Santa Teresa: Costa Rica’s Trending Beach Town

Far on the tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, away from airports and city lights, is Santa Teresa. And while this jungle-backed beach town is remote, it is anything but dull. Hip restaurants, shared workspaces, beach parties, and a growing population of young expats make it feel like the next big trend. In this post, we’ll tell you why Santa Teresa has stolen so many hearts and help you plan a visit.

Santa Teresa Destination Guide

Orientation

Santa Teresa is far from most other destinations in Costa Rica. And that’s all part of the draw. It is located on the southern part of the country’s northern peninsula, the Nicoya.

This area had little development in the past but has experienced a big boom over the last half-decade. With international coverage from media giants and visits from celebrities, like Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen, it’s no wonder why.   

Just a couple of years ago, the roads getting here were dirt and sometimes very rough. But new pavement has made the journey a lot easier.

Those flying into San Jose (SJO) can plan on about 5.5 hours. This includes a 70-minute ferry ride across the beautiful Gulf of Nicoya. Travelers arriving in Liberia (LIR) have a slightly shorter trip at 5 hours, with no ferry needed.

Once you reach Santa Teresa, you’ll notice that a lot of people get around on foot, motorcycle, and by ATV. ATVs are very popular because of the dirt roads. Rental cars are too (see our discount on a recommended company here).

One main road runs from the fishing village of Mal Pais through Playa Carmen, Playa Santa Teresa, and finally Playa Hermosa to the north. The majority of businesses are located in Playa Carmen and Playa Santa Teresa. This entire area is known as Santa Teresa.

Main Road Santa Teresa Costa Rica
The busy main road 
 

Beaches

The highlight in Santa Teresa are the gorgeous beaches. The town is built up just a short walk from the palm-tree-lined sand. Homes and rentals also dot the steep hillside just behind the main road. These offer gorgeous ocean views.

Santa Teresa is well-known for surfing, but the rough waves and rip currents can make swimming more of a challenge.

Besides surfing and sunbathing, Santa Teresa’s beaches serve as the main gathering place, especially at sunset. From around five in the afternoon until well after the sun touches down around six, it seems like the whole town comes out. Small and large groups gather on the sand, surfers catch their last waves of the day, and everyone tries to get that perfect sunset pic.

Gathering sunset Santa Teresa
Everyone gathering for sunset on Playa Carmen

Playa Carmen

Playa Carmen is the main beach in town and usually has the most going on.

There is a good beach break here, which attracts mid-level and experienced surfers.

Surfing Playa Carmen
Ripping the waves at Playa Carmen

Up by the road, restaurants and shops are abundant. Closer to the beach, there are fewer places to eat and drink, but they draw crowds, especially at sunset.

In addition to some small walking paths between shops and restaurants, there is one road at the main entrance of town (known as El Cruce/the Crossing) that leads to Playa Carmen. This allows you to drive closer and park near the beach.   

Playa Santa Teresa

A bit north of Playa Carmen is Playa Santa Teresa. This area has been built up recently so has its own section of restaurants, hotels, and shops. Access to the whitish-sand beach is a little trickier since private residences, hotels, and jungle stand between it and the main strip. Look for a small dirt road across from El Facon Grill & Bar.

Playa Hermosa

Not to be confused with many other beaches in Costa Rica with the same name, Playa Hermosa (Beautiful Beach) is a must-visit when staying in the Santa Teresa area.

Even though it is popular with beginner surfers, this beach feels more remote than others. There are lofty palm trees, sun-faded driftwood, and plenty of space to find some privacy.

Playa Hermosa is located about 10-15 minutes north of Santa Teresa’s main strip.

Playa Hermosa Santa Teresa
“Beautiful Beach,” living up to its name

Other Activities in and Around Santa Teresa

Tide Pools 

Since swimming in Santa Teresa is hard with the crashing surf, many people like to cool off in the area’s tide pools. There are several rocky spots around town that leave shallow pools during low tide.

One is known as the Santa Teresa tide pool. It’s a giant pool that is deep enough to snorkel or swim in.

You can find it between Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa. When the road gets close to the shore, you’ll see a parking area on your left near some rocks (El Peñon). Continue a little farther and there is another pull-off with some shady trees to park under. The large tide pool is visible from the parking area, and just a short walk away. We recommend water shoes since the rocks are a bit sharp. Here is a map with the approximate location.

