The Perfect Luxury Costa Rica Itinerary for 10 Days in Santa Teresa

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When people think of luxury travel in Costa Rica, the usual suspects are the Four Seasons in Papagayo, private villas in Manuel Antonio, or a lavish retreat in Arenal.

But if you’re looking for a high-end experience in a laid-back, beachy paradise, Santa Teresa is where you want to be.

I know because my husband and I travel to Costa Rica every year, and we even got engaged at the Florblanca Hotel.

When I was planning my trip, I wanted the best of both worlds—luxury without feeling stuffy, relaxation without boredom, and adventure without roughing it.

Santa Teresa delivered on all fronts. Gorgeous beachfront resorts, high-end dining, private surf lessons, yoga with ocean views, and endless sunset cocktails? Yes, please.

So if you’re wondering, “How do I plan the perfect 10-day luxury trip to Santa Teresa?” you’re in the right place. I

’ve mapped out the ultimate itinerary—complete with where to stay, what to do, and where to eat—so you can experience pure bliss without stressing over the details.

Why Santa Teresa?

Santa Teresa isn’t your typical resort-packed tourist spot. It’s a boho-chic paradise with a secluded, exclusive feel, attracting celebrities, surfers, and wellness travelers who want luxury with a side of adventure.

🚲 No crowded all-inclusives—think boutique hotels, beachfront villas, and private jungle retreats.
🍽️ Incredible food scene—from organic farm-to-table dining to upscale beachfront restaurants.
🏄‍♀️ Luxury meets adventure—private surf lessons, yacht charters, horseback riding at sunset.
🌅 The most insane sunsets you’ll ever see—every night feels like a postcard.

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This itinerary will take you through the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with just enough indulgence to make it feel like the luxury trip you deserve.

Ready? Let’s plan your dream 10-day Santa Teresa itinerary—because Costa Rica is calling, and it’s about to be unforgettable.

Can You Do Santa Teresa In 10 Days?

Let’s cut to the chase: Can you experience the Nicoya Peninsula in 10 days or less? Absolutely! While you won’t see everything, a well-planned itinerary means you can hit the highlights and soak in Santa Teresa’s rich culture, stunning beaches, and Costa Rican cuisine.

Let this be your 10 Days in Santa Teresa Guide.

To help you plan your time in Costa Rica, I have included a map and recommendations on the best time to visit Santa Teresa, how to get there, how long to stay, and where to stay.

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best Santa Teresa Boat Tour
👉This is the best Waterfall Tour 
👉 Find Luxury Hotels in Santa Teresa

How Many Days Are Needed In Costa Rica?

Exploring Costa Rica’s hidden gems can be done in as little as seven days, but ideally, I0 days will provide you enough time to explore Santa Teresa and the surrounding areas.

What Is The Best Base To Explore Costa Rica?

Choosing the right base is crucial. To avoid wasting precious time traveling, it’s best to pick only one or two bases for a 10-day or 7-day trip. My personal favorites are Santa Teresa and Guanacaste, each with its own strategic location for day trips.

Santa Teresa Or Guanacaste: Which Should You Choose?

Santa Teresa:

• Cultural Richness: The vibrant street art, colorful buildings, and lively plazas of Santa Teresa transport me to a world where art and culture intertwine with every step, making me feel alive and connected to the beating heart of this coastal gem
• Cuisine: Santa Teresa is famous for its street food and offers various Costa Rican specialties.
• Nearby Attractions: Montezuma – This bohemian beach town is just a short drive south of Santa Teresa. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and laidback vibe.

Must-See Attractions In Santa Teresa:

• Horseback Riding: 1 1/2 hours Tour Horseback Riding and Visiting the Beach
• Canyoning in the Lost Canyon: Explore the rugged landscape and forested depths of Costa Rica’s Lost Canyon
• Ziplining and Waterfall Rappelling Combo in Costa Rica: One of the largest opera houses in Europe, famous for its neoclassical architecture.
• Sunset Sailing Catamaran Tour from Tamarindo: Set sail from Tamarindo in time to catch the sunset on this afternoon sailing tour. Snack and grab a drink from the open bar while admiring views of the Guanacaste coast.
• Sloth Forest Tour, Organic Coffee and Chocolate Tour and Waterfall: Naturally Surprising!!!! the tour that combines the best of the region’s wildlife, nature and agriculture all in one tour, we have created this experience for nature and wildlife lovers combining sustainable rural and eco tourism.

Guanacaste:

• Renowned for its Stunning Beaches – Guanacaste is home to some of Costa Rica’s most pristine and picturesque beaches, including Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Tamarindo, known for their soft sand and excellent surfing conditions.
• Rich Cultural Heritage – This region has a fascinating history influenced by indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and the cattle ranching tradition, creating a unique blend of customs, architecture, and cuisine. Adventure and Eco-Tourism Hub – Guanacaste offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking through national parks, zip-lining through lush forests, horseback riding along the coastline, and exploring the region’s diverse wildlife and natural landscapes.

