When you think of Costa Rica, you probably imagine lush rainforests and long beaches. You’ve been imagining Manuel Antonio National Park. Located on the southwest coast of Costa Rica by Quepos, it was my favorite national park we visited. The biodiversity was insane – we saw so many animals (spoiler: including sloths!). And the best part is that this easy hike culminates with a pristine beach!

Entering Manuel Antonio Park

We started seeing animals before we even entered the park! Arrival to the park can be a little stressful. You are bombarded by street vendors and people in all sorts of uniforms, so it’s hard to tell what’s legit and what isn’t. The most unsettling part being that you buy your ticket at a bank rather than the park entrance.

From finding free parking to hiring a guide, I’ll write a list of tips soon!

The Animals

We decided not to use a guide and saw a sloth when we first entered the park because another group with a guide found it. The sloth camouflage game is really next level. I definitely recommend bringing binoculars or a zoom lens. On the ground, you’ll see lizards, iguanas, deers, and crabs (due to the proximity to the beach)!

Sloth #2: We were lucky enough to make eye contact with this one as it was taking an opportune trip down the tree for a bathroom trip.

It’s not all cute sloths – insects and cool fungi galore!

Sloth #3: Sloth on the move!

Beware of the raccoons and monkeys that will take apart your bag if they smell food.

Sloth #4: Upside-Down Muncher

Manuel Antonio Beach

The trail ends on a gorgeous beach with the jungle coming right up to the water. I recommend taking a dip, but don’t expect to see any underwater animals. The water (like in most of Costa Rica) was super murky. Regardless, it was really warm and an amazing rest stop before taking the trail back out.