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Gay travel – Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Posted on August 6, 2017 · Posted in Manuel Antonio, Things to Do, Travel Tips

Welcome to a piece of Paradise!

Costa Rica is on the leading edge of the gay rights movement in Central America with Manuel Antonio being one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica – this central pacific region of the country is home to beautiful beaches and incredible wildlife. The region is small, with only one major road connecting the biggest town – Quepos- at one end with the Manuel Antonio National Park at the other end.

Quepos/ Manuel Antonio are considered to be home of the second largest gay scene outside of the capital, San Jose.  Gay-friendly owned hotels, restaurants, night clubs and gay organized excursions allow not just for a laid back vacation summarized under the Costa Rican slogan “Pura Vida”, but also for great fun and opportunities to meet locals and get a better taste of the area and its friendly and welcoming culture.

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Where to start with your vacation planning?

If you come to Costa Rica, you will not just come to club. Be ready to experience the indescribable, natural beauty of the tropical Rainforest, exotic species and flowers, waterfalls, the Pacific Ocean and the warm mentality of the Costa Ricans. With friends, your significant other or in family be assured that there is something to do for everyone.  Here a list of hotels, restaurants and bars to include in your itinerary:

Hotels and restaurants

1. Hotel Villa Roca

2. Coyaba tropical

3. GAIA Hotel & Reserve

4. Hotel California

5. Vela Bar

6. Prana Rainforest Retreat
Nightlife in Manuel Antonio

1. Karolas – Hosts every Sunday a traditional LGBT afternoon with great views, company and of course snacks and drinks

2. KARMA Lounge – The gay bar of Manuel Antonio

3. Mogambo – great view and ambience

4. La Luna Restaurant – at GAIA Hotel & Reserve – 5 star cuisine, 5 star service

5. “Z” – fantastic lounge restaurant – grill and seafood

6. Emilio´s – stunning view, great for desserts and afternoon treats, health food option

7. Salsipuedes – fantastic for Tapas and drinks

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So much to do, so much to choose from!

While accommodation, good dining and clubbing should be covered by this list – be aware that the excitement does not stop here. Besides exploring one of the world most famous National Parks and its white sand beaches, there is an uncountable list of adventurous, cultural, relaxing or nature-loving activities to choose from.

  1. Every Wednesday Sunset Sails offers a gay-only cruise along the shores of Manuel Antonio including Dolphin Watching, Snorkelling, Sun dipping and the good times
  2. Swing through the tropical Jungle with the sound of howler monkeys to give you that real “Tarzan” vibe and enjoy a gay-only Canopy Tour with Gay Tours every Thursday
  3. Get relaxed at Terra Spa, at GAIA Hotel & Reserve from a complete palate of exotic massages including Swedish, Chocolate, Thai or how about a Vichy Shower followed by a Banana Leaf Clay Wrap? 5 star therapists, service and care.
  4. Don’t miss out on Karola´s Sunset Session every Sunday from 4pm to 8pm. Meet the local expats and Costa Ricans for an afternoon of great snacks, ambiance and cocktails
  5. Holis Spa offers an amazing schedule of Yoga and Pilates classes. For the ones that can´t go without bending during their vacation – their program and professionalism lives up to any of the metropolitan city studios you may have experienced, but we warn you.. the beauty of the view overlooking the Pacific Ocean and tropical Rainforest may cause you not wanting to leave anymore.

The list on how to make this a vacation of a lifetime for you is long. Besides all we have already shared above, please know that Manuel Antonio´s professionals do know how to put together fantastic birthday destination parties, organize your destination wedding or even assist with real estate. So what are you waiting for – escape from your metropolitan jungle and join a real one – at its best!!!

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