“Do you prefer being in the mountains or the beach?” A common question that many people have been asked. Although some have a clear preference on the matter, others are somehow torn between the two, as the beauty of a sunset in the beach and the allure of the forest covered in dew are both powerful scenes capable of awakening the best of people. If you are one of those people that can’t decide between lush forest or azure waters, then Manuel Antonio is sure to be the greatest combination of both, and the ideal solution for you.
Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the main attractions of Manuel Antonio town, receives more visitors than any other national park in Costa Rica. If you have visited, then you know it’s no surprise, as its white-sand, turquoise-water beaches nestled in the backdrop of the emerald forest are one of the most iconic sights of this little paradise. Manuel Antonio is one of the few places where you don’t have to choose between either the mountain or the beach; you can enjoy both in the same town.
Manuel Antonio offers its visitors an unsurpassed list of activities, eco adventures and attractions. With a unique topography, at its highest elevation of 574 ft over the sea level, you can enjoy all sorts of iconic activities that make up a part of any memorable visit to Costa Rica; including zip lining, white water rafting, horseback riding, parasailing, amazing hikes in the rainforest, world class bird watching, and adrenaline pumping canyoning and ocean kayaking experiences.
The world-renowned Marina Pez Vela is also part of this iconic destination and is home to some of the best sportfishing anywhere on the planet. Amazing Sailfish, Blue and Black Marlin along with incredible Tuna, Mahi, Rooster and Snapper fishing are all just miles from the docks. Additionally there are full service diving operations, parasailing, jetski and sunset sails for snorkeling, dolphin watching and some of the world’s most amazing whale watching during the migration season. In short, almost anything you can imagine wanting to experience in Costa Rica can be found within minutes of your villa or hotel here in Manuel antonio.
Most of the hotels are hillside and boast amazing ocean views framed by abundant tropical rainforest. If you like being in the mountains, and enjoy a more serene and quiet space, but also want that connection with the ocean, easy access to amenities and lifestyle components, then Manuel Antonio is a must-see.
The weather also suits all tastes and preferences, as you can enjoy warm weather on the beach; perfect for practicing surfing, and then drive uphill and immediately notice the decrease in temperature, abundant rain and overall fresher weather.
This eclectic town is truly the embodiment of Costa Rica; small in size but big in amenities. And of course, the diversity that makes Manuel Antonio a top tourist destination also attracts a variety of businesses to cater for those needs, including developments. There are a plethora of options to eat, including mediterranean food, italian, caribbean, cafes, bakeries, seafood, mexican, and more.
It is only natural to fall in love with this town, so if you have visited Manuel Antonio and are thinking about buying yourself a second home or a vacation rental with potential for returns, in Manuel Antonio you can find all types of residences to fulfill the needs of even the most critical buyers: ocean-view condos under 500k, or luxurious, million-dollar private estates perfectly poised in the mountains…So, next time someone asks you: mountain or beach? Remember you don’t have to choose. There’s always Manuel Antonio.