Puntarenas·Costa Rica
VisitSanta Teresa
Nicoya surf and yoga — dusty roads, Pacific sunsets, and a bohemian beach strip.
About Santa Teresa
Why travelers choose Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa Costa Rica draws surfers and slow travelers to the Nicoya Peninsula — long beach days, yoga, and a laid-back strip of cafés and boutique stays.
Browse things to do in Santa Teresa: surf lessons, ATV rentals, snorkeling day trips, and sunset sessions, then book tours and transfers.
Plan ahead
Know before you go
Best time to visit Santa Teresa
Dry season (December–April) is sunniest on much of the Pacific. Green season can mean afternoon showers, greener landscapes, and better value.
How many nights
Three to four nights fits the slower pace and transfer effort.
Cash & cards
USD and cards are widely accepted in tourist areas of Santa Teresa. Keep some colones for small sodas, tips, and taxis.
Sun & water safety
Use reef-safe sunscreen in Santa Teresa, respect rip currents, and book lessons if you are new to the Pacific.
Things to do
Things to do in Santa Teresa
Browse Santa Teresa activities by category — each links to live tours you can book or save to your trip.
Day Trips
Full-day excursions and multi-stop day tours from town
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Kayaking
Ocean and mangrove kayak tours
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Surf Lessons
Surf classes and beach days for beginners and intermediates
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Fishing Charters
Sport fishing and charters along the Pacific coast
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Snorkeling
Snorkel trips to reefs, islands, and wildlife reserves
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ATV Tours
Off-road ATV and quad adventures through rainforest and beaches
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Horseback Riding
Horseback rides through countryside, beach, and jungle
Explore→Sunset Cruises
Evening sailings and sunset boat experiences
Explore→Swipe to browse
Traveler favorites
Popular tours from Santa Teresa
Top-reviewed experiences near Santa Teresa — check live availability and add favorites to your trip.
Santa Teresa·1.5 hrs
Surf Lessons, Santa Teresa North, Costa Rica
From$70
View tour
Santa Teresa·1.5 hrs
Specialized Group Surf Lesson in Playa Hermosa
From$100
View tour
Santa Teresa·10 hrs
Super Combo: 7 activities in 1 day + Natural hot springs.
From$210
View tour
Santa Teresa·1.5 hrs
1 1/2 hours Tour Horseback Riding and Visiting the Beach
From$68
View tour
Santa Teresa·4 hrs
Inshore Fishing trip 4 hours
From$450
View tour
Santa Teresa·2 hrs
Intermediate surf lesson for two participants
From$190
View tourSwipe to explore
See all Santa Teresa tours →Santa Teresa usually involves a flight to Tambor or a longer transfer via ferry/road from the mainland. Private transfers simplify luggage and timing.
ATVs and 4x4s are common for moving along the dusty coastal road.
Beach strip
Where to eat in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa mixes smoothie bowls, wood-fired pizza, sushi, and beachfront seafood — a bohemian menu with Pacific sunsets.
Evenings stay social but rarely rowdy.
Sunset tables
Book beachfront spots on clear evenings.
Café culture
Brunch and coffee spots fuel late surf mornings.
Dietary friendly
Many kitchens handle vegetarian and gluten-free requests.
Why Santa Teresa
Highlights for your Santa Teresa trip
- 01
Surf coastline
Multiple peaks suit different levels along the strip.
- 02
Yoga & wellness
Studios and retreats are part of the town identity.
- 03
Sunset ritual
Evenings revolve around the Pacific light.
Whether Santa Teresa is a quick stop or the heart of your Costa Rica itinerary, start with things to do in Santa Teresa above and save favorites to your trip plan. Prices on product pages are estimates until you confirm dates and party size on Viator.
Good to know
FAQs about visiting Santa Teresa
Is Santa Teresa Costa Rica worth visiting?
Yes — Santa Teresa is a strong fit if you want nicoya surf and yoga. Use this hub to plan things to do in Santa Teresa, then book tours and transfers when ready.
What are the best things to do in Santa Teresa?
Top Santa Teresa experiences include surf lessons, yoga, ATV rides, and Pacific beach days. Browse live categories on this page for current availability and reviews.
How many days should I spend in Santa Teresa?
Three to four nights fits the slower pace and transfer effort.
Do I need a rental car in Santa Teresa Costa Rica?
Often not required for a short Santa Teresa stay — transfers and tour pickups cover most logistics. A car helps if you want independent beach or viewpoint hopping.
Do I need an ATV in Santa Teresa?
Helpful for beach hopping and dusty roads, but not mandatory if your hotel and surf spots sit close together.
Next step
Ready to visit Santa Teresa?
Build your day-by-day plan, or book tours and transfers when you are ready.