There is no single destination anywhere along Costa Rica's Pacific coast which offers just about everything you'd want to experience during your vacation in one place: the best national park in Costa Rica, CondeNast-worthy beaches, a natural beauty to knock any nature-lovers' sandals off, and a plenitude of amenities.  Where else can you go surfing in the morning, raft the Naranjo River at midday , get a spa treatment in the afternoon and then go out for drinks and salsa dancing in the evening?  The only thing we're lacking for the check-list is an active volcano.  No complaints here.

Here are just a few of the major attractions and activities in the area which make Manuel Antonio such a unique and special destination:

Playa Espadilla is the primary public beach of Manuel Antonio, and borders the national park.  All of the restaurants and shopping are located at the southern end of the beach, near the park.  The northern end, called 'Playitas' by the locals, is less populated, and also the main surf break for Manuel Antonio--and a 20 minute walk from Villa Vigia.

Playa Bisanz is a small cove beach located on Quepos Point, just before the Parador hotel.  There is a 10 minute walk through the forest to get down to the beach.  This is where most of the snorkeling tours take place, as the water is calm and the bay sheltered.  From Villa Vigia, Bisanz Beach is a 20 minute walk.