Manuel Antonio: Mangrove kayak tour with guide & lunch

Summary

Kayaking Damas Island’s mangroves—wildlife, laughter, and quiet water

You’ll paddle calm mangrove waters near Manuel Antonio with a friendly local guide—spotting birds and maybe monkeys along the way—then enjoy a fresh Costa Rican lunch after your adventure. With hotel pickup included and all gear provided, it’s an easygoing day trip you’ll remember for its peaceful moments as much as the wildlife.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t tip over!” That’s what our guide Marco joked as we pushed off from the bank near Manuel Antonio. The water under the kayak was warm and a little murky, but somehow it felt safe—like the mangroves were holding us in a big green hug. I could smell salt and something sweet, maybe from those weirdly tangled roots everywhere. Marco pointed out a blue heron standing so still I thought it was fake at first. He said if we were lucky we’d see monkeys, but honestly just gliding through those silent channels was already kind of hypnotic.

I kept bumping my paddle against branches (sorry to whoever was behind me), but Marco didn’t seem to mind. He told us stories about how the tides mix fresh and salt water here—he called it “agua dulce y salada,” which I tried to repeat but probably butchered. At one point, a breeze came up and you could hear nothing except the rustle of leaves and some distant laughter from another kayak group. It felt like time slowed down for a bit. We stopped in a shady spot where he passed around some local fruit—I can’t remember the name, but it tasted tart and sticky on my fingers.

Afterwards, back on land, lunch was simple but just what I needed—rice, beans, grilled fish—and everyone looked sun-flushed and relaxed. Someone asked if this counted as exercise or just floating around; Marco laughed and said both. I still think about that quiet stretch of water where everything felt softer somehow. If you’re looking for a day trip from Manuel Antonio that’s more about feeling than ticking boxes, this mangrove kayaking tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak Through Mangrove Canals

• Kayak in mangrove canals
• Explore diverse plants and wildlife

Top questions

How far is Damas Island from Manuel Antonio?

Damas Island is about 10 minutes by car from Manuel Antonio.

Is this mangrove kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, the pace is relaxed and guided according to your abilities.

Are kayaks single or double?

You can choose between single or double kayaks for the tour.

Is lunch included in the tour?

Yes, lunch is included after kayaking through the mangroves.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in Manuel Antonio.

What should I bring for the Damas Island kayak tour?

You should bring a swimsuit, quick-dry clothing, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, bug spray, and a waterproof camera.

What wildlife might I see during the kayak tour?

You may see birds like herons and possibly monkeys among other animals in the mangroves.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected hotels), all taxes and fees covered, kayaking equipment with lifejackets (single or double kayaks available), guidance from a local expert throughout Damas Island’s mangroves, snacks along the way, plus a fresh Costa Rican lunch before heading back to Manuel Antonio.