Santa Teresa, located on Costa Rica’s stunning Nicoya Peninsula, is a dream destination for surfers, yogis, and travellers seeking a laid-back, hip beach town vibe. With its golden sands, world-class waves, and vibrant community, Santa Teresa offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Santa Teresa, from how to get there to the best activities, restaurants, and accommodations. And, if you want to know something cool, Santa Teresa was the first place I travelled and worked as a full-time freelance content marketer.

Santa Teresa has earned its reputation as a must-visit spot for travellers looking for sun, surf, and a bohemian vibe. Surrounded by lush jungle and pristine beaches, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hitting the waves, practicing yoga, or simply enjoying breathtaking sunsets, Santa Teresa has something for everyone.

Getting to Santa Teresa

Getting to Santa Teresa is quite an adventure! Located near the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast, reaching Santa Teresa can be a journey in itself. The trip typically involves a combination of ferry rides, winding dirt roads, or flights into the nearby Tambor airport, making it feel somewhat remote compared to more easily accessible tourist destinations. However, once you arrive in Santa Teresa, you are rewarded with pristine beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes the journey worthwhile.

By Air

The closest airport is Tambor Airport (TMU), a short 40-minute flight from San José. From there, it’s about an hour’s drive to Santa Teresa.

By Car

Driving from San José takes around 5-6 hours, including a ferry ride across the Gulf of Nicoya. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season, as the roads can be rough. Book through Discover Cars and find the best rental for your trip (up to 70% OFF, seriously!)

By Shuttle

Shared or private shuttles offer a stress-free way to reach Santa Teresa. Many shuttles include ferry transportation, making the journey seamless.

Where to Stay in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa provides a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious beachfront villas to budget-friendly hostels. With so many options available, it really depends on the vibe you want! If you want to be in the center, consider booking your accommodation by the main beach area. There are tons of shops, restaurants and things to do on the main road.

Luxury: Santa Teresa has no shortage of boutique resorts, some of which include private villas, making it perfect for a romantic getaway.
Midrange: Costa Riki Apartments—My friend and I stayed here and absolutely loved it! It was perfect for our week in Santa Teresa, as it offered us a two-bedroom apartment with a full kitchen, living space, and a patio. I would highly recommend it!
Budget: Selina Santa Teresa is a popular hostel chain with co-working spaces and a vibrant social scene. The North location was right by our apartment, and it had such a vibe! It's a great option for solo travellers or for those wanting to meet new friends while travelling.

Where to Eat in Santa Teresa

You can find everything from local sodas that serve up some classic Costa Rican flavours to a ton of international dishes that cater to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, tasty Italian pasta, or hearty vegetarian options, there’s no shortage of places to eat around here. It’s all about digging into the vibrant vibe of this beach town and enjoying some delicious meals!

Breakfast: The Bakery – Famous for its fresh pastries, hearty breakfasts, and excellent coffee.
Lunch: La Cevicheria - Their tropical flavours and fresh ingredients make it the perfect place to cool off after a day at the beach. Don’t miss their signature ceviche paired with a refreshing cocktail.
Dinner: Koji's – A must-visit for sushi lovers, offering fresh seafood with a Costa Rican twist. Make sure to reserve in advance!
Overall Favourite: Eat Street - We visited this place frequently! Located right next to our apartment, Eat Street features an open-air patio that offers a variety of options, from burgers and tacos to vegan dishes and fresh smoothies—there’s something for everyone. The lively atmosphere and communal seating create a fun dining experience for both locals and visitors.

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Best Things to Do in Santa Teresa

Surf the Legendary Waves

I will be completely honest - I DID NOT SURF or want to try. Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s top surf destinations, with consistent waves for all skill levels. Although the waves were way too intimidating, I decided to people-watch instead. If you’re interested, book a lesson with a local surf school or rent a board and ride the waves on your own.

Relax on Playa Santa Teresa

We spent a lot of time on the beach! Santa Teresa has an expansive beach that offers plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy a leisurely stroll.

Take a Day Trip to Montezuma Waterfalls

We rented a car for the day, and just a 40-minute drive away are the Montezuma Waterfalls, a must-see. Hike the 1.5km trail through the jungle to reach these beautiful cascades, where you can cool off in natural pools. After your hike drive into town and explore!

Take a Day Trip to Tortuga Island

The Tortuga Island day trip was fantastic! Located off the Nicoya Peninsula, it’s a must-see while visiting Santa Teresa. This beautiful tropical paradise is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. The tour is approx 8-10 hours from pick up to drop off and includes:

A scenic boat ride along the coast, with chances to spot dolphins, turtles, or even whales during the right season.
Opportunities for snorkelling, where you can swim alongside tropical fish, rays, and other marine creatures.
Time to relax on the beach under the shade of palm trees or explore the island’s hiking trails.
A delicious beachfront lunch, often featuring freshly grilled seafood.

Explore Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

Sadly, this was on our list, but we could not make it happen! Located about 45 minutes from Santa Teresa, this reserve is Costa Rica’s first national park and a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing and hiking. Check out more here.

Malpais Tide Pools

Visiting the Malpais Tide Pools was a perfect hiking (waking) option with a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience in the Santa Teresa area. The tide pools are accessible by a short walk from the Malpais beach. The best time to visit is during low tide when the pools are exposed, and you could have a chance to see marine life, including colourful starfish, sea urchins, small fish, and even crabs.

A few tips when visiting - since the tide pools are best seen at low tide, check the tide schedule before heading out and wear water shoes or sturdy sandals as the rocks can be slippery and uneven.

How Long Should You Stay in Santa Teresa?

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach destination with a mix of surf and yoga, a week-long stay in Santa Teresa is ideal. It’s enough time to immerse yourself in the town’s unique vibe while exploring nearby attractions like Montezuma and Cabo Blanco.

If you follow my two-week Costa Rica itinerary ([link to blog post]), plan to spend at least four nights in Santa Teresa. This gives you enough time to enjoy the waves, take a day trip, and soak up the beauty of this vibrant town.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors