An askew shade tree on the south end of Playa Manuel Antonio in Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica.

© Colin D. Young/Shutterstock

Playa Manuel Antonio

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio & Around


With its turquoise waters, this lovely forest-backed beach fronts a deep bay, sheltered by the Punta Catedral on the west side and a promontory on the east. Families love to watch the monkeys playing in the trees behind the beach; ropes have been set up for them to walk on. This is the best beach for swimming.