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Santa Teresa is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica, offering a blend of pristine beaches, excellent surfing spots, and breathtaking sunsets that will last forever in your memory. However, it’s not just the allure of the beaches of Santa Teresa that captivates visitors – there’s something special in the air here.
Tourism in this former fishing village began to flourish just a few years ago, so it’s still possible to appreciate its original charm. However, with travelers from various backgrounds now calling Santa Teresa home, you’ll experience an interesting mix of cultures. It’s no wonder that the town has become one of the most famous attractions in Costa Rica.
So, if you’re planning to spend a few days enjoying its laid-back atmosphere, beach parties, and exploring the best places in the Nicoya Peninsula, stick around and read this guide. I’ve included the best things to do in Santa Teresa, as well as some recommendations for adventure sports and other activities for nature lovers. Plus, I’ve got some lodging options to ensure an unforgettable stay.
1. Rent an ATV, the best way to explore Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
When it comes to deciding what to do in Santa Teresa, the first thing I recommend is renting an ATV. This will give you flexibility and freedom to move around, allowing you to reach practically everywhere (including many of the beaches and other attractions I’ll talk about in this guide).
1. Rent an ATV, the best way to explore Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
ATVs are the go-to mode of transportation in this area, as their 4WD capability makes them ideal for navigating dirt roads – though you should be cautious in rainy weather. Given their popularity, you’ll find plenty of rental spots in Santa Teresa, typically offering them for around $80 a day, with room for two people.
The best way to experience the town of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is to immerse yourself in its charming environment, and an ATV allows you to explore at your own pace and create your own adventure on wheels. The main routes will take you to Samara Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Guanacaste province; to the town of Montezuma, where you’ll find a spectacular beach and the famous waterfall; and to Paquera, where bioluminescence tours and boats depart for Isla Tortuga.
2. Surfing, an exciting thing to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Hands down, the most popular activity in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, is surfing. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or eager to try something new, it’s surely one of the best things to do in Santa Teresa.
An important factor to consider is the best time to travel to Costa Rica. During the dry season, from December to April, the waves are milder, and the wind is gentler, with January and February being the calmest months. This makes it ideal for beginners and those interested in taking surf lessons in Santa Teresa.
On the flip side, the rainy season, starting in April and ending in November (with the San Juan summer), brings bigger and stronger waves thanks to the rainfall, which makes it an ideal time for more experienced surfers.
2. Surfing, an exciting thing to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
As for the most popular surf spots, Playa Hermosa, 2.5 miles north of Santa Teresa (not to be confused with Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste or mainland Puntarenas), is perfect for learning to surf. It’s typically less crowded, offering good waves and moderate currents. Alternatively, you can check out Playa Carmen, 1.8 miles south of Santa Teresa.
However, if you’re looking for a more challenging experience, I suggest heading to La Lora, one of the most popular beaches in Santa Teresa, where several surfing competitions are held throughout the year, right in front of the town. And if you’re up for the ultimate challenge, make sure to visit Suck Rock, where waves break against a reef, reaching heights of up to 20 feet.
3. Montezuma Beach and other beaches in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
The beaches of Santa Teresa are true paradises, celebrated as some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself tempted to spend your days lounging on the sand and gazing at the horizon.
There’s a variety of beaches around Santa Teresa, each with its own vibe. Some are perfect for surfers, while others are better suited for leisurely swims.
Santa Teresa Beach, as mentioned earlier, is a surfing hotspot, but it’s also worth a visit for its stunning white sand and lush greenery. While it can get busy with surf schools and beach bars, mornings offer a quieter atmosphere, especially when the tide is low and natural pools form a perfect setting for a refreshing dip.
3. Montezuma Beach and other beaches in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
For a swim-friendly option, head north to Playa Hermosa, or south to Playa Carmen, both catering to different preferences but still popular among surfers.
