Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: Surf, Beach, & Hotel Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, a stunning destination renowned for its features, including:

• incredible surf

• pristine beaches

• diverse accommodation options

This vibrant surf town on the Nicoya Peninsula offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Getting to Santa Teresa

Embarking on a trip to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, promises a journey to one of Costa Rica's most coveted destinations. Whether you're a seasoned surfer eager to hit the waves or a traveler seeking a tranquil beach escape, understanding the various transportation options to this captivating surf town is essential for a smooth arrival.

Driving to Santa TeresA

Driving to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, offers a scenic and flexible way to reach your destination. Many visitors opt to rent a car from San Jose, allowing them the freedom to explore the Nicoya Peninsula at their own pace and discover other beautiful destinations in Costa Rica. The drive to Santa Teresa involves both paved roads and some unpaved sections, particularly as you get closer to the town of Santa Teresa itself. During the rainy season, we recommend hiring a 4x4 vehicle. Driving is ideal for those who want the flexibility to explore around Santa Teresa, and access various surf spots along the coastline. It's our preferred way of traveling. 

Public Transport Options

For those preferring not to rent a car, public transport offers a more budget-friendly way to get to Santa Teresa. Direct bus services are available from San Jose, providing a convenient and authentic Costa Rican experience. These buses typically involve a ferry crossing across the Gulf of Nicoya, adding a unique maritime leg to your journey to Santa Teresa. While less flexible than having a car rental, public transport is a reliable option for reaching this popular beach town and immersing yourself in the local culture before you even arrive at your hotel in Santa Teresa. Be sure to check schedules in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth trip.

Flying into Cobano Airport

To get to Santa Teresa, many travelers opt to fly into Cobano Airport, a convenient and time efficient choice. The airlines Sansa and Costa Rica Green Airways offer regular flights from San Jose, making it easy to start your trip to Santa Teresa. Upon landing at Cobano, you can easily take a taxi or rent a car to reach your beachfront hotel or vacation rental in the heart of Santa Teresa. 

Meet the different regions: Mal Pais, Santa Teresa south, North, Playa Hermosa & Manzanillo

The greater Santa Teresa area encompasses several distinct regions, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Santa Teresa itself is often divided into a bustling south, close to Playa Carmen and Banana Beach Restaurant, and a slightly quieter north (our favorite part of town), both brimming with surf shops, vacation rentals, and boutique hotels. Beyond Playa Hermosa, the more remote areas of Santiago and Manzanillo offer an even more secluded experience, perfect for those seeking ultimate tranquility away from the main surf town.

Stay at Studio Sol y Sombra

For those looking for comfortable vacation rentals, consider our Airbnb, Studio Sol y Sombra, located in the heart of Santa Teresa. It's the ideal base for your trip to Santa Teresa, providing easy access to the beautiful beaches, surf spots, and activities in the area. 

Exploring the Beaches

Mal Pais Beach

Mal Pais Beach, situated just south of the vibrant surf town of Santa Teresa, offers a more rugged and secluded beach experience compared to its northern neighbor. The coastline here is characterized by dramatic rock formations and tide pools, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for exploration at low tide. While not primarily a surf spot, Mal Pais provides a tranquil setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat, making it an excellent complement to the lively atmosphere of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Visitors often enjoy the scenic beauty and the opportunity for quiet walks along the shore, away from the main surf breaks.

Santa Teresa Beach

Playa Santa Teresa, the namesake beach of this popular surf town, is the heart of the action and a prime destination for surfers of all levels. Stretching for several kilometers, this beautiful beach offers consistent waves that draw both seasoned surfers and those looking to take their first surf lesson. The Santa Teresa surf scene is vibrant, with numerous surf camps and rental shops dotted along the coastline, making it easy to get equipped for a day on the water. Beyond surfing, Playa Santa Teresa is perfect for long strolls, enjoying stunning sunsets, and experiencing the laid-back Costa Rican lifestyle right outside your hotel in Santa Teresa.

Playa Hermosa

Playa Hermosa, located a short drive north of the main town of Santa Teresa, truly lives up to its name, meaning "beautiful beach" in Spanish. This wide, sandy beach is renowned for its gentler waves, making it an ideal surf spot for beginner surfers and those looking to refine their skills in a less crowded environment. The expansive shoreline provides ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and peaceful walks, offering a more relaxed alternative to the bustling Playa Santa Teresa. Many visitors staying in a vacation rental or boutique hotel around Santa Teresa make a point to visit Playa Hermosa for its tranquil atmosphere and inviting waters.

Things to Do in Santa Teresa

Surfing in Santa Teresa

Surfing is undeniably the quintessential activity in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe to its world-class breaks. The consistent Pacific swells provide an excellent environment for surfers of all abilities, from the challenging barrels at some surf spots to the more forgiving waves ideal for a beginner surf lesson. Numerous surf schools and rental shops line the main road, making it easy to rent a board or sign up for professional instruction to enhance your Santa Teresa surf experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the vibrant surf culture and diverse waves make Santa Teresa a top destination for any surfer.

Visiting Nature Reserves

Beyond the beaches, Santa Teresa offers incredible opportunities to explore the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica through its nearby nature reserves. A must-visit is the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve, one of Costa Rica’s oldest protected areas, located at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. This pristine nature reserve boasts diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, providing a stark contrast to the lively surf town. Day trips to this stunning area allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, observe monkeys, birds, and other native species, and truly appreciate the ecological efforts in Costa Rica.

