Santa Teresa
Costa Rica Travel Guide
Quick Travel Summary - Start Here
Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations, known for its incredible surf, laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and wild Pacific coastline. Whether you’re coming to learn how to surf, spend your days barefoot on the beach, explore nearby Malpaís and Playa Hermosa, or simply slow down and enjoy the pura vida lifestyle, Santa Teresa has a little bit of everything. It’s especially popular with surfers, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a more relaxed and adventurous beach experience.
After spending time in Santa Teresa, it quickly became one of my favorite places in Costa Rica for surfing and enjoying the beach lifestyle. While it has grown significantly over the years, it still has that unique feeling of freedom and adventure that makes people want to stay longer than planned.
Quick Facts:
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📍 Location: Southern Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
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⏱ Recommended stay: 3–5 days (4 nights is ideal)
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🏄 Best for: Surfing, beaches, sunsets, wellness, and laid-back beach vibes
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🚗 Do you need a car? Not necessarily. You can get around Santa Teresa by ATV, taxi, shuttle, or on foot, but renting an ATV or 4x4 can be very convenient for exploring nearby beaches and Malpaís.
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✈️ Closest airport: Cobano (domestic flights) or San José (SJO), with options to continue by domestic flight, shuttle, or rental car
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🌴 Main highlights: Santa Teresa Beach, Playa Hermosa, Malpaís, tide pools, sunsets, and the surrounding jungle
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🌊 Best experiences: Surfing, surfing lessons, beach hopping, yoga, ATV adventures, sunset watching, and exploring the southern Nicoya Peninsula
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is an especially great choice if you want to combine adventure and relaxation without a strict itinerary. Come for the waves, stay for the sunsets, good food, and easygoing atmosphere — and don’t be surprised if you end up extending your stay.
Where is Santa Teresa?
Santa Teresa is located on the southern tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, on the country’s beautiful Pacific coast. The area is famous for its world-class surf, long sandy beaches, jungle-covered hills, spectacular sunsets, and laid-back beach-town atmosphere. Although Santa Teresa has become increasingly popular, the surrounding area still offers plenty of wild beaches, nature, and opportunities to slow down and enjoy the pura vida lifestyle.
One thing that can confuse first-time visitors is the difference between Santa Teresa, Malpaís, Playa Hermosa, and Cobano. These places are all part of the same general area, but each has a slightly different feel and purpose.
✈️ Cobano (Main Town & Transportation Hub) → 10–20 min → 🏄 Santa Teresa (Surf, Hotels & Restaurants) → 10–15 min → 🌴 Malpaís & Nearby Beaches
Cobano
Cobano is the main inland town and an important transportation hub for the southern Nicoya Peninsula. This is where you'll find supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, local restaurants, ATMs, and other essential services. Domestic flights from San José arrive at nearby Cobano Airport, making it one of the easiest ways to reach the area.
Most travelers don't stay in Cobano unless they are looking for a more local and budget-friendly experience. Instead, visitors typically continue toward Santa Teresa, Malpaís, or the surrounding beaches.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is the main beach destination and the heart of the area's surf and travel scene. The town stretches along the coast and is packed with surf shops, restaurants, cafés, boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and beach bars.
This is where most visitors choose to stay, especially if they want easy access to surfing, beaches, nightlife, and the area's famous sunset atmosphere. The main road runs parallel to the beach, making it relatively easy to explore the area by ATV, taxi, bike, or on foot.
Playa Hermosa
Located north of Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa is a quieter beach community known for its beautiful sandy beach and excellent surf. It has a more relaxed and less developed feel than central Santa Teresa, making it a great option for travelers who want more space and a slower pace.
It's also a popular choice for beginner and intermediate surfers, with several surf schools and a beautiful stretch of coastline to explore.
Malpaís
South of Santa Teresa, Malpaís offers a more rustic and peaceful atmosphere. The area is surrounded by jungle, rocky coastline, and quieter beaches, and it's a great place to escape the busier parts of Santa Teresa.
Malpaís is also a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions, including the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve and the area's famous tide pools and beaches.
