Playa Espadilla Sur
A breathtaking white-sand beach within Manuel Antonio National Park, offering warm waters, fun waves, and a stunning jungle backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Playa Espadilla Sur
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking white-sand beach within Manuel Antonio National Park, offering warm waters, fun waves, and a stunning jungle backdrop.
"One of the top beaches in the world for sure, felt like paradise!"
🌅 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure parking by arriving early. Be prepared for unofficial attendants. :car:
🚫 No Swimming After 3 PM
Park rangers enforce a strict no-swimming policy after 3 PM. Plan your beach time accordingly. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive White Sands
Playa Espadilla Sur
A long, pristine stretch of soft white sand perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking up the sun.
Jungle Backdrop
Playa Espadilla Sur
Enjoy the stunning contrast of the vibrant green jungle meeting the turquoise ocean waters.
Fun Waves
Playa Espadilla Sur
The water temperature is perfect, and the waves offer a fun experience for swimmers and surfers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Park's Rules
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure parking by arriving early. Be prepared for unofficial attendants. :car:
🚫 No Swimming After 3 PM
Park rangers enforce a strict no-swimming policy after 3 PM. Plan your beach time accordingly. :noentrysign:
CostaRica Manuel Antonio Tips
Are there any good restaurants right near Espadilla Beach?
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no showers or readily available water sources on the beach itself. :droplet:
🌊 Watch for Currents
The currents can be strong, so be cautious when swimming. :warning:
Which beaches do locals go to in Manuel Antonio?
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure parking by arriving early. Be prepared for unofficial attendants. :car:
🚫 No Swimming After 3 PM
Park rangers enforce a strict no-swimming policy after 3 PM. Plan your beach time accordingly. :noentrysign:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no showers or readily available water sources on the beach itself. :droplet:
🌊 Watch for Currents
The currents can be strong, so be cautious when swimming. :warning:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
While it's a beach, you'll be doing some walking within the park. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Espadilla Sur is widely praised as a top-tier beach, with visitors loving its soft white sand, perfect water temperature, and stunning jungle backdrop. Many find the waves enjoyable and the overall atmosphere idyllic. However, some visitors express frustration with the park's strict rules, such as the early swimming cutoff and photography limitations, and parking can be a hassle.
"One of the top beaches in the world for sure"
Shaun Deardorff
"Such an amazing beach, definitely better than the other side of the park. There are many spots with natural shade, perfect water temperature, clean water and fun waves. It felt like paradise"
Rüya Lange
"Playa Espadillo is a beautiful beach. It stretches a very long distance so you can get a good walk from one end to the other. The ocean has a gorgeous jungle back drop and the water is a perfect temperature. You can rent all types of water sports equipment and do different water activities from this beach. Remember, this part of Costa Rica is one of the most popular. The south end of the beach has the most people and is a destination for folks from all over the world, including people from all over Costa Rica, and is the entrance to Manuel Antonia Park. Parking is an issue all around Manuel Antonio beach in that hustlers run all the parking areas and demand money in order to park. We give them 2,000 colones, which is less than $4 dollars, regardless of what they ask for. Let them get angry, it's okay! You'll find the parking hustlers in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, but I haven't seen them anywhere else in
Costa Rica. My advice, give them the parking fee, which helps support them and go and enjoy the beautiful beach, the warm water, and the tropical environment."
Mario Mamone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Espadilla Sur is located within Manuel Antonio National Park. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public bus from Quepos. Parking is available nearby, though it can be managed by unofficial attendants.
Yes, parking is available near the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park, which leads to Playa Espadilla Sur. Be aware that unofficial attendants often manage these lots and may ask for a fee.
While it's a significant walk, it is possible to walk from Quepos to Playa Espadilla Sur. However, taking a local bus or taxi is a more common and convenient option.
Local buses run frequently between Quepos and Manuel Antonio, stopping near the park entrance. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, public buses that travel between Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park will stop near the entrance to Playa Espadilla Sur.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Playa Espadilla Sur is located within Manuel Antonio National Park, and an entrance fee is required. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
The park is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from around 7 AM to 4 PM. However, swimming is prohibited after 3 PM, and park rangers may begin closing sections earlier.
It is highly recommended to buy your tickets online in advance through the official SINAC website. On-site ticket availability can be limited.
Yes, single-use plastics, certain foods, and large coolers are often restricted. Check the official park regulations for a complete list.
Yes, the park has a daily visitor limit to help manage crowds and protect the environment. Booking tickets in advance is crucial.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim (before 3 PM), sunbathe, walk along the long stretch of sand, and enjoy the scenic views. Water sports equipment rentals might be available.
Restroom facilities are available within Manuel Antonio National Park, but there are no showers directly on Playa Espadilla Sur.
The water is generally a perfect temperature and clean, with fun waves. However, be aware of potentially strong currents. Swimming is not allowed after 3 PM.
Yes, you can take photos, but be mindful of park rules. Some visitors have reported restrictions on photography near closing time.
While primarily a beach, the surrounding park is known for its abundant wildlife, including monkeys and sloths, which you might spot in the trees bordering the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors directly on Playa Espadilla Sur. You'll need to bring your own snacks or dine at restaurants located outside the park entrance or in the town of Manuel Antonio.
Food restrictions are in place, particularly regarding single-use plastics and certain types of snacks. It's best to check the official park guidelines before packing food.
The town of Manuel Antonio and the area just outside the park entrance offer various restaurants, from casual sodas to more upscale dining with ocean views.
Given the food restrictions within the park and limited options on the beach, eating before or after your visit is generally recommended.
Designated picnic areas are available within the park, but be sure to adhere to the food and waste regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the jungle backdrop. Look for vantage points where the lush vegetation meets the sand.
Some visitors have noted that park rangers may restrict photography, particularly as the park nears closing time. It's advisable to capture your shots earlier in the day.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and jungle. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. Always check current regulations.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon (before 3 PM) provides golden hour hues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the park's closing times and the 3 PM swimming restriction, as this can impact afternoon plans.
☀️ Sun Seekers & Beach Lovers
Remember to bring ample sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as direct sun exposure can be intense. While the beach is stunning, be aware of the park's rules, particularly the no swimming after 3 PM policy, to maximize your beach time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Manuel Antonio National Park
Getting to the park and beach involves navigating parking, which can be a bit of a local experience. Unofficial attendants often manage parking areas and may request a fee. While this can be a point of contention for some, paying a small amount (around 2,000 colones) is generally advised to secure your spot and avoid hassle.
Remember that the park's primary goal is wildlife protection and environmental preservation. This means adhering to rules about food, waste, and behavior is paramount. By respecting these guidelines, you contribute to maintaining the natural beauty that makes Playa Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio so special for future visitors.
Beach Experience at Playa Espadilla Sur
Despite its beauty, it's important to be aware of the strong currents that can be present, so caution is advised when swimming.
Many visitors appreciate the natural shade provided by the trees bordering the beach, offering a respite from the sun. While the beach itself is a natural wonder, the surrounding park is teeming with wildlife, so keep an eye out for monkeys and other creatures in the trees.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit