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

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Ready to pack for Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica? If you're planning to go to Manuel Antonio, below is 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

If you are traveling to Manuel Antonio in January, you will notice that it can be very hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • 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.

  • 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 frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you go to Manuel Antonio in February, you will notice that it is extremely hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March for Manuel Antonio can be sweltering and extremely rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s 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.

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option 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

April

If you visit Manuel Antonio during April, you may notice that it can be very hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you 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 going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

May

May in Manuel Antonio can be sweltering and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • 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 these days, an AirTag can 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June is consistently hot 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.

  • 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 always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

July

In July, 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

Traveling to Manuel Antonio in August, you will notice that it is really hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

September

In September, Manuel Antonio is really 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.

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money 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

October

If you visit Manuel Antonio during October, you may notice that it is consistently hot and extremely rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

November

If you go to Manuel Antonio in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you go to Manuel Antonio in December, you will notice that it is extremely hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 additional 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • 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
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require 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 countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel 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

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.

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