Travel Times
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From San José: Approximately 5–6 hours by car, depending on the route and ferry
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From San José by domestic flight: Approximately 1 hour to Cobano, followed by a 20–30 minute drive to Santa Teresa
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From Montezuma: About 1–1.5 hours
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From Tambor: About 1.5–2 hours
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From Nosara: Approximately 3.5–4.5 hours
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From Liberia Airport (LIR): Approximately 4–5 hours
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From Jacó: Approximately 4–5 hours, including the ferry crossing
Private & Shared Shuttles
Getting to Santa Teresa takes a little more planning than reaching many of Costa Rica's major destinations, but daily shared and private shuttle services make the journey much easier.
Shared shuttles connect Santa Teresa with popular destinations such as San José, Manuel Antonio, Jacó, Monteverde, Nosara, Montezuma, and other beach towns. Many services include the ferry crossing from Puntarenas to Paquera, making it a convenient option if you don't want to drive.
For travelers looking for greater flexibility and comfort, private shuttles offer hotel-to-hotel service, flexible departure times, and the possibility of stopping along the way for sightseeing, meals, or other activities. They are especially convenient for families, groups, and travelers carrying surfboards or lots of luggage.
Once you're in Santa Teresa, you don't necessarily need a rental car. ATVs are one of the most popular ways to get around, especially if you want to explore nearby beaches and Malpaís. Taxis and local transportation are also available, while many areas around central Santa Teresa can be reached on foot.
How many days do you need in Santa Teresa?
2 days
Beach time + sunset + a surf lesson or nearby adventure like Tide Pools in Mal Pais
3 days (ideal)
A balanced experience with surfing, beaches, exploring Malpaís or Playa Hermosa, and plenty of time to relax
4-5 days
Slow travel + multiple beaches + surfing + day trip to Montezuma + downtime
Santa Teresa is one of those places where you don't want to plan every minute of your trip. The best part is having time to surf in the morning, explore a different beach, enjoy a long lunch, and watch the sunset without rushing.
We personally recommend spending at least 3 full days in Santa Teresa, which usually means 3 or 4 nights, depending on your arrival and departure times. If you're a surfer, want to take several lessons, or simply love the beach lifestyle, staying 4–5 nights is even better.
Check out our Suggested Itinerary for more information and ideas for making the most of your time in Santa Teresa.
Tips for visiting Santa Teresa
Take a surf lesson early in your trip
Santa Teresa is one of the best places in Costa Rica to learn to surf. Book your first lesson early so you have time to practice and improve during your stay.
Consider renting an ATV
Santa Teresa and the surrounding beaches are spread out, and the roads can be rough, especially during the rainy season. An ATV makes it much easier to explore Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa, Malpaís, and nearby beaches.
Don't miss the sunsets
Santa Teresa has some incredible Pacific sunsets. Pick a different beach bar or beachfront restaurant each evening and make sunset part of your daily routine.
Bring some cash
While many businesses accept cards, smaller restaurants, local shops, and some activities may prefer cash. Having some Costa Rican colones on hand is always a good idea.
Combine nearby activities to save time
Santa Teresa is best enjoyed slowly. Don't overbook your days—leave time for spontaneous beach stops, surfing, long lunches, and exploring nearby Malpaís and Playa Hermosa. That's a big part of the Santa Teresa experience.
Must do experiences in Santa Teresa
Tours and activities you will love
Things to do: Top Attractions in Santa Teresa
Take surf lessons or Surf
Surfing is the heart and soul of Santa Teresa, and you don’t need to be an experienced surfer to enjoy the waves. With its long sandy beaches, consistent surf, and warm Pacific water, Santa Teresa is one of our favorite places in Costa Rica to get on a board.
Never surfed before? Take a lesson! Local surf schools offer beginner-friendly lessons where experienced instructors teach you everything from reading the waves and paddling to standing up safely. Playa Santa Teresa and nearby Playa Hermosa are both popular spots for beginners, depending on the day's conditions.
