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Playa Santa Teresa

Playa Santa Teresa_Map
Get lost in the beauty of breath-taking sunsets, sparkling waters, palm lined beaches and a vivacious Costa Rican culture. Playa Santa Teresa is one of the country’s prime tourist destinations despite it being somewhat undeveloped and spectacularly rural. With the amalgamation of tropical forests and pristine beaches - Santa Teresa is the perfect destination for nature lovers, laid back vacationers and energetic adventurers.

How it all began

Santa Teresa began as a small fishing village. Its main sources of income were fruits of the land with cattle farming, fruit and vegetable agriculture and fishing. Now with its picture perfect currents and swells, Playa Santa Teresa has become one of the most popular surf destinations in Central America. Tourism has grown to an almost fever pitch in Santa Teresa and continues to draw in a variety of tourists from all over the world.


Once the region’s surfing reputation found its way across the globe, a number of surfing enthusiasts decided to test out the waters and ended up setting up their homes in this picturesque fishing village. This led to the spike in development which has made tourism a luxurious and profitable pursuit in the region while allowing the quintessential charm to remain intact.

Accomodation in Playa Santa Teresa

Along with the onslaught of tourism came with it a whole new element of development. The original surf fanatics made a mark in this remarkable region by developing hotels, lodges and low budget hostels which still maintain the colourful fishing village atmosphere that first attracted the masses. No matter what budget you are working on or what type of vacation you want to experience - there is undeniably an idyllic accommodation option just for you!

What to see and do in and around Playa Santa Teresa

Playa Santa Teresa boasts an incredible natural beauty with the combination of lush, tropical jungles and stunning beaches. Whether you are a true blue water fanatic, or would rather keep your feet dry and explore the awesome wilderness - Santa Teresa will promise an unforgettable adventure. This region is perfect for nature lovers with the Montezuma waterfall nearby, as well as Costa Rica’s pride and joy - the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve. Explore the jungle on foot, horseback or with the added element of excitement atop an all-terrain quad bike.


Fishing, whale watching and scuba diving are also popular pastimes for visitors from across the globe, so be sure to make the most of the remarkable ocean right at your doorstep in Santa Teresa. While there are a number of ocean pursuits that may excite tourists; one cannot deny that in Playa Santa Teresa, surfing isn’t just a sport, it is undeniably a culture. But don’t worry, if you are a complete novice or a more experienced surfing fanatic - there will be a wave, and an instructor, that will have you riding the surf in no time.


From sunrise to sunset there is something for you to do in Santa Teresa, but never fear - the party is only just beginning once darkness sets in. Get moving to the Costa Rican beat in the many salsa clubs or dance to the latest international tracks spun in the many nightclubs. Tantalise your senses from delectable dishes to mouth-watering cocktails and a colourful culture that showcases the region’s unique vivacity.

Tours to experience this highlight

Active Tours:
Costa Rica: Surf and Wonders