Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Beaches, Hotels, Dining and Must-Do Adventures — Traveling With Kids Costa Rica

Exploring Santa Teresa, Costa Rica: A Complete Travel Guide

Looking for a perfect getaway to a beautiful beach town in Costa Rica? Santa Teresa offers stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, family-friendly accommodations, and a vibrant atmosphere. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Santa Teresa, including how to get there, where to stay, must-visit beaches, exciting activities, and the best restaurants.

How to Get to Santa Teresa: Drive and Ferry Tips

To get to Santa Teresa, whether you're coming from San José or the Pacific Coast, you'll need to drive to Puntarenas first. If you're traveling from San José, it's about a 2-hour drive. If you're already on the Pacific Coast, depending on your location, the drive to Puntarenas will vary, but it’s typically around 1 to 3 hours. Once in Puntarenas, you'll take a ferry to Paquera, an essential and scenic part of the journey to the Nicoya Peninsula. The ferry ride lasts about 1.5 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Pro Tip: Book ferry tickets online in advance to ensure you secure your spot. Ferries can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. After disembarking at Paquera, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Santa Teresa.

Best Places to Stay in Santa Teresa: Banana Beach Resort

We’ve visited Santa Teresa a couple of times, and during our stays, our family has enjoyed an Airbnb close to the beach, which was perfect for the relaxed vibe we were looking for. However, we would also highly recommend the Banana Beach Hotel. We love its location right by the beach, making it a great choice for families. The spacious rooms, laid-back outdoor dining area, and stunning sunset views are just a few of the highlights. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal with the sound of the ocean in the background, Banana Beach Hotel provides an ideal base for your Santa Teresa adventure.

Here are other 10 great places to stay in Santa Teresa, including family-friendly options:

Pranamar Villas & Yoga Retreat: Ideal for wellness and yoga lovers, this retreat offers beachfront villas, holistic treatments, and a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for families seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Florblanca Resort: A luxurious boutique resort with spacious villas, a world-class spa, and excellent dining, just steps from the beach. It’s an ideal choice for families looking for comfort and luxury in a beautiful tropical setting.
Banana Beach Hotel: A family-friendly hotel located right by the beach, offering spacious rooms, a pool, and a relaxed outdoor dining area with stunning sunset views. Perfect for families looking for a convenient and comfortable base.
Hotel Nantipa: A beachfront hotel offering modern rooms and easy access to Playa Santa Teresa, ideal for families who want convenience and comfort near the ocean.
The Lodge at Playa Santa Teresa: An eco-friendly boutique hotel with a relaxed vibe, spacious rooms, and close proximity to the beach, making it a great choice for families who enjoy nature and serenity.
Hotel Tropico Latino: A beachfront hotel with family-friendly bungalows, yoga classes, and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.
Horizon Ocean View Hotel: An ocean-view hotel with yoga and wellness services, ideal for families who want a peaceful stay with opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Villas de la Mar: Luxury villas with private pools, perfect for families looking for a secluded and private stay with easy beach access.
Blue Surf Sanctuary: A surf-focused hotel offering lessons and board rentals, steps from Playa Carmen. Ideal for families wanting to try surfing together while staying in comfortable accommodations.
Mango Bay Boutique Hotel: A charming boutique hotel with a tropical ambiance, offering spacious rooms, a pool, and easy access to both the beach and local attractions. Perfect for families looking for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere close to everything Santa Teresa has to offer.

These accommodations provide a range of experiences, from wellness retreats to beachfront hotels, ensuring there’s something for every family visiting Santa Teresa.