If you're already a surfer, you'll find several different breaks along the coastline, each with its own personality:
Playa Carmen
Located at the southern end of Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen has a wide beach break with a sandy bottom and generally more forgiving waves. It's a popular spot for beginners, longboarders, and surfers looking for a more relaxed session.
Playa Santa Teresa — Main Stretch
This is the main surf area running along the center of town. The waves here can be punchier and faster than Playa Carmen, making it more popular with intermediate and advanced surfers. It's also convenient if you're staying in central Santa Teresa.
Playa Hermosa
Located north of Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa is a long sandy beach with plenty of space and several peaks. When the swell is smaller, it's an excellent option for beginners and surf lessons. As the waves get bigger, conditions become more challenging and are better suited to intermediate surfers.
Playa Mar Azul & Malpaís
South of Playa Carmen, the coastline around Mar Azul and Malpaís offers a mix of rocky areas, reef breaks, and sandy sections. These spots are generally better suited to experienced surfers, especially when conditions are stronger, and they can offer a quieter alternative to the busier breaks closer to Santa Teresa.
Our tip: If you're a beginner, don't simply rent a board and head into the ocean on your own. Conditions can change quickly, and a local instructor can help you choose the safest beach and the right conditions for your level.
Early morning is usually the best time to surf, when winds are lighter and the waves tend to be cleaner. And even if you're not surfing every day, watching the local surfers from the beach is part of the Santa Teresa experience!
Take an ATV Waterfall Tour from Santa Teresa to Montezuma
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines off-road excitement with one of the most iconic waterfalls in Costa Rica, an ATV Waterfall Tour from Santa Teresa to Montezuma is the way to go.
This tour takes you on a thrilling ride through jungle trails, rivers, and coastal roads before arriving at the famous Montezuma Waterfall, where you’ll have time to swim, relax, and soak up the natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll pass local villages, hidden beaches, and scenic viewpoints—making the journey just as memorable as the destination.
Whether you choose a half-day or full-day adventure, it’s a unique way to explore beyond Santa Teresa while experiencing the raw beauty of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Take a day tour to Isla Tortuga
If you’re staying in Santa Teresa and want a break from surfing and beach-hopping, a day trip or bioluminescence trip to Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) is a must. This little slice of paradise off the Nicoya Peninsula is known for its turquoise waters, soft white sand, and vibrant marine life—an experience that feels completely different from the rugged surf beaches of Santa Teresa.
Why is Isla Tortuga worth it?
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Caribbean-Blue Water on the Pacific Side: The calm, clear water here is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking—something you won’t get on the surf-heavy beaches of Santa Teresa.
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Snorkeling Paradise: The island is surrounded by volcanic rock reefs filled with tropical fish, rays, and sometimes turtles (yes, it lives up to its name). Most tours include snorkeling stops at two different reef sites.
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White-Sand Beach: Relax under palm trees, sip on a fresh coconut, and enjoy a beach day that feels almost like a mini-vacation from your vacation.
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Adventure + Relaxation Combo: Tours often include extras like banana boat rides, paddleboarding, or short hikes to viewpoints, so there’s something for both adventurers and loungers.
Explore the tide pools of Malpaís
The tide pools of Mal País are one of the area’s hidden gems. Just a short drive or ATV ride south from Santa Teresa, these natural pools are formed by volcanic rock along the shoreline, creating calm, crystal-clear spots to swim and relax when the ocean pulls back at low tide.
When to go?
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Low tide only: The pools are only safe and visible at low tide. At mid or high tide, the waves crash over the rocks, and it becomes dangerous.
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Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
What to expect?
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Natural “Jacuzzis”: Some pools are deep enough to swim in, others are shallow and perfect for soaking.
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Marine Life: You’ll often see little fish, crabs, and even sea urchins—great for exploring but be careful where you step.
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Scenic Setting: Rugged coastline, dramatic rock formations, and a quieter vibe compared to Santa Teresa’s busy beaches.
Visit Playa Cuevas (a.k.a. Secret Beach)
Playa Cuevas, better known as Secret Beach, is a small, secluded cove tucked away near Mal País. It’s one of those hidden spots locals love to share, and while it’s not as secret anymore, it still feels untouched compared to Santa Teresa’s main beaches.
