A complete guide to fishing, travel, dining & the best of Manuel Antonio
Located on the stunning Central Pacific coastline, Marina Pez Vela has become one of Costa Rica’s premier destinations for sportfishing, luxury travel, and ocean-inspired entertainment. Just minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park — widely considered Costa Rica’s top tourist hotspot — the marina blends world-class facilities with direct access to fertile Pacific waters.
Whether you’re coming for marlin and sailfish, a sunset dinner overlooking the ocean, a family-friendly festival, or a launch pad for a rainforest adventure, Marina Pez Vela offers the perfect mix of saltwater action and tropical relaxation.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about fishing and fun at Marina Pez Vela.
🛥 What Makes Marina Pez Vela Unique?
✔ Modern full-service marina
✔ Premier sportfishing fleet
✔ Dining, shopping & nightlife in one place
✔ Breathtaking ocean and sunset views
✔ Walking distance to Quepos town
✔ 10 minutes from Manuel Antonio beaches
Marina Pez Vela attracts anglers from around the globe who want big fish, luxury amenities, and convenient top-tier tourism all within reach.
This is where ocean dreams come alive — and the fish stories become legends.
🌊 World-Class Sportfishing at Marina Pez Vela
Quepos is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, and the offshore waters deliver big-game excitement nearly every month of the year.
🎣 Top Offshore Species
- Pacific Sailfish
- Blue, Black & Striped Marlin
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)
- Wahoo
🐟 Inshore Species
- Roosterfish (catch & release trophy fish)
- Cubera Snapper
- Snook
- Jacks
- Mackerel
- Grouper
With fishing grounds so close, you’ll spend more time catching and less time traveling.
🏆 Tournament Hotspot
Marina Pez Vela hosts several prestigious international tournaments each year, including:
- Offshore World Championship (OWC)
- Marina Pez Vela Open
- Billfish Cup
These events bring in elite anglers and generate high-energy excitement throughout the marina village.
During tournament week, the vibe is electric — crowds gather to celebrate trophy releases & big game wins.
⛵ Charter Boats & Crews
The marina is home to some of the most experienced captains in Central America — many with decades of tournament and charter experience.
Charters typically include:
✅ Top-end rods, reels & tackle
✅ A/C cabin (mid-large boats)
✅ Bilingual crew
✅ Safety gear & life jackets
✅ Snacks/drinks + lunch on full-day trips
✅ Catch cleaning (for edible species)
Whether it’s your first fishing trip or you’re chasing a marlin grand slam, crews tailor the experience to your goals.
📅 Best Fishing Seasons in Quepos
One of Costa Rica’s biggest advantages is year-round fishing.
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Dec – April | Peak billfish season, calm seas |
| May – August | Big marlin + tuna |
| Sept – Nov | Dorado season, mixed billfish |
Roosterfish and snapper are excellent nearly every month of the year.
Hot tip: During December–April, boats often release double-digit sailfish on a good day.
🌴 Beyond the Marina — Adventures in Manuel Antonio
One of the biggest reasons anglers choose Marina Pez Vela?
You can pair world-class fishing with world-class ecotourism.
Top things to do nearby:
- 🐒 Explore Manuel Antonio National Park
- 🏄 Surf world-famous Manuel Antonio beaches
- 🚤 Jet ski / parasail / snorkeling tours
- 🦥 Wildlife tours — sloths, monkeys, toucans
- 🌅 Sunset catamaran cruises
- 🛵 ATV waterfall excursions
Families love that non-anglers have plenty to enjoy while fishermen chase trophy catches offshore.
🍽 Dining & Entertainment at the Marina
Marina Pez Vela is a culinary hub with stunning harbor and Pacific Ocean views.
Popular dining includes:
- Fine seafood restaurants
- Gourmet pizzerias
- Ice cream and dessert shops
- Tapas and cocktail lounges
- Sunset bars with live music
Plus:
- Retail shopping
- Fishing gear & apparel
- Seasonal holiday events
- Kids’ activities
- Outdoor movie nights
🎆 The marina also hosts spectacular New Year’s celebrations, surf competitions, and cultural festivals.
🏨 Where to Stay Near Marina Pez Vela
While the marina itself offers upscale residences, most travelers stay nearby in:
Manuel Antonio Resorts & Villas
✅ Cliffside boutique hotels
✅ Infinity pools
✅ Ocean-view private villas
✅ Abundant wildlife at your doorstep
Quepos Town Hotels
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Easy walk to the marina
✅ Local nightlife & restaurants
No matter your style, accommodations are available for:
- Families
- Honeymooners
- Fishing groups
- Corporate incentives
- Luxury travelers
🚗 Getting to Marina Pez Vela
Located just 2.5–3 hours from San José International Airport (SJO), you can arrive by:
- Rental car
- Private shuttle
- Small regional flight into Quepos Airport (XQP)
Once there, everything is close and convenient.
📌 What to Bring on Your Fishing Trip
- High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
- Polarized sunglasses
- Water shoes or boat shoes
- Lightweight long sleeves
- Motion medicine if needed
- Camera / GoPro
- Cash tip for crew (15–20%)
🎣 Fishing thrill is guaranteed — but comfort helps make the memories even better.
🌎 Conservation & Catch-and-Release
Costa Rica is a pioneer in sustainable fishing practices:
- Mandatory billfish catch-and-release
- Use of circle hooks
- Tagging programs for research
- Responsible harvesting of edible fish
This commitment ensures healthy fisheries for future generations.
✨ Why Choose Marina Pez Vela?
Here’s what sets MPV apart:
🔥 Top-tier marlin & sailfish fishing
⛴ Modern marina + experienced charter fleet
🌅 Close to beaches, tourism & nightlife
👨👩👧 Perfect for families & groups
🌱 Eco-focused & community-driven
🏆 Hosts world-class tournaments
Fishing in Quepos offers luxury and adrenaline in one unforgettable package.
🎣 Final Word
A trip to Marina Pez Vela isn’t just about fishing — it’s about living the Costa Rica dream:
✅ Hooking into powerful billfish offshore
✅ Sharing sunset cocktails overlooking the marina
✅ Exploring lush rainforests and pristine beaches
✅ Creating memories with family and friends
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or planning your first fishing adventure, Marina Pez Vela offers a unique blend of ocean excitement and vacation bliss that few places in the world can match.
Pack your sunglasses, charge your camera, and get ready for the sportfishing experience of a lifetime.
🎯 Your next trophy catch awaits at Marina Pez Vela.
