Beaches - Swimming and Surfing
The most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, surrounded by protected tropical rainforest jungle, are found in Manuel Antonio. The park beaches are North and South Espadilla Beach, Manuel Antonio Beach, Puerto Escondido Beach and Playitas Beach. These areas provide beautiful beach combing and sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving, and tidal pools for snorkeling. Like all Pacific beaches, rip currents can occur. A perfect break from the sunny beach is exploring the nearby jungle, full of monkeys, sloths, birds and tropical plants.
SURFING
The Manuel Antonio beaches are on a semi-protected cove, and surf breaks are moderate. This provides a perfect environment for surf schools, and many have grown up around the park. To quote one review (Surf Costa Rica) ‘Manuel Antonio caters more to the beginner and intermediate surfer, however, with a nice swell these local breaks can be fun for all surfers.’
Villa Amarilla, located between Manuel Antonio and Quepos, and minutes from each, is also a perfect central location for bigger waves at Playa Dominical to the south and Playa Hermosa and Playa Jaco to the north.
NOTE: If you are flying from San José to Quepos, there is a 7 foot limit on board size.
Surfing Schools:
Manuel Antonio Surf School ph 506-2777-1955