Tucked along the remote southwestern edge of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, the twin beach towns of Santa Teresa and Malpais have earned a reputation as two of the country’s most alluring coastal escapes. Once sleepy fishing villages, they are now a magnet for surfers, yogis, nature lovers, and digital nomads seeking a relaxed yet adventurous vibe.

Whether you're chasing world-class waves, relaxing under swaying palm trees, or sampling fresh seafood barefoot in the sand, Santa Teresa and Malpais offer a slice of tropical paradise without the high-rise resorts or mass tourism.

Surf and Sand

Santa Teresa is best known for its consistently excellent surf conditions. With wide, sandy beaches like Playa Carmen, Playa Santa Teresa, and Playa Hermosa, surfers of all levels can find a break that suits their skills. Dry season (December to April) brings consistent swells and offshore winds, while the green season (May to October) often means fewer crowds and dramatic sunsets.

Even if you’re not a surfer, the beaches here are stunning. Long stretches of golden sand, turquoise water, and dramatic rock formations make them perfect for sunbathing, swimming (with caution), beachcombing, or simply watching the surf roll in.

Nature and Adventure

Malpais, the quieter neighbor just south of Santa Teresa, still retains its village charm. It’s the place to go for nature excursions, fishing trips, or exploring the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s first protected area. The reserve is home to howler monkeys, coatis, deer, and a variety of birdlife, and offers excellent hiking with views over pristine coastline.

The area is also great for horseback riding, tide pool exploring, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Adventurers can even take an ATV tour through the hills and jungles for a unique perspective of the peninsula.

Food and Culture

Though remote, Santa Teresa boasts a surprisingly vibrant culinary scene. Restaurants range from casual beachfront cafés to gourmet bistros. Expect a fusion of international influences—Argentinian grills, Israeli falafel shops, Italian pizzerias, and fresh sushi bars—all grounded by the region’s abundance of tropical fruits and fresh-caught seafood.

Sunset is a daily ritual here, best enjoyed with a cold drink and toes in the sand. While the nightlife is relatively low-key, a handful of beach bars and weekly parties keep things lively after dark.

Wellness and Retreats

Santa Teresa has also become a hub for wellness and mindful living. Yoga studios are plentiful, and many hotels offer classes, retreats, or surf-and-yoga combos. There are also opportunities for massage, holistic healing, or just unplugging with a beachfront hammock and a good book.

Getting There and Getting Around

Santa Teresa and Malpais are remote, but well worth the journey. You can reach them by taking a domestic flight from San José to Tambor Airport, followed by a 45-minute drive. Alternatively, drive from the capital to Puntarenas, take the ferry to Paquera and continue across the peninsula. Roads are rugged, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

Once there, most visitors get around by ATV, scooter, or on foot. The dusty main road is lined with shops, cafes, surf schools, and accommodations ranging from luxury villas to backpacker hostels.

Final Tips

* Bring cash – Many places accept credit cards, but power or internet outages can make them unreliable.
* Plan ahead – In high season (especially December to March), accommodations fill up quickly.
* Pack light – You won’t need more than sandals, swimwear, and a few casual outfits.

Why Visit?

Santa Teresa and Malpais are ideal for travelers looking for something more authentic than Costa Rica’s larger resort towns. Here, life slows down to the rhythm of the waves, and days are filled with salt air, warm sun, and the sound of the ocean.

Whether you’re here to surf, explore, relax, or all three—this part of the Nicoya Peninsula will make it hard to leave, and even harder to forget.