🌿 Quepos & Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica: Scouting Trip Guide

Quepos and Manuel Antonio are among Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations. Just 3 hours from San José, this area offers a mix of conveniences, natural beauty, and tourism energy. Quepos serves as the bustling hub—with banks, supermarkets, and a busy marina—while Manuel Antonio is famous for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and the world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park.

For expats, this region offers an interesting balance: you’ll have access to services, a strong expat presence, and endless nature—though keep in mind it’s one of Costa Rica’s busiest tourist areas, so crowds and higher costs come with the territory.

✅ Quepos & Manuel Antonio Scouting Trip Checklist (3–5 Days)

Here’s what to focus on during your scouting trip:

1. Experience Daily Life

Walk around Quepos town: check out supermarkets, pharmacies, and the marina.
Explore housing options: ocean-view condos, hillside villas, and homes closer to Quepos for easier access to services.
Visit local gyms, coworking cafés, and wellness studios to see what day-to-day life could look like.

2. Food & Dining

Dine at local sodas for authentic Costa Rican meals.
Try Marina Pez Vela restaurants in Quepos for upscale dining with ocean views.
In Manuel Antonio, explore a mix of international cuisine, from fine dining to casual beachside eats.

3. Activities & Lifestyle

Spend a day in Manuel Antonio National Park, famous for its monkeys, sloths, and beaches.
Walk the Quepos waterfront and see daily life in a working port town.
Enjoy the beaches—Playa Espadilla is the most popular, but smaller coves nearby offer quieter escapes.
Experience the vibrant tourism vibe—shops, art galleries, and nightlife.

4. Day Trips Nearby

Damas Island Mangroves – boat or kayak through mangrove forests.
Nauyaca Waterfalls – about 1.5 hours south near Dominical.
Rainmaker Reserve – rainforest hiking and hanging bridges, less crowded than Manuel Antonio.

🏡 Where to Stay in Quepos & Manuel Antonio (Great Picks for Scouting Trips)

Parador Resort & Spa – resort-style with panoramic ocean views.
Si Como No – boutique eco-resort with strong community ties.
Hotel Plaza Yara – convenient, modern suites near Manuel Antonio.
Short-term condo rentals near the marina or hillside villas to test-drive local living.

📝 Local Life to Notice

Life here revolves around tourism—meaning lots of restaurants, tours, and seasonal crowds. You’ll find reliable services, international dining, and a strong expat community, but it comes at higher prices than quieter regions. Quepos is more local and practical, while Manuel Antonio is more scenic and tourist-oriented—many expats choose based on whether they want convenience or a jungle view.

🔗 Ready to Explore More?

After Quepos & Manuel Antonio, many expats explore:

Jacó – vibrant beach town with easy access to San José.
Costa Ballena (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) – quieter, nature-rich expat hub just south.
Central Valley – cooler mountain living with city conveniences.
La Fortuna – adventure and eco-living near Arenal Volcano.