Santa Teresa, tucked along Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, offers a little bit of everything – wide stretches of tree-lined beaches, atv drives, buzzy cafés, jaw-dropping sunsets, and a renowned surf scene. Whether you’re new to town or returning for another round, here’s the perfect way to spend 24 hours in this little stretch of paradise.
7:30 am: Choose Between Yoga at Horizon Hotel or a Morning Surf Session at Hermosa Beach
Ease into the day with morning yoga at Horizon Hotel or an early surf at Hermosa Beach. Horizon offers a cozy treehouse studio overlooking the coastline, while windchimes and the ocean breeze set the most peaceful atmosphere. Classes here run around $22 each and can be booked through Whatsapp. For a more active start, head to Hermosa Beach. Known for its gentler waves, it’s an ideal surf spot for beginners, with plenty of local instructors that can help you catch your first wave.
9:00 am: Load Up on a Fresh Breakfast at Ani’s
I hate to admit how many times I’ll eat here on a trip to Santa Teresa, but it’s really just that good. Get the breakfast burrito, acai bowl, fresh juices, frozen passionfruit lemonade, or really any of the breakfast items – you truly can’t go wrong.
10:30 am: Endeavor to the Montezuma Waterfall
For a full-day excursion, make the 30-minute drive outside Santa Teresa to the small town of Montezuma to hike up the Montezuma Waterfall. The entrance to the hike is easy to spot and from there, just follow the trail and the other visitors. You’ll pass a series of cascades and natural pools before getting to the main waterfall for a dip.
1:30 pm: Swing by Playa de Los Artistas for Lunch
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to lunch at Playa de los Artistas nearby. The menu here changes daily and offers the freshest seafood, homemade desserts, and gorgeous beachside seating. Definitely make a reservation in advance.
3:00 pm: Watch the Sunset at Rocamar
Be back in Santa Teresa by late afternoon for sunset at Rocamar. Settle in with one of their refreshing drinks – the passionfruit margarita is a fan-favorite – and unwind on the sand until the sky melts into shades of pink and gold.
8:30 pm: Grab Dinner at Katana
Later, book a table at Katana for fresh sushi, salads, and flavorful small plates served in a sleek yet relaxed setting. Don’t skip the hargow, tuna bites, and papaya salad. If you’re looking for something more casual, go elsewhere as this spot draws a crowd during peak season.
10:30 pm: Have a Nightcap and Play Pool at La Pasion
Close out the night with a short drive uphill to La Pasion for a nightcap and a game of pool. They also have an inside ‘music lab’ with DJ sets and a dark, candle-lit setting, just check their Instagram for the full schedule.
