Things to Do in Manuel Antonio
Curated adventures from your jungle hotel — ATV, canyoning & catamaran
Activities & Tours in Quepos
Manuel Antonio and Quepos sit at the intersection of rainforest, mountain rivers and Pacific Ocean — making them one of the most activity-rich destinations on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush in the jungle, a sunset on the water or a family-friendly day out, the area delivers.
At Tabulia Tree Hotel, we've partnered with the three best-rated local operators in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Each activity can be booked directly through us — with hotel pickup included on most tours. No middlemen, no surprises.
All activities depart from or near Tabulia Tree Hotel in Quepos, Manuel Antonio. Hotel pickup available. Gear, guides and safety equipment included. Suitable for most fitness levels — individual activity pages detail requirements.
ATV Off-Road Adventure
Honda ATVs through palm plantations, river crossings and private jungle reserves
One of the best things to do in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, the ATV Fourtrax tour takes you deep into the Costa Rican countryside that most tourists never see. You'll ride Honda ATVs through African palm oil plantations, splash through river crossings, climb muddy jungle trails and stop at scenic viewpoints overlooking the Pacific coast.
The tour operates with a maximum group size to keep the experience personal. Bilingual guides lead the way and adapt the route to your group's experience level — from first-timers to seasoned riders. Hotel pickup from Tabulia Tree included in most departure times.
This is one of the top-rated outdoor activities in Manuel Antonio for a reason: it combines the raw beauty of the Quepos jungle with the thrill of off-road riding, all within 30 minutes of your hotel.
ATV · Off-Road
ATV Fourtrax
Waterfall Canyoning
Rappel down jungle waterfalls deep in the mountains above Quepos
If you're looking for the most thrilling thing to do near Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepo Canyoning delivers an experience you won't find anywhere else in the region. The tour takes you into the mountains above Quepos — a 30-minute drive from Manuel Antonio — where a series of jungle waterfalls await.
You'll rappel down cascades through lush primary forest, traverse natural rock pools and swim through emerald-green canyon sections. The route covers multiple drops ranging from beginner-friendly to genuinely exhilarating — making it one of the best outdoor adventures in Quepos for groups of all experience levels.
Quepo Canyoning uses certified ropes, harnesses and helmets, and all guides are trained in first aid and wilderness rescue. Group sizes are kept small to ensure a safe, personal experience in the jungle.
Canyoning · Waterfalls
Quepo Canyoning
Catamaran Cruise
55-ft catamaran along the Pacific coast — snorkeling, dolphins & open bar
The Sea Quest catamaran cruise is the quintessential Manuel Antonio ocean experience — and one of the top-rated tours in Quepos for groups, couples and families alike. You'll board a 55-foot catamaran from Marina Pez Vela (just 10 minutes from Tabulia Tree Hotel) and set sail along the stunning Pacific coastline.
The day includes stops for snorkeling in crystal-clear coves, watching for dolphins and humpback whales (seasonal), and a leisurely cruise past the cliffs and beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park as seen from the water. Open bar, fresh tropical fruit and a hot meal are served on board.
Sunset departures are also available — one of the most romantic things to do in Manuel Antonio for couples. The golden light over the Pacific from the deck of a catamaran is something you'll remember long after you return home.
Catamaran · Ocean
Sea Quest
The Best Things to Do in Quepos & Manuel Antonio
Quepos and Manuel Antonio sit on Costa Rica's Central Pacific coast, about 3 hours south of San José by car or shuttle. The combination of Manuel Antonio National Park — consistently ranked among the most beautiful national parks in the world by Forbes and National Geographic — with the adventure infrastructure built around Quepos town makes this one of the most activity-dense destinations in all of Central America.
Why Book Activities Through Tabulia Tree Hotel?
Tabulia Tree Hotel works exclusively with vetted, licensed operators in Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Our activity partners have been selected based on safety record, guide quality, equipment standards and guest satisfaction scores. When you book through us, you get the same tour at the same price — with the added convenience of hotel coordination, direct communication and a trusted point of contact if anything changes.
All three activities listed here — ATV off-road tours with ATV Fourtrax, waterfall canyoning with Quepo Canyoning, and catamaran cruises with Sea Quest — depart from or near Tabulia Tree Hotel in Quepos, Manuel Antonio. Hotel pickup is available on most departures.
ATV Tours Near Manuel Antonio National Park
The ATV Fourtrax tour is consistently one of the most searched activities in Quepos. It appeals to travelers who want to explore the countryside beyond the national park — the African palm plantations, river crossings and jungle mountain roads that surround Manuel Antonio give riders a completely different perspective on the region. Departure times are flexible and groups can be private.
Waterfall Canyoning in the Quepos Mountains
Quepo Canyoning operates exclusively in the mountains above Quepos — an area of primary rainforest and canyon rivers that is off-limits to casual hikers. Rappelling down active waterfalls through a jungle canyon is a genuinely rare experience, and one that separates Manuel Antonio from more resort-style destinations. This is the best adrenaline activity near Manuel Antonio for those looking for something beyond the beach.
