Manuel Antonio
Rainforest-meets-beach paradise with the most biodiverse national park in Costa Rica
Condos from
$200K–$600K
Yield
9–13%
To airport
N/A (San Jose SJO: 2.5 hr)
About Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica's most celebrated nature destination — a headland wrapped in primary rainforest that drops directly into white-sand beaches of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws share the landscape with international visitors and a sophisticated expat community. The town attracts premium buyers who want the full Costa Rica "nature + beach" experience with upscale dining and services to match. It commands some of the highest villa prices in the country.
Best for
Pros
- ✓National park at your doorstep — biodiversity unmatched in Costa Rica
- ✓Premium villa rental yields (9–13%)
- ✓Inclusive, sophisticated community
- ✓World-class wildlife viewing
Cons
- ✗Very rainy — not suitable for buyers wanting dry season lifestyle year-round
- ✗Far from Liberia and Guanacaste corridor
- ✗Traffic congestion around the park
- ✗National park access fees and restrictions
Key Stats — Manuel Antonio
- Climate
- Lush rainforest climate — significant rainfall year-round, greenest landscape in Costa Rica
- Temperature
- 83°F
- Condo prices
- $200K–$600K
- Villa prices
- $600K–$6M
- Rental yield
- 9–13%
- Airbnb occupancy
- 74% annual, 90% high season
- Nightly rate
- $250 avg, $380 high season
- Expat community
- Sophisticated — 1,500+ predominantly LGBTQ+ inclusive and arts-oriented
- Nearest hospital
- Hospital Max Peralta, Quepos (30 min)
- Drive to LIR/SJO
- N/A (San Jose SJO: 2.5 hr)
FAQ — Manuel Antonio
Is Manuel Antonio good for rental income?
Yes — the combination of national park proximity, luxury villa inventory, and high international visitor demand drives strong yields of 9–13% for well-positioned properties.
What wildlife will I see near my home?
Manuel Antonio has four species of monkeys, two-toed and three-toed sloths, scarlet macaws, toucans, and hundreds of bird species within walking distance of most homes.
How does Manuel Antonio compare to Nosara?
Both are premium nature-focused markets with high yields. Manuel Antonio has more biodiversity and LGBTQ+ culture; Nosara has better surfing and wellness community. Manuel Antonio gets significantly more rain.