Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Manuel Antonio, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Based on the climate and weather in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Manuel Antonio, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica by month

January

January is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

February

February in Manuel Antonio is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

March

Traveling to Manuel Antonio in March, you will notice that it can be sweltering and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Manuel Antonio is constantly hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

May

If you visit Manuel Antonio during May, you are likely to notice that it is really hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

June

June in Manuel Antonio is really hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July in Manuel Antonio can be sweltering and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

In August, Manuel Antonio can be very hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Manuel Antonio, with most of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

September

In September, Manuel Antonio can be sweltering and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Manuel Antonio, with most of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the right type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

October

October in Manuel Antonio is consistently hot and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

November

November for Manuel Antonio is extremely hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

December

In December, Manuel Antonio can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Manuel Antonio, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Costa Rica has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manuel Antonio. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio, a picturesque coastal town located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the country. The town is famous for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vast marine and wildlife reserves. If you’re planning a trip to Manuel Antonio, here are the top tourist attractions worth exploring.

1. Manuel Antonio National Park

The Manuel Antonio National Park is a world-renowned natural reserve that spans over 1,983 hectares of lush forests and beaches. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals and is a sanctuary for rare species such as the squirrel monkey and the two-toed sloth. The park's hiking trails offer a glimpse of various flora species such as the coconuts and mangrove.

2. Playa Espadilla Sur

Playa Espadilla Sur is one of the most popular beaches in Manuel Antonio due to its wide golden sands and scenic location. Surrounded by lush green forests, the beach offers excellent views of the sun rising and setting. A perfect place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy an array of beach activities like snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking.

3. El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour

El Santuario Canopy Adventure offers visitors an opportunity to experience an adrenaline-filled adventure through the rainforest canopy on a zip-line. The tour provides stunning views of the rainforest as well as opportunities to see exotic wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans.

4. Manuel Antonio Beach

Manuel Antonio Beach is a serene and secluded beach nestled in a bay surrounded by tropical gardens. The beach offers crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

5. The Park at Ocean Sounds

The Park at Ocean Sounds offers a unique experience at Manuel Antonio through its outdoor amphitheater set surroundings that provide an ambiance of the tropical forest. Visitors can enjoy nature and cultural shows and learn about the history, flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio.

6. Quepos Farmers Market

Quepos Farmers Market is a unique farmers market offering authentic Costa Rican cuisines and products. The market sells organic produce, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. It is an excellent place to experience the local culture and enjoy the flavors and aromas of traditional Costa Rican food.

7. Marina Pez Vela

Marina Pez Vela is a prestigious marina offering yachts, fishing boats, and catamaran charters. Visitors can enjoy sport fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling tours or take a stroll along the marina’s boardwalk, arrange for a romantic sunset cruise or enjoy a beachside restaurant.

Conclusion

Manuel Antonio is a must-visit destination for tourists looking to enjoy Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and biodiversity. With its natural attractions that include spectacular beaches, lush forests, and wildlife reserves, you will find something that caters to your interests. No matter your purpose for visiting, whether for adventure or relaxation, you will find an array of activities that will leave you longing to explore the region more.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Keonjhar, India, Mount Heng, China, Capitão Leonidas Marques, Brazil, Chavín de Huántar, Peru, Benapole, Bangladesh, Gandikota, India, Greenville, Texas, United States of America, Marottichal, India, Scottsdale, Arizona, United States of America, Penza Oblast, Russia, and Mont-Joli, Quebec, Canada.