Did you know there is a vacation destination that has earned the title “Happiest Country in the World?”
A tiny Central American country earned the title because its beauty inspires smiles. And, since this peaceful little country hasn’t had an army since 1948, the honor is well deserved.
Its reputation alone is enough to put a Costa Rica vacation at the top of your list. But it has so much more to offer.
Find out here why a vacation to the world’s happiest country becomes the perfect adventure when your destination is Manuel Antonio.
Why Visit Manuel Antonio
For the ultimate Costa Rica vacation plan to stay in Manuel Antonio.
Located along the western shore, this quaint little town has the best of what Costa Rica offers. Lush jungles surround crystal blue waters and warm, sandy beaches.
Manuel Antonio features a long list of easy-to-get-to locations. Experience all the diverse ecosystems Costa Rica is famous for without having to drive for hours.
Any vacation in Costa Rica promises beauty, tranquility, and adventure. But it’s no wonder this beautiful beach town is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica.
When to Go
What type of weather-lover are you? Hot and dry or slightly cooler with some daily moisture?
Manuel Antonio has both covered.
The “dry season” runs from December to April. This is your typical tropical weather. And it’s the busiest season for any Costa Rica vacation.
If you enjoy meeting new people, a holiday vacation will not disappoint. From families celebrating the holidays tropical-style to folks wanting to warm up over winter, expect to make loads of new friends from all over the world. The week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is extremely popular.
The “rainy” or Green Season, as it’s called, is from May through November. Perfect if you prefer to avoid the crowds.
But don’t be fooled. The occasional afternoon downpours are brief and don’t get serious until later during the Green Season.
If a little rain doesn’t bother you, there’s a bonus for arriving in Manuel Antonio during this time of year. Lower hotel rates and more room on the beaches. Plus the rainforest is at it’s best — teeming with wildlife and the glories of nature.
What to Explore
No matter what your passion, numerous adventures await to indulge your inner explorer.
Here are some of the must-sees and -dos waiting for you to discover in Manuel Antonio.
Manuel Antonio National Park
This is an obvious choice. After all, you’re basically already there.
Described as one of the most beautiful national parks in the world by Forbes Magazine the National Park at Manuel Antonio is a paradise for wildlife watchers. The refuge allows species to flourish. There are over 100 mammals and 280 species of birds hiding out in the dense foliage.
There are over 100 mammals and 280 species of birds hiding out in the dense foliage.
Observe playful monkeys, lazy three-toed sloths, vibrant toucans, Emerald Basilisk lizards, and yes, even snakes, in their natural habitat. To ensure you don’t leave without seeing some of these tricky hiders, book a guided tour.
Playa Biesanz
Situated in a secluded cove, access to this lesser-known beach is a hiking trail that meanders through lush wilderness. Keep your eyes and ears open, especially if you go early in the morning or as your depart in the afternoon. Squirrel and howler monkeys dwell high up in the jungle canopy.
Manuel Antonio’s unforgettable white-sand beaches are very popular. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds one day during your vacation, take a jaunt to beautiful Playa Biesanz.
Kids Saving the Rainforest
The name is not a mistake. Founded by two 9-year-olds in 1999, this rescue and rehabilitation facility is one of the most highly-respected wildlife refuges in Costa Rica.
They treat almost 150 injured and orphaned rainforest animals each year.
The Kids Saving the Rainforest wildlife sanctuary offers tours. Not only do you learn about their amazing work, plan to see some creatures close up.
Watch the grace and poise of a variety of monkeys such as tiny tamarins, marmosets, spider monkeys, and the well-known white-faced monkey. The organization has also nursed exotic birds, kinkajous, and sloths back to health.
While there is no cost for admission, a donation to further their work is highly recommended.
Zip Line Canopy Tour
Want to experience the rainforest from a unique perspective? A zip line tour is the absolute must-do.
Enjoy the thrill of flying from platform to platform while experiencing the beauty of the jungle canopy. Your Costa Rica vacation will not soon be forgotten.
Sportfishing
No Costa Rica vacation is complete without venturing into the open sea.
Inshore catches might include roosterfish, snapper, mackerel, amberjack, and grouper.
Looking to wrangle against some serious power? Head offshore for marlin, sailfish, dorado, and tuna.
The Quepos Marina Pez Vela is less than 8 km (just under 20 minutes) from Manuel Antonio. Ask your concierge for charter recommendations.
Where to Stay
We’ve saved the Where for last since it will be your first step to planning the ultimate Costa Rica vacation.
Nestled among mangrove trees, howler-monkeys, and exotic birds lies a luxury resort and spa. Set high atop a plush, forested hill, the ocean view from The Preserve at Los Altos is enough to make you never want to leave.
With luxury, scenery, and an exclusive beach area this resort and spa is one-stop perfection.
Centrally located in Manuel Antonio, the multitude of tours and activities are easy to get to from your secluded location on the hill.
Our friendly concierge is available to reserve activities and arranges all necessary transportation to and from your adventures, and if your are thinking on visiting Costa Rica for medical tourism (dental treatment or aesthetic surgery) our staff will be more than happy to assist you with all your visit’s arrangements.
Immerse yourself in nature and Costa Rican culture, without straying far from home base.
A Luxurious Costa Rica Vacation Awaits
From fully equipped condos to luxuriously appointed suites, The Preserve at Los Altos will make your Costa Rican dream vacation a reality.
We offer a variety of vacation packages to fit your style and your budget. Choose from a long list of boutique vacation packages, such as:
- Our Manuel Antonio Costa Rica Family Vacation Package
- The popular Romantic Adventurous Getaway
- A Spa Vacation Package & Detox Retreat
- Our Green Season Paradise 3×2 Beach Escape
Book your Costa Rica vacation now to receive a 20% discount on stays through December 19th, 2017.
No matter when you arrive, you’ll leave as one of the “Happiest People in the World.”