Santa Teresa Tide Pool
The “swimming pool” in Santa Teresa

Another cool spot to hang out at are the Mal Pais tide pools. These are smaller but there are more of them. Because of their shape, dipping in can feel like you have your own personal hot tub.

Check out our post, Mal Pais Tide Pools and Natural Hot Tubs, for all the details.

Tortuga Island Snorkel Day Trip

A trip by boat to Tortuga Island is perfect for a day of fun or relaxation. This island in the Gulf of Nicoya has a beautiful white-sand beach and calmer, clearer water. There are beach chairs to lounge in, and you can rent snorkels, kayaks, or do banana boat (inflatable) rides.

Tour operators often have a package that includes some of the island’s activities like snorkeling, plus a BBQ lunch.  

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

For those looking to get off-the-beaten path, Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is the hiking spot for you. This was one of Costa Rica’s first conservation areas. It protects both land and marine zones from development, so there is usually plenty of wildlife like monkeys and birds.

A portion of Cabo Blanco abuts the southern end of Mal Pais. While you can visit one of the Reserve’s beaches from Mal Pais (known as Secret Beach), you’ll have to drive across the peninsula to the town of Cabuya to access the hiking trails. It’s about an hour away. This is a fun day trip, though, if you are looking for a hard hike.

Read our post, Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: Rugged Hiking on the Nicoya Peninsula, for directions and more information. 

White-faced monkey in Cabo Blanco
A white-faced monkey in the thick jungle at Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

Day Trip to Montezuma

In the same direction as Cabo Blanco is another laid-back beach town called Montezuma. There are a few activities here worth checking out. These include a large waterfall, zip-line course, and more scenic beaches. The small town also has its own array of little shops and restaurants.

Check out our post, Montezuma: A Bohemian Beach Town, to plan a visit.

Restaurants in Santa Teresa 

Because Santa Teresa has become such a popular destination for tourists and expats, the restaurant scene is one of the best in Costa Rica. Here are some of the places we have enjoyed.

Banana Beach Restaurant

This happening beach bar usually has a healthy crowd with outdoor tables and loungers set up right off the sand. It has a mix of casual food like burgers, pizza, and sandwiches as well as some more elaborate entrees. But really the atmosphere is the biggest draw. Located right on Playa Carmen. Check out their Facebook page for info on live music and events.

Kooks Smokehouse

This newer option in town serves up some serious BBQ and other tasty comfort food. The sports-bar atmosphere at Kooks is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. As a bonus, they have craft beer on tap. Try the brisket and giant onion rings; you won’t be disappointed. Located on the northern end Playa Carmen’s main strip. 

BBQ at Kooks Smokehouse
Brisket sandwich at Kooks Smokehouse

The Bakery

No visit to Santa Teresa is complete without a stop at the Bakery. This well-known restaurant and bakery has been around for years. They serve fresh breads, decadent baked goods, sandwiches, coffee, juices, smoothies, and much more. Check out their Facebook page for the full menu.

Baked Goods Bakery Cafe
Inside the Bakery Cafe

Couleur Café

Located at the first entrance to Playa Hermosa, this French-inspired café is perfect for a surfer’s breakfast or a relaxing lunch. The atmosphere at Couleur Cafe is really cute and colorful, with many of the tables set up under a shady tree. We have always enjoyed our food here.

Nami Sushi

For great sushi and a nice ambiance, check out Nami Sushi along the main road in Playa Santa Teresa. The small dining area is comfortable and elegant with candles lit and soft music playing. We enjoyed the variety of rolls they offered. Each one tasted light and fresh. You can find their menu on Facebook.

Nami Sushi Dining
Ambiance at Nami Sushi

Green World Store

While not a restaurant, this health food store on the main strip in Playa Carmen has all the makings for a great meal. Green World Store is fully stocked with organic produce, homemade breads, bulk food items, healthy snacks, kombucha, and grab and go bites as well.

Hotels in Santa Teresa

Overview

When picking accommodations in Santa Teresa, it’s important to understand the area’s layout. The main part of town, Playa Carmen and extending up to Playa Santa Teresa, is the busiest. Here, you will be closest to restaurants and amenities.