Must-See Attractions In Guanacaste Include:

• ATV Tour from Guanacaste: On this guided ATV tour from the Guanacaste coast, spend a day in the wilderness that makes Costa Rica famous.
• La Leona Waterfall Hike: On this affordable guided hike from Liberia, discover hidden waterfalls and jungle trails around the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.
• Surf-lessons at Playa Samara, Guanacaste.: Learn to surf at Playa Tamarindo with a family owned surf company who have a passion to help people learn to surf!

These attractions offer a blend of natural, historical, and cultural experiences, showcasing the diverse offerings of Catania and its surroundings.

10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary & Overview

The best way to experience all that Costa Rica offers is to visit multiple times because you can’t see this beautiful country in just 10 days.

Whether you relax on a beach or hike through a rainforest, your trip to Costa Rica will be unforgettable.

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose

Arriving in San José: Stay or Go?

Your Costa Rica adventure starts as soon as you land in San José (SJO), the country’s main international airport.

The big question is: should you stay the night in San José or head straight to Santa Teresa? If your flight arrives early in the day (before noon), I highly recommend skipping the capital and making your way to the beach immediately.

Santa Teresa isn’t the easiest place to get to—it requires either a domestic flight, a scenic drive, or a mix of ferry and road travel—so getting there before dark is ideal.

However, if you land late in the afternoon or evening, an overnight stay in San José is the smarter choice. Hotels like Gran Hotel Costa Rica (a Hilton Curio Collection property) or Hotel Alta Las Palomas offer a stylish and comfortable stopover before your beach escape.

How to Get to Santa Teresa from San José

There are three main ways to reach Santa Teresa from San José:

✈️ Fly & Drive: The fastest and most scenic way is a 30-minute domestic flight from SJO to Tambor Airport (TMU) via Sansa Airlines or Green Airways. From Tambor, a private transfer (about 45 minutes) or rental car will get you to Santa Teresa in style.

🚗⛴️ Drive & Ferry: If you prefer a road trip, rent a car or book a private driver. You’ll drive to Puntarenas (about 1.5 hours), take the ferry to Paquera (1 hour), and then drive another 1.5-2 hours to Santa Teresa. The Naviera Tambor Ferry is comfortable, scenic, and even has a small café onboard.

🚐 Shuttle & Ferry: For a stress-free option, book a luxury shared or private shuttle that includes the ferry crossing. Companies like Montezuma Expeditions and Tropical Tours Shuttles offer door-to-door service from SJO to Santa Teresa in about 5-6 hours total.

If you want to arrive feeling refreshed and ready to hit the beach, I recommend flying to Tambor and having a driver waiting—it’s the easiest, most comfortable option.

However you choose to travel, Santa Teresa’s laid-back and is well worth the journey! 🌿✨

Day 2: Arrive in Santa Teresa

Welcome to Costa Rica! If you arrive in Santa Teresa, you’ll be welcomed by its stunning white sand beaches and vibrant surf culture.

Spend the day exploring the area’s offerings—relax on the beach, take a surf lesson, or explore some of the local shops and restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Costa Rica offers plenty of things to do, such as zip-lining through the jungle, horseback riding on the beach, and even a turtle nesting tour.

Whether relaxing or exploring, your first day in Santa Teresa will be unforgettable.

Day 2: Relax on the Beach

Relaxing on the beach is one of the best ways to spend your second day in Costa Rica. Santa Teresa is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, and it’s the perfect place to lounge in the sunshine.

Whether you’re looking to dip in the ocean or soak up some sun, the beach here is an ideal relaxing spot. Plenty of things to do in Costa Rica involve the beach, so don’t forget to take advantage of them!

You can go snorkeling, rent a paddleboard, or even try surfing. No matter how you spend your time, a day spent relaxing on the beach will surely leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.

Day 3: Take a Surf Lesson

There’s no better way to get a taste of Costa Rica’s laid-back beach culture than by taking a surf lesson in Santa Teresa. With some of the best surfing spots in the country, this is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, plenty of qualified instructors can help you make the most of your time in the water.

Plus, the warm waters and beautiful sunsets make it an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and a towel!

Day 4: Zip Lining Through the Jungle

One of the most exhilarating Things to do in Costa Rica is ziplining through the jungle. The rainforest canopy provides a beautiful view of the treetops as you soar high above them.

Most zip-lining tours provide different platforms to get various views from different angles. You’ll also learn about the jungle and its inhabitants while you zip along.

This is a great way to experience the rainforest and get some exercise. Soar with your friends, taking in the breathtaking views of the lush jungle below.

Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty of amazing photo opportunities!

Day 5: Horseback Riding on the Beach

If you’re looking for a truly unique and beautiful way to experience Costa Rica, horseback riding along the beach is one of the best things to do.

The beaches of Santa Teresa are ideal for horseback riding due to their large stretches of soft, golden sand. It’s an incredible way to admire the area’s diverse scenery, from lush jungle foliage and towering cliffs to vibrant sunsets on the ocean.

Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, there’s a guided tour for everyone. Horseback rides can be as short as an hour or as long as a day.

Take a leisurely ride along the beach, explore the nearby forest trails, or even swim with your horse! Whichever you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. 

Don’t forget to bring a camera – there are some amazing photo opportunities on horseback! For example, you may get the chance to ride under a canopy of palms or alongside a secluded cove.

You’ll come away with some beautiful memories to last a lifetime. 

So, if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Costa Rica, horseback riding on the beach is an excellent choice. With a little planning, you can have an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!

Day 6: Hiking to a Waterfall

Head out on an exhilarating hike to a waterfall located in the nearby hills of Santa Teresa. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided tour to get the most out of your experience.

Along the way, you can learn about the flora and fauna of the region from your local guide. You’ll eventually reach a breathtaking waterfall where you can take in the beautiful scenery and even dip in the cool water.

Hiking to a waterfall is one of the most popular activities in Costa Rica and should not be missed.

Day 7: ATV Tour of the Countryside

Head out for a thrilling day of exploration on an ATV tour of the Costa Rican countryside. Things to do in Costa Rica don’t get much better than this!

You’ll be able to drive your ATV and explore hidden trails, rivers, and breathtaking views. You can even take a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear river!

With experienced guides and experienced staff, you’ll be able to navigate any obstacles easily.

Stop at some traditional rural towns to sample local delicacies and taste Costa Rican culture. After your exciting day of adventure, you’ll return to Santa Teresa feeling like a true explorer.

Day 8: Snorkeling and Swimming with Dolphins

One of the best things to do in Costa Rica is snorkeling and swimming with dolphins! On this day, you will embark on an adventure through the beautiful waters of Santa Teresa.

You can expect to see a wide variety of marine life, including manta rays, parrotfish, sea turtles, and, of course, dolphins! After a full day of exploring the underwater world, you’ll return to shore feeling refreshed and energized.

The snorkeling and swimming experience is not missed when visiting Costa Rica. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, this experience will stay with you for years to come.

So don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience and prepare for a day full of fun in the sun!

Day 9: Turtle Nesting Tour

If you’re looking for one of the most unique things to do in Costa Rica, a turtle nesting tour is it. During the nesting season, Costa Rica’s coastline has thousands of nesting female sea turtles.

A guided tour will take you to a nearby beach to observe the nesting process. You’ll also have the chance to help out with conservation efforts and learn more about this amazing species.

After your tour, you may even have the opportunity to assist a few of the baby turtles as they make their way to the ocean. Not only is it an incredible experience, but it’s also one of the best ways to get involved with local conservation efforts.

Day 10: Departure

As the 10 days of your Costa Rican adventure close, it’s time to take in one last glimpse of Santa Teresa before heading home.

If you’re looking for a few last-minute things to do in Costa Rica, why not check out some of the local markets? These are great places to pick up souvenirs for the trip back.

Once you’ve got your final mementos, it’s time to head to the airport and begin the journey home.

As you reflect on all the amazing experiences you had over the past 10 days, take solace in the knowledge that you’ll always be able to return to the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica!

Additional Things to do in Costa Rica

Explore Montezuma

If you have extra time and decide to skip one of the activities above, I suggest exploring Montezuma. 

Montezuma is located on the very southern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. This area of the country is more remote, making it a little difficult to get to, but it is, therefore, not overly crowded.

The people who make the trek are typically a mix of backpackers, young families, and couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The draw of Montezuma is its many quiet beaches, thick forest, and wildlife like monkeys, butterflies, and birds.

One of the things that makes it unique is its almost bohemian feel. Though small, Montezuma is a vibrant community made up of like-minded expats and locals.

Adding to this, Montezuma has an impressive selection of restaurants serving food from all around the world

Incredible Places to Stay Around Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

• Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience This boutique luxury hotel is known for its beachfront location, stunning tropical gardens, and private villas with plunge pools. It offers personalized service and high-end amenities.
• Milarepa – A secluded eco-luxury resort nestled in the jungle, with upscale villas, an infinity pool, yoga studio, and exceptional dining options using locally sourced ingredients.
• Tropico Latino – This award-winning hotel features stylish suites, private plunge pools, a beachfront spa, and a focus on sustainable practices. It’s considered one of the best luxury hotels in the area.
• Otro Lado Lodge & Residences– Offering luxurious private villas with ocean views, an infinity pool, and access to a secluded beach, this hotel provides a serene and exclusive experience.
• Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat- A wellness-focused luxury resort with beautiful villas, a yoga studio, an organic restaurant, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Florblanca Resort – is a luxurious and sustainable beachfront resort featuring villas with private plunge pools, an infinity pool, a spa, and a focus on farm-to-table dining using ingredients from its own organic garden.

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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES FOR EXPLORING COSTA RICA

50 Things to Do in Santa Teresa

Best Luxury & Budget-Friendly Hotels in Costa Rica

Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List

If you’re traveling to Costa Rica, I hope my 10-day Santa Teresa Costa Rica Itinerary helps you navigate the country.  

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