Quepos is a charming little coastal town where you can easily blend in with the locals and experience the true essence of Costa Rica. We originally stayed here to visit Manuel Antonio National Park, but once we got to know the town, we realized it’s one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica—and now we highly recommend it! You could easily spend several days here exploring, relaxing, and falling even more in love with this incredible country.
While sport fishing is what Quepos is best known for, there’s so much more to do, from kayaking and surfing to hiking and wildlife spotting. Plus, if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat—Quepos has some of the best-rated restaurants in Costa Rica, making it a great place to dive into authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
This mix of adventure, nature, and amazing food completely won me over, and I’m sure that after reading this guide, you’ll want to add Quepos to your travel plans, too!
1. Manuel Antonio National Park, a must-see in Quepos, Costa Rica
Without a doubt, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the places you cannot miss when visiting Quepos, Costa Rica. Not only is it one of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica, but it’s also a dream destination for wildlife lovers—especially if you’re into photography, like me!
This protected area is home to some of Costa Rica’s most iconic animals, and the best way to spot them is on this guided tour. I usually prefer exploring on my own, but when it comes to wildlife, I don’t want to miss a thing!
1. Manuel Antonio National Park, a must-see in Quepos, Costa Rica
Our guide was fantastic—he spotted animals I would have never noticed on my own, like tiny bats hidden inside rolled-up leaves. We also saw plenty of sloths, including one that was close enough for some amazing photos. On top of that, he shared tons of interesting facts about the park, making the tour totally worth it.
After the tour, we stayed at Manuel Antonio Beach for a swim but later moved to Espadilla Sur Beach, which we ended up liking even more. Both have crystal-clear waters and plenty of marine life, but if you’re short on time, I recommend heading straight to Espadilla Sur—it’s prettier and less crowded.
2. Marina Pez Vela, the perfect spot for fishing in Quepos, Costa Rica
Did you know Quepos is considered the sport fishing capital of the world? At the heart of it all is Marina Pez Vela, the town’s main hub for fishing excursions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a total beginner, you can head out on a trip to catch marlin, sailfish, and mahi-mahi. The marina also hosts international tournaments and fishing festivals, so if that interests you, check the event calendar before your trip!
2. Marina Pez Vela, the perfect spot for fishing in Quepos, Costa Rica
Unlike the laid-back Malecón, Marina Pez Vela has a more upscale, sophisticated vibe, with a great selection of restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal, sip a cocktail with ocean views, or simply take a stroll and admire the yachts and catamarans.
Surrounded by lush green mountains, the marina offers a stunning backdrop—whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a fun night out, or a unique souvenir, this place has something for everyone. Definitely an ideal place for fishing in Quepos!
3. Visit the Damas Island mangroves, another fun thing to do in Quepos, Costa Rica
One of the coolest things to do in Quepos, in my opinion, is taking this boat tour through the mangroves of Damas Island. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in this fascinating and unique ecosystem. Plus, it’s just 20 minutes from town, making it an ideal half-day adventure—you can explore the mangroves in the morning and still have time to relax on the beach or try another activity later.
3. Visit the Damas Island mangroves, another fun thing to do in Quepos, Costa Rica
We had a blast navigating through the mangroves, spotting wildlife along the way. Nature is always unpredictable, but chances are good that you’ll see sloths, iguanas, and monkeys—and if you’re lucky, even crocodiles or alligators! It’s also a fantastic place to experience birdwatching in Costa Rica, so keep your camera handy.
Our guide shared tons of interesting facts about the animals we saw, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. And to top it all off, we ended the day with a delicious local lunch—definitely a tour worth taking!
4. Snorkeling in Playa Biesanz, another exciting activity in Quepos
There’s nothing I love more than putting on my snorkeling mask and jumping into the water to see what marine life is waiting below. That’s why Playa Biesanz quickly became one of my favorite spots for snorkeling in Quepos! The crystal-clear water, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning turquoise color make this beach an absolute paradise.
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, so it’s never too crowded. Plus, when we visited, the water was warm, and I ended up spending hours floating and exploring without even realizing it! If you’d rather not snorkel on your own, you can join this guided tour, but either way, I highly recommend visiting and checking out the underwater world here.
4. Snorkeling in Playa Biesanz, another exciting activity in Quepos
Finding Playa Biesanz is pretty easy—just head towards Shana by The Beach Hotel and take the path on the right. There’s a sign pointing the way, and it’s only about a 10-minute walk.
And if snorkeling isn’t really your thing, don’t worry! You can also book this catamaran tour or rent a kayak to explore the coast. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this is one of the must-visit beaches in Quepos, Costa Rica!
5. Whale watching in Quepos, Costa Rica
Whale watching in Costa Rica is a bucket-list experience that draws thousands of visitors every year. Personally, I find humpback whales to be some of the most incredible animals on the planet, so I jumped at the chance to see them again during my trip. And if you’re lucky, you might also spot dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of seabirds along the way!
5. Whale watching in Quepos, Costa Rica
We chose this catamaran tour, which was the perfect way to meet these majestic creatures. It included lunch, plus time for snorkeling and swimming in the open ocean, making it an all-around amazing day. On the way out, a pod of dolphins swam alongside our boat, and we even saw a humpback whale with her calf up close—it was such an unforgettable experience!
If this sounds like your kind of adventure, be sure to plan your visit between July and November, which is the best time for whale watching in Quepos!
6. Rainmaker Park, a fun day trip from Quepos Costa Rica
If you have some extra time and want to explore more of Costa Rica’s wild side, visiting Rainmaker Park is one of the most fascinating things to do in Quepos. This private reserve protects 1,480 acres of untouched tropical rainforest, making it an amazing spot to immerse yourself in nature and feel like a true explorer.