This area also can be louder, though, especially near the main road. There are many inexpensive hotels and hostels along this stretch, perfect for those looking to party.

If you prefer a quieter stay, opt for Mal Pais or Playa Hermosa. These locations are much more off-the-beaten path and tranquil. The surrounding hills also will take you away from the busyness of the main drag.

Hotel Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience

For a luxury experience, we recommend Hotel Nantipa. This boutique hotel is right on the beach on the northern end of Playa Carmen. Although this part of town can be busy, the property is spacious and far removed from the hustle and bustle. Hotel Nantipa has 15 suites and bungalows, many with ocean views. Their onsite restaurant is right on the sand. Also has a large pool with a lovely garden. $350-600/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Pool Hotel Nantipa
The gorgeous pool at Hotel Nantipa

Banana Beach Bungalows

Also on Playa Carmen within walking distance to many amenities is Banana Beach Bungalows. This is a good mid-range option. The property has seven bungalows that can hold 2-7 people. If you’re looking for a social scene, it’s a great option as their beach bar/restaurant is extremely popular. $150-250/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Zula Inn Aparthotel

For an aparthotel, there’s Zula Inn. They have a handful of basic, but equipped, cabins. Each has a kitchenette, A/C, shower with hot water, and outdoor porch with sitting area. The property has a small, but nice, pool. Adjacent to the pool is a rancho with a large table, lounge area, and communal kitchen. Studios and one- and two-bedroom units are available. $85-200/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Pool and Cabinas at Zula Inn
Cute cabins surrounding the pool at Zula Inn

Lua Villas (Playa Hermosa)

For a quiet escape, check out Lua Villas in Playa Hermosa. This is a small property with stylish Balinese-style villas, studios, and apartments. It has a modern pool and is only a three-minute walk to the beach. $100-175/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Hotel Meli Melo

A well-liked budget option just a short walk to the beach in Playa Santa Teresa is Hotel Meli Melo. Rooms range from simple doubles for $60, to family rooms with a terrace for $100. All have A/C and access to a shared kitchen. People love the friendly owners. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Hotel Vista de Olas (Mal Pais)

If you’re looking for views, we recommend Hotel Vista de Olas (View of the Waves). It has seven colorful villas set in the quiet hillside in Mal Pais. Some have an outdoor shower overlooking the jungle. The hotel has a nice infinity pool and swim-up bar, perfect for taking in sunset. $180-250/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Indigo Yoga Resort (Mal Pais)

For the yogis, there’s the laid-back Indigo Yoga Resort in Mal Pais. They offer aerial silk classes and yoga lessons right onsite. Accommodations consist of comfortable rooms and apartments, some with A/C. The property has a lot of mature trees, which draw wildlife like monkeys. Staying here gets you close to the amazing Playa Cuevas (Secret Beach) and Mal Pais tide pools, right across the street. $70-180/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Rooms at Indigo Yoga Resort
Some of the rooms at Indigo Yoga – the monkeys love to hang out in the surrounding trees

Conclusion

With consistent surf breaks, jaw-dropping sunsets, tasty eats, and a social vibe that lets you reimagine what life is all about, there’s no wonder why Santa Teresa is Costa Rica’s next hot spot. Just don’t forget, it’s still a jungle out there. Take care of it, so that it stays that way. 

Have you been to Santa Teresa? What was your favorite part? Leave a comment below.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you book a hotel using one of the links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Looking for more information to help plan your trip? Check out these posts:

Taking the Puntarenas-Paquera Ferry – All the info you need to plan your trip across the Gulf, includes buying tickets, boarding the ferry, and more.

Packing for Costa Rica: The EssentialsMake sure to pack everything you need for your stay in Santa Teresa. This town is far from any major stores!

FAQs About Moving to Costa Rica So you want to take the plunge and stay in Costa Rica indefinitely? Check out these frequently asked questions to help you get started.

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Cabo Matapalo: Wild Jungle on the Osa Peninsula

56 Comments

  1. We stayed in Montezuma January 2020 (our last trip before the pandemic). We drove over to Santa Teresa several times to go swimming at Playa Carmen. It is a wonderful beach. This was our sixth trip to Costa Rica and Playa Carmen is the only place we have found that has sun bed and umbrella rentals. We really enjoyed the convenience of this service. Santa Teresa was bustling but exceptionally dusty since the main road is unpaved (the main streets in Montezuma are paved) . Still we will happily go back. The Tortuga Island snorkel trip was so enjoyable that we did it twice.

