Once a bustling banana-exporting port, Quepos’ economy was crippled by the demise of the banana plantations in the mid-1950s as a result of Panama disease. The dubious future of the palm oil industry, resulting from concerns regarding cholesterol, leave the economic base of the area tied to limited port activity and provision of labor and supplies for hotels and restaurants serving Manuel Antonio Park. It has also become known as an important sport fishing centre.
Manuel Antonio, the smallest national park of Costa Rica, can be defined as a string of white sandy beaches and high cliffs framed by a calm blue sea and unusually beautiful evergreen forests. This world-famous tropical wet forest Park, established in 1972, covers 688h (1,700 acres) and has an annual rainfall of over 3.75 m (150 inches). The wildlife is varied, interesting and can frequently be seen by bathers on the beach. Among the most outstanding species often seen by visitors in the woods include: Marmoset, Costa Rica’s smallest monkey noted for its very quaint and graceful movements, Howler Monkeys, White-Faced Monkeys, Two-Toed and Three-Toed Sloths, Raccoons, Black-Eared Opossums, Coyote and Pacas, which are frequently hunted for their meat. Rabbits, squirrels and various species of poisonous snakes have also been seen.
The town of Quepos is within walking distance from the pier (about 1 km). Taxis will also be available for approximately $2 to $3 per person each way as some may find the walk rather unpleasant in the humid climate. If you wish to do some Costa Rican shopping on this cruise, Quepos is the place to do it. This small, but busy town offers great souvenir shops, Costa Rican cafes and restaurants and a great selection of cigars. There are also several handicraft centers in Quepos as well as clothing and souvenir stores. As you walk into town, you will find several banks (Banco Popular and Banco de Costa Rica), but please remember that US dollars are widely accepted. Telephones can be found near the banks, at the bus station, and at the Post Office. Local phone cards are required and sold in most grocery stores. The Post Office is located next to the soccer field, in the center of town, opposite the Roman Catholic Church. This is the last port with post office facilities.
Quepos is home to a wide selection of bars and restaurants. El Gran Escape has international cuisine and cold beer and located in downtown Quepos. El Parador Hotel and Hotel Si Como No both have good restaurants, and are located outside of town on the road to the national park. If you are looking for a nice beach bar, the selection is better in Manuel Antonio than Quepos as most bars and restaurants in Quepos have roadside seating.
The best beaches are found at Manuel Antonio National Park, a 20 minute taxi ride for approximately $10 to $15 each way from downtown Quepos. An entrance fee of approximately USD$10 per person allows you to use the beaches and facilities. Of the three beaches, Playa Manuel Antonio without a doubt is the most beautiful. It is also referred to as the White Beach or the Third Beach, there are restroom facilities here. The mile long beach outside of the park is named Playa Espadilla. Though it is often safe for swimming, beware of rough seas, which create deadly rip currents. At all times, please be aware to look after your belongings whilst on the beach.
Taxis can be found opposite the market, next to the bus station. Be advised that not all drivers will speak English. There are also rental cars available in Quepos. Passports are required when renting cars in Costa Rica. Scooters and bicycles are also available.