However, if you’re up for a little adventure, I highly recommend making the trip to Montezuma Beach, just an hour away from Santa Teresa by ATV. It was the first beach I visited in the area, and I was instantly captivated by its crystal-clear blue-green waters and the abundance of marine life visible right from the shore.
With its soft sand, rocky coastline, and tranquil atmosphere, Montezuma Beach is a hidden gem that’s often less frequented by tourists, offering a sense of peace not commonly found on the beaches closer to Santa Teresa.
4. Montezuma Falls, a must-see in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Another must-see in Santa Teresa is Montezuma Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica, nestled near Montezuma Beach. If you’re ready for a break from the sun and surf and crave a change of scenery, this is the perfect spot for you.
4. Montezuma Falls, a must-see in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
From the town, the Riverbed Trail leads to the lower waterfall in about 20 minutes. Here, you’ll find a picturesque pool with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and admiring the cascading waters, making it an ideal spot for a day trip, even with children.
In total, the waterfall has three different levels, with the bottom one being the largest. It is safe to jump from the top of the two upper levels. However, jumping from the bottom level is extremely dangerous due to the rocky terrain.
5. Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve, an incredible place near Santa Teresa
Visiting the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve is one of the best things to do in Santa Teresa that you simply can’t miss. If you want to spot some of the most iconic animals in Costa Rica, I highly recommend exploring the country’s oldest nature reserve, located about 15 miles from Santa Teresa’s center.
Here, among other species, you’ll find howler monkeys, deer, anteaters, and over 240 species of birds. With a bit of luck, you’ll have the chance to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
5. Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve, an incredible place near Santa Teresa
The main activity within the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is hiking through the forest, offering a fantastic way to break away from lazy beach days. You’ll have two trails to choose from: the Danish Trail, a 1.2-mile circular route, and the Swedish Trail stretching approximately 4.9 miles in total (including the Danish Trail) and concluding at a breathtaking beach. Keep in mind that the latter can take around 5 hours to complete, so plan your visit accordingly.
The reserve is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday, with an admission fee of $12 per person. Alternatively, if you prefer to explore with a guide, I highly recommend opting for this private tour.
6. Cabuya Island Cemetery, a unique place to visit near Santa Teresa
The Cabuya Island Cemetery is one of the most mysterious sites I’ve visited in Costa Rica. It’s located next to the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve, so we decided to visit it right after exploring the reserve, making the most of the low tide.
This peculiar cemetery is located on an island, approximately 1,300 feet from the coastline. As the tide recedes, a stone path emerges that crosses the ocean, providing access to the island. It’s during this time that the few residents of the nearby village make their way to honor their departed loved ones.
6. Cabuya Island Cemetery, a unique place to visit near Santa Teresa
As you approach the island, you’ll see the large white arch marking the entrance to this unique burial ground. Here, you’ll only find crosses and graves blending in with the tropical vegetation, creating a truly distinctive spectacle.
Make sure to gather information from locals to ensure you return to dry land before the tide begins to rise and the waters cover the path again.
7. Curú National Refuge, another must-visit attraction in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Visiting the Curú National Refuge is one of the best things to do in Santa Teresa. Similar to the Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve, it boasts a rich biodiversity worth exploring. So, if you’re planning to visit the attractions near the town of Santa Teresa, this refuge is located just an hour’s drive (a bit longer by ATV) from Santa Teresa.
7. Curú National Refuge, another must-visit attraction in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Spanning over 3,600 acres, the Curú National Refuge encompasses forests, beaches, mangroves, and spectacular marine ecosystems. During your visit, keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, coatis, scarlet macaws, and a plethora of bird species native to the region. However, the true star of the refuge is the spider monkey, a species undergoing tireless conservation efforts due to its serious risk of extinction.
There are several trails you can hike throughout the park, and you can wrap up your adventure with a refreshing dip at the secluded beach. While you can explore on your own, hiring a guide can add to the fun by helping you spot wildlife and make the most of your time. We booked this private tour and loved every minute of it, so I highly recommend checking it out for yourself.