    1. Hi Dan, Thanks for your comment. That is a good point about the sun beds and umbrella rentals. Not many places have that. Yes, the road can be really dusty. They were actually working on paving a good section of it when we were there recently but it’s not the kind of pavement we’re used to. Seems less permanent but hopefully it will help some with the dust. Hope you can get back to Costa Rica soon!

      1. Jenn and Matt, we are huge fans of Costa Rica and would like to buy a vacation home. We absolutely love Nosara, but fear it will look like Tamarindo sooner than later. Any thoughts on up and coming surf towns that will offer many of the amenities and vibe of Nosara, but have a longer run way before the masses arrive? Thanks! Jon

  2. Hello Matt and Jenn,
    My husband and I spent a few days in Santa Teresa several years ago and loved it.
    I noticed you directed readers to a video of the area, however I didn’t see any arrows to launch a video….am I missing something?
    Thanks for your posts…we really enjoy seeing the updates and look forward to our 10th, yes 10th visit to Costa Rica.

    Love seeing the pic of your Costa Rican/American kids who were born there!

    We too love the vibe, culture, food, variety of climates….blah, blah, blah

    1. Hi Kerri, Thanks for following our site!

      Glad you enjoyed Santa Teresa. It is definitely a cool spot. That’s strange about the video – do you have an ad blocker by chance? That could be causing it. Let us know if you continue to have problems and we can look into it more.

      How you can get back for that 10th (!) visit soon!

      1. Hi! My husband and i are coming to CR for 3 weeks in december of this year. We would like a “home base” and then be able to explore and take little 2 day trips from our “home base “ to see more of the country. We enjoy the local sodas, empty beaches and nature. We will also have our dog with us, so a big beach where he can run around would be awesome. i currently have an airbnb booked in mal pais (by the tide pools) but am wondering if maybe we should switch to making our home-base esterillos oeste instead. We have been to near manual antonio before and loved it.
        Would you recommend one over the other? Mal Pais vs. Esterillos Oeste?
        Thank you!
        Carrie

        1. Hi Carrie, Mal Pais/Santa Teresa is more isolated so would be difficult for doing day trips. Esterillos Oeste is a good option. It’s small and chill so sounds like what you’re looking for. It’s also centrally located so it would be fairly easy to get to other places to explore (Manuel Antonio, Uvita/Dominical, Monteverde, etc.). Hope you have a great trip!

    2. Hi!!

      Whom did you book with to go on the Tortuga Isl snorkel tour?

      Also – were there a lot of people/touristy on the Tortuga snorkel tour?

      What did you see snorkeling?

    1. Hi my name is Joan and I wanted to recommend readers and travelers to try the KAPARA restaurant in Santa Teresa, it is a relatively new restaurant so not everyone knows and really not to be missed !! They have the most delicious Mediterranean food I have ever tasted, the restaurant is lovely with a great atmosphere and their deliveries are fast and good. It is highly recommended !!

  3. Hello there! What an amazing trove of detailed information and suggestions here from you- thank you so much for sharing them with us and it is greatly appreciated! I’ve immensely enjoyed reading through all of many links! I would love to ask for your suggestions regarding Santa Teresa/Mal Pais area- we are trying to figure out where to go first after landing in Liberia as we originally thought we would stay in one area for the first 3 days before heading to Potrero to check in our Airbnb and then we wrap up at Rio Perdido for 3 days (3-4 days each location) I’m feeling overwhelmed with too many choices and destinations! My question is– should we head out to ST then drive back up again to our place- ST? Monteverde? Or just stay put in Portero and explore? I would appreciate your suggestions! (We are a family with 19 year old and 15 year old and we enjoy moving around to explore different places, love surfing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, rainforest, checking out animals, hiking, chilling with books, meeting people and good food as well) We vacationed in Nicaragua three years ago and LOVED it so much. Much gratitude and keep up with the great work!

