Santa Teresa is the latest up and coming beach town in Costa Rica. This remote surf village in the Nicoya Peninsula used to be a well kept secret but has seen a huge boost in popularity thanks to many American celebrities building their ocean view vacation mansions. For the young tourists or digital nomad looking for a hip and trendy beach town with fantastic surf, daily yoga, unspoiled beaches and a festive nightlife, Santa Teresa should be on the top of their list of places to visit in Costa Rica.
How to Get to Santa Teresa
Adobe Transfers offers direct international and domestic airport pick ups as well as door to door private transportation services. Normally the private service includes the Puntarenas ferry (this service is dependent upon conditions) or if the ferry is unavailable, Adobe Transfers will drive around the Nicoya Peninsula.
Below are average private shuttle rates to Santa Teresa. All prices quoted in USD, per way and are for vehicles that hold up to 8 passengers plug luggage.
San Jose International Airport – Santa Teresa: $290, 6 hours
Liberia International Airport – Santa Teresa: $270, 5.5 hours
Monteverde – Santa Teresa: $280, 5.5 hours
Tamarindo – Santa Teresa: $250, 4 hours
What to Do in Santa Teresa
Many tourists will stay a week and use it as a home base. Or visit for 2-4 nights.
Surf
Santa Teresa’s many beach breaks and pumping surf are perfect for the pros to grab their shortboard and catch some epic waves. For the beginners, take a lesson with one of the enthusiastic local instructors who will guide you through the currents and white water so you can stand up and catch a wave during your first lesson.
Group lesson average price: $90 per person including board and rash guard rental
Many surf shops and schools also offer weekly surf camps.
Yoga
Take a breathe, cast aside your daily stress and clear your mind in the jungles of Costa Rica on a yoga lesson or retreat.
Visit Beaches
North and south of the town center, there are a handful of immaculate white sand beaches that visitors must see. Rent an ATV or hop in your car to explore the beaches of Mal Pais, Playa Hermosa and Playa Carmen. You absolutely cannot miss a sunset on the beach either!
Fish
The neighboring small village of Mal Pais is the launch point for fishing trips. Visitors can hire a local charter to go off shore and inshore fishing.