Catamaran Cruises from Marina Pez Vela, Quepos
Marina Pez Vela in Quepos is one of the finest marinas on the Pacific coast of Central America and the departure point for all catamaran and sport fishing tours in the area. The Sea Quest catamaran gives guests a chance to see Manuel Antonio National Park from the ocean — its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches and forest canopy look completely different from the water. Dolphin and humpback whale sightings are common year-round.
When is the Best Time for Activities in Manuel Antonio?
The dry season (December to April) offers the most reliable weather for all outdoor activities — sunny skies, calm Pacific waters and excellent visibility for snorkeling and wildlife spotting. The green season (May to November) brings lush rainforest scenery, fewer crowds and lower tour prices. ATV and canyoning tours run year-round as the jungle routes are accessible regardless of season. Catamaran tours may be weather-dependent during peak rainy season in October.
Activities &
Your Questions
Everything you need to know about tours and activities in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
What are the best things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
The top activities in Manuel Antonio include visiting Manuel Antonio National Park (ranked among the most beautiful in the world), ATV off-road tours through jungle and palm plantations with ATV Fourtrax, waterfall canyoning and rappelling in the Quepos mountains with Quepo Canyoning, and catamaran cruises along the Pacific coast with snorkeling and dolphin watching. All three tours can be booked through Tabulia Tree Hotel with hotel pickup included.
What outdoor activities are available near Quepos?
Quepos is one of the best bases for outdoor adventures on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. From Quepos you can do ATV tours through private jungle reserves and river crossings, waterfall canyoning in the mountains above town, catamaran cruises departing from Marina Pez Vela, sport fishing, whitewater rafting on the Savegre River, hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park and wildlife tours. Tabulia Tree Hotel is located in the Manuel Antonio area, just 10 minutes from Quepos town.
Is canyoning in Quepos safe for beginners?
Yes. Quepo Canyoning is designed for all experience levels, including first-timers. Certified guides provide a full safety briefing before departure, certified ropes and harnesses are used on every descent, and all guides are trained in first aid and wilderness rescue. Group sizes are kept small. The tour includes multiple drops of different heights so participants can choose their comfort level at each section.
How far is Marina Pez Vela from Tabulia Tree Hotel?
Marina Pez Vela in Quepos is approximately 10 minutes by car from Tabulia Tree Hotel. It is the departure point for the Sea Quest catamaran cruise and for sport fishing charters in the area. The marina has excellent facilities including restaurants, shops and parking. Tabulia Tree Hotel can arrange transportation to the marina for activity departures.
What is the best activity in Manuel Antonio for families?
The catamaran cruise with Sea Quest is the most family-friendly activity near Manuel Antonio — suitable for all ages with no physical requirements, open bar (soft drinks for kids), a hot meal and snorkeling in calm Pacific coves. The ATV Fourtrax tour is also popular with families (minimum age 8, children can ride double with an adult). Both include hotel pickup and bilingual guides.
Can I book activities at Tabulia Tree Hotel on the day?
Same-day bookings are sometimes possible depending on availability, but we recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance to guarantee your preferred departure time and group size. All three activities can be booked through Tabulia Tree Hotel via WhatsApp. During high season (December–April) popular departures fill quickly — booking before arrival is strongly recommended.
What should I wear for an ATV tour in Quepos?
Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting muddy — long pants are recommended to protect your legs on the ATV. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. A change of clothes is highly recommended as river crossings are part of the route. Helmets and gloves are provided. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and a small amount of cash for tips. The tour includes a safety briefing and gear fitting before departure.
Are there dolphin watching tours near Manuel Antonio?
Yes. Dolphin sightings are a regular highlight of the Sea Quest catamaran cruise, which operates along the Pacific coast between Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park. Both spinner and bottlenose dolphins are commonly spotted in these waters year-round. Humpback whale sightings are also possible from July to October and December to April, when two different humpback whale populations pass through the area during their migrations.
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in Manuel Antonio?
The dry season (December to April) offers the most reliable weather — sunny skies, calm Pacific waters and good visibility for snorkeling and wildlife. The green season (May to November) brings lush scenery, fewer tourists and lower prices. ATV and canyoning tours operate year-round. Catamaran tours may be subject to weather delays during peak rainy months (September–October). Wildlife sightings in Manuel Antonio National Park are excellent year-round.
How do I get from Tabulia Tree Hotel to the tour departure points?
Hotel pickup is included with the ATV Fourtrax tour directly from Tabulia Tree Hotel. For the Quepo Canyoning and Sea Quest catamaran tours, Tabulia Tree Hotel can arrange transport or provide directions. Marina Pez Vela (catamaran departure) is 10 minutes by car. The canyoning pickup point in Quepos is approximately 15 minutes away. All logistics are coordinated when you book through the hotel.
Ready for Your Manuel Antonio Adventure?
Book your activities directly through the hotel — hotel pickup, bilingual guides, zero hassle.