Top Santa Teresa Beaches You Must Visit

Santa Teresa is famous for its stunning beaches, offering everything from thrilling surf to peaceful relaxation. Here are some of the top beaches you should check out in the area:

Playa Santa Teresa: The main beach of Santa Teresa, known for its golden sand and fantastic surf. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, Playa Santa Teresa has waves for everyone. It's a vibrant spot, perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Playa Hermosa: A quieter, more serene beach, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy natural beauty in a peaceful setting. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and unwinding by the sea.
Playa Carmen: A lively beach with excellent surf conditions, local cafes, and surf schools. It’s the perfect spot to spend the day, whether you’re riding the waves, sipping a fresh smoothie, or enjoying the vibrant beach vibe.
Playa Manzanillo: A secluded, tranquil beach that offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking ocean views. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a more private and serene beach experience.
Playa Mal País: Just a short drive from Santa Teresa, this beach offers a more laid-back, uncrowded feel. Its calm, clear waters make it perfect for swimming and relaxing, with fewer tourists than some of the more popular beaches nearby.
Playa Grande: Located near the entrance to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Playa Grande offers wide, golden sands and excellent surf breaks. It’s a great beach for those who enjoy exploring less crowded areas while still being close to nature.
Playa Los Cedros: A hidden gem, Playa Los Cedros offers calm waters and a quieter atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful day of swimming or picnicking under the shade of palm trees. It's a great spot to relax away from the busier beaches.

Things to Do in Santa Teresa: Adventure and Nature Activities

Santa Teresa is not just about its stunning beaches, there are a wealth of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some must-do experiences when visiting this beautiful destination:

Hike in Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: The Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, located just south of Santa Teresa, is a haven for nature lovers. Embark on scenic hiking trails that take you through dense tropical forests and along dramatic coastal cliffs. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, making it a great place for birdwatching and photography.
Montezuma Waterfalls: A short drive from Santa Teresa, the Montezuma Waterfalls are a must-see for adventure seekers. Hike through a lush jungle to reach the falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in natural pools and enjoy the beauty of the cascading water.
Horseback Riding: For a relaxed yet adventurous experience, consider horseback riding along Santa Teresa's pristine beaches. Ride through the surf and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, or take a sunset ride for a truly magical experience.
Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Santa Teresa is known for its wellness scene, with plenty of yoga studios and wellness retreats offering classes, workshops, and holistic treatments. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, this is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate.
Zip Lining and Canopy Tours: For adrenaline junkies, zip lining through the jungle canopy is an exhilarating way to experience the area's natural beauty. Fly over treetops, rivers, and breathtaking landscapes while spotting local wildlife.
Surfing Lessons: Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, Santa Teresa is one of the best places to catch waves. There are several surf schools offering lessons and rentals, so you can learn to ride the waves in a safe and fun environment.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): For a more relaxed water activity, try stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle along the calm waters of the bay or explore hidden coves and beaches, all while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
ATV Tours: Explore Santa Teresa's rugged terrain and beautiful surroundings on an ATV tour. Ride through jungle paths, visit nearby secluded beaches, and experience the area from a different perspective.
Fishing Tours: If you're a fan of fishing, consider booking a boat tour to try your luck in the rich waters off the coast of Santa Teresa. Whether you prefer deep-sea fishing or a more relaxed inshore experience, there are plenty of options available.
Explore the Local Art Scene: Santa Teresa is home to a vibrant community of artists and artisans. Spend a day exploring local galleries and boutique shops where you can find handmade jewelry, surfboards, paintings, and other creative works that reflect the laid-back vibe of the area.

Santa Teresa Vibes: Perfect for All Ages

Santa Teresa has an energetic yet laid-back atmosphere that attracts travelers of all ages. The town is popular with young backpackers, surfers, and couples, but it’s also a family-friendly destination. The nightlife is lively, with parties and live music events, but you’ll also find quiet spots perfect for relaxation and unwinding after a day at the beach. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Santa Teresa has something for everyone.

