Best One-Day Trips from Manuel Antonio
Jaco
Explore the best of Jaco in a day!
Dominical
Explore the best of Dominical in a day!
Uvita
Explore the best of Uvita in a day!
Quepos
Explore the best of Quepos in a day!
One-Day Trip from Manuel Antonio to Jaco
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Manuel Antonio: 73 km (45 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by Car
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive along Route 34, a scenic coastal road with beautiful ocean views.
- By Bus: Direct buses are available from Manuel Antonio to Jaco, taking approximately 2 hours.
Main Attractions
Jaco Beach Jaco Beach is a popular destination known for its vibrant surf culture and lively atmosphere. The beach offers excellent waves for both beginner and experienced surfers. The golden sands and warm waters make it a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the stunning sunset views from the beach.
Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park This adventure park offers a variety of activities, including zip-lining, aerial tram rides, and nature walks. The park is home to diverse wildlife and lush vegetation, providing a thrilling and educational experience. Highlight: The zip-line tour offers breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy.
Jaco Walk Open Air Shopping Center A modern shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs, enjoy a meal, or simply relax and people-watch. Highlight: The open-air design and vibrant atmosphere make it a pleasant place to spend some time.
Itinerary Suggestions
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Jaco Beach. Enjoy some surfing or simply relax on the sand.
- Lunch: Head to Jaco Walk Open Air Shopping Center for a variety of dining options.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park. Enjoy the zip-line tour and explore the park.
- Evening: Return to Jaco Beach to catch the sunset before heading back to Manuel Antonio.
Local Food
- Gallo Pinto: A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans.
- Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices, often served with tortilla chips.
- Casado: A typical Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat.
Local Tips
- Best Photo Spots: The viewpoint at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park offers stunning panoramic views.
- Hidden Gems: Explore the less crowded southern end of Jaco Beach for a more tranquil experience.
- Useful Info: Jaco is known for its nightlife, so if you have time, consider staying a bit longer to experience the local bars and clubs.
One-Day Trip from Manuel Antonio to Dominical
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Manuel Antonio: 44 km (27 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour by Car
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive south on Route 34, a scenic coastal road with beautiful ocean views.
- By Bus: Direct buses are available from Manuel Antonio to Dominical, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Main Attractions
Dominical Beach Dominical Beach is famous for its consistent waves, making it a haven for surfers. The beach is less crowded than others in the region, offering a more laid-back atmosphere. Highlight: The beach is also a great spot for watching the sunset.
Nauyaca Waterfalls A stunning set of waterfalls located in the rainforest near Dominical. The falls are accessible via a hike or horseback ride, and the natural pools at the base are perfect for swimming. Highlight: The upper falls offer a spectacular view and a refreshing swim.
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary A rescue and rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned wildlife. The sanctuary offers guided tours where you can learn about the animals and the conservation efforts. Highlight: The opportunity to see and learn about native Costa Rican wildlife up close.
Itinerary Suggestions
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Dominical Beach. Enjoy some surfing or a relaxing walk along the shore.
- Lunch: Head to a local eatery in Dominical for a traditional Costa Rican meal.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Nauyaca Waterfalls. Enjoy the hike and a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
- Evening: Visit Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary for a guided tour before heading back to Manuel Antonio.
Local Food
- Patacones: Fried green plantains often served with a variety of dips.
- Arroz con Pollo: A popular dish made with rice, chicken, and vegetables.
- Chifrijo: A delicious combination of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo.
Local Tips
- Best Photo Spots: The viewpoint at the top of Nauyaca Waterfalls offers breathtaking views.
- Hidden Gems: Explore the small shops and cafes in Dominical for unique souvenirs and local treats.
- Useful Info: Dominical is known for its relaxed vibe, so take your time to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
One-Day Trip from Manuel Antonio to Uvita
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Manuel Antonio: 60 km (37 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by Car
Transportation Options
- By Car: Drive south on Route 34, a scenic coastal road with beautiful ocean views.
- By Bus: Direct buses are available from Manuel Antonio to Uvita, taking approximately 2 hours.
Main Attractions
Marino Ballena National Park This national park is famous for its whale tail-shaped sandbar and is a prime location for whale watching. The park also offers beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Highlight: Visit during whale season (July to October and December to March) for a chance to see humpback whales.
Uvita Waterfall A picturesque waterfall located in the jungle near Uvita. The waterfall has a natural slide and a pool at the base, perfect for swimming. Highlight: The natural slide is a fun and unique experience.
Catarata Uvita Another beautiful waterfall in the area, offering a serene and tranquil setting. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a great spot for a refreshing dip. Highlight: The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation.
Itinerary Suggestions
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Marino Ballena National Park. Enjoy the beach and take a whale-watching tour if it's the season.
- Lunch: Head to a local restaurant in Uvita for a traditional Costa Rican meal.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Uvita Waterfall and Catarata Uvita. Enjoy swimming and the natural slide.
- Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the beach before heading back to Manuel Antonio.
Local Food
- Olla de Carne: A traditional beef stew with vegetables.
- Tamales: Corn dough filled with meat, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed.
- Empanadas: Pastries filled with meat, cheese, or beans.
Local Tips
- Best Photo Spots: The whale tail sandbar at Marino Ballena National Park offers a unique photo opportunity.
- Hidden Gems: Explore the small, local markets in Uvita for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
- Useful Info: Uvita is a great place for eco-tourism, so consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the local environment and wildlife.
One-Day Trip from Manuel Antonio to Quepos
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Manuel Antonio: 7 km (4 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 15 minutes by Car
Transportation Options
- By Car: A short drive on Route 618.
- By Bus: Frequent buses run between Manuel Antonio and Quepos, taking about 20 minutes.
Main Attractions
Quepos Marina Pez Vela A modern marina offering a variety of activities, including sport fishing, boat tours, and dining. The marina is a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean views. Highlight: The marina is known for its world-class sport fishing opportunities.
Quepos Farmers Market A vibrant market held every Friday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food. The market is a great place to experience local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. Highlight: Try the fresh tropical fruits and homemade treats.
Rainmaker Conservation Project A private reserve offering guided tours through the rainforest. The reserve features hanging bridges, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife. Highlight: The hanging bridges provide a unique perspective of the rainforest canopy.
Itinerary Suggestions
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Quepos Marina Pez Vela. Enjoy a boat tour or some sport fishing.
- Lunch: Head to the Quepos Farmers Market for a variety of fresh and delicious food options.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the Rainmaker Conservation Project. Enjoy the guided tour and the hanging bridges.
- Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the marina before heading back to Manuel Antonio.
Local Food
- Sopa Negra: A black bean soup often served with a poached egg.
- Picadillo: A dish made with finely chopped vegetables and meat, often served with tortillas.
- Tres Leches Cake: A delicious dessert made with three types of milk.
Local Tips
- Best Photo Spots: The hanging bridges at Rainmaker Conservation Project offer stunning views of the rainforest.
- Hidden Gems: Explore the small shops and cafes in Quepos for unique souvenirs and local treats.
- Useful Info: Quepos is a great place for adventure activities, so consider booking a tour for zip-lining, rafting, or ATV rides.
ItineraryTrip
Explore your next itineray destination with our AI travel agent. ... Because travel planning can be easy.
Get Aways
Travel guides
One day trip
Welcome to our AI-powered travel expert hub!
Dive into an interactive experience where you can ask ANYTHING about the countries, cities or attractions you plan to visit. It will like having a local guide at your fingertips!
New to the adventure? You can create new account and unlock a world of travel wisdom.
Already a seasoned explorer? Simply just Log in and let the fun begin!
