Manuel Antonio: Wildlife Walk & Beach Swim with Scope Photos

Summary

Wildlife spotting, nature walks and swimming in Manuel Antonio’s lush coast

You’ll wander shaded trails in Manuel Antonio with a local guide who knows every hidden animal call, snap wildlife photos through a spotting scope, pause for coffee by the beach, and end your morning swimming in soft Pacific waves. Expect laughter, unexpected animal sightings, and time to soak up Costa Rica’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the monkeys or the trees—it was how the air in Manuel Antonio somehow smells both salty and green. Our guide, Javier, had this battered old scope slung over his shoulder and a way of spotting things I’d never see. He paused suddenly, pointed at what looked like a clump of leaves. “Sloth,” he whispered. Sure enough, there it was—curled up like a fuzzy comma. I tried to take a photo through the scope with my phone; somehow my thumb ended up in half of them. Javier just grinned and said it happens to everyone.

The walk itself is easy—just over two kilometers on gravel and sand, mostly shaded by these huge trees with roots that look like they’re trying to escape the ground. We stopped every few minutes because someone would spot something—a toucan’s beak flashing yellow, or tiny crabs scuttling sideways across the path. There’s this part where you can hear the ocean before you see it, kind of muffled by the forest. By then I was already sweating (Javier called it “Costa Rican perfume”) but didn’t really care.

About halfway through we took a break at a little coffee shop—nothing fancy, but the iced coffee tasted amazing after all that humidity. Then it’s just a short walk to the beach. The sand is so fine it squeaks under your feet. A couple of us jumped straight into the water while others hung back for more wildlife photos (I’m still not sure how Javier managed to spot that camouflaged iguana). The return walk felt quicker—maybe because most animals had disappeared for their midday nap—or maybe we were just ready for another cold drink. Either way, I keep thinking about that sloth curled up in its tree.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife walk and beach visit

• Walk 2.2 km on gravel and sandy trails
• Spot wildlife and take nature photos
• Learn nature facts and stories from guide
• Take short break at coffee shop
• Swim at first sandy beach
• Visit second swimming beach and relax
• Take photos or swim before leaving
• Walk back to park entrance

Top questions

How long is the guided tour in Manuel Antonio?

The walk covers about 2.2 kilometers and usually lasts around two hours before reaching the beach area.

Is this wildlife walk suitable for kids or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the tour.

Can I swim during this Manuel Antonio day trip?

Yes, after walking you’ll reach two safe swimming beaches where you can swim or relax.

Are there breaks or places to buy food on this tour?

There’s a coffee shop about halfway where you can buy drinks or snacks before heading to the beach.

Will I get help spotting animals if I’m not experienced?

Your local guide will help find wildlife using a spotting scope and share stories about each species spotted.

Is digiscoping included? Can I take photos?

Yes, guides provide digiscoping so you can take close-up wildlife photos through their scope with your smartphone.

How accessible is this tour for people with limited mobility?

The trail is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all physical fitness levels; service animals are allowed too.

What should I bring for this day trip in Manuel Antonio?

You’ll want comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear if you plan to swim, and your phone for photos through the scope.

What’s included

Your morning includes an easy guided walk through Manuel Antonio’s forest trails with plenty of stops for wildlife watching using a professional spotting scope (and help taking digiscope photos), plus time to relax or swim at two beautiful beaches along the route—with a coffee break stop before hitting the sand.