spot iguanas.
There are no free public bathrooms or showers directly on the beach. However, facilities are available at the paid parking lot for a small fee.
Playa Mantas tends to be less crowded on weekdays. It's a locally popular spot, so weekends can see more visitors, but it's generally more peaceful than nearby Jaco.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the abundant wildlife, including monkeys and macaws in their natural habitat. The serene beach and warm waters also offer beautiful coastal scenery.
Yes, it's generally safe to bring your camera. However, as with any beach, be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your equipment, especially in busier areas.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This is also a great time to spot wildlife.
Yes, you can take photos of the artisans and their beautiful crafts. It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
The natural beauty of the beach itself, with its palm trees and coastline, provides excellent photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for elevated spots or interesting rock formations for unique angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of exploration. The availability of bathrooms at the paid parking lot for a small fee is also a practical consideration for families. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a good spot.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focusing on the natural attractions – the swimming, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in the shade – means you can have a fantastic day without spending a lot. Weekday visits are also ideal for avoiding potential weekend crowds and associated parking difficulties.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The opportunity to observe wildlife like monkeys and macaws adds an element of adventure and unique experience. Browsing the local artisan stalls can also be a pleasant way to spend some time and find a unique souvenir. The proximity to San Jose makes it an accessible getaway for a day trip or a relaxed weekend escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters at Playa Mantas
Beyond the primates and birds, you might also encounter iguanas basking in the sun. The presence of such diverse fauna makes Playa Mantas a fantastic destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. The lush vegetation surrounding the beach provides a perfect habitat, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem. Visitors often express delight at these unexpected encounters, making their trip memorable.
Navigating Playa Mantas: Parking and Amenities
Regarding amenities, there are no free public bathrooms or showers directly on the beach. However, facilities are available at the paid parking lot for a small fee, usually around $5 for a couple of entries. This is an important detail to note, especially if you plan on spending a full day at the beach. Bringing your own water and snacks is also advisable, as dedicated food vendors are not a prominent feature.
The Beach Experience: Sand, Sea, and Access
It's worth noting that the seabed can have coral bits and shells, particularly noticeable when the tide is out. For this reason, some travelers recommend wearing water shoes, especially for younger children, to ensure a more comfortable experience in the water. While the main beach is easily accessible, reaching the adjacent Playa Blanca involves a short climb over rocks, which requires a certain level of mobility.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit