Buddha Brothers Vacation Planning
We have sample itineraries, helpful; in store, online and over the phone staff who speak English and Spanish. Though we specialize and are located at the best low key beach entrance in Manuel Antonio we have helpful Blogs, links, tips, tricks and partner companies for the entire country for all Costa Rica visitors.
Playa Playitas (easiest to walk to)
Where it is: Most Northern End of the Manuel Antonio Public Beach (Playa Espadilla)
How to go there: Walk, 4x4 needed. No bus Available
Parking: Some beach Parking - High risk to get stuck - Parking on the dirt road on the way to the beach is free
Surf: Experienced Surfers Surf spot
Safety: The life guards do not go to this area. There are many rocks and surfers making casual swimming Dangerous 2hrs before and after High Tide .
Vibe: This is where many locals go to avoid the crowds
Whats near: Surf instructors. No vendors, No food, no inexpensive restaurants or businesses
What is has: There are no amenities in this area - 1 coconut vendor - Surfboard rentals and instructors
Lower North End (Green Hill)
Where it is: The Entrance is on the last turn before you reach sea level
How to go there: Car, taxi, bus or walking
Parking: Large Parking lot - Price varies 3-5mil
Surf: Good surf, but a few large hidden rocks. I do not suggest surfing here
Safety: The edge of the lifeguard patrol
Vibe: Tons of trees - Great space between visitors. THe trees go right up to the beach. There is also grass. Great for kids to play on
Whats near: Couple restaurants off the beach, the Big Parkinglot
What is has: Parking lot has showers - some chairs are available to rent
Mid Beach, 1st Bus Friendly Entrance
Where it is: 2nd Beach entrance located near Igloo Hotel Super Jordix
How to go there: Bus, Taxi, car or walking
Parking: Big paid parking lot very close to the beach.
Surf: Great for beginners. All sand bottom great fun waves
Safety: Lifeguards are nearby. No rocks.
Vibe: Mostly tourist - Drinks - Chairs - Massage - this is a great area to have everything you need around you, but not feel on top of others.
Whats near: Supermarket, vendors for food, drinks and souvenirs
What is has: Chairs - massage - parking - non aggressive vendors - Surf Rental
Tourism Area of the Beach
I just avoid this area altogether. These parking guys will walk into the street to stop your car. They will lie to you and say anything they can to get you to park there. They go about it an annoying way, but their aggressiveness actually helps keep traffic down in the next area of the beach. Parking is nearly on the beach and you will be surrounded by local culture. The music and congestion can be a turn off for the traveler in the area. Many vendors and pop up bars on the beach serving drinks. Great for the party, could be over stimulating for the relaxing type.
Roundabout - MA Park Entrance
This is actually where I spend alot of my time. I've worked with the government to close the parking lot on the beach to create a beach volleyball area, picnic area and handicap access. Going all the way down to the end there are always monkeys and if you drive through the madness before it its actually one of the prettiest parts of the beach. Its located right next to the park, technically part of it is the National Park. There are less vendors, but its the last bus stop for the cross country bus so sometimes the street can be congested on weekends, but the beach is usually spaced out between people the further down you go. Think as the Tourism area as the party and this area is the quiet area outside the party. Close enough to take advantage of the amenities but far enough away for it to be out of sight and mind.