Manuel Antonio and Quepos After Dark
Memorable evenings out are just around the corner from your villa whether you’re chasing a game, craving live music, or just after good food and atmosphere. If you’re not staying in to enjoy the talents of your private chef, This area offers a lively mix of ways to spend your nights.
Watch the game downtown
Rooting for your team? YOLO Social is a solid go-to — big TVs, pool tables, and a buzzing crowd. Right next door, you’ll find Manuel Antonio’s only casino if you’re feeling lucky. Down in Quepos, the Best Western Kamuk offers an even bigger gaming experience, with roulette, blackjack, and plenty of slot machines. Just a short walk away, El Gran Escape is an oceanfront restaurant with plenty of outdoor seating. Caught something good out on the water? They’ll grill it up for you while you enjoy the game.
Further along, you’ll find more local favorites. Bahia Azul sits right on the waterfront and has that easygoing, neighborhood bar feel. A block away is Bar y Restaurante Marlin, another casual hangout. Just next door is Café Milagro, perfect for an afternoon coffee or something light to eat. There’s another Café Milagro up in Manuel Antonio that’s popular for dinner too — a little more upscale but just as welcoming.
Pub Quiz
If trivia’s your thing, don’t miss “Thinkin’ and Drinkin’” every Thursday at 7 p.m. at Balu Restaurant in Quepos / Costa Rica. It’s free to enter, hosted by friendly locals, and always open to new teams… and first prize is pizza and beers on the house. This will certainly make for one of those memorable evenings out.
Dinner at the world-class marina anyone?
Marina Pez Vela delivers a slightly more upscale night out. Here there are a range of restaurants and sports bars (more spots to catch the game). The marina offers stunning evening views of the water and the boats rocking gently at anchor. A few of the spots may also cook the fish you caught earlier on your full day of sportfishing. You’ll also find some nice little shops to explore while you’re there.
If you’re thinking about a family dinner out — maybe a few cocktails as the sun dips into the Pacific — there’s no shortage of places with a view. Ask your host for a few favorites and see about booking a table ahead of time. Got a bigger group? They can help arrange a shuttle too, so everyone gets there together, easy and stress-free.

Live music lovers have plenty of choice
For live music, there’s something happening most nights. Check out Hotel La Colina on Wednesdays and Sundays (great wood-fired pizza, too), Drunken Monkey, El Ranchito at Hotel Plinio (Fridays), Si Como No, and Restaurante Buru Seaside — this last one is tucked right down on the beach in Manuel Antonio / Costa Rica.
If dancing is calling your name, hit Cuban Republik Disco Lounge in Quepos or head up the hill to Ape Eclectic Social Bar in Manuel Antonio for a fun mix of music, tapas, and a laid-back but lively scene.
More info on what’s happening at night in Manuel Antonio and Quepos
To keep up with what’s going on locally, grab a copy of Quepolandia, the region’s best little monthly guide. It’s full of listings for live music, dance nights, and all kinds of local tips.
Whatever represents memorable evenings out for you, there’s something here for just about everyone — from chill nights to full-on party vibes. Since the scene’s always shifting, be sure to ask your host what’s happening while you’re here… then head out and make the most of it.