Diving from Manuel Antonio National Park near Quepos is one of the most enjoyable experiences of Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast. Here you’ll find a variety of environments created by the area’s volcanic origins, including caverns, deep sea pinnacles and boulders covered in soft corals. While there are a couple of protected sites for beginners, the vast majority of diving near Manuel Antonio National Park features mild current with strong surge. Advanced divers will certainly feel more comfortable here. Furthermore, the offshore pinnacles such as Veinte Seis should only be attempted by experienced divers due to outward currents.All diving in Manuel Antonio National Park takes place from small speedboats. There’s also the possibility of taking a longer trip from Quepos to Isla del Cano. Keep in mind that a $16 daily permit is required for anyone entering Manuel Antonio National Park.

Best Scuba Diving Spots in Manuel Antonio National Park Quepos

Manuel Antonio National Park Quepos Sea Life

From big to small, you’ll be surprised at the diversity of marine life found off Manuel Antonio National Park. Among the hard and soft corals live massive schools of jacks and snappers. Their presence is added to by puffer fish, scorpion fish, parrot fish, angel fish, moorish idols, octopus, trumpets, eels, sea turtles, nudibranchs and a variety of crustaceans. In terms of larger animals, you might encounter white-tip reef sharks, stingrays and spotted eagle rays. From December to May, you may also dive with Giant Manta Rays. On your way to or from offshore sites during these same months, you might see humpback whales or large pods of dolphins.

How To Get There

The closest international airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose. From the capital city to Quepos, where most people stay, is a 3-hour journey by car or bus. Once you reach the coast, it’s possible to get around completely on foot. However, there is also a public bus that travels between the area’s hotels and the national park.