Local Activities and Tours

The array of local activities and tours around Santa Teresa ensures there's always something exciting to do beyond the surf. Many visitors opt for various excursions and experiences, including:

• ATV rental to explore the rugged coastline and discover hidden beaches or venture to the nearby Montezuma Waterfall for a refreshing swim.

• Boat trips to Tortuga Island for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

• Yoga retreats and spa services, complementing the laid-back vibe of Santa Teresa.

Whether it's an adventure or tranquility you seek, your trip to Santa Teresa will be filled with diverse experiences.

Accommodations in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, offers a wide array of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference, from luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy vacation rentals, ensuring your trip to Santa Teresa is as comfortable as it is adventurous. The vibrant surf town caters to diverse budgets and styles, whether you're a devoted surfer seeking proximity to the waves or a family looking for a tranquil retreat. Finding the perfect place to stay around Santa Teresa is easy, with options ranging from boutique hotels to more independent living arrangements, all designed to enhance your Costa Rican experience.

Beachfront Hotels

For those dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves and having direct access to the sand, beachfront hotels in Santa Teresa offer an unparalleled experience. These hotels provide prime locations, often just steps away from the best surf spots, making them ideal for avid surfers. Imagine stepping out of your boutique hotel and directly onto the beautiful beach of Playa Santa Teresa or Playa Carmen, ready for a morning surf session. Many of these establishments also boast amenities like swimming pools, gourmet restaurants, and yoga classes, ensuring a luxurious and convenient stay right on the scenic coastline of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.

Co-work at Outsite or Somos

Santa Teresa has become a popular destination for digital nomads, leading to the rise of co-working and co-living spaces like Outsite and Somos. These innovative accommodations combine comfortable lodging with dedicated workspaces, high-speed internet, and a community atmosphere, perfect for those who want to blend work with the laid-back surf town lifestyle. They offer an ideal solution for travelers seeking to extend their trip to Santa Teresa while staying productive, fostering connections with like-minded individuals, and still enjoying all the surf and beach activities that Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, has to offer.

Airbnbs

Airbnb rentals are a popular choice in Santa Teresa, providing a vast selection of vacation rentals that cater to various needs and budgets, from private villas with ocean views to charming bungalows nestled in the jungle. This option offers greater flexibility and a more localized experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the Costa Rican culture. Whether you're traveling with family or a group of friends, an Airbnb can provide the space, privacy, and amenities, such as a full kitchen, that a traditional hotel in Santa Teresa might not, making your stay around Santa Teresa truly feel like a home away from home.

Our place: Studio Sol y Sombra

Immerse yourself in nature at Sol y Sombra, a quiet retreat just a 10 minute drive from Playa Hermosa beach and a 20 minute drive from bustling Santa Teresa. The modern design features floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forest, a spacious living room with fully equipped kitchen and dining area, bedroom including workspace and bathroom. Perfect for couples and solo adventurers.

Book your stay at Sol y Sombra

Dining Options

The culinary scene in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, is as diverse and vibrant as its surf culture, offering an impressive array of dining options that cater to every palate. From authentic Costa Rican cuisine to international gourmet experiences, the town boasts numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Whether you're seeking a casual spot for a quick bite after a surf session or a more upscale dining experience, the gastronomic offerings around Santa Teresa are sure to delight, making your trip to Santa Teresa a truly flavorful adventure.

Restaurants in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is brimming with a wide variety of restaurants, reflecting its international appeal and diverse community. You can find everything from traditional Costa Rican sodas serving up delicious gallo pinto and fresh seafood to upscale establishments offering fusion cuisine and fine dining. Many eateries in the town of Santa Teresa emphasize fresh, local ingredients, with an abundance of organic and healthy options available. Whether you're craving Italian, Asian, or contemporary American fare, the vibrant restaurant scene in this surf town ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover, complementing your Santa Teresa surf adventure.

Consider visiting Somos for its chill vibes and good food all day, Banana Beach Restaurant for a cocktail. Anis Bowls offers healthy options perfect for surfers looking to refuel after a day on the waves. If you’re in the mood for Peruvian cuisine, Lima506 / Chicken Joe is a great choice, while Kaukau is one of our favorites for lunch. Also don't miss out on Satori and Amici.

Favorites near Playa Hermosa & Santa Teresa Norte 

• Rocamar: A beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.

• Mantarraya Cafe: A cozy spot offering delicious coffee and healthy meal options, perfect for an after surf coffee or lazy morning eating out. 

• La Plaza Cafe: A popular cafe that serves a variety of local dishes and is great for brunch.

• Raiz: a little off the beaten path but oh so good. This cafe brings you to Manzanillo - and will keep you coming back. 

Local Cuisine to Try

No trip to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, would be complete without indulging in the local Costa Rican cuisine. Be sure to try a "casado," a traditional dish featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat or fish, often found at local "sodas." Soda Tiquicia, in the Northern part of town is our favorite. 

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, is a destination that beautifully combines stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and a laid-back atmosphere. It is the perfect place to unwind, connect with nature, and stay a whole lot longer than you had planned. We hope this guide will help you enjoy it even more! 

If you are planning a trip to this tropical paradise, don't forget to check out Sol y Sombra, where you can experience the best of Santa Teresa, from the comfort of this little oasis in the jungle.