Where to Stay in Santa Teresa: 10 Hotels That Capture Costa Rica’s Magic
Santa Teresa stole my heart the first time I visited and it’s become a tradition ever since.
My husband and I travel to Costa Rica every year, and it’s actually where he proposed right on the beach at sunset.
Over the years, I’ve stayed in just about every corner of Santa Teresa, from jungle villas to beachfront luxury resorts.
While it’s no longer the “hidden gem” it once was, Santa Teresa still has that wild, barefoot magic that makes you slow down, unplug, and fall in love with life all over again.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to stay in Santa Teresa, here’s a quick look at some of the best hotels you’ll find in this surfer-meets-luxury paradise:
🏝 Quick List of the Best Hotels in Santa Teresa
- Casa Chameleon at Mal País – Adults-only luxury with private plunge pools, sweeping ocean views, and complete seclusion.
- Hotel Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience – Modern beachfront luxury that blends Costa Rican culture with barefoot sophistication.
- Florblanca Resort – Romantic and iconic — it’s where I got engaged! Open-air villas and sunset views define barefoot luxury.
- LALOON Luxury Suites – Stylish hillside suites with private pools and panoramic Pacific views made for slow mornings.
- Blooma Boutique Hotel – Chic and intimate boutique stay with a peaceful pool, bright rooms, and genuine local warmth.
- AKWA Resorts – Sleek, modern villas surrounded by jungle greenery, each with a private pool and minimalist design.
- Selva Resort (Selva Boutique Luxury Villas) – Jungle-luxury hideaway with open-concept villas and outdoor showers that blend seamlessly with nature.
- Otro Lado Lodge & Restaurant – Italian-owned boutique lodge with cozy villas, tropical gardens, and homemade pasta nights.
- Horizon Ocean View Hotel & Yoga Center – Tranquil yoga retreat perched above town with ocean views and daily classes.
- ARȷAU Santa Teresa (Adults Only) – Intimate, design-forward boutique hotel offering privacy, calm, and understated elegance.
From private jungle villas to oceanfront bungalows, Santa Teresa offers a mix of barefoot luxury and tropical simplicity that keeps travelers like me coming back again and again.
Whether you’re surfing at Playa Hermosa, chasing sunsets in Mal País, or treating yourself to spa mornings and seafood dinners, these hotels will make your stay unforgettable.
Keep reading for personal reviews, insider tips, and what makes each hotel worth the splurge (or save).
The links in this post may be affiliate links. That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission. It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.
My Handpicked Stays & Essentials
We visit Costa Rica every year—and Santa Teresa always calls us back. Here are my go-to picks to make your trip easy, beautiful, and memorable.
Favorite Hotel: Florblanca
Romantic, barefoot-luxury vibes—this is where we got engaged at sunset. Still a timeless pick.
Book FlorblancaATV Adventure (Only in Costa Rica)
Kick up some dust and reach hidden beaches and viewpoints. Such a fun way to explore.
Book the ATV TourRental Car (Best for Flexibility)
Driving the Nicoya is part of the adventure—stop for beaches, bakeries, and sunsets.
Compare Rental CarsTravel Insurance (We Always Buy It)
Peace of mind for flights, bags, and the “what ifs.” Worth it every single trip.
Get CoveredGetting to Santa Teresa – What You Need to Know
Santa Teresa isn’t the easiest place to get to, but that’s part of its charm. The journey is worth it once you set foot on those pristine beaches.
Here’s how to get there from San José (SJO), the main international airport:
Fly & Drive (Fastest & Easiest) – Take a 30-minute domestic flight from San José (SJO) to Tambor Airport (TMU) with Sansa Airlines or Green Airways.
From Tambor, you’ll need a private transfer or rental car to drive 45 minutes to Santa Teresa.
Drive & Ferry (Scenic & Flexible) – Rent a car or hire a private driver to drive 1.5 hours from San José to Puntarenas, where you’ll take the 1-hour ferry to Paquera.
Once you arrive, it’s another 1.5-2 hour drive to Santa Teresa.
Shuttle & Ferry (Hassle-Free Option) – Book a shared or private shuttle service that includes ferry tickets and door-to-door transport.
I suggest companies like Viator that will take care of everything, making the journey take about 5-6 hours in total.
If you want to arrive refreshed and ready to explore, I highly recommend flying to Tambor and taking a private transfer it’s the fastest, smoothest way to get to Santa Teresa.
Where to Stay in Santa Teresa – The Best Hotels for Every Traveler
Now that you know how to get there, let’s talk about where to stay.
Whether you want beachfront luxury, a wellness retreat, or a boutique jungle escape, I’ve rounded up the best hotels in Santa Teresa to make your trip unforgettable.
Keep reading to find the perfect spot for your Costa Rica getaway!

