Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling at Manuel Antonio National Park

Overview

Manuel Antonio National Park may be one of the smallest protected areas in Costa Rica (just 7.66 square miles), but it's one of the most popular. A favorite wedding site and destination for honeymooners, it's also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Moreover, the area is incredibly biodiverse, as it's one of the few places in Costa Rica featuring a protected tropical wet forest. Within this biosphere reserve, you'll find sections of the Savegre River (perfect for rafting excursions), diverse wildlife such as various species of monkey (howler, squirrel, and capuchin), and exotic birds like macaws and kingfishers. 

Then, there are the beaches. Another reason foreigners and locals alike flock here is to partake in some of the best snorkeling and kayaking in the country. The ideal vantage point to marvel at the coastline is from a two-person, open-seat ocean kayak.

Your kayak adventure begins near Pez Vela Marina in the town of Quepos and winds along Manuel Antonio's unspoiled coastline. As for snorkeling, you'll head to the beaches of Biesanz Bay for a swim and to enjoy a picnic on the sand. Then, dive into the water and snorkel just offshore, where a long coral reef home to colorful marine life awaits you.

Discover more experiences in Manuel Antonio.

Itineraries with Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling at Manuel Antonio National Park

Costa Rica Highlights: Self-Drive Adventure - 11 Days

This self-guided road trip is ideal for those who love adventure. Visit Costa Rica's highlights, from the famous Arenal Volcano to the misty cloud forests of Monteverde and powdery beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. Along the way, you'll fly over the treetops on a zip line tour, swim in waterfall lagoons, and spot wildlife on nature walks and snorkeling excursions.

San José and Manuel Antonio - 5 Days

This quick getaway will let you experience the many sides of Costa Rica in just five days. After enjoying an evening in San José, you'll head to Manuel Antonio, a national park boasting some of Costa Rica's most famous white sand beaches and coastal jungles. Hike, kayak, and snorkel until your heart's content before heading home.

Costa Rica's Whitewater, Beaches & Volcanoes - 7 Days

This fun weeklong itinerary highlights Costa Rica's amazing natural scenery through a thrilling series of adventurous activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and more. Starting in the nation's capital, you'll make your way to rivers, jungles, waterfalls, and cone-shaped volcanoes, culminating on the Pacific coast with time to relax on Manuel Antonio's four white-sand beaches—each one accessed by hiking trail.

Ultimate Costa Rica Honeymoon - 10 Days

This romantic itinerary is ideal for adventurous couples with more than a week to spend. Together, you'll bask in Costa Rica's biodiversity, take a whitewater rafting trip down the Río Pacuare, and go on multiple day hikes. Relax on Pacific beaches, soak in natural hot springs, and check into some of the country's best luxury resorts throughout your memorable stay.