Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Santa Teresa is a booming travel destination in Costa Rica, with its white sand beaches and consistent surf attracting surfers and a growing number of travelers each year.
Located approximately 150 km from San Jose International Airport, Santa Teresa offers a wide variety of luxurious accommodations, amazing restaurants, modern-day amenities, cool lounges, and high-energy dance clubs, making it a popular party town with great nightlife.
For many people, surfing is the main pursuit, and Santa Teresa is an ideal destination for both novice and expert surfers. Many visitors receive their first surf lesson in Santa Teresa, and hotels offer surf instruction and surf camps.
The main streets in Santa Teresa are walkable, making it easy to explore the town’s many attractions. With its stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and diverse range of activities, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Costa Rica.
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Population in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa has a population of around 3000 people but in temporary holiday homes, apartments, and hotels there’s a floating population of 3,575 people who spend their time mostly during the dry season, Santa Teresa is a tourist area, which hosts 44 hotels, 59 tourist rental houses, and 49 restaurants.
5 reasons to visit santa teresa
Santa Teresa Beach, is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. I have had the pleasure of exploring this stunning destination and can attest to its natural beauty and unique charm.
The white sand beaches stretch for miles, and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
The lush green hills and rainforest surrounding the beach make for a stunning backdrop, and there are many opportunities to spot exotic wildlife like monkeys and birds.
Santa Teresa has a unique culture and laid-back vibe that is hard to find elsewhere. The small town that sits just off the beach is home to a thriving arts community, with many local artists showcasing their work in galleries and workshops. The town also has a vibrant culinary scene, with many excellent restaurants serving fresh and delicious seafood.
Is a great place to relax and unwind. The slow pace of life, combined with the natural beauty and welcoming community, makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the stresses of modern life and reconnect with nature.
Santa Teresa is a popular surfing destination, with consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the world. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, the beach offers a great opportunity to catch some waves and enjoy the thrill of surfing in a stunning setting.
In summary, Santa Teresa Beach in Costa Rica is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of natural beauty, unique culture, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you are a beach lover, an art enthusiast, a foodie, a surfer, or simply someone looking to relax and unwind, this beautiful beach has something to offer everyone.
How to get to Santa Teresa?
1. Driving
The fastest way to reach Santa Teresa by car is by using Route 27, which will take you to Puntarenas downtown in around one hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
At the very end of Puntarenas town, you can find the Ferry Station, where you need to buy the tickets for the next ferry to Paquera and make the line to get into it.
The ferry terminal in Puntarenas is situated at the end of a narrow strip of land, about 2 km away from the town center.
It’s important to ensure that you board the correct ferry: if you’re headed to Santa Teresa, Malpais, or Montezuma, you’ll need to take the ferry to Paquera; for Samara and Nosara, take the ferry to Naranjo.
You can find the schedules, rates, and where to buy the tickets for Santa Teresa’s Ferry online here: Visit Costa Rica
Depending on the time of the year the schedules vary, however it is always advisable to plan your time based on the ferry hours.
The ride on the ferry is very nice, and it takes around 45 minutes.
After getting off the ferry, you have to follow the road down to Cobano and then head to the crossroads at Playa Carmen, to the right you will reach Santa Teresa, to the left is Mal País.
The total time could be around 4 hours.
If you decide to rent a car in Costa Rica for your vacation in Santa Teresa, we do advise renting a 4×4.
You can also rent a car and have it waiting for you at the SJO or Liberia International Airport.
2. Private Transfer from the Airport to Santa Teresa
If you want to ensure smoother, convenient, and efficient travel to Santa Teresa, avoid dealing with issues such as delayed arrival, parking problems, and looking for directions, you should consider booking a Private Shuttle to Santa Teresa.
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3. Take the Bus to Santa Teresa
Two direct buses depart from San Jose and Santa Teresa every day, one at 6 am and one at 2 pm. Transportes Cobano runs the service, the price per person is approximately $12.00.
The journey takes 6 hours in total and the bus terminal is located in ¨La Coca Cola¨ in San Jose downtown. Another option using public transportation is taking buses going to Puntarenas, once in there, take the ferry to Paquera, and then take the bus from Cobano to Mal País/Santa Teresa, which runs twice a day at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Transportes Cobano Telephone number: +506 2221-7479
You can also check “La Terminal” website, where you can check schedules and book online.
Where to stay in Santa Teresa?
Santa Teresa is a hidden gem on the Nicoya Peninsula, offering a variety of accommodations that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront villa, a cozy eco-lodge nestled in nature, or a budget-friendly hostel, Santa Teresa has something for everyone.
1. Hotel Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience
For a unique experience blending Costa Rican culture with luxury, Hotel Nantipa offers modern rooms right on the beach, with stunning ocean views. The on-site restaurant and pool create a perfect tropical getaway, making it an ideal choice for those looking to indulge in comfort while experiencing the local vibe.
2. Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach
Just a short walk from the ocean, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with a laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to the beach while enjoying a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for couples and families alike.
3. Hotel Tropico Latino
Located directly on Playa Santa Teresa, this beachfront hotel offers everything you need: oceanfront rooms, a swimming pool, and a yoga studio. It’s perfect for those wanting to stay close to the surf and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Santa Teresa. Whether you’re here to surf or simply relax by the beach, Tropico Latino is a fantastic choice.
4. Hotel Ritmo Tropical – Pool and Breakfast
This charming hotel offers a great combination of comfort and value. Located near the beach, it features a pool, a free breakfast, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for those on a budget who still want to enjoy the best of Santa Teresa.
No matter your budget or style, Santa Teresa has plenty of options to make your stay unforgettable. To explore even more lodging options, check out our complete guide to the best places to stay in Santa Teresa.
Things to do in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a very popular surfing destination in Costa Rica, and is also home to a large amount of wildlife.
It has a lot of great adventures to offer, the best tours and things to do in Santa Teresa include:
- Bioluminescence Kayak and boat Tours
- Sunset Boat and Cruise Tours
- Mangrove Tours
- Horseback Riding
- Snorkeling
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Bird watching
- Surfing
From exploring the lush rainforest to surfing the famous waves of Playa Santa Teresa, you’ll find the perfect activity for all adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
is Santa Teresa Costa Rica Safe?
The people here are very friendly and as long as you use your common sense, you should be able to enjoy a worry-free vacation.
Most crime in Santa Teresa is petty theft, so we recommend you only carry the valuables that you really need, if you can, leave your passport in the hotel safe, And keep your cash and cards in different places in case they do get stolen.
