Alright, you have just woken up on your first day in Manuel Antonio. Depending on your budget and preferences, you might have woken up in one of these places, which I can personally both recommend!

-    Oceans Two Resort

A middle to upperclass resort where you can enjoy a holiday in luxury. Located near the beach with beautiful views from your room. No kids under 12 are allowed.

-    Selina

A beautiful hostel focussing on the nomadic travellers, creating a place where you can meet new people and enjoy activities together. All ages are accepted.

Whether you prefer to eat breakfast at your accommodation or in town, there are plenty of great options. Make sure to take your time to stroll around and see if there is something that suits your likings.

A fine dine and à la carte breakfast with a beautiful view. You’ll pay a bit more, but therefore you also receive some of the finest.

https://www.arenasdelmar.com/fine-dining-in-manuel-antonio/

This little bakery will provide you with a variety of tasty breakfast options and a beautiful view. You can decide to eat in or to have it as takeout. Baguette is a cheaper, but good option for a relaxed start to the day.

https://www.bakerybaguette.com/

Now that you have had your breakfast (and that much-needed cup of coffee), you’ll probably want to make the most of your day! For some that’ll mean finding a spot around the hotel pool, to soak up some well-deserved sunlight. For others, it’ll mean going out and explore.

Personally, I would recommend you to take it easy, find a nice spot on one of the beautiful beaches, chill, surf, or swim, but most of all, do what makes you happy!

Some beach advice..

•           Always read the warning signs. 

This might sound obvious, but I have saved quite a bunch of swimmers in my years of surfing. 

•           Take sunscreen.

Make sure you take waterproof and preferably ocean-friendly sunscreen (SPF 30+).

•           Have a look online to decide which beach you want to go to.

This is, of course, when you’re not already staying in a hotel with a beach view. However, some beaches almost disappear with high tide, making it essential to time your visit wisely.

•           Take some money with you.

The Costa Rican beaches have locals walking around selling amazing food (for example, try the ceviche). This way all you have to bring are some drinks, a good book, your towel and maybe a surfboard. 

Are you a surfer too? If you are a surfer too, or want to try out some waves, I have an advice that will help you find the best places to surf in Costa Rica. Book this itinerary, I will share with you my surf wisdom and I will earn a coffee that we might even have together. 

Not a surfer? Why not give it a try.

Most surfable beaches in Costa Rica will have locals renting out boards (reasonably cheap) or giving surf lessons. However, since the ocean is nice and warm, why not spend more time in it?

Back in town.

After a relaxing day on one of these beautiful beaches, you’ll probably want to have a good plate of food and a cold drink. I have a few places which I can recommend.

This restaurant has a truly amazing view, but they somehow manage to make the food even more impressive. Karola's restaurant is an excellent place for dinner with a sunset. It has a fine dining setting.

https://www.losaltosresort.com/karolas-manuel-antonio-costa-rica-restaurant/

There are many great things to do in the evening or night in Manuel Antonio. But I personally prefer to have a calm night on my first day, maybe plan what I want to do the next day and hit the sack. However, if you feel like going out, look at some options listed in the next few days.