Discover the best things to do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. From surfing and yoga to stunning beaches and jungle adventures, this is your complete guide for this beloved beach town.
Tucked away on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is Costa Rica’s ultimate bohemian surf town, where waves crash, sunsets glow, and life moves to the rhythm of Pura Vida. Part of the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone, one of only five regions in the world where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives, Santa Teresa embodies a lifestyle that fuses nature, wellness, and freedom.
This once-sleepy fishing village has become a magnet for surfers, yogis, digital nomads, and free-spirited travelers. Here, you’ll find world-class surf breaks, lush jungle backdrops, tranquil yoga shalas, and sunset beach bars where barefoot evenings stretch into starlit nights.
With pristine beaches, a thriving wellness culture, and a laid-back international community, Santa Teresa is perfect for surf enthusiasts, wellness seekers, and anyone longing for an authentic Costa Rican escape.
Planning Your Santa Teresa Visit
Best Time to Visit Santa Teresa
- Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Perfect weather, golden sunsets, consistent surf, but also more crowds.
- Green Season (May–Nov): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and occasional afternoon showers that cool things off.
- Surfing: Excellent year-round; waves shift with the seasons.
- Roads: Many are now paved, but always check recent conditions before driving.
How Many Days to Stay
- 🏄 Minimum: 3–4 days to surf, relax, and enjoy the vibe.
- 🌴 Ideal: 5–7 days to fully soak up the surf, yoga, and nearby adventures.
- ✨ Tip: The “pura vida” lifestyle will tempt you to stay longer — and many travelers do.
Getting to Santa Teresa
- ✈️ By Air: 25-minute flight from San José to Tambor Airport, then 1-hour taxi ride.
- ⛴️ By Ferry: From Puntarenas to Paquera, followed by a 1.5-hour scenic drive (4×4 recommended).
- 🚐 By Shuttle: Direct from San José (6 hrs) or Liberia (4.5 hrs).
- 🚌 Public Bus: Budget-friendly but long.
- 🚗 Car Rental: Offers flexibility to explore nearby beaches and villages.
Surfing in Santa Teresa
Surfing defines Santa Teresa’s spirit. With long sandy beaches and consistent breaks, it’s paradise for both beginners and pros.
Surf Lessons for All Levels
- One of Costa Rica’s best surf learning hubs.
- Certified schools and expert local instructors.
- Group lessons: ~$50–65 USD (includes board, rashguard, and safety training).
- Playa Hermosa and Santa Teresa Beach are ideal for first-timers.
Best Surf Spots by Level
- Santa Teresa Beach: Sandy bottom, forgiving waves — perfect for beginners.
- Playa Carmen: Great for intermediates; fun, fast waves.
- Playa Hermosa: Long, powerful waves for experienced surfers.
- Mal País: Advanced reef breaks and rocky bottoms.
- Punta Barrigona: Expert-only spot with challenging reefs.
Board Rentals & Surf Culture
- Rentals from $10–15/day at numerous beachside shops.
- Sunset surf sessions are a local ritual.
- Always respect surf etiquette and local conditions.
The Beaches of Santa Teresa
Each beach has its own charm and energy:
Santa Teresa Beach
- Long golden sands and rolling waves.
- Beachfront cafés and smoothie bars.
- Sunset gatherings are an everyday event.
Playa Hermosa
- 10 minutes north, quieter and less developed.
- Ideal for beginner surfers.
- Great for sunrise walks and family-friendly fun.
Playa Carmen
- Social hub of Santa Teresa — surf + restaurants + nightlife.
- Perfect for people-watching and golden-hour photos.
Mal País Beach
- Small fishing village vibe.
- Empty beaches, rocky tide pools, and incredible sunsets.
- A peaceful escape from Santa Teresa’s buzz.
Wellness & Yoga
Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s premier wellness destinations, where yoga, mindfulness, and self-care are as much a part of daily life as surfing.
Yoga Studios & Beach Classes
- Believe Surf & Yoga: Beloved by locals and travelers alike.
- Horizon: Rooftop yoga with panoramic ocean views.
- Zeneida’s Surf Garden and Funky Monkey for varied styles (including aerial yoga).
- Beach yoga at sunrise or sunset is a Santa Teresa tradition.
Spa & Wellness Treatments
- Om Spa: Beachfront massages and natural therapies.
- Skin & Soul Holistics: Holistic facials and body treatments.
- Many hotels offer on-call massages and in-room spa options.
Blue Zone Living
- The Nicoya Peninsula is a certified Blue Zone, known for longevity and wellness.
- Locals thrive on fresh diets, strong community ties, and an active lifestyle.
- Visitors can embrace this mindset through yoga, healthy eating, and slowing down.
Adventure Activities
When you’re not surfing or meditating, Santa Teresa offers countless adventures that connect you to nature.
ATV Rentals & Exploration
- The most popular way to explore town and nearby beaches.
- Rentals: $50–70 USD/day.
- Great for visiting Playa Hermosa, Mal País, or Montezuma.
- Zuma Tours is a trusted local company.
- Always wear eye protection and a bandana, as roads can get very dusty!
