Arenal and Manuel Antonio packing list for families
This classic Costa Rica route mixes a rainy volcano region with a hot Pacific beach town and its famous national park. Packing for both means rain layers, real shoes, and plenty of swim gear.
Photo by Daniel Ingersoll on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Arenal & Manuel Antonio
- Manuel Antonio National Park sells tickets online only, sells out ahead in busy weeks, and is closed on Tuesdays. I book tickets and a guide with a spotting scope early, since kids see far more animals that way.
- The drive between Arenal and Manuel Antonio takes around four hours on winding roads. Pack motion sickness help and plan a lunch stop to break it up.
- Arenal Volcano is often wrapped in clouds by midday, so I plan hanging bridges and volcano views for early morning. Afternoons are perfect for the hot springs.
Arenal & Manuel Antonio
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Carry-on8
Clothing5
Shoes4
Beach & pool8
Adventure1
Little ones4
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech3
Jungle to beach
Natural, palm green, sand, papaya
For the grown-ups
- Breathable long sleeves for hikes
- Linen for beach dinners
- Sturdy sport sandals
For the kids
- Quick-dry shorts and tees
- Lightweight pants for the rainforest
- Closed-toe shoes for trails
For photos
- Earthy tones that work in jungle and sand
- Bright papaya for a pop
Arenal & Manuel Antonio weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 89°F 32°C | Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers | A second humpback season, with whales arriving from the north Holiday weeks, when hotels and park tickets sell out early |
| February | 90°F 32°C | Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers | A second humpback season, with whales arriving from the north Often the clearest weeks for full views of Arenal Volcano |
| March | 91°F 33°C | Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers | A second humpback season, with whales arriving from the north Often the clearest weeks for full views of Arenal Volcano |
| April | 91°F 33°C | Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers | Often the clearest weeks for full views of Arenal Volcano |
| May | 89°F 32°C | Green season begins, with sunny mornings and afternoon rain, often a drier spell in July | |
| June | 88°F 31°C | Green season begins, with sunny mornings and afternoon rain, often a drier spell in July | |
| July | 88°F 31°C | Green season begins, with sunny mornings and afternoon rain, often a drier spell in July | The veranillo, a drier break mid-green season with lower rates |
| August | 88°F 31°C | Green season begins, with sunny mornings and afternoon rain, often a drier spell in July | Humpback whales from the south visit the Pacific coast near Manuel Antonio |
| September | 87°F 31°C | Wettest months at Manuel Antonio, with heavy afternoon storms | Humpback whales from the south visit the Pacific coast near Manuel Antonio |
| October | 86°F 30°C | Wettest months at Manuel Antonio, with heavy afternoon storms | Humpback whales from the south visit the Pacific coast near Manuel Antonio |
| November | 87°F 31°C | Wettest months at Manuel Antonio, with heavy afternoon storms | |
| December | 88°F 31°C | Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers | A second humpback season, with whales arriving from the north Holiday weeks, when hotels and park tickets sell out early |
Arenal & Manuel Antonio with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Arenal & Manuel Antonio with kids?
The best time is Dec–Apr. Dry season on the Pacific coast; Arenal is drier than usual but still sees showers
What's the weather like in Arenal & Manuel Antonio?
Typical daytime highs range from about 86°F (30°C) in October to about 91°F (33°C) in March. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Arenal & Manuel Antonio?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Arenal & Manuel Antonio?
None. Arenal & Manuel Antonio uses the same plugs as the US.
What's your top tip for Arenal & Manuel Antonio with kids?
Manuel Antonio National Park sells tickets online only, sells out ahead in busy weeks, and is closed on Tuesdays. I book tickets and a guide with a spotting scope early, since kids see far more animals that way.
New destination lists, seasonal tips, and the gear we're loving.
I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.