Damas Island Beach - a sandy beach next to a body of water
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Damas Island Beach

4.5
·23k reviews·Quepos, Costa Rica

A coastal rainforest paradise teeming with wildlife, pristine beaches, and lush jungle trails. A must-visit in Costa Rica.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, more animal sightings

CrowdLow
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Damas Island Beach - a sandy beach next to a body of water

Damas Island Beach

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, more animal sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A coastal rainforest paradise teeming with wildlife, pristine beaches, and lush jungle trails. A must-visit in Costa Rica.

4.5
(23k reviews)

"One of the best parks to visit in Costa Rica and a recommended spot for anyone visiting the country."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Entry is limited; buy tickets in advance on the SINAC website.

🐒 Watch Your Belongings

Monkeys are notorious for stealing food and items left unattended on the beach.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abundant Wildlife Sightings

Abundant Wildlife Sightings

Throughout the park, especially on Punta Catedral Trail

Spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, lizards, and more in their natural habitat. Binoculars are highly recommended!

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Pristine Pacific Beaches

Pristine Pacific Beaches

Playa Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla Sur

Relax on beautiful sandy shores, swim in calm waves, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

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Lush Rainforest Trails

Lush Rainforest Trails

Punta Catedral Trail, Mangrove areas

Hike through vibrant jungle, explore mangrove ecosystems, and discover hidden natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets Online in Advance

Daily entry is limited, so secure your tickets online via the SINAC website well before your visit to avoid disappointment. Scammers may try to sell you tickets outside the park. TikTok+1

Pack Smart: What to Leave Behind

Aerosol sprays (sunscreen, bug spray) are prohibited. No outside food or single-use plastics are allowed. Bring a refillable water bottle and cream-based sunscreen. TikTok+2

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more animal sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend surges
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

El Parque Manuel Antonio mide más de 56,000 hectáreas y es hogar de miles de especies de flora y fauna que forman un verdadero paraíso 🤩. Si vas, aunque sea algo caro yo si aconsejaría pagar un tour, ya que uno normalmente no lleva binoculares para ver bien a los animalitos, además los guías son súper pilas para en encontrarlos y saben muchos datos interesantes que harán que disfrutes más tu recor...
@julsgoes
1.7K likes • 51.1K views

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Entry is limited; buy tickets in advance on the SINAC website. TikTok+1

🐒 Watch Your Belongings

Monkeys are notorious for stealing food and items left unattended on the beach. Reddit

#playamanuelantonio La más famosa, nada de filas, quien se queja no conoce, quiere desviar el turismo de Manuel Antonio. Pero como dice la Teja: "Las cosas como son!! @Yerlin Gómez @lateja.cr @Javi Ramírez - Travel @Tyler Wenzel #manuelantoniocostarica #playas playas#CostaRicaVibes #PuraVidaExperience #ManuelAntonioTour #PerezososCR #FreeTourCostaRica #AventuraTica #ViajerosPorCostaRica #Trop...
@costaricaconvenegas
1.5K likes • 96.1K views
⚠️ **IMPORTANTE: NO SE LLEVE SORPRESAS** ⚠️Según las regulaciones del parque, **NO** se permite el ingreso de sprays de ningún tipo, incluyendo bloqueador solar en aerosol. 🌞🚫 Para evitar inconvenientes, lleva bloqueador en crema y disfruta de la belleza de este lugar sin sorpresas. 🌿💚 #ParqueNacionalManuelAntonio #CostaRica #PuraVida #Naturaleza #PlayasParadisiacas #ViajeSeguro #TipsdeViaje #Pro...
@costaricaconvenegas
1.3K likes • 105.2K views

🧴 No Aerosol Sprays

Only cream-based sunscreen and bug spray are permitted. TikTok+1

💧 Bring a Refillable Bottle

Bottled water is not allowed; refill stations are scarce. Reddit

10 out of 10 recommend manuel antonio national park, it’s so beautiful 🦥😍🐒 #manuelantonionationalpark #manuelantonio #manuelantoniobeach
@priscillathachh
977 likes • 70.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Entry is limited; buy tickets in advance on the SINAC website. TikTok+1

🐒 Watch Your Belongings

Monkeys are notorious for stealing food and items left unattended on the beach. Reddit

🧴 No Aerosol Sprays

Only cream-based sunscreen and bug spray are permitted. TikTok+1

💧 Bring a Refillable Bottle

Bottled water is not allowed; refill stations are scarce. Reddit

🔭 Consider a Guide

Guides with telescopes significantly enhance wildlife spotting. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Walking shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for trails. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(23k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Manuel Antonio National Park is a highly recommended destination, praised for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and beautiful beaches. Visitors love the easy trails and the chance to see sloths and monkeys up close. Some find the park crowded and advise caution with unofficial guides and strict rules on what to bring.

