Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling at Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the coral reef and abundant sea life together at Manuel Antonio National Park

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 sought after. A popular 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 the country featuring protected tropical wet forest. Within this biosphere reserve you'll find sections of the Savegre River (perfect for rafting excursions), and diverse wildlife such as various species of monkey (howler, squirrel, and capuchin), and exotic birds like macaws and kingfishers. And the best way to view the wildlife is on a jungle trek.

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 best vantage point in which to marvel at the coastline is from a two-person, open-seat ocean kayak. Guided kayak adventures begin near Pez Vela Marina in the town of Quepos, and wind along Manuel Antonio's unspoiled coastline. As for snorkeling, be sure to head to the beaches of Biesanz Bay, where you can go for a swim and enjoy a picnic on the sand. Then you can dive in the water and swim just offshore, where a long coral reef home to colorful marine life is waiting for you.

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Explore the coral reef and abundant sea life together at Manuel Antonio National Park

The beaches at Manuel Antonio are inviting

Squirrel monkeys are common sites 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.

Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches

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.

Palm-fringed coastline at Manuel Antonio National Park

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.

Costa Rica's Whitewater, Beaches & Volcanos - 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.