Fora’s Take
Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is a charming beach town that everybody loves. We would recommend staying there for a week or two if possible. The town has such a cool vibe and it's a truly magical and special place.
The town is centered around surfing, yoga, beautiful beaches and amazing restaurants. It's all about living the Pura Vida lifestyle and enjoying the present moment. You'd really love Santa Teresa if you visit!
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Where to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica
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Things to do in Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Surfing
Santa Teresa is an amazing surf spot with a rolling coastline, white sand beaches and waves that are perfect for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find a wave that’s just right for you.
I’ve taken a few lessons, and even though I’m not a pro yet, I was able to stand up on the board! It was such a blast and something I had to cross off my bucket list.
Day trip to Montezuma
Montezuma is an amazing place, just a quick 30-minute ride from Santa Teresa. It’s a peaceful and laid-back beach town that has preserved the simplicity of life. As you explore the town, you’ll discover it’s a hub for people to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.
Montezuma Waterfall
The hike is a quick one, only about 25 minutes, and it’s really enjoyable. As you make your way along the stream, you’ll come across a few smaller falls before reaching the star of the show, a breathtakingly huge water cascade that’s sure to impress! It’s no wonder why it’s so popular among tourists and has made its way onto countless Instagram feeds.
Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve
It’s one of the most beautiful and well-preserved conservation areas in Costa Rica. The Reserve spans over 1200 hectares of mixed forest and is an ideal destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. You’ll get to see around 240 bird species and a variety of animals such as armadillos, anteaters, monkeys, coatis and even the elusive ocelot! Cabo Blanco is a magical place where you can experience the wonders of nature and create unforgettable memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Plan to spend a day at the park so you can fully enjoy the hike without feeling rushed.
Relax at the beach
The beaches in Santa Teresa are absolutely amazing! They are so wide and long that you can explore all day and find the perfect spot to relax. It’s a good idea to bring a little picnic with you as there aren’t too many eating or drinking options on the beach. Enjoying the beautiful nature and ocean is a wonderful way to make new friends and connect with the world around us.
The sunsets
Santa Teresa has some of the most amazing and unique sunsets. The town comes together on the beach to watch the sun go down, and it’s such a special moment. We all agree that words can’t do it justice. People just hang out with friends, eat, drink, play soccer and watch the surfers, all while taking in the breathtaking view. It’s truly a friendly and happy atmosphere that brings everyone together.
How to Get There
A 4x4 SUV is the best option for the area. The drive is long since you have to drive around the entire peninsula, but the roads getting there are in great condition. There are a lot of newly built roads.
You can also fly into Tambor Airport, which is the closest airport to Santa Teresa. This is the most popular domestic route from San Jose.
Need to know
If you’re looking for some thrilling adventure, you can rent ATVs and have a blast! However, if you plan to stay in the main part of town, you’ll find that most restaurants and attractions are within walking distance, but it's still a lot of fun and very common transportation here. If you’re a fan of surfing or yoga, this is a destination you simply can’t miss. If you’re looking for a foodie’s paradise, this is it! The restaurants in this area are simply incredible.
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Top 7 Dont’s You Need to Know When Traveling to Costa Rica.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.