Playa Santa Teresa - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Playa Santa Teresa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa Santa Teresa, a pretty good destination in Costa Rica (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Playa Santa Teresa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Playa Santa Teresa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Costa Rica, here's everything to know about Playa Santa Teresa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa Santa Teresa

Playa Santa Teresa is a picturesque beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Nicoya Peninsula. This area is famous for its world-class surfing and stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush jungles, and wildlife. Santa Teresa has plenty of restaurants, shops, and accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to luxury villas, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers. The town has a relaxed and laid-back vibe, and visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, yoga, hiking, and exploring nearby waterfalls and wildlife reserves. The dry season from December to April is the most popular time to visit, but the weather is generally warm and sunny all year round.

What to visit in Playa Santa Teresa

Sure, here's a list of tourist attractions in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, and some information about each one: 1. Santa Teresa Beach: This beautiful beach is a must-visit for anyone visiting Playa Santa Teresa. With its golden sand, turquoise waters and incredible sunsets, Santa Teresa Beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and relaxing.
2. Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: This wildlife reserve is located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including howler monkeys, sea turtles and more than 150 bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve through hiking trails.
3. Montezuma Waterfalls: These stunning waterfalls are located in the town of Montezuma, just a short distance from Santa Teresa. Visitors can hike through the forest to reach the falls, and can also swim in the swimming holes below.
4. Mal Pais Beach: Another beautiful beach in the area, Mal Pais Beach is known for its great surfing and tranquil atmosphere. It's a great spot to relax and soak up the sun, or to catch some waves.
5. Tortuga Island: This beautiful island is situated off the coast of Playa Santa Teresa and is accessible by boat. The island is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and other aquatic activities.
6. Cocalito Beach: Located just south of Santa Teresa Beach, Cocalito Beach is a quiet and secluded spot that's great for surfing, swimming, and relaxing.
7. Playa Hermosa: Hermosa Beach is situated north of Santa Teresa Beach and is known for its wide stretch of sand and consistent surf. It's a popular spot for surfing, and there are several surf schools in the area.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. There's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of the world!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Costa Rica, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Playa Santa Teresa

The best time to visit Playa Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-November to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny, with lower humidity and very little rain. This makes it ideal for activities like surfing, hiking, and exploring the surrounding areas. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. The shoulder season from May to July and September to mid-November can also be a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices but also the occasional rain shower. It's generally best to avoid the rainy season from August to September and October, as heavy rainfall can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Playa Santa Teresa

To get to Playa Santa Teresa in Costa Rica, there are a few transportation options available: 1. Fly: The closest airport to Playa Santa Teresa is Tambor Airport (TMU), which is about a 30-minute drive away. You can take a domestic flight from San Jose International Airport (SJO) to Tambor with local airline companies like Sansa or Nature Air.
2. Shuttle: There are a variety of shuttle companies that provide transportation from San Jose to Santa Teresa. These shuttles leave daily and can be booked in advance.
3. Car Rental: You can also rent a car in San Jose and drive to Santa Teresa, but you may have some difficulty navigating the bumpy and dirt coastal road.
4. Public Transportation: You can take a direct bus from San Jose to Santa Teresa, which takes around 7 hours. The bus leaves from San Carlos Station and arrives in Santa Teresa town. Once you are in Santa Teresa, you can hire a taxi or rent a car locally to get to Playa Santa Teresa, which is a beautiful, pristine beach that is well worth the journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Playa Santa Teresa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa Santa Teresa

Sure, here are some typical foods of Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: 1. Gallo Pinto - This dish consists of rice mixed with beans, onions, and cilantro. It's a staple in Costa Rican cuisine and is enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
2. Casado - A typical lunch dish, casado includes rice, beans, meat (usually carne asada or chicken), fried plantains, and a salad. 3. Ceviche - A popular seafood dish made with raw fish, shrimp or conch marinated in lime juice, cilantro, onions, and peppers.
4. Tostones - Fried plantain slices, usually served as a side dish or snack. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
5. Empanadas - Small, fried or baked turnovers filled with meat, vegetables, cheese, or beans.
6. Patacones - Similar to tostones, patacones are smashed and fried plantains. They are often served with a side of guacamole or aioli.
7. Arroz con Pollo - A rice and chicken dish cooked with vegetables and spices.
8. Sopa Negra - Traditional Costa Rican black bean soup, often served with hard-boiled eggs and rice.
9. Cordero Asado - Roasted lamb served with a side of rice and beans.
10. Aguacate Relleno - A ripe avocado stuffed with shrimp or chicken salad, and mayonnaise. This delicious dish is often served as a light lunch or appetizer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Playa Santa Teresa an expensive destination for tourists?

