Hotel La Mariposa is located in beautiful Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica's Pacific Coast.  This beach hotel offers charming, elegant accommodations flawlessly integrated into the luxurious rainforest.  Fore more about the area and suggested vacation itineraries that include Manuel Antonio, contact our Concierge.

The Manuel Antonio, Quepos area is one of Costa Rica’s top destinations.  Known for its long stretches of white sand, dense tropical rainforest and abundant wildlife, this region is popular with sun lovers, nature enthusiasts, adrenaline seekers and deep sea fishing anglers.  While Manuel Antonio remains an eco-friendly area, the roads, dining and nightlife are among the best of any beach destination in Costa Rica.  An abundance of nearby tours and activities can keep you busy every day of your stay if you so desire.

The closest town is the world famous sportfishing port town of Quepos , which is approximately 174 kms ( 108 miles ) SW of San Jose . We are talking about 3 hours by car or 3.5 by direct bus. Manuel Antonio is the name of the tiny beach village that has sprouted up around the National Park and is 5km ( 3 miles ) further south of Quepos . Only one main road leads from the town of Quepos up and over the hill and down to the beaches of Manuel Antonio . Buses and taxis depart regularly back and forth between the two destinations.

From San José . . . with Public transportation

Direct buses depart daily from the Coca Cola terminal ( Calle 16 , Avenidas 1 - 3 ) in central San Jose 3 times daily . See the schedule for direct buses . The indirect buses make many local stops and the riding time is at least one hour longer . Tickets for the direct bus usually need to be purchased at least a day in advance.

From Quepos . . . with Public transportation

Buses depart from the Quepos bus station roughly ever 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a few departures between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

From San José . . . with your car

The drive to Manuel Antonio can be somewhat challenging for the first time driver in Central America , but is manageable during daylight hours . With clear roads and good conditions , the drive can be made in about 3 ½ hours . To get to Hotel La Mariposa , head Northwest on the Pan American Highway , past the International Airport to the turnoff for Atenas . Then head left , south , to Orotina . From there it is a just a straight drive south east past Tarcoles river ( stop to see crocs ) , Jaco and over several old Bailey bridges . Once you get to Quepos , follow the signs to Manuel Antonio . After leaving Quepos , it is only about 10 minutes down the main road to the turnoff to the hotel . On your left , you will see Café Milagro , and directly across from it is a sign for La Mariposa . Take a right there , and directly after turning , you will see the entrance to the hotel on our left.