Can’t decide between Puerto Viejo and Manuel Antonio? Both are top beach towns in Costa Rica, but they offer very different vibes. One is Caribbean, the other Pacific. One’s known for laid-back reggae energy, the other for wildlife and white-sand beaches.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide where to go.

Location and atmosphere

Puerto Viejo is on the Caribbean coast, close to the Panama border. It has a tropical, Afro-Caribbean vibe with reggae music, surf culture, and international backpackers. Puerto Viejo is relaxed, bohemian, and budget-friendly.

Manuel Antonio sits on the Pacific coast, south of Quepos. It’s more developed and touristy, with resorts, guided tours, and a national park full of wildlife. Manuel Antonio is polished, nature-focused, and family-friendly.

Beaches and scenery

Puerto Viejo has multiple beaches:

  • Playa Cocles: Great for surfing
  • Playa Chiquita & Punta Uva: Calm, good for swimming
  • Playa Negra: Black sand and local feel

Manuel Antonio has:

  • Playa Espadilla: Wide beach near town
  • Manuel Antonio National Park beaches: Stunning, with monkeys and sloths nearby

Manuel Antonio wins for scenery if you want white-sand beaches and jungle in one spot.

Puerto Viejo wins for variety and quieter, less crowded beaches.

Wildlife and nature

If you want to see animals, Manuel Antonio is one of the best spots in the country:

  • Sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and toucans are often seen right in the park
  • Guided hikes through the rainforest
  • Snorkeling in calm coves

Puerto Viejo has wildlife too, especially in Cahuita National Park and the Jaguar Rescue Center, but it’s less dense and more spread out.

Go to Manuel Antonio if wildlife is a top priority.

Activities and tours

Puerto Viejo:

  • Surfing, bike rentals, and chocolate tours
  • Visits to indigenous Bribri communities
  • Easy trip to Cahuita National Park or the Panama border

Manuel Antonio:

  • Guided hikes in the park
  • Sunset catamaran cruises
  • Zip lining, rafting, and waterfall tours

Manuel Antonio offers more structured tours, while Puerto Viejo is better for DIY travel and local immersion.

Crowds and prices

  • Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited destinations in Costa Rica. Expect higher prices for hotels, tours, and restaurants. It gets crowded, especially in peak season.
  • Puerto Viejo is more affordable and attracts more backpackers and long-term travelers. You’ll still find boutique hotels and eco-lodges, but it’s less polished.

Puerto Viejo is cheaper and less crowded.

Food and nightlife

  • Puerto Viejo: Caribbean flavors, jerk chicken, rice & beans, plus vegan spots. Lively nightlife with beach bars and live music.
  • Manuel Antonio: More upscale dining, seafood, and Costa Rican fusion. Nightlife is quieter, centered around bars and resort lounges.

Choose Puerto Viejo for nightlife and local culture.

Accessibility and getting there

Manuel Antonio:

  • 3-hour drive or bus from San José
  • Paved roads, easier to reach
  • Domestic flights to Quepos are available

Puerto Viejo:

  • 4.5–5 hours by car or bus from San José
  • The route includes mountain roads and more rain
  • Less public transport flexibility

Manuel Antonio is easier to reach if you’re short on time.

Conclusion – which one should you choose?

  • Choose Puerto Viejo if you want a Caribbean feel, fewer crowds, surf beaches, reggae vibes, and budget travel.
  • Choose Manuel Antonio for better wildlife viewing, easy access, family-friendly resorts, and postcard beaches.

Or visit both — they show two very different sides of Costa Rica.