Manuel Antonio Girls' Getaway
Girls’ getaways offer the chance to celebrate life’s most important events – graduations, engagements, and reunions – or simply to appreciate the special bond that women share. Girlfriend relationships are essential, and when day-to-day minutiae of our lives become overwhelming, it’s time to plan a getaway. Traveling with our best girlfriends helps breathe life into these relationships. Choose a destination that appeals to all, and let new sights, sounds and experiences help create treasured memories. Tailor your trip to your group’s preferences: do you want to glam it up, indulge in serious pampering, or challenge yourselves on extreme adventures?
read more closeManuel Antonio, a seaside village on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, is an ideal destination for such an escape. Conveniently located just over two hours from San Jose, it offers something for everyone. From independent villas to luxury resorts, you’ll enjoy spectacular ocean views, white-sand beaches and the area’s soothing ambiance. Manuel Antonio is an exciting mix of spa luxury, eco tours, adrenaline-fueled adventures and rainforest relaxation – the perfect ingredients for a girls’ getaway under the sun.
Airborne Adventures
There’s nothing like adrenaline and overcoming shared fears to strengthen a friendship. Take to the air in an ultralight plane or parasail 600 feet above the water! As you and your friends take turns psyching each other up – and taking the plunge – you’ll create some of the trip’s most memorable moments. Fly like a bird over beautiful scenery – aquamarine ocean, beachfront rainforest and verdant hills will fill your camera’s memory card. Your group will talk about this adventure for months to come!
Oceanic Odyssey
What do you get when you mix a great party on the ocean with an incredible sunset? A sunset cruise! In my experience, there are few better ways to enjoy the Pacific than on one of Manuel Antonio’s famed sunset sails. All aboard for the afternoon cruise, which includes snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife watching – keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, humpback whales, sea turtles and stingrays. Around 5:30, you’ll head to the captain’s favorite spot to watch the sunset. After the blazing sun has disappeared behind the horizon, your group will tuck into a delicious dinner.
Foodie Fantasies
At home, my friends and I often bond over cooking meals together, or dinners out on the town. In Manuel Antonio, we indulge our inner foodies at Villa Vanilla, a sustainable farm brimming with homegrown spices. An informative hike along the trails will introduce you to vanilla, pepper, cinnamon and cocoa production, but the highlight for me is always the tasting. On our last visit, we sampled homemade mandarin-lime cheesecake topped with fresh mango, cinnamon chocolate chip cookies, chili-infused hot chocolate, and oatmeal-cocoa nib cookies – absolutely delicious, and inspiration for future dinner parties!
Ideal Indulgence
Get pampered from head to toe at one of the area’s luxury spas; this is the perfect place to schedule your group for some much-deserved spoiling. Book a spa party, and you’ll be treated to a private brunch, tropical drinks, and exclusive use of the spa for several hours. I highly recommend trying a spa package, which incorporates several holistic elements including massage, full-body exfoliation and facials. Even if you’re not in town for a wedding, inquire about bridal packages, as they cater to women and include extras like a champagne toast or discounted mani-pedis.
Waterfall Wanderings
I love exploring the great outdoors with my friends, and finding a slice of paradise to enjoy together is the perfect opportunity for sisterly bonding. You’ll never forget the experience of sitting beneath a tropical waterfall, its refreshing waters massaging your shoulders. Three cascades – La Culebra, Matapalo, and Tocori – are accessible via horseback ride, and are a great daytrip for swimming, picnicking and chatting. If your group airs on the adventurous side, head to La Culebra Waterfall, which offers thrill-seekers a 30-foot jump into the pool below.
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