3 Days in Manuel Antonio with Kids
This 3-day Manuel Antonio family itinerary blends Costa Rica wildlife with beach recovery: national park trails, sloths and monkeys, gentle swimming windows, and low-stress meals near Quepos or the hill road. It is designed for families who want rainforest excitement without overloading children in the heat. Fork it to add surf lessons, more pool time, or a private naturalist guide.
Budget Breakdown
Family of four estimate, excluding flights
Per person · excludes flight · 3 days · varies by season
Where to Stay
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Daily Costs
Per person · per day
Budget
Comfort
Splurge
Accommodation
CRC 75,000–120,000
Simple family room/Quepos apartment
CRC 180,000–300,000
Hill-road hotel with pool
CRC 650,000+
Luxury wildlife resort or villa
Food
CRC 55,000–85,000
Sodas, groceries, casual restaurants
CRC 120,000–180,000
Tourist-road restaurants and smoothies
CRC 350,000+
Premium hotel dining
Activities
CRC 45,000–95,000
Park tickets and beach days
CRC 160,000–260,000
Guide plus mangrove boat
CRC 500,000+
Private guide and private transfers
One-Time Costs
Not included in per-day figures above
Private naturalist guide
CRC 55,000–120,000+
Worth it for younger kids who need help spotting animals
Flight Estimates
Return flights · economy · varies by booking time
San Jose
$0–$60
CRC 0–31,000 by shuttle/bus add-on after arrival
Miami
$250–$550
$250–$550