Ready to book your Transportation from San Jose to Santa Teresa?
🗓️ Ready to Make It Happen?
The clock is ticking, and your Santa Teresa escape is calling. Secure your ride now and start the countdown to ocean breezes, golden sunsets, and that first cocktail by the beach.
Book Your TransportationBest Luxury Hotels in Santa Teresa
- Casa Chameleon,
- Nantipa,
- Florblanca
- LALOON Luxury Suites
- Blooma Boutique Hotel
1. Casa Chameleon Hotel
One of the top boutique hotels in Santa Teresa is the Casa Chameleon Hotel. This adults-only retreat offers stunning ocean views and private infinity pools in each of its villas, ensuring complete privacy and relaxation.
Tucked away on the sun-kissed shores of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica, Casa Chameleon Hotel is a haven of luxury, seclusion, and unparalleled beauty.
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering Pacific Ocean, this boutique hotel offers a unique escape that harmonizes with nature and indulges the senses.
From the moment you arrive at Casa Chameleon, you’ll be captivated by the sense of seclusion that embraces you.
This intimate oasis features private villas that blend seamlessly into the lush landscape, each designed to offer panoramic views of the ocean and Costa Rica’s mesmerizing sunsets.
With your own plunge pool, outdoor shower, and luxurious amenities, your villa becomes a personal sanctuary where relaxation and rejuvenation are paramount.
Casa Chameleon (Mal País / Santa Teresa area)
- Email: info@casachameleonhotels.com
- Address: From Mary’s Restaurant, 800 meters east, road to Cabuya, Mal País, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
- Phone: U.S./Canada toll-free 1-860-333-6199

2. Nantipa Hotel
Nestled along the pristine shores of Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, the Nantipa Hotel beckons travelers to embrace the tranquil beauty and natural wonders of this tropical haven.
With its harmonious blend of luxurious accommodations, stunning surroundings, and commitment to sustainability, Nantipa Hotel stands as a testament to the art of relaxation and rejuvenation.
From the moment you step foot into Nantipa Hotel, you’ll be greeted by an atmosphere of understated elegance.
The hotel’s design seamlessly integrates with its coastal surroundings, offering guests a range of thoughtfully curated accommodations.
Whether you opt for a cozy bungalow, a spacious suite, or a private villa, each space is meticulously designed to provide comfort, style, and the perfect balance between indoor and outdoor living.
Nantipa Hotel in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, invites you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a world of coastal tranquility and luxurious comfort.
From the gentle sway of hammocks by the sea to the thrill of riding the waves, every moment at Nantipa Hotel is an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures.
It’s a place where nature’s beauty meets refined elegance, where sustainability and luxury coexist harmoniously, and where your journey to rejuvenation and connection begins.
Hotel Nantipa (Santa Teresa, Costa Rica)
- Email: reservations@nantipa.com
- Address: Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica (approx. “2 km North of El Cruce, Santa Teresa”)
- Phone(s):
• Reservations: +506 2221-1204
• Hotel / local: +506 2101-0222
• Toll-free (U.S.): +1-855-626-8472

3. Florblanca Resort
Florblanca will forever be our place. My husband and I started coming here before Santa Teresa was the “it” destination when the roads were bumpy, the Wi-Fi barely worked, and the idea of luxury here meant a hammock, a surfboard, and a view.
It’s where he proposed at sunset, barefoot on the beach, and even after all these years (and countless return trips), it still feels like home.
The villas at Florblanca are pure tropical romance, with open-air living rooms that spill into the jungle, outdoor bathrooms where you can shower under the stars, and bedrooms enclosed just enough to keep the mosquitoes at bay.
The kitchen and lounge area are completely open, which makes you feel one with nature… and also means you’ll have a few curious visitors.
Here’s a pro tip learned the hard (and expensive) way: lock the fridge. The howler monkeys are bold, and apparently, they love chips and Imperial beer as much as I do.
Let’s just say I once had to pay a hefty fee for what turned into a very fancy monkey happy hour.
Even with all that, Florblanca remains the definition of barefoot luxury, refined but relaxed, indulgent but grounded.
Whether you’re doing morning yoga to the sound of waves, soaking in the jungle views from your hammock, or ordering cocktails by the infinity pool, it’s the kind of place that slows you down in the best way possible.
- Address: 4 km North from Playa Carmen Cross Road, Cobano, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
- Phone: +506 2640-0232
- Email: info@florblanca.com

