Central Pacific Coast

Plan your trip to Central Pacific Coast

The Central Pacific Coast is one of the most accessible and biodiverse regions to explore, combining palm-fringed beaches with rainforest teeming with monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws. Anchored by the famous Manuel Antonio National Park and the surf town of Jacó, it offers an easy mix of wildlife, adventure, and coastal relaxation. It's ideal for first-time visitors wanting nature and beaches without long, difficult drives.

Getting there & around

Most travellers fly into the capital region and drive south on the coastal highway, reaching Jacó in about 1.5 hours and Manuel Antonio/Quepos in around 3 hours. Quepos has a small domestic airport served by short regional flights. Renting a car is the most practical way to get around, though frequent buses and shuttles connect the main towns like Jacó, Quepos, and Uvita.

How long to stay

Plan for 4 to 6 days to comfortably combine Manuel Antonio's wildlife, a waterfall visit, and time at several beaches without rushing. A shorter 2-3 day trip works if you focus only on Manuel Antonio and nearby beaches.

When to go

January to April is the dry season with reliable sunny beach days, making it the peak time to visit. May through November brings green, lush landscapes and afternoon rains, with lower crowds and prices.

Suggested itinerary

1. Jacó and Playa Hermosa — Settle into Jacó for its lively beach scene, then head to nearby Playa Hermosa for excellent surfing and sunset views.
2. Tárcoles River and Carara National Park — Take a boat tour on the Tárcoles River to spot crocodiles and birds, then hike Carara National Park to see scarlet macaws and rainforest wildlife.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park — Explore the park's trails and white-sand beaches, watching for monkeys, sloths, and iguanas, then relax in Quepos for dinner.
4. Nauyaca Waterfalls and Dominical — Visit the impressive Nauyaca Waterfalls for swimming, then unwind at the laid-back beach town of Dominical.
5. Uvita and Marino Ballena — End near Uvita, known for its whale-tail sandbar and whale-watching opportunities during migration season.

Frequently asked questions

Is Manuel Antonio National Park worth visiting?

Yes, it's one of the region's top attractions, combining accessible rainforest trails with beaches and reliable wildlife sightings of monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. Arrive early and note the park is closed on certain days, so check the schedule in advance.

How many days do you need on the Central Pacific Coast?

Four to six days is ideal to cover Manuel Antonio, waterfalls, and multiple beaches. With only 2-3 days, focus on Manuel Antonio and Jacó.

What is the best time to visit the Central Pacific Coast?

January to April offers the driest, sunniest weather for beaches. May to November is greener and quieter but has frequent afternoon rain.

How do you get from Jacó to Manuel Antonio?

It's about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive south along the coastal highway through Quepos. Buses and shuttle services also run regularly between the two towns.

Can you see scarlet macaws in the region?

Yes, Carara National Park and the Tárcoles River area are among the best places in the country to see wild scarlet macaws, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.