Without a doubt, Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica is the first name that pops into mind when we need a well-deserved beach holiday. There’s just something about its turquoise waters and surrounding nature that allows us to feel relaxed and ready to take over the days ahead.

While this coastal area is known for its picturesque cityscape, you’d be surprised to know that it is home to not just one but several beaches. Whether you plan to take a relaxing swim, take up surfing lessons, or go scuba diving, you’ll surely find the right beach for the adventure you’re seeking.

So, if you’re planning a trip to this lovely area, you have to be familiar with the different beaches available. Thus, here are the best beaches in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica to help you plan the perfect beach vacation.

Playa Manuel Antonio

There’s no denying that the most popular beach in Manuel Antonio is the Playa Manuel Antonio. Conveniently located within the Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Manuel Antonio is one of the most photographed beaches in the area – if not the most photographed.

This beach of the same name is known for its bright and crystal blue waters and a natural backdrop that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to paradise. And since it’s within the Manuel Antonio National Park, it’s the best place to take a rest after meeting the area’s flora and fauna.

With that said, this beach is especially popular among tourists. It can be a bit crowded during peak seasons, but if you’re lucky enough to visit during its off-season, you’ll enjoy a refreshing swim in its calm waters. And if you choose to hike the nearby trail, you’ll get a breathtaking view of this beautiful beach. Be prepared to snap a photo since it’s a view you’ll want to treasure for a lifetime.

Playa Espadilla

Another top contender for the best beach in Manuel Antonio is Playa Espadilla. If you’re a surfing enthusiast, there’s a big chance that you’ve already heard of this beach.

Because of its wide variety of rideable waves, Playa Espadilla is known as the surfer’s paradise within this coastal area. The rough waves are just the right height for experienced surfers who simply want to have fun while in the Manuel Antonio. It’s also a great spot for improving your skills, especially during the wet season when the waves are particularly high.

If you happen to leave your surfboard at home, there’s no need to worry. Nearby shops are surrounding Playa Espadilla, and you can easily rent all the surfing equipment you need to catch and ride the waves.

If you simply want to learn how to surf, head on to the southern end of this beach where the waves are known to be more forgiving. But for your safety, make sure to book surfing lessons to learn the proper techniques.

Aside from being a surfer’s paradise, Playa Espadilla is also quite popular among locals. If you’re lucky, you might even catch them in one of their friendly soccer or volleyball games. That makes it a great place to socialize and meet new friends as well.

Playa Espadilla Sur

If the crowds at Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla are too much for you, then head on to Playa Espadilla Sur. This is similarly situated in the Manuel Antonio National Park and delivers a more close-to-nature feel than the Playa Manuel Antonio.

Otherwise known as Playa Segunda, this beach is exceptionally beautiful – with seemingly untouched nature surrounding it. During the dry season, it is great for a relaxing swim, but it can be quite dangerous during the wet seasons. That’s one of the reasons why it’s not very popular among tourists.

Nevertheless, if you’re after a relaxing walk by the seashore to simply admire the view and tranquility, this is the perfect beach for you.

Playa Espadilla Norte

Another gem located in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is Playa Espadilla Norte. This beach is no longer within the Manuel Antonio National Park, making it one of the most accessible beaches in the area.

It similarly boasts fine white sand and pristine blue waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also known to have one of the most colorful sunsets in the area, so make sure to stay there and not miss the sunset.

If you’re planning to stay in Playa Espadilla Norte for the whole day, you don’t have to worry about running out of things to do. Aside from swimming and sunbathing, the area is also known as an ideal spot for parasailing and jet skiing. There are several tour services nearby that offer these activities, so you’ll definitely have a fun-filled day at this beach.

Playa Biesanz

And finally, we have the Playa Biesanz. Like Playa Espadilla Norte, it is also located outside the Manuel Antonio National Park, and that means that you don’t have to pay extra just to get to the beach. However, you have to follow a hiking trail to get to it.

The hike doesn’t take too long, and you’ll instantly forget all about it once you reach the destination. While it’s one of the smaller beaches in the area, Playa Biesanz can take your breath away as soon as you get a glimpse of its beauty.

This beach is known for its clear blue waters that remain relatively calm all year round. That makes it the best for a leisurely swim.

Aside from swimming, Playa Biesanz is also known to host a variety of marine life – including beautiful corals and schools of fish. If you happen to bring your snorkeling gear with you, you can also feast your eyes on these lovely species.

The beach is also known for its serenity, so it’s a great place to relax by the shore and simply enjoy the beauty that the beach and its surroundings have to offer.

That’s it – you now know our top picks for the best beach destinations in Manuel Antonio. To further help you plan your next escapade, here is a guide for the best times to visit Manuel Antonio Costa Rica.