Playa Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is generally considered to be a mid-range to upscale destination, with a wide range of accommodations to choose from. The cost of a trip to Playa Santa Teresa will depend on the time of year that you plan to visit, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you plan to enjoy while you're there.
During peak travel seasons and holidays, prices for accommodations and activities may be higher. However, there are always options for budget-friendly accommodations and activities in the area as well. It's also worth noting that Costa Rica is generally more expensive than some other destinations in Central America. Overall, while Playa Santa Teresa isn't necessarily a cheap destination, it's definitely worth considering as it offers incredible natural beauty, world-class surfing, and plenty of delicious food options to enjoy.

Where to find accomodation in Playa Santa Teresa

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Playa Santa Teresa are: 1. Santa Teresa town: This is the main hub of the area and has a variety of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. It's a great option for those who want to be close to the beach and have easy access to amenities.
2. Mal País: This area is quiet and more secluded than Santa Teresa. It's a great option for those who want to be close to nature and enjoy a peaceful setting. There are also plenty of great surfing spots around the area.
3. Playa Carmen: This area has a mix of budget and upscale accommodations and is close to the beach. It's a great option for those who want to be close to the action and have easy access to restaurants and shops.
Overall, any of these areas are great options for accommodation near Playa Santa Teresa. It depends on what type of experience and atmosphere you are looking for.
You can check hotel prices at Playa Santa Teresa here:
Booking.com

Is Playa Santa Teresa a safe destination for tourists?

In general, Playa Santa Teresa is a safe place for tourists. However, like with any tourist destination, it's important to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings. There have been some reports of petty theft and pickpocketing in the area, so it's important to keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your personal belongings. It's also recommended to use official taxi services or reputable transportation companies when getting around, rather than accepting rides from strangers. That being said, overall, Playa Santa Teresa is considered a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Costa Rica here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Playa Santa Teresa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa Santa Teresa the most?

Playa Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for adventurers and those who enjoy spending time outdoors. The area offers a unique blend of surf culture, stunning beaches, and lush jungles that can satisfy all kinds of travelers. While it can be a great spot for couples and young people, families can also have a lot of fun here, particularly those with older children.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks on the beach, taking surf lessons together or enjoying a sunset together. Young adults can also have a blast here as the area has many bars, restaurants, and nightlife options.
Families with children old enough to enjoy the outdoors and the beach can also have an exciting experience. There are many activities such as horseback riding, snorkeling, zip-lining, and hiking they can all enjoy. Ultimately, Playa Santa Teresa can cater to all travelers, but if you are looking for a secluded, quiet vacation, this may not be the best choice.

How to get around Playa Santa Teresa

The most common modes of transportation to move around Playa Santa Teresa are rental cars, ATVs or quads, bicycles, and taxis. It's worth noting that the roads in the area are primarily dirt and mountainous, so it's important to choose a mode of transportation that suits your comfort level and experience with these types of roads.

What to see around Playa Santa Teresa

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Playa Santa Teresa: 1. Montezuma Waterfalls: Just a 30-minute drive away from Santa Teresa is the Montezuma Waterfalls. These waterfalls are a popular attraction with several natural pools to swim in.
2. Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: A little farther away but definitely worth visiting, this nature reserve offers scenic trails through lush tropical forests and has beautiful beaches to relax on.
3. Mal Pais: A laid back village a few miles from Santa Teresa, Mal Pais offers beautiful beaches, great seafood and has a cool surf scene.
4. Isla Tortuga: A beautiful uninhabited island off the Nicoya peninsula offers several water sports activities, amazing views, and stunning clear water where you can relax.
5. Curu Wildlife Refuge: A private refuge on the Nicoya Peninsula offers tourists with an authentic experience with several hiking trails, monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.
6. Santa Teresa Beach: Santa Teresa is a great place to visit with its long stretches of white sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports like surfing, swimming, and snorkeling.
7. Cabuya: A small village just a few kilometers away from Montezuma offers visitors with an authentic Costa Rican experience with traditional restaurants and beachside barbecues.
For every travel information about Costa Rica you can click here.

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