Manuel Antonio

Sparkling white sand beaches, picturesque bays, verdant jungle and interpretive trails charm thousands of vacationers each year.

Manuel Antonio is actually a name that encompasses both a town and a national park. At the Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio you are likely to spot a multitude of wildlife including coatimundis, white faced monkeys and basilisk “Jesus Christ” lizards – reptiles able to run so fast that it looks as if they are walking on water. Just like its name implies, the Sloth Trail is your best bet for sighting sloths – however these gentle slow-motion creatures are also prevalent throughout the rest of the park. Snorkeling is phenomenal at Playa Manuel Antonio, and sunbathing is ideal at Playa Gemelas.

Adrenaline junkies simply cannot leave Manuel Antonio without parasailing. Take in the incredible vistas above the bay as you sail alongside sea birds in complete silence, gazing over the entire coastline and then around the rocky islands in the bay. For a more giggly adventure, try a banana boat ride – which consists of one to six people atop an elongated inner tube attached to a speedboat that races to and fro in an attempt to make the riders fall off.

Four miles to the north you’ll find the town of Quepos, which has a variety of lodging options for budget travelers – the gamut ranges from mid-range bed and breakfasts to typical backpacker hostels, with the occasional swanky luxury hotel thrown in the mix. There are several fun bars and restaurants here including L’angolo, where you can get inexpensive picnic sandwiches packed para llevar (to go). Bring one on a waterfall rappelling excursion nearby for an exciting, water soaked adventure.

Above all else Quepos is a fishing town, and both local and sport fishermen trawl its waters for big game fish like mahi mahi, rooster, tuna, sailfish and marlin. Cruise in the utmost comfort and style on one of the area’s luxury yachts, specifically designed for inshore and offshore fishing.

In the evening, head back into Manuel Antonio to swing by Raphael’s La Terraza or the bar at La Mariposa Hotel for happy hour. Here you can enjoy a warm atmosphere and positively stunning sunset views of the Central Pacific coast. After, head to one of the local gay bars or discos – the Manuel Antonio and Quepos area is one of Costa Rica’s gay and lesbian friendly cities.