Things to know
What we tell friends before they arrive.
Nature
Wildlife Watch the animals, but never feed or touch them.
It is tempting, but please never feed the monkeys or any other wildlife. Observe the animals and do not interact: no feeding, touching or shouting.
Monkeys often grab food and bags from visitors, so keep your belongings close.
Insects Seal food and bring repellent for the evenings.
To avoid unwanted pests, make sure all food, drink and cosmetic items are sealed tightly and put away when not in use.
Bring insect repellent for the evenings.
Manuel Antonio National Park Closed Tuesdays. Tickets are sold online only.
The park is closed on Tuesdays and open the other six days. Tickets are sold only online through the national parks reservation system, and you may be asked for ID at the entrance. They are not sold at the gate.
Outside food is not allowed because monkeys steal from visitors, and single-use plastic bottles are not permitted, so bring a refillable bottle. Check the reservation page for opening hours and current ticket rules before you go.
Beach
Beach safety Rip currents are real. Check conditions before swimming.
Playa Espadilla is known for rip currents, and lifeguards patrol it only in the high season. Manuel Antonio beach is more sheltered and the best for swimming, but its waves can still knock swimmers over.
Some beaches inside the park are not safe for swimming. Ask the park rangers about conditions and tide times before you get in the water.
Sun and heat Strong sun, high heat. Pack sunscreen and water.
The sun is strong and it is very hot, so wear plenty of sunscreen, preferably a reef-safe one, and carry water. A hat and shade at midday help.
Money and manners
Money Dollars work in tourist spots. Carry some colones.
The colón is the national currency. US dollars are often accepted by hotels, tour operators and restaurants and shops in tourist areas, and you will usually get change in colones.
Small shops, buses and farmers' markets generally expect colones, so carry some.
Tipping in restaurants A service charge is already on the bill.
A 10% service charge is added to restaurant bills by law, and 13% VAT (sales tax) is added on top. An extra tip is optional, and 5 to 10% is a common way to thank staff for good service.
Safety
Drinking water Tap water is generally fine here. Ask your host.
Tap water in tourist destinations such as Manuel Antonio is generally safe to drink. Ask your accommodation, and if the answer is vague, or the water looks cloudy or smells odd, use bottled or filtered water.
A refillable bottle cuts down on plastic.
Staying safe Use the same precautions as at home.
Petty theft happens in Costa Rica, as in most places. Lock your doors, keep valuables out of sight, leave expensive items off the beach and never leave belongings in a parked car, not even in the trunk.
Avoid walking alone on poorly lit beaches or streets at night, and keep bags and phones off restaurant tables.