"One of the best parks to visit in Costa Rica and a recommended spot for anyone visiting the country. Entrance fees can be paid ahead of time online(recommended). When you’re driving up be weary of unofficial people offering you tickets and guides. Additionally, the park does offer guides but I always opt for the self service tour. The park has an amazing nature trail that leads to a beautiful beach. Keep walking down the beach for another hike with some great overlooks and monkeys!"

Adam Thompson

"Trails are great, overall experience is satisfying. We saw almost all birds and animals there. It’s better to come in the very morning(7am) not to encounter too many people and to see more animals.
Didn’t like guides there at all, they are very mean, rude and annoying. If you are enough attentive, you could spot all animals on your own, just check any crowd of people watching smth))
also be aware of monkeys on a beach, they can steal your stuff if you leave it on the ground."

Alex Vinogradov

"Manuel Antonio National Park was one of the highlights of our trip. We saw sloths, monkeys, tiny frogs, colorful crabs, and so much more. The park is stunning, with lush trails, mangroves, and breathtaking coastal views.

We visited in August and were blessed with cool weather and no rain, despite a forecast for showers all day. The morning is the best time to go—get there as early as possible (we recommend by 8 AM) to enjoy the park before it gets crowded. Be sure to book your reservation in advance.

We changed into swimsuits before reaching the first beach and spent a couple of hours playing in the calm waves—perfect for kids. Afterward, we showered to rinse off the sand. I stayed in my swim dress for the rest of the hike, while others changed into dry clothes. I wore Teva sandals, but other family members wore walking shoes.

Tips:
• No spray sunscreen or bug spray is allowed inside—rangers check bags at the entrance.
• No outside food is permitted, but there’s a small restaurant inside for snacks and drinks.
• The mangrove areas are beautiful and fun to explore, especially for kids.
• Bring binoculars for the best wildlife viewing.
• Don’t wear your swimsuit under your clothes on the hike in—it’s humid, and you’ll be glad to change before swimming.

Manuel Antonio is a must-do when in Costa Rica. The combination of wildlife, natural beauty, and beach time made it an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend getting a tour guide like we did—you’ll see and learn so much more."

Hannah Backman

What People Like

Abundant wildlife sightings
Beautiful beaches and trails
Accessible for families

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Strict entry rules
Unofficial guides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is by bus (TRACOPA is a recommended company) which takes about 3-4 hours. Taxis and private shuttles are also available but more expensive. TikTok

Parking can be challenging. Be wary of unofficial parking attendants who may try to direct you to their lots. It's best to ignore them and find official parking or be prepared for a bit of a hassle. Reddit

Yes, taxis can drop you off at the park entrance. However, be aware that the park itself is a protected area and vehicle access is restricted. TikTok

Buses are a popular and affordable option for intercity travel in Costa Rica. TRACOPA is a reliable bus company that serves the Manuel Antonio area. TikTok

Local buses run frequently along the main road connecting Quepos and Manuel Antonio, making it easy to get to the park entrance and surrounding areas. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees are typically around $16 USD per person. It's crucial to purchase tickets online in advance through the official SINAC website, as daily entry is limited. TikTok+1

No, tickets are generally not sold at the park entrance. You must buy them online in advance. Be cautious of individuals selling tickets outside the park, as they may be unofficial or overpriced. TikTok

The park is typically open from Tuesday to Monday, from around 7 AM to 4 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays. Always check the official SINAC website for the most up-to-date hours. TikTok

Many visitors find a guide with a telescope invaluable for spotting wildlife, as they can see animals you might otherwise miss. However, some visitors have successfully spotted wildlife on their own. TikTokReddit

Prohibited items include aerosol sprays (sunscreen, bug spray), outside food, and single-use plastics. Your bags will be checked at the entrance. TikTok+2

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can expect to see a variety of animals, including sloths, several species of monkeys (howler, capuchin, squirrel), iguanas, toucans, coatis, and numerous birds. TikTok+2

Most trails are well-maintained and relatively flat, making them accessible for most visitors, including those with minor injuries. The Punta Catedral Trail is particularly rewarding. Reddit

Yes, the park has beautiful beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur where you can swim. The waves are generally calm and suitable for families. Reddit

Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals are essential for the trails. Consider bringing a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Reddit

There is a small restaurant inside the park that offers snacks and drinks. However, options are limited, and lines can be long, so bringing your own refillable water bottle is advised. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Punta Catedral Trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. The beaches provide stunning coastal vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTok

While you can get decent shots with a smartphone, a telephoto lens or binoculars will greatly enhance your ability to capture clear images of distant wildlife. TikTok

Drones are generally not permitted in national parks in Costa Rica to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Always check park regulations before flying. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly magical for capturing the park's beauty. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos of the animals, but always maintain a respectful distance and never feed them. Feeding wildlife can lead to negative consequences for both the animals and visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Manuel Antonio National Park is a fantastic destination for families. The easy-to-navigate trails make it accessible for children, and the abundance of visible wildlife like monkeys and sloths is sure to captivate young minds. Reddit The calm waters of the park's beaches are perfect for swimming and playing. Reddit Remember to pack cream-based sunscreen and refillable water bottles, as aerosols and outside food are prohibited. TikTokReddit Consider bringing binoculars to help kids spot animals from a distance. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

To save money, opt for the public bus from San Jose to Manuel Antonio, which is significantly cheaper than private shuttles. TikTok Book your park tickets online in advance to avoid inflated prices from unofficial sellers. TikTok While guides can be helpful, many visitors successfully spot wildlife on their own by being observant and following crowds. Reddit Pack your own snacks and a refillable water bottle to avoid purchasing expensive items inside the park. Reddit

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers

Manuel Antonio is known as a gay-friendly beach destination in Costa Rica. The national park's main beach, Playa Manuel Antonio, is a popular spot for the LGBTQ+ community. TikTok The area hosts an annual pride march, further solidifying its welcoming atmosphere. TikTok Visitors can expect a relaxed and inclusive environment. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Encounters: What to Expect

Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors frequently report seeing sloths (both two-toed and three-toed), various species of monkeys (including capuchin, howler, and squirrel monkeys), iguanas, toucans, hummingbirds, and numerous other bird species. TikTok+2 The Punta Catedral Trail is often cited as one of the best spots for wildlife viewing, as is the general area around the park's beaches. TikTok Many visitors recommend bringing binoculars or hiring a guide with a telescope to get the best views of these often well-camouflaged creatures. TikTokReddit

It's important to remember that these are wild animals, and while they are accustomed to human presence, they should be observed from a safe distance. Never feed the animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors, lead to aggression, and cause health problems for them. TikTokReddit Be particularly mindful of monkeys on the beach, as they are known to be opportunistic and may try to snatch food or belongings. Reddit

Navigating Park Entry and Regulations

Securing your entry into Manuel Antonio National Park requires advance planning. Tickets are sold online only through the official SINAC website, and daily entry is capped, so booking ahead is essential to avoid disappointment. TikTok+1 Be aware of individuals outside the park offering to sell tickets; these are often unofficial and can be overpriced or fraudulent. TikTok Upon arrival, park rangers will check your bags for prohibited items. Aerosol sprays (like sunscreen and bug spray), outside food, and single-use plastics are strictly forbidden. TikTok+2 It's advisable to bring cream-based sunscreen and a refillable water bottle, as bottled water is not permitted, and the single food/drink stand inside can have very long queues. Reddit

The park is closed on Tuesdays. While many visitors opt for self-guided tours, hiring a certified guide can significantly enhance the experience, especially for spotting wildlife. TikTokReddit Guides often carry telescopes, allowing for close-up views of animals that might otherwise be missed. If you choose to go without a guide, be attentive to where other visitors are gathered, as this often indicates wildlife sightings. Reddit

Beach and Trail Experience

Manuel Antonio National Park offers a stunning combination of lush rainforest trails and beautiful Pacific beaches. The trails are generally well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, making them accessible for most visitors, including families and those with minor mobility issues. Reddit Popular routes include the Punta Catedral Trail, which offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic overlooks, and paths leading through mangrove areas, which provide a different ecological perspective. TikTok+1

The park boasts several picturesque beaches, such as Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur. These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming in the calm waters, and enjoying the coastal scenery. TikTokReddit Visitors often change into swimsuits before reaching the beach to maximize their time enjoying the ocean. Reddit While the beaches are beautiful, be aware that the sand area can be narrow, and waves may reach your belongings. The sand can also be covered in natural debris like branches and leaves. Reddit Comfortable footwear, such as walking shoes or sturdy sandals, is recommended for exploring both the trails and the beach areas. Reddit

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