Santa Teresa is a Costa Rica gem. Part laid-back hippy town, part surfer’s paradise, part up-and-coming luxury resort spot, Santa Teresa – while lacking any semblance of a real road, has plenty to offer everyone.
Surfing?
Santa Teresa is one of CR’s best surfing locations. The surf just in front of the town is powerful, constant, and not for beginners. Just 15 minutes north is Playa Hermosa is the perfect beginner spot. No matter where you surf, low-tide is best. There are plenty of places to rent boards or lessons. We rented boards for about $8 in Santa Teresa. We took a lesson for about $60 in Playa Hermosa, but you can definitely find cheaper.
Why do we like Santa Teresa?
Santa Teresa has great lodging, although in peak season, it can be hard to come by. There are amazing restaurants and cocktail bars. There are some stylish cafes / shake-shops that have great WiFi for remote workers. There are two Selena’s in town, plus a highly-recommended hostel called Somos, for those who like the hostel life.
If you’re cooking, fresh food is abundant and delicious. There is an awesome fresh fish shop (run by a French expat) that we highly recommend. They have an organic/health-food store that is filled with delicious produce, CBD products, coffee, chocolate, and most of anything else you might want.
What can you do nearby?
Go check out the bioluminescence in Paquera (1:20 hours a way)
Go visit Tortuga Island (day trip)
Surf, swim, rent an ATV
Are there parties?
There is one kind of run-down night club, but on a good night, it’s packed. Peak season has plenty of parties in nearby villas. We were there in May and there wasn’t much night life at all.
Where should we eat?
Awesome cafe for amazing smoothie bowls, internet, and vibe