Costa Rica Guide
The Central Pacific and southern Nicoya
Manuel Antonio
Southeast of Quepos, a seven-kilometre stretch of road winds over the surrounding hills, pitching up at the entrance to the village of MANUEL ANTONIO and the Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio (see p.356). Manuel Antonio was one of the first places in the country to feel the effects of the 1990s tourist explosion. Drawn by its lavish beauty, hoteliers and businesses rushed into the area, and these days the entire road from Quepos to the park is lined with some sort of accommodation. The most exclusive – and expensive – hotels hide away in the surrounding hills, with lovely ocean and sunset views. Though you'll find some affordable places near the park entrance, and the occasional low-season discount, prices are high compared to the rest of the country.