Horseback Riding
- Ride along jungle trails or beaches at sunset.
- Magical and serene — one of the best ways to connect with the landscape.
Day Trips from Santa Teresa
Montezuma & Waterfalls
- 30 minutes away by ATV or car.
- Bohemian beach town with three-tier waterfalls (free access).
- Swim and jump into natural pools.
- Don’t miss Butterfly Brewing Co. for craft beer with a view.
Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve
- Costa Rica’s first protected reserve (est. 1963).
- 1,200 hectares of tropical forest and wildlife.
- Hike to secluded beaches and spot monkeys, birds, and coatis.
Curu Wildlife Refuge
- 1 hour away, a hidden gem with scenic trails and pristine beaches.
- Perfect for nature photography and wildlife spotting.
Cabuya Island Cemetery
- Tiny seaside village with an island cemetery accessible at low tide.
- Serene beaches and local eateries.
Food & Dining in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its community: a mix of Costa Rican tradition and global fusion.
Beachfront Restaurants
- Banana Beach: Iconic beach bar with live music and sunset loungers.
- Manzú (Hotel Nantipa): Upscale dining with craft cocktails.
- Shambala & Rocamar: Laid-back beachfront options with ocean views.
Casual Eats & Local Flavor
- Eat Street: Trendy food court with diverse vendors.
- Soda Tiquicia & La Choza: Local favorites for hearty casados.
- Fresh fruit stalls and coffee bars along the main road.
Trendy & International Spots
- Drift: Vegan, vegetarian, and falafel favorites.
- Zwart Café: Coffee + art studio — paint while you dine.
- Butterfly Brewing Co (Montezuma): Craft beers with a view.
- Endless smoothie bowls, acai cafés, and global eats.
Unique Experiences
Bioluminescence Kayaking
- Magical nighttime kayaking near Paquera.
- Best during new moon phases.
- Bahia Rica Adventures is the top operator.
- Swim among glowing blue plankton — truly unforgettable.
Art & Shopping
- Boutique shops and art galleries along the main road.
- Pura Vida Gallery for local crafts and paintings.
- Zwart Café: Create your own artwork for $20.
- Handmade jewelry and local coffee make perfect souvenirs.
Practical Santa Teresa Guide
Where to Stay
- Luxury Beachfront: Nantipa, Florblanca (eco-chic with yoga & spa).
- Mid-Range: Boutique jungle lodges with ocean views.
- Yoga Retreats: Believe, Horizon, and smaller boutique centers.
- Tip: Book early for high season (Dec–Apr).
Getting Around
- ATVs & motorcycles dominate — around half of local traffic.
- Bicycles for short rides; taxis available but limited.
- Many roads are now paved, though a 4×4 remains helpful.
Essential Tips
- 💵 Limited ATMs — some cash on hand is recommended.
- 🌞 Bring reef-safe sunscreen & reusable water bottle.
- 🐒 Respect wildlife and local eco-guidelines.
- 📵 Embrace the slow pace — digital detox friendly.
- 🚗 Roads improving, but still rustic in some areas.
Sample Itineraries
3–4 Days: Surf & Relax
- Day 1: Arrival, surf lesson, sunset at Santa Teresa Beach.
- Day 2: Yoga + town exploration + Banana Beach evening.
- Day 3: Montezuma waterfalls day trip.
- Day 4: ATV beach hopping + farewell sunset.
1 Week: The Complete Experience
- Mix of surf days, yoga sessions, and day trips (Montezuma, Cabo Blanco).
- Mid-week spa or wellness treatments.
- Nightlife sprinkled in with quiet sunsets.
- End with bioluminescence kayaking for a magical finale.
Budget Guide
- Surf lessons: $50–65 USD
- Board rentals: $10–15 USD/day
- ATV rental: $50–70 USD/day
- Tours: $55–120 USD (zipline, Tortuga Island, etc.)
- Meals: $8–12 USD at sodas, $15–25 USD at restaurants
- Lodging: Hostels $35+, Mid-range $100–180, Luxury $300+
- 💰 Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s pricier destinations — plan for:
- Budget: $60–80/day
- Moderate: $150–200/day
- Comfortable: $300+/day
- Budget: $60–80/day
What to Pack
- Swimsuits & rash guards
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Lightweight, bohemian clothing
- Dust bandana, sunglasses, sandals
- Yoga mat (optional)
- Waterproof camera
- Reusable water bottle
- Positive and flexible Pura Vida attitude 🌺
Plan Your Santa Teresa Experience with CR Nomads
Ready to ride the waves, stretch under the palms, and live the Pura Vida lifestyle? At CR Nomads, we design personalized itineraries for every kind of traveler, from surfers chasing the perfect swell to wellness seekers craving a digital detox.
Our local experts know the best surf breaks for your skill level, the quietest yoga spots, and how to combine Santa Teresa with other Nicoya Peninsula gems like Nosara, Montezuma, or Samara.
🌴 Let us handle the planning — you enjoy paradise.
👉 Explore more: The 7 Best Resorts In Santa Teresa // Top 5 Yoga Studios In Santa Teresa