Manuel Antonio is the most popular National Park with Ticos. One reason for this is the unspoiled beaches that lie within easy walking distance of the entrance station. The overhanging palms are a refreshing break from the bars, discos, hotels and restaurants surrounding the park.

Red-backed Squirrel Monkey, Saimiri oerstedii (Spanish-Mono Tití). Also know as the Central American Squirrel Monkey these are the most endangered of Costa Ricas primates. (©2004 Cezary Doda)

Besides the spectacular beaches, Manuel Antonio offers several kilometers of very well maintained trails offering the easiest access in Costa Rica to the lowland rainforest. Logging and agriculture have left only two significant areas of tropical rainforest (tropical lowland wet forest) along the entire Pacific coast of Central America. Corcovado protects one on the Osa Peninsula, and Manuel Antonio protects the other.

Many Costa Rican school children visit Manuel Antonio on field trips. The park has an extensive education program for schools, organizations, and independent visitors.