4. LALOON Luxury Suites – Adults Only
Located in Santa Teresa Beach, within 1.3 km of Santa Teresa Beach and 1.6 km of Carmen Beach, LALOON Luxury Suites – Adults Only provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi as well as free private parking for guests who drive.
LALOON Luxury Suites stands as a testament to indulgence, elegance, and a harmonious connection with nature.
Offering a blend of refined luxury and unspoiled landscapes, LALOON Luxury Suites invites you to embark on a journey of relaxation, rejuvenation, and unparalleled opulence.
From the moment you step foot into LALOON Luxury Suites, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance.
The suites are meticulously designed to exude sophistication while embracing the rustic charm of Santa Teresa’s landscapes.
Each suite is a private oasis, complete with stunning ocean views, plush furnishings, and contemporary amenities that cater to your every comfort.
Whether you’re lounging on your private terrace or enjoying a soak in your personal infinity pool, LALOON offers an exclusive haven that caters to your desires.
- Address: Calle Buenos Aires 60111, Provincia de Puntarenas, Santa Teresa, CR
- Phone: +506 8386-4568
- Email: info@lalooncr.com

5. Blooma Boutique Hotel
Blooma Boutique Hotel is an intimate hideaway nestled right in the heart of Santa Teresa, offering just 13 stylish rooms (plus a private penthouse) where elegance meets relaxed boho charm.
Each suite is thoughtfully designed with natural light, locally sourced amenities, and views of either the lush forest or the shimmering pool.
Their on-site restaurant dazzles with fresh, sustainable flavors, and the outdoor pool is the perfect spot to unwind between surfing sessions or jungle walks.
What I love most is how Blooma combines luxe touches with a warm, personal vibe—you feel pampered, but still rooted in place.
- Address: Playa Carmen, Puntarenas Province, Santa Teresa, 60111, Costa Rica
- Phone / WhatsApp: +506 8729 5252
- Email: frontdesk@bloomahotel.com
🏝 Ready for Florblanca?
Our forever favorite in Santa Teresa—open-air living, outdoor baths, and sunsets you’ll never forget.
Book FlorblancaBest Boutique & Mid-Range Hotels
- AKWA Resorts
- Selva Resort
- Otro Lado Lodge
- Horizon Ocean View
- ARȷAU Santa Teresa
6. AKWA Resorts Ocean View
Located just 300 meters from the beach in Santa Teresa, Akwa Resorts Ocean View offers villas, bungalows, and rooms. each comes with an outdoor pool and views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and on-site parking.
The villas are equipped with a living room, an equipped kitchen, two bedrooms, showers, and air conditioning. The living room can be converted into a third bedroom with an ensuite shower.
The bungalow has one bedroom, a wardrobe, a shower room, a kitchenette, a private pool, and a terrace. While the separate bedrooms are equipped with a shower room and a separate toilet.
They have free access to the pool and the terrace of the master lodge.
Activities in the surrounding area include surfing, practicing yoga, paddle boarding, golfing, horse riding, and fishing. Guests can also ask for information about activities in Santa Teresa.
Cabo Natural Reserve is 45 minutes from the property, while Tambor Airport is 60 km away.
- Address: Playa Santa Teresa, Cobano, Puntarenas, 60111, Costa Rica
- Phone: +506 8396 0465

07. Selva Resort
Selva Resort feels like that sweet spot between luxury and wild freedom — the kind of place that makes you forget what day it is.
My husband and I stayed here on one of our more recent trips to Santa Teresa, and it instantly reminded me why I keep falling in love with this area over and over again.
The villas are pure design goals: airy, open-concept spaces where the living room, kitchen, and dining areas spill right into the jungle.
The bedrooms are enclosed for privacy (and for keeping out the curious geckos), but the rest of the space invites nature in you can literally hear the howler monkeys in the distance while you sip coffee or pour a glass of wine.
The bathrooms are semi-outdoor, surrounded by tropical greenery and open sky which is all romantic and peaceful until a curious monkey decides to watch you shower.
The kitchen comes fully stocked, and the staff makes sure every detail feels effortless from booking ATVs to arranging in-villa massages.
Selva is modern, stylish, and a little wild just how I like Santa Teresa.
It’s for travelers who want privacy and comfort but still want to wake up to birds, ocean breezes, and that unmistakable feeling of being far, far away from ordinary life.
- Address: Fuego Lodge Road, near Super Ronny 2, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
- Phone / WhatsApp: +506 8935 9597
- Email: contact@selvaresort.com

8. Otro Lado Lodge and Restaurant
From the moment you wander past the tropical gardens and step into Otro Lado, you feel like you’ve stumbled into someone’s beautifully tended secret.
When my husband and I stayed here, it struck me as the perfect balance between relaxed charm and thoughtful design.
The owners, an Italian couple, greet you by name and treat you like a returning friend — not a guest.
The property has a warm, Zen-meets-Mediterranean vibe: lush foliage, hammocks between coconut palms, and a quiet serenity just steps away from all the energy of Santa Teresa.
The accommodations range from cozy rooms to two-level lodges and a full house setup for families or groups. (The larger lodges feel like little private jungle homes.)
The bedrooms are snug and secure, but the real magic is in the living areas kitchens and lounges that open to garden views, letting the breeze flow.
Some bathrooms lean into the outdoors, with open-air showers wrapped by greenery.
One of my favorite memories there was sitting in the open restaurant at dusk, eating fresh pasta, sipping wine, and listening to the evening birds chirp as the last light slipped away.
Breakfasts are homemade and generous from fresh fruit, pancakes, espresso, or Italian treats depending on your mood.
- Address: 300 m north from the soccer field, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
- Phone: +506 2640 1941
- Email: info@otroladolodge.com
9. Horizon Ocean View
Horizon Hotel & Yoga Center is one of those places that reminds me why I keep coming back to Santa Teresa year after year.
It’s calm, soulful, and tucked just high enough on the hill to catch the ocean breeze and those perfect pink sunsets.
My husband and I first found Horizon when we were craving a quieter stay — something that felt more like a retreat than a resort and it’s been a favorite ever since.
The rooms here are simple in the best way: bright, airy spaces with polished wood details, oversized windows, and open terraces that look out over the treetops or the Pacific below.
It’s the kind of setting that makes you breathe a little deeper.
The bathrooms are sleek and modern, but still blend with the natural surroundings think rainfall showers, stone basins, and sunlight streaming through the trees.
Each morning starts with yoga overlooking the jungle, followed by a fresh, healthy breakfast at the on-site café (their smoothies are a must).
By afternoon, you’ll find guests lounging by the pool with books, or napping in hammocks before heading down to the beach for sunset.
Horizon has this way of slowing time you start to forget what day it is, and honestly, that’s part of the magic.
- Address: Santa Teresa, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
- Phone: +506 2640-9133
- Email: info@horizon-yogahotel.com

10. Arjau Luxury Suites – Adults Only
ARȷAU Boutique Hotel is one of those places that instantly makes you exhale.
My husband and I stayed here on one of our last trips to Santa Teresa, when we wanted something a little more modern and private, and it turned out to be exactly what we needed.
The hotel sits just off the main road, close enough to walk to restaurants and the beach but far enough to feel tucked away from the noise.
The design is sleek and minimalist, all clean lines and soft earth tones, with just eight suites that feel like your own private sanctuary.
Each room has a spacious layout, an open terrace or balcony, and a modern bathroom with walk-in rainfall showers that somehow make you linger a little longer.
But what really stood out to me was the stillness. In the mornings, I’d open the curtains and hear only birds and the faint sound of waves in the distance.
By night, the pool area glowed softly under string lights it felt like being in our own private villa.
One evening, the owners prepared dinner for a few of the guests: paella, a bottle of wine, and quiet conversation that stretched late into the night.
It was the kind of experience that reminded me why I fell in love with travel in the first place: connection, calm, and a little bit of indulgence.
ARȷAU is ideal for couples who want the comfort of luxury without the formality of a resort intimate, design-forward, and made for slowing down.
- Address: Calle Principal, 100 m oeste del Súper Costa Market, Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
- Phone / WhatsApp: +506 8708-9323
- Email: info@arjausantateresa.com

