Arenal vs. Manual Antonio
 

What is the difference between these two locations, activity wise? How far apart from eachother are they?

Thank you

Similar activities in both areas. To me, the biggest difference is that Arenal has the active volcano and MA has the beach. They're about 5 hours apart.

The difference is like the difference between the Great Smoky Mountains and Miami. Arenal is a forested area, at a higher elevation with rainforests and the lava flow from the live volcano that can be seen at night. There is also a huge freshwater lake for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Manuel Antonio is a National Park that is comprised of mostly beaches with some seaside-type low-lying forests. Both are very popular tourist destinations. As volcanogirl said, both have lots of activities available. For information on Arenal, look at www.arenal.net For information on Manuel Antonio, look at
www.costarica-nationalparks.com

thanks everyone! Reeeeally want to do the zip-lining and beach so i guess we'll have to go to both Arenal and MA.

There is ziplining in both locations. Ma offers more restaurants and shopping where la fortuna a little more low key. I would choose arenal over ma if I had too, but both make a good combo. Arenal volcano is amazing but the beaches at ma are gorgeous.