Why visit?
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Secluded Escape: Enjoy smaller crowds, a calm atmosphere, and a wild, natural setting.
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Perfect for Swimming: The cove is protected, so the water is often calmer than the big surf beaches.
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Snorkeling & Tide Pools: On clear days and at low tide, you’ll find rocky areas that create ideal tide pools and snorkeling spots, teeming with colorful fish.
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Sunsets: This is one of the best places to watch the sun go down—it feels like your own private show.
Enjoy a sunset picnic or beach cocktail.
Watching the sunset in Santa Teresa is more than just an evening activity—it’s a daily ritual and one of the best free things to do here. As the sky lights up in fiery colors, surfers catch their last waves, locals gather with drums and fire shows, and travelers spread out blankets with picnics or cocktails in hand.
Whether you join the lively scene at Playa Carmen, snap surfer silhouettes in central Santa Teresa, or enjoy the quiet romance of Playa Hermosa, the sunset is the perfect reminder of why this beach town feels so magical.
Our Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset, spread out a blanket, and soak it all in. Once the sun dips below the horizon, don’t leave too fast—some of the best colors show up in the 10 minutes after.
Bests hotels in Santa Teresa: where to stay?
Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference in your Santa Teresa experience. Whether you're dreaming of luxurious beachfront villas, eco-lodges tucked into the jungle, or budget-friendly hostels perfect for surfers and backpackers, Santa Teresa has it all. This vibrant beach town offers a wide range of accommodations for every style and budget — all just steps from the surf and sunsets.
Check out our blog post > Best Hotels in Santa Teresa – Where to Stay? to find your perfect home base in paradise.
Best restaurants in Santa Teresa: where to eat?
Santa Teresa may be a laid-back surf town, but its food scene is anything but sleepy. This coastal gem is home to some of the most exciting dining experiences in Costa Rica, blending international flavors with local ingredients and beachy vibes. From trendy cafés and gourmet restaurants to casual sodas and beachfront taco joints, there’s something here for every taste and budget.
Check out our blog post > Best Restaurants in Santa Teresa – Where to Eat? for our favorite spots you won’t want to miss!
Suggested Itinerary in Santa Teresa
Day 1 – Arrival + Beach + Sunset
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Check in at your hotel and settle in
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Head to Playa Santa Teresa or Playa Carmen for your first beach walk and swim
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Explore the restaurants, cafés, and shops along the main road
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Enjoy a sunset drink or dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean
Day 3 – Waterfall or Adventure
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Rent an ATV or arrange transportation and explore Malpaís and the surrounding coastline
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Visit the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve if you're looking for a nature and hiking experience
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Stop at the area's quieter beaches and tide pools along the way
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Return to Santa Teresa for a relaxed dinner and sunset
Day 2 – Surf + Beach day
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Start the morning with a surf lesson or an early surf session
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Relax on the beach and enjoy a leisurely lunch
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Spend the afternoon exploring Playa Hermosa or another nearby beach
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Watch the sunset from the beach before enjoying dinner in Santa Teresa
Day 3 – Slow Morning + Adventure
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Enjoy a slow breakfast and some free time at the beach
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Choose an activity such as an ATV tour, horseback riding, yoga class, or snorkeling trip
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Alternatively, take a day trip to Montezuma and explore its waterfalls and beaches
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Finish your Santa Teresa stay with one last Pacific sunset
Short on time? If you only have 3 days, combine the beach exploration and Malpaís activities on Day 3. Santa Teresa is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, so don't feel like you need to fill every hour with activities.
Do you need a car in Santa Teresa ?
Short answer: Not necessarily, but having your own transportation can make a big difference.
Santa Teresa is spread out along the coast, and some of the best beaches and places to explore are several kilometers apart. You can get around without a car, but you'll have more freedom if you rent an ATV, car, or use local taxis.
