An Insider’s Guide to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Welcome to the first in a series of pieces about Manuel Antonio, the emerald of Costa Rica. Its endless lush greens come in hues you’ve never seen. I first came here 20 years ago as a freelance wildlife photographer. Primates are my specialty and Costa Rica has 4 species. My passion for apes and monkeys began when King Kong first stole my heart in the front row of the Jewel Theater in L.A. before my feet could reach the ground. From my very first trip to Costa Rica I dreamed of someday living on the beach with monkeys in my yard. I moved here 5 years ago and now enjoy daily visits from 3 species of monkeys.

The road less traveled has been my focus for more than 30 years. My most memorable experiences have been at the side of a native or an expat. I’ve stayed in the home of a Sherpa in the Himalayas, slept on a hammock in an Amazon village, and eaten toasted crickets and silk worms with an expat friend at a roadside stand in Thailand. Don’t ask me how they tasted. My only memory is textures; crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside.

Now, I’m not suggesting you eat bugs on your next vacation. This is merely to illustrate the very different travel experiences you can have. I was fortunate enough to have a friend or to make a friend in each of these places who delighted in showing me what lay hidden within the white space between the lines of the best guide books. My mission through these articles is to be that person for you - the one who leaves you feeling as if you’ve seen the “real” Manuel Antonio. My pieces will be about everything from wildlife to nightlife - others will be inspired by your questions or comments.

If you’ve never been to Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is the perfect introduction. It has its own national park, beautiful beaches, incredible views, abundant rain forest, wildlife, a great selection of restaurants, live music and enough tours, activities, and services to keep you entertained for a month. If you’re planning a return trip but have yet to visit Manuel Antonio, it’s a must-do. I love it here.

Part of that love is derived from the national motto, “Pura Vida.” It translates to mean live the pure life. In Bob Marley’s words, “Don’t worry, be happy.” Costa Rica is ranked the #1 Happiest Country on the Planet in a new report by a British non profit group, New Economics Foundation.

When visiting Manuel Antonio leave your tux and prom dress at home because it's the epitome of laid back casual. Flip flops and shorts are the local attire. It’s the perfect place to get away from stress, competition, struggle and drama. You can spend a week or two lounging on the beach and pampering yourself with spa and chef services or if you prefer to get in touch with your adventurous side you can dangle from a zip line in the forest canopy, repel off the side of a waterfall or go snorkeling on a sunset sail. We have it all - and it will be my privilege to share it with you.