8. Snorkeling on Tortuga Island, one of the fun activities in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Visiting Isla Tortuga isn’t just one of the enjoyable things to do in Santa Teresa. In fact, it’s among the most popular excursions in Costa Rica regardless of where you are in the country, as you can take this tour from San José, Arenal, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Guanacaste.
8. Snorkeling on Tortuga Island, one of the fun activities in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
But if you find yourself in Santa Teresa, it’s much easier and quicker to get to Tortuga Island, as it is located off the southern coast of Nicoya. You can hop on boats departing from Paquera, which are accessible from Santa Teresa by ATV, and they take you to Isla Tortuga in 20 minutes.
Since it’s a protected natural area, visitors to the island must return on the same tour since overnight stays aren’t permitted. However, even a single day is enough to bask in the beauty of its lush beaches and dive into the vibrant marine life beneath its waters. Slip on your snorkel mask and get ready to be mesmerized by tropical creatures like angelfish, moray eels, pipefish, and spotted eagle rays, all thriving amidst the volcanic reef.
9. Bioluminescent kayak, one of the most popular excursions in Santa Teresa
Witnessing the mesmerizing phenomenon of bioluminescence is one of the coolest things to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. If you’ve never seen it before, prepare to be amazed – it’s one of the most incredible natural displays you’ll ever witness. Imagine little lights flickering in the water as you gently stir it with your hand or paddle; it’s truly magical.
9. Bioluminescent kayak, one of the most popular excursions in Santa Teresa
This enchanting visual effect is created by a species of microscopic seaweed found only in select locations around the world. So, don’t let this opportunity pass you by – sign up for this kayak tour to witness this magnificent spectacle up close. We went on a new moon night, and it was truly amazing.
What’s more, the night tour sets off from Paquera, which makes it convenient to do on the same afternoon you return from Isla Tortuga. This way, you can maximize your time exploring the wonders surrounding Santa Teresa.
10. Go ziplining in the Mal País Jungle, one of the most exhilarating things to do in Santa Teresa
Experiencing the thrill of zip-lining through the Mal País Jungle is something you cannot miss when you travel to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. This adventure promises both adrenaline and exploration, allowing you to observe the stunning Montezuma Falls along the way. This is a great plan to optimize your time and make the most of your stay in Santa Teresa.
10. Go ziplining in the Mal País Jungle, one of the most exhilarating things to do in Santa Teresa
The Mal País zipline offers unparalleled views of the natural surroundings, so you will enjoy breathtaking scenery throughout the entire journey. With all the necessary safety measures in place, it’s an adventure suitable for families and children, ensuring you can enjoy the experience without worry. If you’re craving an immersive encounter with nature and a chance to appreciate the rivers and mountains from a bird’s-eye view, make sure to include it in your itinerary for Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.
Best hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
If you’re still undecided about where to stay in Costa Rica during your visit to Santa Teresa, consider these highly recommended accommodations:
- Canaima Chill House: This is one of the most popular hotels in Costa Rica, offering comfortable double rooms just a 10-minute walk from the beach. It includes amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchen, and a private balcony or terrace. Plus, you can cool off in the swimming pool on hot days, all at an affordable price.
- El Gato Rojas Surf Hostel: This is one of the best hostels in Costa Rica for budget-conscious travelers, situated right by the beach. Choose from shared dormitories, private rooms, or even garden tents for a unique experience. What sets this hostel apart is its nightly group activities, including live music sessions and community barbecues, making it ideal for solo travelers looking to connect with others, especially fellow surfers.
Map of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Here’s a map of Santa Teresa, highlighting all the recommended places that I’ve mentioned. Additionally, if you’re planning to travel to Costa Rica, I highly recommend checking out the map of Costa Rica I’ve prepared. It includes recommendations for beaches, protected areas, great restaurants, and accommodations.
That wraps up our guide to the best things to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. I hope you found it helpful! If you have any questions or want to share your experience exploring the beaches of Santa Teresa, feel free to leave a comment below.
Pura Vida!