Best Restaurants in Santa Teresa: Where to Eat

Santa Teresa offers a fantastic food scene, with options ranging from local Costa Rican dishes to international cuisine. Here are some of the best restaurants in Santa Teresa:

The Bakery: A popular breakfast spot offering fresh pastries, smoothies, and sandwiches. It's perfect for a light breakfast or a quick lunch.
Sunrise Cafe - At Eat Street: A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this cafe serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including fresh juices and coffee, perfect for starting your day.
Cafca: A cozy spot offering a range of delicious food options, including fresh salads and healthy bowls.
Soda Típica Las Palmas: For authentic Costa Rican food, this restaurant serves traditional dishes like casado, a local meal of rice, beans, salad, and protein.
Olam: A more upscale option with a focus on organic, sustainable food. Their fusion of Costa Rican and international flavors creates a memorable dining experience.
Pronto Pizza: Craving pizza? Pronto Pizza offers delicious wood-fired pizzas in a casual setting. Perfect for a laid-back meal after a day of surfing.
Casa Teca: This cozy restaurant serves fresh, local ingredients and offers a range of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes.
Bali Beach Deli: A relaxed and stylish cafe offering delicious sandwiches, smoothies, and fresh salads. A great spot for a light bite by the beach.
Earth Cafe: Known for its healthy, organic menu, Earth Cafe serves a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Sunrise Cafe: Located at Eat Street, this vibrant cafe serves a range of breakfast and lunch options in a relaxed, casual setting.
Katana Restaurant: Offering a unique fusion of Asian and Latin flavors, Katana is a trendy spot known for its sushi and creative dishes.
Zula: A popular Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant offering healthy and flavorful dishes in a laid-back environment.
Koji: Known for its fresh and delicious sushi, Koji combines Japanese and local flavors, making it a must-visit for sushi lovers.
El Corazon: A charming restaurant offering a variety of Latin-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
El Facon: A fantastic spot for those craving a steak or grilled meats, El Facon offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

This list gives a great variety of dining options, whether you're in the mood for a light bite, local Costa Rican flavors, or an upscale dining experience

Why Visit Santa Teresa, Costa Rica?

Beautiful Beaches Ideal for Surfing and Relaxation
Santa Teresa is known for its stunning beaches with soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a surfer's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, the waves here cater to all levels, while those seeking relaxation can unwind on the quiet, picturesque shores.
Family-Friendly Accommodations and Hotels
Santa Teresa offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit all types of travelers, including family-friendly hotels and eco-lodges. Many properties feature spacious rooms, pools, and activities designed to cater to guests of all ages, making it a great destination for a family vacation.
A Variety of Outdoor Activities Including Hiking, Horseback Riding, ATVs, Surfing and Nature Reserves
Explore the natural beauty of Santa Teresa through hiking trails, horseback riding tours, and visits to nearby nature reserves. The area is rich with wildlife, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy adventures ranging from guided hikes to horseback tours along the beach or through the jungle.
A Vibrant Local Food Scene with Restaurants Serving Traditional and International Cuisine
Santa Teresa boasts a thriving food scene, offering a range of dining options from local Costa Rican dishes to international cuisine. Whether you're enjoying fresh seafood by the beach or savoring a delicious smoothie bowl at a trendy café, the culinary offerings here will leave you satisfied and eager to try more.
An Overall Laid-Back Atmosphere with Plenty of Options for Adventure and Relaxation
The charm of Santa Teresa lies in its relaxed, unhurried vibe, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature while having access to an array of exciting activities. Spend your days surfing, yoga or simply lounging by the pool, and in the evenings, unwind with stunning sunsets, music, and a cold drink.
Rich Culture and Welcoming Community
Santa Teresa has developed a tight-knit community with a mix of locals and expatriates from all over the world. The town’s friendly vibe and local artisans make it a great spot for immersing yourself in Costa Rican culture. You'll find boutique shops selling handmade jewelry, art, and clothing, as well as surf schools and wellness centers.
Ideal for Wellness and Yoga Retreats
For those seeking inner peace and rejuvenation, Santa Teresa is home to numerous yoga retreats, wellness resorts, and spas. The tranquil environment, combined with the town’s focus on healthy living, makes it an ideal place to reset and unwind, whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay.
Accessibility and Adventure in Nearby Areas
Santa Teresa is centrally located on the Nicoya Peninsula, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby destinations like Montezuma, Mal País, and Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve. Whether by car or boat, you’ll have easy access to even more secluded beaches, waterfalls, and natural wonders.