Santa Teresa: A Coastal Paradise for Every Traveler
Experience the ultimate beach getaway in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, where surf, sun, and serenity await every traveler.
Santa Teresa, located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, is a breathtaking beach destination that offers stunning sunsets, vibrant surf culture, and lush tropical scenery. Perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, this coastal gem is known for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming community.
A brief summary to Santa Teresa
- Puntarenas, Puntarenas Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best beach weather and surfing conditions.
- Try to catch a local surf competition; it’s a great way to experience the community spirit.
- Don’t miss the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Explore local eateries for authentic Costa Rican cuisine, especially the ceviche.
- Bring cash, as many smaller vendors and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Nicoya, head south on Route 21 towards Cobano. After about 30 kilometers, you'll reach a junction. Take the right fork onto Route 160, which leads directly to Santa Teresa. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. Be prepared for some unpaved sections, especially as you approach Santa Teresa.
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Public Transportation
To reach Santa Teresa by public transport, first take a bus from Nicoya to Cobano. The bus departs from the main terminal and costs around $3. The journey takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive in Cobano, transfer to a local bus heading to Santa Teresa. This bus runs frequently, and the fare is approximately $1. The total travel time from Nicoya to Santa Teresa, including the transfer, is about 2-2.5 hours.
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Taxi or Shuttle
For a more comfortable and direct option, consider hiring a taxi or shuttle service from Nicoya to Santa Teresa. This option can cost between $50 to $80 depending on the provider. The journey takes around 1.5 hours, and you can arrange this through your hotel or by contacting local transportation companies.
Discover more about Santa Teresa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Chameleon at Mal Pais
3.6 km
Discover the ultimate luxury escape at Casa Chameleon in Mal Pais, where stunning ocean views and upscale amenities await your arrival.
Blue Tide Tours
17.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica with Blue Tide Tours—your gateway to unforgettable adventures and natural wonders.
Punta Islita, Autograph Collection
36.0 km
Experience luxury and nature at Punta Islita, Autograph Collection, a breathtaking hillside hotel with stunning Pacific Ocean views.
Reserva Natural Monte Alto
49.4 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and serene landscapes of Reserva Natural Monte Alto, a must-visit nature preserve in Costa Rica.
Nuestro lugar especial
50.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and fishing charm of Nuestro Lugar Especial, a hidden gem on the Puntarenas coastline, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
El Faro de Puntarenas
50.7 km
Experience Costa Rica's maritime heritage at El Faro de Puntarenas, a historic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and local culture.
Puntarenas Excursions
51.2 km
Explore the best of Puntarenas with Puntarenas Excursions, your go-to tourist information center for unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica's coastal paradise.
Paseo de los Turistas
51.6 km
Experience the stunning Paseo de los Turistas in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where natural beauty meets vibrant culture along the picturesque coastline.
Puntarenas en la playa
51.7 km
Explore Puntarenas en la Playa, a historical landmark that encapsulates the cultural essence and natural beauty of Costa Rica's stunning coastline.
Puntarenas Se Oye
51.7 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Puntarenas at Puntarenas Se Oye, where local insights and rich media bring Costa Rican life to the forefront.
Puntarenas Costa Rica
51.8 km
Explore the coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where adventure and relaxation meet in a tropical paradise.
Parque Mora y Cañas
51.9 km
Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Parque Mora y Cañas, a serene park in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Catedral de Puntarenas. Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
52.0 km
Discover the beauty and spirituality of the Catedral de Puntarenas, a stunning architectural gem in Costa Rica's vibrant coastal city.
Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora y José María Cañas
52.0 km
Discover the Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora y José María Cañas, a historical landmark in Puntarenas celebrating Costa Rica's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Antigua Capitanía de Puntarenas
52.0 km
Explore the Antigua Capitanía de Puntarenas, a historical gem revealing Costa Rica’s maritime heritage and vibrant coastal charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Playa Santa Teresa
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Playa Santa Teresa, a tropical paradise known for surfing, stunning sunsets, and vibrant local culture.
