Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
600 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Manuel Antonio: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal clear, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. The water is so clear that the bottom is visible even at depth — ideal for snorkelling. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 600 metres.
Playa Manuel Antonio: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Manuel Antonio: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Manuel Antonio: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Monkeys (capuchin and squirrel) — can steal food and open backpacks, Sloths (harmless), Mosquitoes, Sandflies. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Manuel Antonio: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Playa Manuel Antonio: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Emilio's Cafe, Tule Cafe Restaurante, Rico Tico Bar N Grill. Cuisines available: International, Costa Rican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Water, Water shoes, Snorkel mask.
Playa Manuel Antonio: when is the best time to swim?
Best time to visit is the dry season from December to April. Arrive early morning when there are fewer people and animals are more active.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not feed animals. Do not leave food. Swim only in the designated area. Park closes at 16:00.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Manuel Antonio: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and snorkelling enthusiasts thanks to a sheltered cove with calm water, white sand and rich wildlife. Not suitable for those seeking solitude in high season.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what makes this beach unique?
A crescent-shaped sheltered cove with white sand and calm water, surrounded by tropical rainforest. One of the few places in Costa Rica where you can swim in the calm waters of the Pacific.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Sheltered cove, Calm water, Excellent snorkelling, Monkeys and wildlife, First aid station, Toilets and changing rooms, Lifeguards. Cons: Crowded in high season, Paid entry to national park, Limited visiting hours (7:00-16:00), No food allowed, Limited parking, Many tourists on weekends.
Playa Manuel Antonio: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Manuel Antonio National Park, Punta Catedral. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Manuel Antonio: how do I get to the city of Manuel Antonio?
The beach is located near the city of Manuel Antonio. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Manuel Antonio.