Quepos is a great fishing town located in the Puntarenas Province of Costa Rica. It’s on the Pacific Coast, and a very popular location due to its proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park. In Quepos you’ll find plenty of accommodations, restaurants and shops.
Quepos is located about 2.5 hours drive away from the San José. To reach Quepos, you’ll head west from the airport and start driving south along the Pacific Coast. Passing through the popular town of Jacó, you’ll arrive at Quepos about 1 hour later. The drive to Quepos is well paved and usually not congested. Rainy conditions or accidents can increase the trip time.
Quepos has a small airport which services flights from San José. Check with Sansa Airlines for availability. A flight between these airport will on average cost $100 USD. The best part is the flight is only 30 minutes.
Before you visit Costa Rica, check out our Shop Page for a great packing list. These are things that I use while I’m travelling and filming our Youtube videos.
When To Visit Quepos
The hottest time for tourism in Quepos and surrounding area is during the dry season. This is between December and April. There’s more travelers from the north when it’s cold, so you can expect to pay more for your vacation during this time. You’ll find that there’s lots of activities in Quepos during the dry season. The marina in Quepos has fishing charters which are very popular.
If you decide to visit during the rainy season in Costa Rica, you’ll be paying much less for your services and accommodations. The coastal area will be more lush during this time, and there’s more likelihood of seeing animals in their habitats. Most of the time rainy season will have a few showers. Sometimes it’s unlucky and it’ll rain for most of the day.
Whenever you decide to visit Quepos, I recommend bringing a securable backpack. I like this sling style bag as I can access my stuff without removing the pack. This bag is especially useful at the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, where the monkeys like to steal visitors stuff.
Nature, Wildlife And Water
If you’re into fishing then Quepos is a great location for you vacation. You don’t even need a boat to catch some fish. As the tide comes in, the main bridge going into town will have fishing opportunities. You’ll see many people fishing right off the bridge and nearby rocky ledges.
Only a short drive away, Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for its wildlife and amazing beaches. For a small fee you can access the park which is a full day activity. You’ll hike through mangroves, see monkeys and be able to access a tall wooden tower that brings you to tree height. Quepos is a perfect place to stay for your vacation if you’re planning on visiting this incredible national park.
When you arrive in Quepos you’ll see mountains more inland. In this area the trees become more dense and there’s lots of adventures to have. You can try ATVing, ziplining and rappelling down waterfalls. You’ll also spot lots of cool animals in these areas. I most often spot scarlet macaws flying around in packs. They’re large red birds that travel all over the coastal region.
Pick up a pair of these awesome water shoes. I've been using them all over Costa Rica during my travels. They have vented soles so water drains right out the bottom! Great for going to the beach and walking through town, or exploring rivers.
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Quepos, Puntarenas FAQ
1. How far is Quepos from Manuel Antonio National Park?
Quepos is only about a 10-minute drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. It’s the closest town to the park, making it a convenient base for those looking to visit.
2. What is the best time of year to visit Quepos?
The best time to visit Quepos is during the dry season, from December to April, when you can enjoy sunny days and clear skies. However, the rainy season from May to November still offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
3. Is Quepos a good place for fishing?
Yes, Quepos is famous for its sport fishing. The marina offers various fishing charters, and you can expect to catch species like marlin, sailfish, and tuna.
4. Are there good places to eat in Quepos?
Yes, Quepos has a variety of dining options, ranging from casual local sodas serving traditional Costa Rican food to more upscale restaurants offering seafood and international cuisine.
5. Can I rent a car in Quepos?
Yes, there are car rental agencies in Quepos. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas, including Manuel Antonio and nearby beaches. Dominical and Uvita are a short drive south.
6. Is there public transportation from Quepos to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, there are regular buses that run between Quepos and Manuel Antonio, making it easy and affordable to travel between the two locations.
7. What outdoor activities can I do in Quepos?
In Quepos, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, ATV tours, and horseback riding. The town is also a gateway for water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and surfing.
8. Is Quepos family-friendly?
Yes, Quepos is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for all ages. Families can enjoy beach days, wildlife tours, and visits to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park.
9. What is the weather like in Quepos?
Quepos has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season is hot and sunny, while the rainy season sees afternoon or evening showers with humid conditions.
10. Are there ATMs and banks in Quepos?
Yes, Quepos has several ATMs and banks where visitors can withdraw money or exchange currency.