    1. Hi Sarah, If you’ll already be getting some good beach time in in Portero, we would probably recommend going to either Monteverde or Bijagua to experience the rainforest for hiking and wildlife viewing. The cloud forests of Monteverde (https://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/monteverde-a-forest-in-the-clouds/) are really scenic and interesting. There are a lot of great hikes there, hanging bridges, coffee tours, etc. Bijagua (https://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/bijagua-gateway-rio-celeste/) is nice too. It’s a small town https://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/bijagua-gateway-rio-celeste/ and has the Rio Celeste Waterfall, which is gorgeous. It also has thick rainforest for hiking and a lot of wildlife. Then you can head to Potrero for your beach time and end at the Rio Perdido for the tropical dry forest and hot springs.

      Hope that helps and your family has an awesome trip!

  4. Hi, I’m going to Costa Rica to do my quarantine before entering the US. We’re two young women traveling together looking for a good vibe beach with nice people and some beginner’s waves. We are thinking to spend 1 week in Tamarindo and 1 week in Santa Teresa. What do you think about it? Do you think these places match our needs? hehe Thank you so much

    1. Hi Melissa, Yeah, Tamarindo and Santa Teresa would be fun for you. Both have a lot going on, a fun vibe, and attract young people. They’re good for beginner surfing too. Hope you both have a great trip!

      1. Hi Jenn and Matt, we’re looking to do a two week trip in February with our 4yr and 18month old, mix of lux but also feeling like we are doing a little travel. Do you have any tips, recommendations on things we should do.
        Cheers

  5. hi. we will be coming to CR in november. we want to do lots of yoga and take a surfing class. it looks like it is best to stay in santa teresa/mal pais and then go visit montezuma on a day off as opposed to the other way around. thoughts?

    1. Hi James, It depends on what you’re looking for. You can do surfing and yoga in both places. Santa Teresa has more going on, while Montezuma is a bit quieter. Montezuma still has a good selection of restaurants and fun vibe, though. Here’s a link to our Montezuma post with more information.

      In November, it’s usually slower everywhere (except for US Thanksgiving week) so keep that in mind too.

  6. Hi Matt and Jenn! I love your blog! Thank you for the awesome, in-depth information. I’m planning a trip to Santa Teresa this winter. It’s easier for us to go in February, but I’m worried about it being too hot. I also would like to be there when there is still lush foilage. Should we try to go in January instead? Or is there not a great difference between these two months?

    1. Hi Chelsea, January will be more lush if you could go then instead. February would be okay too, if that works better for your schedule, but it will be a little hotter and drier. Still nice, though. Hope that helps!

  7. Hi Jenn and Matt!

    We are LOVING your blog!! THANK YOU!! Feeling like we’ve hit jackpot!

    We are staying in Mal Pais for five days at the end of August. We’ve been here before too – but a long time ago. What would be your TOP RECS for while we stay? We have three kids – all super active – we are ready for adventure.

    Thank you for your help!!

    Whit Sweet

    1. Hi Whit, What we list here in this post are our top recommendations for the area, in addition to surfing, of course! Glad our site has been helpful. Hope your family has a great trip!

      1. Hi Jenn and Matt,

        I’m planning my first trip to Costa Rica for one week. I love to surf, ocean swim, and good food. Which area in Costa Rica do you recommend more for a one-week visit for first timers: a) Santa Teresa or b) Mal pais de Cobano?

        1. Hi Jenifer, Mal Pais and Santa Teresa are the same area. They’re connected by the same road and close to each other. Santa Teresa is much busier and more developed, while Mal Pais is a little quieter. So we would choose depending on the feel you’re looking for. But you’ll be able to access restaurants, etc. easily in both locations no matter where you stay.

  8. We are considering a week stay at Montezuma or similar nearby beach location. All the activities and the low key atmo are an appeal. Have you any suggestions for chartering a deep sea fishing trip in this area?

    1. Hi Guy, We don’t know of any sport fishing options near Montezuma or Santa Teresa. You could probably find a small boat to you take you out, though. We’d ask around town for a recommendation.

      More popular places in Costa Rica for sport fishing are Quepos/Manuel Antonio (which has a marina), Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and even Nosara has several boats that do it.

  9. HI i’m looking to travel to Costa rica in Feb 2022 with my young family, is Santa Teresa a good spot to bring children? thanks in advance.

