Stories from Paradise

Located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio blends natural beauty with sophisticated travel. Famous for its vibrant national park and diverse wildlife, the area also features an array of beaches for all tastes. Manuel Antonio transforms typical beach vacations into rich adventures, offering sunny shores within a secluded rainforest paradise.

Each one of these seven distinctive beaches holds its special charm, promising unforgettable moments for every visitor.

A Natural Playground of Biodiversity and Comfort

Being one of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park attracts an abundance of tourists due to its accessibility and stunning natural beauty. With more than 100 animal species and almost 200 bird species, this ecological gem is home to an incredible selection of wildlife.

Along with the comfort of close-by accommodation, visitors can take energizing hikes through the rainforest trails, swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters along perfect beaches, and easily spot all kinds of plants and animals in their natural habitat. The park’s distinctive blend of abundant wildlife and convenience makes it a favorite spot for even the most adventurous of travelers.The region is popular due to its well-developed infrastructure, diverse dining options, high-end rental choices, and visitor-friendly services. Manuel Antonio is an easily accessible getaway in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful coastal regions, thanks to its ideal location, just a three-hour drive from San José.

High-End Accommodation in Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio is still a top attraction, drawing in more than 150,000 tourists a year, many of them from the United States. The area features a variety of upscale accommodations, including luxury resorts, private villas, and boutique hotels, all seamlessly integrated with the surrounding tropical continued…

Where High-End Comfort Meets Untamed Nature

In the heart of Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio emerges as a unique destination that sets the standard for luxury vacations. Experience the ultimate lifestyle in Manuel Antonio, where natural beauty blends with sophisticated living.

Why Manuel Antonio Offers One of the World’s Most Unique Luxury Living Experiences

Picture a place where you can sail in a world-class marina in the morning, hike through a rainforest filled with scarlet macaws and monkeys in the afternoon, and dine on a gourmet local dinner in the evening. This is the Manuel Antonio promise: an escape that provides one of the best accommodations in the world and an unforgettable living experience.

Exclusive Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica

Scott Cutter, a 2CR broker who has called this area home for nearly three decades, describes Manuel Antonio as a “magical” investment opportunity.

“We’re not just renting out villas,” he explains, “we’re offering a chance to reimagine your lifestyle.”  The area’s unique supply and demand dynamics create an exclusive rental market where luxury isn’t about uniformity, but about authentic, meaningful experiences.

What Today’s Luxury Traveler Is Looking For

Today’s luxury traveler in Manuel Antonio isn’t seeking a cookie-cutter resort experience. They’re looking for a place that offers authenticity, privacy, and a deeper connection to nature. When high-end luxury travelers come to Manuel Antonio, they are looking for:

Inside the New Standard

Unlike other destinations, Manuel Antonio’s growth is deliberate and thoughtful. “Real growth isn’t about speed,” Cutter notes, “it’s about preserving the soul of a place while allowing it to evolve naturally.” This approach means limited, high-quality developments that maintain the area’s unique character.

How Marina Pez Vela continued…

The tourism institutions within the country look to expand and diversify their offerings for foreign visitors.

2024 was one of Costa Rica’s most prosperous calendar years when it comes to international visitation, breaking pre-Covid records and cementing itself as a top tropical destination worldwide. But for the local authorities and tourism sector, the goal is not to pad themselves on the back, but to build from these achievements and be poised to elevate its position as a leading global tourist destination this year, with strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing its tourism infrastructure and broadening its international appeal. The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) has outlined two primary objectives for the year: improving the country’s tourism product and diversifying its global promotion efforts.

