Playa Manuel Antonio

Playa Manuel Antonio is a sandy beach on a natural land bridge linking rocky Punta Catedral with the mainland. Playa Espadilla Sur lies on the other side, so two very different bays sit within a short walk. If you’re choosing one beach to linger at inside the park, make it this one; just expect company. It’s the busiest stretch of the park, not a quiet cove.

From the entrance, the main park path skirts Playa Espadilla Sur and reaches the information area at Playa Manuel Antonio. The last approach from the cafeteria is about 400 m (0.25 mi) on an easy concrete and gravel path. Restrooms and outdoor rinse showers are along this approach, and the cafeteria is close by. Manuel Antonio is a very popular park, especially on weekends and holidays, so arrive early if you want a quieter start.

A tombolo is a natural land bridge joining the mainland to a rocky point. Here, the strip of sand connects Punta Catedral to the coast, with water on both sides. Take the 1.2 km loop around Punta Catedral for several viewpoints and a longer look at the bays. From the beach, frame the sand toward the rocky point so the shape of the land bridge comes through in the photo.

At the beach’s western end, look in the rocks for the Quepoas’ pre-Columbian turtle traps. They’re visible only at low tide, so check the waterline before you walk around the point; it’s an easy-to-miss piece of the place’s human history.

The beach can be busier than the wildlife. Capuchins, raccoons and coatis are reported around the sand, while sloths are seen near the cafeteria end of the path. Scan the trees as you walk in and out rather than counting on a close encounter at the waterline.