Without a car:
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Many hotels, surf schools, and tour operators can arrange transportation
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Central Santa Teresa is relatively easy to explore on foot
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Taxis and local transportation are available for getting between beaches and nearby towns
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You can book tours and activities that include transportation
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Great option if you're planning to stay mostly around Santa Teresa and spend your days surfing and relaxing at the beach
With a car:
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More freedom to explore Playa Hermosa, Playa Carmen, Malpaís, Montezuma, and nearby beaches
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Easier to visit more remote beaches and attractions at your own pace
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More convenient if you're traveling with children, lots of luggage, or surfboards
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Useful if you're planning day trips around the southern Nicoya Peninsula
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Gives you more flexibility for early-morning activities and sunset beach hopping
What about renting an ATV?
For many visitors, an ATV is actually more useful than a car in Santa Teresa. ATVs are extremely popular and make it easy to move between Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen, Malpaís, and Playa Hermosa.
They're especially convenient because some roads around the area are unpaved, dusty, and bumpy, particularly during the dry season. During the rainy season, some roads can become muddy and more challenging.
Keep in mind: Always check the road and weather conditions before heading to more remote beaches, and only rent an ATV if you're comfortable riding one. Helmets are essential, and you should never ride under the influence of alcohol.
Best option: If you're staying 3–4 days and mainly want to surf, relax, and enjoy Santa Teresa, you can easily manage without a car. If you want to explore several beaches and nearby towns, renting an ATV is often the most practical option. For longer road trips around the Nicoya Peninsula, a 4x4 rental is the most comfortable choice.
Is 4x4 Recommended?
A 4x4 is not essential for staying in central Santa Teresa, but it can be helpful if you're planning to explore more remote areas of the southern Nicoya Peninsula.
The main roads connecting Santa Teresa with nearby towns are accessible, but secondary roads can be rough, steep, or muddy, particularly during the rainy season. If you're planning to visit remote beaches, rural accommodations, or explore extensively around Malpaís and Cabo Blanco, a 4x4 gives you more confidence and flexibility.
How to get around in Santa Teresa without a car?
Santa Teresa is long and spread out, so getting around typically means walking, biking, or renting an ATV or motorbike. While the town has a laid-back vibe, distances between beaches, hotels, restaurants, and surf breaks can add up — especially in the heat.
ATVs & Quads
ATVs are one of the most popular and fun ways to get around. The roads are mostly unpaved and dusty, so a quad makes it easy to cruise between beaches, shops, and cafes. Rentals typically range from $60 to $100 per day, with better rates for weekly rentals. You can rent an ATV just here.
Motorbikes & Scooters
For solo travelers or those looking for something smaller (and a bit cheaper), scooters and dirt bikes are a great option. Just be cautious on rough roads, especially during the rainy season.
Taxis & Tuk-Tuks
Taxis and tuk-tuks are available, but their service is somewhat limited. They’re a good option for short trips, especially if you’re heading out at night or carrying luggage.
Bikes
Many visitors choose to explore by bike, especially during the dry season. The main road is mostly flat, making it bike-friendly. Some hotels offer complimentary bikes for guests, and you can find bike rentals available throughout town.
Walking
If you’re staying centrally, walking is totally doable, especially for short distances between surf spots, restaurants, and beach access points. Just be prepared for some dusty roads!
Public Bus
There is essentially one main bus route that runs between Cóbano, Playa Carmen, Santa Teresa, and Mal País. The bus travels up and down the main road several times a day, making it useful for getting between the neighboring beach towns. But service is limited, typically every 1–3 hours depending on the time of day and season. The exact timetable can change, so many locals and travelers simply ask their hotel or a nearby business for the next departure.
Where to go after Santa Teresa ?
For Beach Lovers
Montezuma
Located just down the coast from Santa Teresa, Montezuma is a bohemian beach town with waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and a laid-back artistic vibe. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace.
Nosara
A laid-back surf and wellness town known for yoga, wide beaches, and a strong community vibe. Perfect for relaxing and catching consistent waves.
For Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts
Monteverde
Cool mountain cloud forests full of wildlife, canopy tours, and hiking trails — a refreshing change from the coast.
La Fortuna
Home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, this area boasts hot springs, waterfalls, and a range of adventure activities, including zip-lining and hiking.