  10. I love your blog, too! We are going to Costa Rica for the third time Jan.-Feb. 2022. I’ve booked us for 5 nights at Hotel Vista de Olas as a base for exploring the Mal Pais-Montezuma area. We picked it because of your recommendation as it seemed to fit our needs: quiet, reliable and beautiful. But I’ve since read some very conflicting reviews, some “excellent” and some the exact opposite, “terrible”. Also of note: the pool plays loud music and has quite a party scene around sunset as it is open to the public. Not at all what we’re hoping for! Have any of your readers stayed here or can help me figure out if the bad reviews are legit and we should look elsewhere? Much appreciated.

  11. What a great blog post and site overall. Have been thrilled to read about your experiences and adventures.

    My wife and I have a similar dream of moving our family (2-yr old and our soon-to-be-born) down to CR.

    I wanted to ask if you knew of any interesting developments down there that we could invest in to? What’s the best way to purchase a home or buy land?

    Thank you so much!

    1. Hi Mauricio, We always recommend coming down and renting at first so you’re not committed to staying. Not that it will happen to you, but a lot of people move down then decide it wasn’t for them for one reason or another. Selling your home can be tough in some locations. It’s also a good idea to try out different areas before you settle down since the country differs a lot by region. If you’re curious about the home-buying process, we have a lost all about it. Here’s the link. Best of luck with your plans!

  12. Hi guys. Thanks for this web page. I’m looking to move to Santa Teresa, but can’t find a website that has any information on long term rentals. Is there local website or a newspaper with rental listings? How is the internet there? Any fiber optic? Currently in Santa Ana | San Jose. Thanks again.

    1. Hi Pablo, We don’t know of anywhere online to look for long term rentals in Santa Teresa except the local Facebook groups. You could join What’s On Santa Teresa and post that you’re looking for something.

      Santa Teresa has good internet. Lots of people working remotely there right now. I think it’s cable but there could be fiber optic too, not sure.

  13. Hello. I spent six weeks in Cost Rica in 1991. I want to take my husband and teenage kids for two weeks. I am worried it will be too busy. Does it still feel like a “getaway”?
    Also – what would you suggest as an ideal itinerary for an adventurous family that likes to explore and relax? I would like to see Santa Teresa, but am open to any spots along the Nicoya peninsula. Would you recommend Manuel Antonio or Monte Verde for wildlife viewing? Also, should we head over to the Carribbean side? We want something more secluded and don’t need to be near action.

    Thank you.

    1. Hi Lacy, We wouldn’t do Santa Teresa if you’re worried about it being too busy. If you’d like to stay on the Nicoya Peninsula, maybe take a look at Montezuma. It’s quieter and more chill. For wildlife viewing, Manuel Antonio is excellent but it’s really touristy so you may prefer going south a bit to the Costa Ballena, which is also great for wildlife. The southern Caribbean (Cahuita and Puerto Viejo) have gorgeous beaches and still feel fairly authentic, though Puerto Viejo has been developing a lot in recent years. Hope that gives you some ideas!

  14. thank you for the insightful information. We have been to Costa Rica three times now and have enjoyed ourselves each time. We heard about Santa Teresa on our last trip and started doing our research. we were wanting to take a trip in September but i realized it is rainy season and it sounds like the southern peninsula gets quite a bit of rain. would you have a recommendation for a place that isnt so rainy but good beach area for the month of september?

  15. We are planning a trip to Santa Teresa in January… flying into Liberia. What is the best way to get from Liberia to ST? I haven’t found much info on that.. Some say rental car, some say taxi, I’ve seen its 1 hour and also 5 hour trip? Is there a smaller airport nearby?

    1. Hi Kris, You can fly to Tambor (about one hour from Santa Teresa) to cut down on the drive, but we don’t recommend taking small planes right now. Otherwise, your options are renting a car or taking a shuttle. The trip is about 4 hours if you drive. Here’s a link to our page to book the private shuttle option in case you are interested in that.

        1. Hi Jen, For safety reasons. There have been some crashes in recent years and we are not sure about oversight of the industry in general. We used to take small planes ourselves in Costa Rica but would not right now.