Santa Teresa sunset spot
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of sunsets at Santa Teresa sunset spot, a must-visit destination for tourists in Costa Rica's stunning Puntarenas Province.
Santa Teresa Beach
1.1 km
Experience the beauty of Santa Teresa Beach, a tropical paradise in Costa Rica known for its surfing, stunning sunsets, and vibrant local culture.
Playa de Manzanillo
2.9 km
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Playa de Manzanillo, a hidden gem on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights.
Playa Hermosa
4.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Hermosa, where golden sands and turquoise waters create a tropical paradise in Costa Rica.
Playa Malpais
4.6 km
Playa Malpais: A pristine beach paradise in Costa Rica, offering stunning sunsets, vibrant culture, and exhilarating water adventures.
Playa Cocal Grande
4.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Cocal Grande in Puntarenas, a hidden gem for beach lovers seeking relaxation and stunning coastal views.
Malpais Canopy Tour
5.0 km
Unleash your inner adventurer at Malpais Canopy Tour, where breathtaking zip lines and stunning views await in the heart of Costa Rica's lush jungles.
Cabo Blanco Butterfly Farm
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant world of butterflies at Cabo Blanco Butterfly Farm, a serene sanctuary in Costa Rica's lush Puntarenas Province.
HotSava (Cafe Coyote)
8.7 km
Discover the sweet flavors of Costa Rica at Cafe Coyote, a must-visit pastry shop in Cabuya offering delightful treats and local coffee.
Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco
9.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco, a serene haven for nature lovers on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula.
Cabuya Surf Spot
9.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cabuya Surf Spot, a perfect blend of surfing, relaxation, and local culture in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province.
Playa Cabo Blanco
9.8 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of Playa Cabo Blanco, a serene beach in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province, perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
Playa Palmeras
9.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Playa Palmeras in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where sun, sand, and sea come together for an unforgettable experience.
Cabuya Island
10.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cabuya Island, a tropical paradise in Costa Rica with stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich local culture.
Essential places to dine
Kooks Smokehouse and Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors at Kooks Smokehouse and Bar in Puntarenas - where delicious steaks meet lively sports entertainment.
Banana Beach Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover exquisite dining at Banana Beach Restaurant in Santa Teresa - a perfect blend of fresh flavors and stunning ocean views.
Drift
0.9 km
Experience culinary bliss at Drift in Santa Teresa - where exquisite food meets local art in a vibrant setting.
The Third Eye | Santa Teresa Costa Rica
1.2 km
Experience Costa Rican flavors at The Third Eye in Santa Teresa - where every meal tells a story.
Glenda's Intimate Cuisine (only reservation)
1.6 km
Discover an exquisite dining experience at Glenda's Intimate Cuisine in Santa Teresa – where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
La Cocina de Nury
32.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Cocina de Nury in Guanacaste - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Kimbute
35.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Kimbute in Punta Islita, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Aroma del Mar
40.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Aroma del Mar in Paquera – where every meal is paired with breathtaking views.
Bocatio
46.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bocatio in Guanacaste - where delicious flavors meet breathtaking surroundings.
Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria
48.4 km
Experience exquisite flavors at Gusto Beach Restaurant Pizzeria in Sámara – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood
48.5 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at El Lagarto Steak House & Seafood with stunning ocean views and delicious dishes.
L'Ulivo Restaurant
48.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at L'Ulivo Restaurant in Sámara - where every dish tells a story.
Manglamar
50.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Manglamar - a top-rated restaurant in Puntarenas offering fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
Restaurante El Mirador del Capitán
50.8 km
Experience exceptional Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante El Mirador del Capitán in Puntarenas.
Isla Coco's Bar and Grill
50.8 km
Discover Isla Coco's Bar and Grill in Puntarenas for authentic Costa Rican flavors in a vibrant setting that captures the essence of local culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol
28.0 km
Discover convenience and local charm at Supermercado y Licorera Ruta del Sol in Bejuco, your essential stop for all travel needs.
Unique Shop
30.3 km
Shop unique, handcrafted treasures that reflect the local culture and artistry at Unique Shop, a must-visit for travelers seeking memorable souvenirs.