Key infrastructure projects are set to enhance visitor experiences in some of Costa Rica’s most treasured destinations. The inauguration of Tourist Police offices in Cahuita and Santa Teresa aims to bolster safety and ensure a pleasant environment for travelers. Another critical development is the new dock in Pococí, a facility that looks to streamline access to popular spots like Tortuguero and Parismina, solidifying these unsung gems as must-visit locations for eco-tourism enthusiasts.Despite the tourist growth of the country, many believe it can offer way more than the highlights of Guanacaste’s Gold Coast and the Arenal Volcano. Key destinations including Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Guayabo National Monument, San Lucas Island, and the Puntarenas Pier will be featured and spotlighted by new local initiatives. These upgrades will enhance visitor amenities while preserving the natural and cultural heritage that Costa Rica is renowned for.

On the international front, the ICT is targeting new markets to sustain and grow its influx continued…

Known worldwide as one of the best grains in the whole world, the Central American nation has once again received prestigious accolades.

The immersive forest landscapes of Santa Maria de Dota are a magical place where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Fully established as one of the coffee production hubs of the country, it’s no surprise one of its world-class offerings that recently won first place in the prestigious international Cup of Excellence Coffee 2024 contest. This year, Finca Santa Teresa and the Café Don Cayito grain have put Santa Maria de Dota on the global spotlight once again.

The recognition from the Cup of Excellence is another landmark moment for the small rural village, which is mainly known as a tranquil mountain setting, beyond the coffee production. The story of Café Don Cayito specifically began  in 1974 when 300 Arabica coffee plants were established in the La Granadilla farm. Today, their award-winning Geisha varieties are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a significant draw for tourists seeking unique coffee experiences.

On the other side of town, Finca Santa Teresa showcased innovation with its methods. With over 45 years in coffee cultivation, this farm has transformed an old dairy into a vibrant micro-mill that processes the entire harvest, and even hosts its own coffee shop in the Amarinta Cafeteria & Coffee Sho, where one can savor award-winning brews.

The achievements of these coffee producers not only reward decades of hard work but also underscore a renewed commitment to quality and sustainability amidst agricultural changes. Their success also reminds coffee enthusiasts of the Dota community’s storied tradition.

These awards serve as testament to continued…

The cold winter months at the end and beginning of the year are Costa Rica’s high season given the natural disposition to seek warmer climates. Animal migration is guided by that, and historically, retirees tend to do the same. In the case of Costa Rica, this is also the stretch of the year when there’s virtually no rain, making it perfect to visit all the wonderful natural landscapes and enjoy the incredible outdoor activities that established the country as a world-class destination.

It’s no surprise then that Canadian tourism is one of Costa Rica’s main visitation markets, particularly considering their famously harsh winters. In a strategic move to cater to the burgeoning demand and broaden travel horizons for that demographic, Guanacaste International Airport has extended operations on the route from Montreal, Canada.

Commencing on May 2, the year-round availability of this route, operated by Air Transat, beckons travelers to explore the wonders of Costa Rica. The route, marked by two flights per week on Thursdays and Sundays, boasts Air Transat’s A321 aircraft with 198 seats. Departing from Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport at 07:30 am and landing in Guanacaste at 11:30 am, the schedule is tailored to optimize the passenger experience, offering ample time to savor the beauty of the region.

Previously limited to the winter season from November to April, this extension reflects a thoughtful response to the evolving travel landscape and the desire for increased flexibility among Canadian wanderers. Guanacaste International Airport’s commitment to fortifying connectivity and propelling tourism growth in the region stands manifest in this strategic decision, as it has done throughout 2023 and 2024 with each one of its scheduling and expansion decisions.

In 2023, Costa continued…

Costa Rica’s coastal splendor is celebrated globally, as it encompasses some of the most incredible, verdant rainforests and pristine beaches the world has to offer. Yet, the allure of this tropical paradise extends beyond its scenic landscapes all the way beneath the waves, as witnessed during the annual whale watching season.

Spanning from August to October, this is the best time of the year to glimpse nature’s grandeur. Humpback whales, undertaking their migration from the Arctic’s chilly waters to Costa Rica’s warmer environs, make these coastal waters their temporary residence. Seeing these colossal beings breaching and playing is an experience that holds itself in memory, a testament to their majestic power.

