Fishing in Manuel Antonio with kids: a family guide

Which charter suits your family

The right trip depends less on the kids' age than on how long they will enjoy being on the water. Start short; you can always book a longer day next time.

1. $950

   Young kids and first-timers

   Half-Day Inshore, 5 hours along the coast. The shortest, simplest day on the water.

2. $1,150

   Older kids who love to fish

   3/4-Day Inshore, 7 hours on the same coastline, with more time at each spot.

3. $1,300

   Teens set on a sailfish

   3/4-Day Offshore, 7 hours in blue water from 7:00 AM. Best for kids used to longer days at sea.

Why the half day works for kids

Inshore fishing keeps the boat near the coast, so the day stays short and easy to plan around.

• The boat is private: only your family on board, at your own pace
• A short ride to the fishing spots along the coast
• Two start times, 7:00 AM or 1:00 PM, to fit naps and plans
• Time left for the beach or Manuel Antonio National Park the same day

Morning or afternoon?

Both half-day departures are the same trip, so choose the one that fits your family's rhythm.

What to pack for the kids

The tropical sun is strong on the water, even on cloudy days. A small bag covers it.

• Reef-safe sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
• Their favorite snacks and plenty of water
• A light long-sleeve layer for sun and spray
• A phone or camera for the photo with the first fish
• Ask us before the trip what is on board, so you know what to add

What a family charter costs

There is no child rate, because there is no per-person rate at all: the price is per boat for up to six people. A family of four on the Half-Day Inshore pays $950, about $238 each; with six on board it is about $158 each.

Per-person figures are a reference: the price is per boat, divided by the people on board.

Tips for a great day with kids

Fishing is never guaranteed, so a good day with kids is about the whole experience, not just the catch.

• Tell us the kids' ages when you book, so we can plan the day around them
• Let them reel in the fish themselves; that is the moment they remember
• Turn release into part of the fun: a quick photo, then the roosterfish goes back
• Set expectations before you leave: some days are busy, some are slow