You can visit on your own by paying the $20 entrance fee, but we decided to take this day tour to make the most of our time and increase our chances of spotting wildlife. And honestly, I’ve learned that whenever we go with a guide, we always see way more animals than we would on our own—so now I don’t even hesitate!
6. Rainmaker Park, a fun day trip from Quepos Costa Rica
The park has 6 miles of scenic trails, along with suspension bridges offering breathtaking views of the dense jungle. We stopped at several lookout points and even took a refreshing dip in some gorgeous waterfalls along the way.
If you’re up for a little more adventure, I’ve heard this night tour is incredible. Armed with just a flashlight, you’ll walk through the jungle spotting bats, lizards, owls, spiders, and a huge variety of frogs and snakes that only come out after dark.
7. Rafting, one of the most thrilling things to do in Quepos, Costa Rica
Rafting is one of the most popular activities in Quepos. There are two great rivers in the area, offering different levels of intensity, and plenty of local tour operators to choose from.
For beginners, the Savegre River is the perfect place to start. With Class II and III rapids, it’s thrilling enough to feel adventurous but not too intense—ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone who just wants to enjoy a fun ride while soaking in the beautiful scenery. We went on this excursion, which included stops at hidden waterfalls and a delicious outdoor lunch, making it a fantastic experience.
7. Rafting, one of the most thrilling things to do in Quepos, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, the Naranjo River has Class III and IV rapids, so you’ll need to be in good shape to fully enjoy it. If that sounds like your kind of thrill, this tour is the one for you!
Keep in mind that during the rainy season, the rivers swell, which makes the rapids more intense. Some tours, like this whitewater excursion in El Chorro, only run in the dry season for safety reasons—and it’s definitely for the most daring!
8. Cliff jumping at Nahomi Park
In my opinion, exploring Nahomi Park is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Quepos. It’s a great place to relax, go for a walk, exercise, or enjoy a picnic while taking in the peaceful atmosphere. One of the things I love most about this park is how locals and tourists mix, which makes it a great spot to experience everyday life in the area.
8. Cliff jumping at Nahomi Park
The views here are stunning—you get a 360-degree panorama of the coast, turquoise waters, and the surrounding landscape. I highly recommend coming here for sunset, as the colors reflecting off the ocean are simply breathtaking.
Now, if you’re looking for adventure, this is also the only easily accessible spot in town where you can jump into the sea! The area is rocky, so you have to be careful when swimming, but it’s a popular launch point for kayaking and paddleboarding. And if you visit at high tide, you might even get the chance to try some cliff jumping. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of adrenaline!
9. Chocolate tour, a sweet thing to do in Quepos
If you have some extra time when visiting Quepos, make sure to try this chocolate tour! Not only will you get to learn about Costa Rica’s most important crops, but this tour also includes a few other fascinating cultural stops that give you a deeper insight into the country.
9. Chocolate tour, a sweet thing to do in Quepos
During the tour, you’ll get an up-close look at coffee and cocoa production. The best part? You’ll even get to make your own chocolates with the help of a guide! Of course, there’s plenty of tasting involved too, so come hungry for some of Costa Rica’s best locally produced treats!
But the experience doesn’t stop there. The tour also includes a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Olympic Stadium, where you’ll learn a bit about the pre-Hispanic era. And before the day ends, you’ll stop by Platería Rafael, one of the best jewelry shops in the area, where you’ll meet a local artisan and see some incredible handcrafted pieces.
10. Nauyaca Waterfall and other waterfalls to visit from Quepos
If you love nature, don’t miss your chance to chase waterfalls in Quepos. The area is full of breathtaking spots where you can enjoy untouched landscapes, refreshing swims, and even a bit of adventure!
10. Nauyaca Waterfall and other waterfalls to visit from Quepos
One of the most impressive waterfalls near Quepos is the Nauyaca Waterfall. It cascades down multiple levels, with drops of up to 148 feet, and at its base, you’ll find a natural pool perfect for swimming and taking in the stunning surroundings. To get there, you’ll need to first register at the office, pay the $10 entrance fee, and then hike about 3.7 miles along a well-marked trail. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can also book this guided tour, where everything is taken care of for you.
For something a little more off the beaten path, check out El Salto Waterfall, tucked away in the Manuel Antonio jungle. This hidden gem has crystal-clear blue water and a peaceful atmosphere—much quieter than Nauyaca. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump from the surrounding rocks into the pool below for an extra thrill!
Best hotels in Quepos, Costa Rica
Now that you know all the amazing things to do in Quepos, here are some great accommodation options to consider:
- Luxury stay: If you’re looking for a high-end experience, Parador Nature Resort and Spa is one of Costa Rica’s top luxury hotels. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and if you want to treat yourself, there are upgraded options with a terrace and hot tub for a truly relaxing stay. Plus, it’s just steps from Biesanz Beach, so you’ll be in the perfect spot to enjoy both nature and comfort.
- Mid-range option: For a balance of quality and price, Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio is a fantastic choice. It’s located next to Playitas Beach and offers a peaceful, intimate atmosphere with only 54 rooms, making it one of the best hotels in Costa Rica.
- Budget-friendly accommodation: If you’re traveling on a budget, Teva Hotel & Jungle Reserve is one of the top-rated hostels in Costa Rica. It offers both private rooms and shared dorms for up to 4 people, so you can choose whatever works best for your trip.
Map of Quepos, Costa Rica
To make your trip even easier, here’s a map of Quepos with all the attractions mentioned in this guide, along with the locations of the accommodations. This way, you can easily plan your itinerary.
I also recommend checking out our Costa Rica maps to help you navigate the country and make the most of your trip.
That’s everything you need to know about the must-do activities in Quepos, Costa Rica! If you have any questions or want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below—I’d love to hear from you.
Safe travels and enjoy Quepos!