For those looking for a hub for their marine adventures, Quepos and Manuel Antonio emerge as prime destinations for this annual spectacle. Situated on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, these areas boast attributes that enrich the whale-watching journey. One of these features is how the waters around these tourist hotspots harbor a multitude of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fishes.

Additionally, both Quepos and Manuel Antonio uphold a steadfast dedication to responsible tourism. Many local tour operators adhere to stringent guidelines to minimize disturbances to the whales and their habitats. This eco-conscious approach lets visitors relish the spectacle while nurturing the fragile ecosystem and even provides an abundance of natural diversions beyond the whale-watching exploration, like the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park or other water-centric adventures like snorkeling and kayaking.

With their captivating landscapes, eco-conscious ethos, and unparalleled amenities, this iconic area of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific shines as an exceptional setting to witness these gentle giants in their native habitat.

Boasting all the pillars needed for the perfect ceremony, this small Central American nation shines bright as the place to be when exchanging vows.

The vibrant waters of the Pacific coast as an almost angelic backdrop. White sands that perfectly complement the bride’s dress. An unforgettable tropical party in a truly paradisiacal environment. Just by going through these images, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica has become a well-known wedding destination. Can you really imagine a more scenic tropical setting for your wedding pictures?

In terms of pure photographic potential, Costa Rica not only hosts its celebrated natural wonders, but the very essence of its climate is also a plus within the area. Luminous landscapes and blue skies tend to be the norm during the summer months, so even if you decide for one of the mountain destinations the country offers, it’ll most probably be just the right set of circumstances.

The country also has the benefit of a robust and apparently ever growing tourism infrastructure, which really sets it apart from other wedding destinations. In Costa Rica, the high education level within the service industry, and the amount of years established as one of the world’s definitive tropical vacation spots, means there’s already a reference and a history you can look back to. After all, unless you have a very specific vision for your big night, an integral part of a destination wedding is also the guests’ experience, and Costa Rica is more than prepared for demanding and large groups of all kinds.

Be it an intimate and atmospheric immersion on the misty mountainside of a volcano, or embracing the vividness of the tropical beach, Costa Rica is as continued…

As global travel continues to compensate for its down years during the Covid-19 pandemic, Costa Rica remains in the spotlight as one of the most sought after destinations. After all, who wouldn’t want to relax in tropical paradise after a couple of tense years?

With Covid restrictions giving way to the new normal, and airlines returning to full strength, Costa Rica has seen an important growth in terms of daily and weekly flights. The latest announcement comes from Frontier airlines.

This low-cost airline announced that it’ll start operations on a San Jose-Atlanta connection as soon as November 17, 2022, and an Atlanta-Liberia flight from December 17 of the same year.

Atlanta is one of the United State’s main flight harbors, widely considered to be one of the busiest airports in the world. It serves 150 U.S. destinations an more than 75 destinations in 50 countries all around the world. Data shows the airport handles around 2,500 flights and 275,000 passengers a day, making it a strategic location for furthering the link between U.S. tourists (by far Costa Rica’s main source of visitors) and Costa Rica.

With a direct link to the United State’s main hub for connection flights, Costa Rica seeks to expand on the more than 800,000 US tourists that have visited the country during the first seven months of 2022. The Costa Rican Institute of Tourism (ICT) considers the news as a big positive for the nation’s economic reactivation, while the National Chamber of Tourism (CONATUR) sees this as a great opportunity to continue moving forward with more connections and market penetration in the United States.

One of our favorite tours, which offers a perfect combination of nature and adrenaline, is the waterfall rappelling tour by Quepos Canyoning. The tour begins with a 20-minute ride from the company office in Quepos to the town of Villa Nueva, where the company base camp is located. Here the guides will fit you with the gear you need for your trek–safety harness, helmet, belts and clips.