Pulperia la maravilla
36.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and local culture of Costa Rica at Pulperia la maravilla, a must-visit store in Nandayure, Guanacaste.
Isis Indigo Blue
38.3 km
Discover unique handmade crafts at Isis Indigo Blue in Nandayure, showcasing local artistry and the spirit of Costa Rica.
Plastimex Nicoya
41.6 km
Explore Plastimex Nicoya, a vibrant home goods store in Guanacaste, offering unique local crafts and essential items that embody Costa Rican culture.
Super Estrada
41.8 km
Discover the charm of Super Estrada in Guanacaste, where local flavors and vibrant shopping come together in a delightful experience.
Super Rio Ora
41.9 km
Explore the vibrant Super Rio Ora in Puerto Carrillo for fresh local products and essentials to enhance your Costa Rican adventure.
Tienda Acuña Aviles
42.1 km
Explore Tienda Acuña Aviles, a vibrant shopping mall in Santa Marta de, Guanacaste, where local culture and artisanal goods await every tourist.
Super Y Licorera Mayra
44.4 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Super Y Licorera Mayra, a must-visit store in Guanacaste, Costa Rica offering local products and unique souvenirs.
Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort
46.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Rumbo Shop Azura Beach Resort, a delightful shopping destination in Guanacaste.
Moonstone vintage
48.5 km
Discover unique treasures and sustainable shopping at Moonstone Vintage, Sámara's charming second-hand store in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Del Mar Boutique / Art’s & Crafts Store
48.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Del Mar Boutique, Sámara's enchanting gift shop filled with Costa Rican artistry.
Mabuhay Shop CR
52.1 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Mabuhay Shop CR, where authentic Costa Rican souvenirs meet local craftsmanship in Puntarenas.
La Boutique
52.2 km
Explore unique local fashion at La Boutique in Puntarenas, Costa Rica's charming clothing store offering vibrant styles and cultural souvenirs.
MegaSúper Puntarenas
52.2 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at MegaSúper Puntarenas, your go-to supermarket for all things Costa Rican.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar La Conga
28.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and tropical flavors at Bar La Conga, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Henrys Bar
32.2 km
Discover Henry's Bar in Porvenir, a vibrant oasis in Guanacaste, where refreshing drinks and local culture meet stunning coastal views.
Bar y Restaurante El Manantial
41.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Guanacaste at Bar y Restaurante El Manantial, a charming grill in the heart of Nicoya Peninsula.
Bar El Sayol
44.3 km
Discover Bar El Sayol: your go-to bar in Nicoya for tropical cocktails and live music, where the essence of Costa Rican nightlife comes alive.
Microbar Samara
48.5 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Microbar Samara, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste Province, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable moments.
Heritage Bar in Mercadito Samara
48.7 km
Experience the best of tropical relaxation at Heritage Bar in Samara. Enjoy refreshing cocktails, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere in paradise.
Bar Vista Verde
50.7 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Bar Vista Verde in Sámara with stunning sunsets, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
La Uva
50.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of La Uva, a local bar in Puntarenas serving exquisite drinks and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Bar Deportivo Piratas
50.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puntarenas at Bar Deportivo Piratas, where local culture and delicious drinks come together.
Cocteles To go
50.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Cocteles To Go, a premier cocktail bar with stunning beach views and a delightful atmosphere.
Tiki Gastro Pub
50.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Tiki Gastro Pub, a unique restaurant in Puntarenas offering a delightful fusion of local and international cuisine.
Islita Drinks La Playa
51.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite cocktails at Islita Drinks La Playa, a tropical oasis in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
AREA 51LOUNGE
51.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puntarenas at AREA 51LOUNGE, where delicious cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
Zona Frozen
51.4 km
Discover the lively Zona Frozen bar in Puntarenas, Costa Rica - a perfect blend of local drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences.
Buho' Bar
51.4 km
Discover the lively vibe of Buho' Bar in Puntarenas, where refreshing drinks and vibrant nightlife await every traveler.
