Planning a trip to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica?
this local guide covers the 15 best things to do in Santa Teresa.
We’ve included practical tips, personal insights, and secret spots to help you experience pura vida to the fullest. Let’s explore Santa Teresa — a sun-kissed paradise on the Nicoya Peninsula where jungle meets ocean.
1. Witness a Mesmerizing Sunset at Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa Beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Find a comfortable spot on the beach, sit back, and watch the sunset unfold. Let the colors and the tranquility of the moment inspire a sense of gratitude and wonder within you.
2. Visit Playa Hermosa
Her name in Spanish means “beautiful,” and there is no doubt that these mills on the beach are genuinely delightful. Please take an afternoon to visit Playa Hermosa. It is around 15 minutes north of Santa Teresa. Part of its peacefulness is due to the absence of restaurants or beach clubs on the beach, so remember to bring your reusable bottle of water and some fruits with you!
For surfing, if you’re new to the sport, Playa Hermosa is the best place to catch your first green waves. The ocean is smoother than in Santa Teresa and there are fewer people.
3. Swim in Mal Pais tide pools
Forbes Magazine voted the beaches of Mal pais and Santa Teresa as “One of the ten most beautiful in the world”. During low tide, many beautiful natural pools can be found in between the rocks along the shore of Mal Pais.
4. Enjoy a Gallo Pinto for Breakfast
Have you heard about the typical breakfast in Costa Rica? Gallo Pinto! It’s black beans, white rice, garlic, red bell peppers, and the special ingredient: Salsa Lizano. Trust me, it’s SO good! It is served with some sweet plantains and two eggs. Just head to any local restaurant in town and ask for it!
5. Visit Tortuga Island
Get ready for Tortuga Island whole-day tour. This experience has so much to offer. Sail on the Pacific Coast and you’ll find yourself at one of the most worthy white sand beaches in Costa Rica – Tortuga Island. The views are out of this world.
6. Plan a day trip to Montezuma from Santa Teresa
Visit Montezuma, a charming hippie town nestled in a jungle, located 17km away from Santa Teresa. Explore the area by ATV for an exciting 40-minute journey from Santa Teresa to Montezuma and discover stunning waterfalls, local restaurants, and idyllic beaches.
👉 Read here the itinerary for the most amazing day trip to Montezuma
7. Join a Yoga Shala in Santa Teresa Beach
Every day is a new opportunity to find peace and embrace mindful living. Imagine starting your day with a yoga practice in Santa Teresa, surrounded by vibrant palm trees and the sounds of nature.
If you’re an experienced yogi of the Ashtanga series, join Cristoph Mysore’s class at Tropico Latino Shala for a truly outstanding and life-changing experience.
8. Explore Santa Teresa Beach by ATV or Rhino
Without a doubt, 4WD is the best to explore Santa Teresa area. You can visit: Montezuma, Cabuya, Mal Pais, and Tambor. When riding an ATV in Santa Teresa Beach, always riding concerning the environment and the community.
9. Visit Secret Beach in Mal Pais, Playa Cuevas
Set up a picnic basket and go to Playa Cuevas, this is a lovely landscape! This cute little beach hiding in mal pais is waiting for you. When snorkeling close to the big rock, you will find beautiful creatures.
11. Walk the Entire Stretch of Santa Teresa Beach
Take a long beach walk from Playa Carmen to Playa Hermosa during low tide (about 1.5 hours). It’s a peaceful way to see the changing scenery of Santa Teresa, from rocky coves to wide stretches of golden sand. You’ll pass surfers, yogis, and even horses grazing near the jungle. Bring water, sunscreen, and take your time — it’s pura vida at its finest.
12. Spot Howler Monkeys in the Trees
One of the most charming features of Santa Teresa is the wildlife. As you stroll along the beach paths or relax in your hotel garden, listen for the deep growl of howler monkeys in the treetops. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot them. A natural soundtrack you won’t forget.
10. Jump at Secret Waterfalls, La Florida
Dug into Nicoya Secrets and find this not-so-famous spot! Cascada la Florida is a small waterfall in the middle of nowhere, surrendered by ancient trees.
13. See the bioluminicense
Have you heard about the phenomenon of plankton? It’s an amazing experience where the ocean lights up when the water moves and can be witnessed at the beautiful national park of Curu. Bioluminescence tours take place under the new moon sky.
14. Feel freedom at Zip Line Canopy in Mal Pais
Zip lining at Mal Pais is an exhilarating experience that should not be missed. From high up in the trees, you can see the stunning landscape of the Nicoya Peninsula and the boundless Pacific Ocean.
15. Go fishing in Mal Pais
There are a number of aspects of this tour that appeal to me, but two in particular stand out. The first is the opportunity to be out on the ocean bright and early, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin. The second is the chance to obtain fresh fish which, upon my return home, I can then use to prepare a delightful dishes!!
15. Visit the cementery Island in Cabuya
This trip is not as creepy as it sounds, believe me. This cemetery is the most beautiful I have seen, surrounded by the ocean, in low tide you can walk from the Beach through the rocks (recommend to use Crocs or something similar)
Our Google Map in your Phone
Don't forget to schedule some free time!
We often get caught up in our schedules and we forget to breath in the moment. Grab your water bottle, hat, a book and head to the beach! Let the crystal clear waters wash away your worries and lay on the shore feeling pura vida.
📥 Want even more tips from locals?
We’ve created a free Santa Teresa Travel Guide that includes:
✅ How to get here
✅ Local maps
✅ Favorite cafés
✅ What to pack
✅ Concierge contact info
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions – Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
How many days should I stay in Santa Teresa?
We recommend at least 3–5 days to fully enjoy the beaches, day trips, and relaxed rhythm of town. Surfers often stay even longer.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Dry season runs from December to April. May to August is lush, quieter, and great for surfing. Avoid October, which is usually very rainy.
Is Santa Teresa good for families?
Yes! It has family-friendly beaches like Playa Hermosa, safe walking paths, and nature activities for all ages.
👉 Read our guide: Santa Teresa with Kids
Do I need a 4×4 to get around?
Yes — especially during rainy season or if you plan to explore nearby places like Montezuma, Cabuya or Mal País.
👉 Check our guide on transportation
