Manuel Antonio is about 45 miles (70 km) south of Jacó along the coast — about 1 hour by car. It's the most popular day trip from Jacó: a postcard national park where the rainforest meets white-sand beaches, with monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the trails.
Your options at a glance
| Option | Time | Cost (2026) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private transfer — Jaco Transport | ~1h | Sedan $120 / SUV $130 per vehicle | Day trips, families, skipping the bus schedule |
| Shared shuttle — Jaco Transport | ~1h15 | $40 / person (min 3) | Solo travelers, couples on a budget |
| Public bus | ~2h30 (transfer in Quepos) | ~$5 | Backpackers with a full day to spare |
Why do it as a private transfer
A private van means you go on your schedule — leave early to beat the crowds and the midday heat (the park is best in the cool morning anyway). Your driver waits while you explore, then takes you home.
- Door to door from your Jacó hotel to the Manuel Antonio park entrance.
- Wait-and-return option, so you don't need two separate bookings.
- A local driver who'll point out the crocodile bridge and the best lunch stops.
- Air-conditioned vehicle, child seats on request.
What it costs
Priced per vehicle (private), or pay per seat on the shared shuttle:
- Private sedan (up to 3) — $120
- Private SUV (up to 6) — $130, one flat fare the group splits
- Shared shuttle — $40 per person (minimum 3)
What you'll see in Manuel Antonio
- Manuel Antonio National Park — short, easy trails packed with wildlife; you'll likely see white-faced monkeys and maybe a sloth.
- Playa Manuel Antonio — calm, swimmable beach inside the park.
- Pacific viewpoints that put this place on every Costa Rica list.
Frequently asked questions
Can we do Manuel Antonio as a day trip from Jacó?
Easily. Leave around 7 a.m., spend the morning in the park, have lunch in Quepos, and you're back in Jacó by mid-afternoon.
Do we need a guide for the park?
Optional. Guides spot wildlife you'd walk right past, but the trails are simple to do on your own. We can arrange a guide if you want one.
Is the park open every day?
It's closed one day a week (the day changes), so check before you go. We'll confirm when you book.