Playa Playitas

Tip

Park at the top and walk down (7–10 minutes) unless you have a 4x4, and bring water because the walk back up is steep.

Be careful

Waves and currents are stronger than in the park coves, so stay near the shore. Don't leave valuables in a parked car.

Getting there

Steep, rough cobbled road: only a 4x4 reaches the sand; other cars should stop partway and walk.

Places nearby

• Makanda by the SeaStays · takes 7 h · from $45Adults-only hideaway of suites and private-pool villas in the jungle above Manuel Antonio, with a path down to a quiet beach.
• Terraza by IssimoFood & CoffeeRomantic terrace restaurant at Issimo Suites on the Parador road, with a sunset view over the ocean, live music after 6 pm and carefully plated dishes.
• Si Como No Resort & Wildlife RefugeStaysEco-minded resort on the Manuel Antonio hillside with its own wildlife refuge.
• La Terraza Café Bar RestauranteFood & CoffeeTerrace restaurant next to Hotel La Arboleda with a wide Pacific view; best known as a sunset spot.
• Emilio's CafeFood & CoffeeHillside cafe at the turn-off to Hotel Parador with a top deck looking over the ocean: big breakfasts, Mediterranean and Indian-leaning plates, fresh fish and famous homemade cakes.
• Agua AzulFood & CoffeeOpen-air restaurant on the upper floor above Hotel Villas El Parque with a wide Pacific view, known for seafood and for sunsets over the water.