Manuel Antonio: Wildlife Walk & Beach Time with Park Entry

Summary

Sloths monkeys & white sand meet rainforest trails in Manuel Antonio

You’ll wander rainforest trails in Manuel Antonio with a local guide who spots wildlife you’d never notice alone — sloths, monkeys, bright birds overhead. Pause for fresh fruit snacks under the canopy, then end your day swimming or relaxing on one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. It’s less about rushing and more about noticing what’s around you.

What’s the experience like?

You know that sound when a branch snaps overhead and you’re not sure if it’s a monkey or just the wind? That’s how our morning started in Manuel Antonio — standing at the trailhead with our guide, Diego, who somehow spotted a sloth before I’d even adjusted my backpack. There was this thick, salty air and everything felt alive. Diego kept pointing out things I would’ve missed — a tiny frog clinging to a leaf, the way the howler monkeys’ calls echoed through the trees (honestly louder than I expected). He told us about the connections between all these plants and animals, but not in a lecture-y way. More like sharing something he genuinely cared about.

I tried to take a photo of a toucan but it just looked like a smudge against all that green. So I gave up and just watched for a bit instead. At one point we stopped for snacks — fresh pineapple, which tasted way better than anything from home. The group kind of went quiet then, everyone chewing and listening to insects buzzing around us. It was humid but not uncomfortable; maybe because you’re distracted by everything happening around you. There were families with strollers too — nobody seemed rushed or out of place.

The trail eventually opened onto this shockingly white stretch of sand. Some people changed into swimsuits right there behind towels (I hesitated but did it anyway — when in Costa Rica). The water was warm and gentle, and there was this moment where I floated on my back looking up at palm leaves framing the sky. I didn’t expect to feel so calm after all that wildlife excitement. On the walk back, Diego taught me how to say “perezoso” for sloth — I probably butchered it because he laughed, but in a nice way. Still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore wildlife and enjoy the beach

• Spot sloths, monkeys, reptiles, insects
• Observe diverse tropical flora
• Relax and swim at the beach

Top questions

Is Manuel Antonio wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Are snacks included during the wildlife tour?

Yes, snacks are provided as part of your day at Manuel Antonio.

Does this tour include park entrance fees?

Yes, your ticket includes entrance to Manuel Antonio Park.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can join; they may ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Is public transportation available near Manuel Antonio Park?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access.

How much time is spent at the beach?

The tour includes free time at the beach for swimming or relaxing after walking the trails.

Do I need to bring my own towel or swimsuit?

Yes, bringing your own towel and swimsuit is recommended for beach time.

What’s included

Your day includes park entrance tickets so you don’t have to worry about lines, plus fresh snacks along the trail to keep you going between wildlife sightings and time to enjoy Manuel Antonio’s famous beach before heading back whenever you’re ready.