The main beaches in Manuel Antonio are Playa Espadilla, the long public beach outside the national park, and Playa Manuel Antonio and Espadilla Sur, which you reach through the park with a ticket. For calm water, go to the park beaches or the small cove at Playa Biesanz. For waves and surf lessons, stay on Playa Espadilla, and always check for rip currents before you swim.
The beaches at a glance
| Beach | Access | Water | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playa Espadilla | Free, public, next to the park entrance area | Waves; rip currents can form | Surf lessons, long walks, sunset |
| Espadilla Sur | Through the national park (ticket) | Often calmer than Espadilla | Quiet swims, shade under trees |
| Playa Manuel Antonio | Through the national park (ticket) | Usually calm, clear on good days | Swimming, easy snorkeling at the rocks |
| Playa Biesanz | Free; short, steep walk down | Sheltered cove, often calm | Families, paddling, snorkeling near rocks |
Playa Espadilla
This is the beach most people picture when they think of Manuel Antonio: a long curve of sand with forested hills at each end. It is free, easy to reach, and lined with restaurants and small shops across the road. It has great surf and is one of the nicest beaches around. Surf schools set up here, it is a good place for a first lesson, and our concierge can arrange a class for you.
Keep in mind: Espadilla has waves, and rip currents can form. Swim where lifeguards are on duty if they are present that day, follow any flags, and do not swim alone. Keep bags close; like any busy beach, leave valuables at the hotel. Sunset here is lovely, so plan to stay late one evening.
Espadilla Sur
Espadilla Sur is the stretch of sand south of the public beach, reached through the national park. It feels wilder than the public beach, with forest right to the sand and more shade. The water is often calmer, though conditions vary with swell. It is a good place to rest after walking the park trails.
Playa Manuel Antonio
This is the park’s best-known beach: a curved bay with pale sand, forest behind, and usually gentle water. On clear days you can snorkel around the rocks at each end and see small reef fish. Monkeys and raccoons often wander the edge of the sand looking for food, which is why the park limits what you can bring.
Keep in mind: The national park is closed on Tuesdays, and tickets are sold online in advance. There are rules about food, drinks and some items; check the current list before you pack. Arrive early for the calmest, quietest hours.
Playa Biesanz
Biesanz is a small cove between Quepos and the park, reached by a short, steep path. Rocks shelter the water, so it is often calm enough for children to paddle and for easy snorkeling near the edges. It is popular with local families on weekends. Wear shoes you can walk in, and go earlier in the day for a spot in the shade.
Beach safety
- Learn to spot a rip current: a calmer-looking channel with fewer breaking waves, often with foam or debris moving out. If caught, swim parallel to shore, then back in.
- Check the tide. Some beaches get narrow at high tide, and rocks are slippery.
- Protect your skin. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and shade from late morning to mid-afternoon.
- Watch your things. Monkeys and raccoons open bags. People sometimes do too.
- Do not feed wildlife, even when it seems harmless.
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a light cover-up
- Water, plus cash for drinks and snacks at the public beach
- A mask and snorkel for calm days
- Water shoes for rocky ends and paths
- A small dry bag for your phone
When to go
Mornings are best at every beach: cooler, calmer water and fewer people. In the dry season, roughly December to April, you get sunny days and clearer water. In the green season, roughly May to November, mornings are usually bright and rain tends to come in the afternoon. More in our seasonal guide to Manuel Antonio.
Staying near the beaches
ECOTICA is a small rainforest hotel minutes from the national park and Playa Espadilla. It is not on the beach, so most guests spend the morning on the sand and come back for the pool and shade in the afternoon. Many like to end the day with a drink at La Poza, our poolside bar, while the forest gets noisy with birds. For surfing tips, read our surfing guide. To see the rooms, visit our bungalows and suites, and for a slow afternoon after the beach, book a massage at the Jungle Spa.
FAQ
Which Manuel Antonio beach is best for swimming?
Playa Manuel Antonio, reached through the national park, is usually the calmest. Playa Biesanz is another sheltered option outside the park. Espadilla has more waves, so swim with care there.
Do I need a ticket for the beaches?
Playa Espadilla and Playa Biesanz are free. Playa Manuel Antonio and Espadilla Sur are part of the national park, so you need a park ticket, bought online in advance. The park is closed on Tuesdays.
Can I snorkel from the beaches?
On calm days, yes, around the rocks at Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Biesanz. Visibility varies with swell and rain. For clearer water, take a boat trip; see our snorkeling guide.
Are there sloths and monkeys at the beach?
Often, at the park beaches where forest reaches the sand. Capuchin monkeys and raccoons are the most common visitors. Keep food packed away and watch from a distance.
Planning your beach days? Check availability and rates or ask us which beach suits your group.
