Manuel Antonio (adjoining Quepos) is located on the central Pacific coast and, is the number one most visited area in the country. This is due to it's stunning coastline with white sand beaches, ideal climate, wide variety of 5 star hotels and international restaurants, and every imaginable activity to keep you busy.
Land in Manuel Antonio is limited by geography. Real Estate with a view and near the beaches is finite. Land prices have risen in a steady rhythm over the last 15 years, and there is every reason to expect prices to rise dramatically in the future.
Manuel Antonio is a unique jewel. The location, climate, infrastructure, views, topography, wildlife, forests, beaches, and the park, all work together. There is no question that Manuel Antonio provides the highest "quality of life" available anywhere in Costa Rica.
No other destination in Costa Rica has received more international attention than Manuel Antonio. Many first-time visitors to Costa Rica plan their vacation around seeing it, and it's no surprise why: The views from the hills overlooking Manuel Antonio are spectacular, the beaches (particularly those inside the national park) are idyllic, and its jungles are crawling with howler, white-faced, and squirrel monkeys, among other forms of exotic wildlife.
One of the most popular national parks in the country, Manuel Antonio is also one of the smallest, covering fewer than 680 hectares (1,680 acres). Its several nearly perfect small beaches are connected by trails that meander through the rainforest. The mountains surrounding the beaches quickly rise as you head inland from the water; however, the park was created to preserve not its beautiful beaches but its forests, home to endangered squirrel monkeys, three-toed sloth's, purple-and-orange crabs, and hundreds of other species of birds, mammals, and plants.
The port of Quepos is a small village comprised of restaurants, bars, hotels, casinos, bakeries and art galleries that beckon sailors, travelers, and those seeking a truly unique retreat. Primary rainforests envelop the town in a blanket of vibrant flora and fauna during the green season December through April. A short walk or boat ride reveals the most pristine, unspoiled exhibitions of nature—while never too far from modern conveniences. The townsfolk, known as Quepeños, are great celebrators of life's many occasions.
Access to Quepos / Manuel Antonio:
The airport is located just out side of town, and is served by multiple daily flights from two commercial airlines. Charter plane and helicopter service is also readily available. Rental cars and 4X4s are available in Quepos when you get arrive. It is best to reserve a car in advance of your trip. It is 75 miles of paved road to Quepos/Manuel Antonio from the San Jose international airport (approx. 2.5 hours drive).
International Marina:
The world's finest sportfishing destination should naturally have facilities to match. Marina Pez Vela will offer services rivaling those of any first-class, five-star marina resort. This full-service marina facility will be the largest in Central America and will create a major destination for Pacific boating and fishing enthusiasts. Under construction are 300 concrete floating dock slips that will accommodate boats up to 200 feet. The marina will have the only full-service repair facility for hundreds of miles complete with 75 and 200-ton Travel-Lifts, unique to all of Central America. Marina Pez Vela will also include a fully staffed maintenance facility capable of any repairs or service required.
Health / Medical facilities: According to the World Health Organization, Costa Rica ranks 36th in the world's health systems. The United States ranks 37th! There are a number of doctors in the Manuel Antonio area who speak English. A modern, regional hospital is located just outside of town, near the Quepos airport; and there are several private, 24 hour emergency facility available.
Utilities: Municipal water and electricity are provided throughout Manuel Antonio. Phone lines are available, as well as high speed fiber optic internet access. GSM cell phone lines can be purchased in Quepos. Cable TV is available to most properties within the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area, Sky TV services all out lying areas.
