You can find all your favorites in the menu
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Visit Central Pacific Coast, Costa Rica

Jump to:

Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast is scattered with a diverse range of stunning beaches and protected areas of natural beauty: in all a fantastic opportunity to experience nature, adventure, and relaxation within easy reach of San José.

National Parks

Just a four-hour drive or a short flight from the capital, the national parks of Carara and Manuel Antonio are two very important green zones, providing sanctuary for an incredible variety of wildlife.

Squirrel Monkey, Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa RicaHundreds of gorgeous butterflies, hummingbirds, scarlet macaws, brightly-beaked toucans and clambering monkeys are just some of the tropical life found here.

Whilst Manuel Antonio has some undoubtedly fantastic beaches it is busy and fairly built up so if you prefer quieter areas then Esterillos, Bejuco and Palma slightly further south make excellent alternatives: their beaches are just as beautiful.

A few days spent along this wonderful coast are an ideal relaxing break in the middle or at the end of any trip to Costa Rica.

Speak to someone
who's been there
Emma portrait

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Central Pacific Coast by contacting one of our Costa Rica specialists

Suggested itineraries featuring Central Pacific Coast

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Central Pacific Coast, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Central Pacific Coast

Places & hotels on the map

    Places in and around Central Pacific Coast

    Our expert guides to exploring Central Pacific Coast

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Central Pacific Coast, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Central Pacific Coast at its best.

    • Costa Rica for first-time visitors
      Red eyed tree frog, Costa Rica

      Costa Rica for first-time visitors

      Costa Rica for first-time visitors

      With cloudforests, marshlands, and coral-laced coasts, Costa Rica is one of Latin America’s most coveted wildlife destinations. Specialist Nik recommends where to visit during your first trip and how you can encounter all the creatures on your wish list.

      7 min read

      Read this guide

    Accommodation choices for Central Pacific Coast

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Central Pacific Coast. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.