      1. We are planning the same trip to Santa Teresa in March – why do you not recommend flying at the moment can I ask? Thank you for creating such a useful website! I wish I’d found this before we booked our stay at ST with our 4 year old though…! Hope it will be okay :/

        1. Hi Charlotte, We don’t recommend small planes right now for safety reasons. There have been some crashes and we’re not comfortable with industry oversight in Costa Rica. Many people take them every day, though. It’s just a matter of personal comfort.

  16. Hi!
    Thanks so much for sharing such valuable info about Costa Rica!!

    We are planning a trip to Costa Rica the first two weeks of July and I wanted to ask some info about the road condition.

    After flying to San Jose, we would like to go to Manuel Antonio, then La Fortuna/Arenal, and Monteverde. From there we were thinking of going to Santa Teresa o Montezuma, and then Nosara and fly back from Liberia (maybe stopping overnight in Playa Hermosa).

    Knowing that it is the rain season, do you think it would be too risky to travel by car from Monteverde to Santa Teresa o Montezuma?
    And is it possible to go around by car instead of taking a ferry to cross the Golfo de Nicoya? We have been told that the ferry is not always reliable (do you agree? and do we need to book a spot for the car on the ferry?).
    And again, are the roads from Montezuma or Santa Teresa to Nosara too risky because of the rain?
    Or should we forget about the Nicoya peninsula in this season and go instead somewhere else less rainy?

    Many thanks!

    1. Hi Laura, Early July usually isn’t too bad for rain. Your plans sound fine. Just be sure to rent a 4×4 in case you need it for the drive from La Fortuna to Monteverde and around Nosara. The main roads on the Nicoya Peninsula near Santa Teresa and Montezuma are in very good shape now. They recently paved the main road from Paquera south and you don’t need 4×4. You don’t need to take the ferry for that route either. It will be faster to drive. Hope that helps!

  17. Hello, and thank you for the most informative site…
    We plan to fly to San Jose and take a short flight to Tambor, and a van to ST. Are those flights included in your warning about small planes?
    Thanks.

  18. We are just beginning to research where to stay for our vacation. We have a 18, 14, and 12 yo who love to boogie board, snorkel, and fish. Do you have any recommended places to stay.

    1. Hi Denise, Santa Teresa isn’t the best option for boogie boarding, snorkeling, and fishing. For those activities, we would recommend northern Guanacaste. Take a look at our articles on Tamarindo, Potrero, and Flamingo. The Potrero/Flamingo area is centrally located and close to lots of beaches.

  19. Hola Matt & Jenn, we are a family with three kids 15, 17 & 20. We’ve spent some time in CR on multiple trips including Nosara, Punta Islita, MA, Dominical, Uvita, Pavones, and Cabo Matapalo. However we are planning a last minute and first trip to Santa Teresa in late July/early August.

    How does ST compare to Nosara? How is weather this time of year? What are best options for transportation in Santa Teresa if arriving in SJO? We normally would rent a Fortuner, but is 4×4 needed? Best to rent in SJO or ST? Or are quads a better option in ST?

    Thanks for your great site! I regularly suggest friends visiting CR to use it as a main source of info for their visit.

    1. Hi Ryan, Glad our site has been helpful with your planning over the years!

      Santa Teresa is similar to Nosara but it’s more remote and draws a younger crowd in general, though there are still a lot of families who visit. The weather is similar to how Nosara is this time of year. It has been a dry rainy season so far and that could very well keep up into August.

      4×4 isn’t needed anymore unless you need it for where you’re staying in Santa Teresa. We would recommend renting a car at SJO then taking the ferry across. An SUV is still nice to have for the clearance because of the bumpy roads. Hope that helps!

  20. Thanks so much for all your great posts! We’re currently planning a two week surf trip for June 2024. I’ve been looking into the surrounding areas of Santa Teresa and thought this would be a perfect area. The other thought was to go to Pavones and then cross over into Panama. My concerns were how rainy Panama would be that time of year. Would love any thoughts or recommendations. Also, not super stoked on how dusty everyone says ST is. Any recommendations on places outside of town for lodging? Thanks!!

    1. Hi Chelsea, June is still early in the rainy season so it shouldn’t be too bad in Pavones or Panama yet.

      If you’d rather do Santa Teresa, just stay outside the main area of Playa Carmen and Playa Santa Teresa. Take a look at Playa Hermosa to the north. It’s a good surfing beach and a lot less developed and not very busy.

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