More from South America Land
by Anthony Bourdain | Last updated: 19-07-2024
Surfers have long been drawn to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, by its palm-lined beaches, swells, and "pura vida" philosophy. It has seen an influx of a more diverse crowd of largely bohemian tourists in recent years. This once-remote resort is still evolving thanks to greater tourists and better access, but the relaxed beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula has managed to keep its off-the-beaten-path vibe.
These days, Santa Teresa isn't only popular among surfers; it's also a Mecca for health nuts and foodies who go to this Blue Zone gem in search of delectable foods from around the world. It combines elements of a tiny village, a hippie health haven, and a surfing paradise.
Curious about Santa Teresa's best restaurants, hotels, and attractions? If you want to discover how to organize the ideal vacation, scroll down.
Relax on the sand; most tourists flock to Playa Santa Teresa. This stretch of beach is picture-perfect and rivals the best in Costa Rica. The palm trees sway in the wind, the sand is smooth, the water is warm, and the sunsets are candy-colored.
Learn to surf: The surf culture evolved in tandem with the expansion of beaches and waves. People travel great distances these days to ride the waves, even in the face of dangerous barrels and breakers. Pura Vida Adventures and Del Soul Surf School are two options for people who have never surfed before. To be clear, paddling out is by no means necessary for a fun experience. Taking in the sights of the border patrol from the shore is a perfect way to spend the afternoon.
Get some air: The town exudes an air of liberated, health-focused energy. The outdoor shala at Hotel Tropico Latino is a common spot for zen-seeking yoga retreats, so you never know when you might encounter a group of people there. Anyone, not only guests, is invited to come to Horizon Hotel & Yoga Center or either of the Selina locations to do yoga. Also part of the wellness industry are day spas where you may get holistic massages, facials, and bodywork.
Support local businesses: Santa Teresa is home to a handful of great stores. Dkoko creates sporty yet adorable one-pieces and bikinis with the idea that swimwear should be both fashionable and practical. La Maga, located next door, offers ethically made soap and bucket hats with bright prints. Shop at Calm & Co. for a selection of hand-poured candles and rosewater face mist.
Day trips are a great option for adventurers and nature lovers because there are so many eco-adventures within a reasonable driving distance. Explore the empty rocky coves of nearby Mal Pais, go deep-sea fishing, or take an after-dark tour of bioluminescent Paquera Bay. Day cruises to Montezuma and Isla Tortuga are also available.
With a focus on sustainability, Hotel Nantipa is a charming boutique property nestled among verdant vegetation and situated on a prime section of Playa Santa Teresa, making it one of the top beach resorts in Costa Rica. The detached bungalows offer seclusion and a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors with their sliding glass doors and terraces covered in foliage that feature plunge pools and hammocks. Manzu, an excellent seaside restaurant, is available, in addition to a tiny spa retreat and mixology glasses.
Florblanca, another highly regarded eco-hotel, is a great example of the pura vida way of living. Seaside yoga and surf lessons add to the tranquility, while beachfront villas with soaking tubs and weaving hammocks provide an intimate and relaxed setting.
Selina Santa Teresa North and Selina Santa Teresa South, both located near Playa Carmen, are popular among Gen Zers and budget-conscious remote workers. Young, party-loving tourists like to surf, drink drinks while working on laptops by the pool, and sleep in communal rooms at these two backpacker-friendly resorts.
For breakfast, the Bakery is the most renowned establishment in town. Coffee, freshly squeezed beverages, savory and sweet pastries, and sweet and savory entrees keep the tables crowded each morning and patrons returning for more.
An additional essential for the morning is Ani's, which combines the most palatable and creamy smoothie containers. For children, a Costa Rican breakfast is also available.
Travelers and Ticos congregate at this establishment, which serves poke bowls stuffed with yellowfin tuna captured in the adjacent Mal Pais and daily-made fresh juices.
A destination worth visiting is Uma Santa Teresa if you desire a relaxed oceanfront lunch that extends into the evening hours. Observe the course of the afternoon as you pick up a bottle of rosê, a whole barbecued snapper, and Greek salad.
Do you have a pizza craving? Amici Santa Teresa serves wood-fired pastries that are crisp and comprised of fresh ingredients. Additionally, the grain salad with cashew cheese and herbs should not be overlooked.
Eat Street is an ideal option for those indecisive evenings regarding what to eat. It resembles a food court in that it features a small number of purveyors preparing everything from tacos to international bowls, in addition to beverages to wash it down.
El Corazón is an enchanting establishment situated on a hill in the jungle side of the road. Boasting an outdoor atmosphere, the restaurant offers delectable cocktails and plant-based fare, rendering it an alluring choice for romantic evenings or enjoyable gatherings with friends.
When nearly everyone is asked where the finest sashimi in Santa Teresa can be found, the response is always Koji's. Nigiri, sashimi, and crudo prepared by a Japanese chef with locally captured, ultra-fresh fish are enjoyed by patrons. This dish exemplifies the transcendence of culinary boundaries and the respect for indigenous ingredients while preserving traditional methods.
It is true that Santa Teresa is not the most accessible location. However, that may not be such a terrible thing after all, considering that it is virtually the only factor preventing the town from being inundated with tourists. Arguably, the most efficient approach to arrival is to arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), transfer to a short domestic flight to Tambor Airport (TMU), and subsequently travel the 45-minute distance via transportation. Alternately, you could fly into Liberia Guanacaste International Airport (LIR) and hire a car or van for the four-hour, bumpy journey to Santa Teresa, if you are not interested in changing planes.
Santa Teresa A single major road travels parallel to Teresa's beachfront property. It is not completely paved and during the dry season it becomes quite sandy. The majority of visitors and locals travel by ATVs or four-wheel drive vehicles, predominantly SUVs.
