what are the top 3 things to do in the manuel antonio and quepos area?

Fish , go to the beach , sit somewhere with a great view and have a drink ! I think they surf there too!

You could visit the national park. They have two casinos in the area if you gamble. The restaurants are very good. The are numerous outdoor excursions as well. We wanted to go on the ATV trip, but ran out of time. We did go on a sailboat, but got sick. The water was too choppy for me. Did get to snorkel on the boat though.

Do one of the 'canopy' tours or horseback ride to some waterfalls!

In no particular order:

1. I loved taking the boat tour of Damas Island late afternoon/sunset... saw lots of wildlife and capuchin monkeys.

2. Also loved the Rainmaker Reserve tour (book in advance): a fantastic hanging bridge, great rainforest with waterfalls, etc.

3... and a hike in the MA park WITH a tour guide (you'll see all kinds of wildlife: sloths, bats, iguanas, monkeys, toucans, etc.)

Go to the Sea Glass Spa for a great massage; here is their website:
www.seaglassspa.com

For family fun

Raft on the Savegre (full day, scenic, clean...on the Naranja if you want more excitement)

Canopy Safari zip tour

Eat at Mar Luna (otherwise, we found a couple of the higher end touted restaurants disappointing)

Manuel Antonio Beach (the one in the park, early...so it's all yours)

Jim