From base camp, it is another 15-minute ride, in an open air 4wd vehicle, over hilly unpaved roads, to the tour starting point. First a short, uphill hike through thick rainforest, until you arrive at the first platform. To reach the 30-foot high platform, you must climb a suspension ladder. But safety comes first, and you are secure during the climb, thanks to your safety harness. Once atop the platform, you take the first of 2 ziplines, soaring over the forest canopy. Then comes a new challenge– a 25-meter cable walk. This is done at your own pace, as you are walking across a single suspension cable, but with shoulder high support cables on each side to assist you. And of course, you are secured by belts in case you slip along the way.

Then you arrive at the summit of the waterfall. This is the tour highlight, a 75-foot descent, alongside and then through a refreshing waterfall, until you arrive at the pool at the base. After some snacks and water, a brief hike to the final zipline, and then the final thrill, the ‘’monkey drop’’ where you are suspended out about 25-feet in the air, and then do a controlled free-fall to the pool below.

All activities during the tour are continued…

Manuel Antonioes uno de los destinos más dinámicos del país; ofrece una variedad de actividades aptas para todos los gustos. Aunque es más conocido por sus increíbles y paradisíacas playas, este pueblo costero es rico en paisajes y entretenimiento. Montañas, ríos, cataratas, y bosques tropicales ofrecen numerosas opciones para transformar tus vacaciones en la experiencia que siempre soñaste.  Si estás planeando unas vacaciones enManuel Antonio, asegúrate de  hacer estos 5 tours para disfrutar de tu experiencia al máximo.

1.Snorkeling

Las playas deManuel Antonioson de las más hermosas en el mundo; con arena blanca, agua cristalina, y muchos árboles que ofrecen sombra. Aunque son perfectas para un baño de sol o una caminata al atardecer, una de las cosas que son imperdibles en las playas deManuel Antonioes practicar esnórquel. No importa si reservas un tour o decides navegar las aguas por tu propia cuenta, la experiencia será muy emocionante. Nuestra recomendación es hacerlo enPlaya Manuel Antonio, ubicada dentro del parque nacional; esto porque es una bahía con oleaje calmo y roca volcánica bajo el agua. Las formaciones rocosas y los corales son el mejor lugar para ver la riqueza de vida marina.

2. Caminata Guiada en Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

Hacer senderismo en el parqueManuel Antonioes una de las actividades más impresionantes que puedes hacer en este pueblo. Aunque es posible hacerlo por cuenta propia, para esta actividad recomendamos contratar a un guía. Los guías turísticos tienen un excelente ojo para identificar animales en su hábitat, y además se encargan de educar a los visitantes con respecto a las mejores prácticas para proteger a estas especies y a nosotros mismos.

When people ask me about Costa Rica they often ask for the best beaches, best ecolodges or most thriling ziplines. For some reason they rarely ask about the best waterfalls. Here is a stunning collection of waterfalls to be one of the country’s highlights.

Costa Rica’s rugged mountains and abundant rainfall create a geography that’s literally overflowing with rivers. By some estimates only New Zealand has more rivers per square kilometer. As water races down Costa Rica’s mountains on its way to the sea, it often leaps over sheer drop-offs, resulting in dozens of world-class waterfalls.

No matter where you go in Costa Rica, there’s a waterfall nearby. But seek out the very best and you’ll be glad you did. Some are great for swimming, others are famous for jumping. Others are simply drop-dead gorgeous. Some waterfalls are located on private land, others in national parks, but all have the power to transform you. The combination of thundering water, cool spray and lush vegetation washes away the outside world, placing you squarely in the moment and inducing a deep state ofpura vida.

Rio Celeste

That’s not Photoshop—the Rio Celeste really is that blue. According to local legend, when God finished painting the sky he dipped his brush in the Rio Celeste. Or maybe it’s all those aluminosilicates that naturally occur in the water. Quien sabe, mae? Thanks to social media Rio Celeste is no longer a secret, but its remote location in Tenorio National Park helps keep down the crowds. The waterfall is reached via a 1.5-km (1-mile) hiking trail, so plan on spending at least half a day in the park.