Packing List For Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
These warm weather destinations are renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm Mediterranean climate, making them an ideal destination for black women and families seeking a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
As you plan your trip to experience these hot destinations, I’ve prepared the ultimate packing list to ensure you have a memorable time at the beach.
From essentials to sun protection and beachwear, this guide will cover everything you need to make the most of your beach vacation.
- Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Wide-brimmed sun hat: Shield your face, neck, and shoulders from direct sunlight with a stylish wide-brimmed hat.
- UV-protective sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and UV rays with a pair of quality sunglasses.
- Beachwear:
- Swimsuits: Pack a variety of swimsuits that make you feel comfortable and confident, including one-pieces, bikinis, tankinis, or caftans.
- Cover-ups: Lightweight and breathable cover-ups like maxi dresses, sarongs, or kaftans provide extra protection from the sun and are perfect for walking to and from the beach.
- Rashguard: Ideal for water activities, a rashguard offers sun protection and minimizes skin irritation.
- Towels and Beach Accessories:
- Beach towels: Pack a few large, quick-drying beach towels for lounging and sunbathing.
- Beach bag: Choose a spacious beach bag to carry all your essentials, including sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and beach toys for the kids.
- Waterproof phone pouch: Keep your phone protected from sand and water with a waterproof pouch.
- Water and Snacks:
- Reusable water bottles: Stay hydrated throughout the day by carrying reusable water bottles to the beach.
- Healthy snacks: Pack some nutritious snacks like fruits, granola bars, and nuts to keep you energized.
- Comfort and Entertainment:
- Beach chairs or beach blankets: For added comfort, bring collapsible beach chairs or large beach blankets to relax on.
- Umbrella or beach tent: Create your shade on the beach to escape the midday sun.
- Entertainment: Don’t forget books, magazines, or beach games to keep everyone entertained.
- Toiletries:
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
- Moisturizer and after-sun lotion: Keep your skin hydrated and soothed after a day in the sun.
- Haircare essentials: Hair ties, hairbrush, and any hair care products you may need.
- Clothing:
- Lightweight clothing: Pack comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, like sundresses, shorts, and t-shirts.
- Evening wear: If you plan to explore the local nightlife, include a few outfits suitable for dining and entertainment.
- Other Essentials:
- Travel documents: Don’t forget your passports, IDs, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.
- Medications: Bring any prescription medications, along with a small first aid kit for minor cuts and bruises.
- Power adapter and chargers: Ensure you can charge your electronic devices throughout your trip.
With this comprehensive packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic beach vacation.
Remember to embrace the beautiful sights, sounds, and experiences these destinations have to offer, and most importantly, have a relaxing and enjoyable time with your family.
How To Stay Safe While Traveling to Santa Teresa
There have been incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning at resorts, which have left some potential visitors with questions about safety in Costa Rica.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly when inhaled in high concentrations.
Common sources of carbon monoxide include faulty fuel-burning appliances, such as gas heaters, furnaces, and water heaters. In recent resort incidents, carbon monoxide poisoning deaths have been linked to faulty ventilation systems or poorly maintained equipment.
Staying Safe at Resorts:
- Research and Choose Reputable Resorts: Before booking your stay, research the resort’s safety record, reviews, and certifications. Look for resorts prioritizing guest safety, regularly inspecting their facilities, and maintaining proper ventilation systems.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Pack a portable carbon monoxide detector or inquire whether the resort provides them in guest rooms. These devices will alert you to the presence of high levels of carbon monoxide and provide an early warning in case of a leak.
- Familiarize Yourself with Resort Safety Measures: Upon arrival, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the resort’s emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, fire exits, and safety guidelines. Ensure you know how to report any concerns about gas appliances or ventilation to the appropriate resort staff.
- Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: While in your room, be cautious of any signs of potential carbon monoxide leaks. If you experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or confusion, it could be an indication of carbon monoxide poisoning. Immediately exit the room, alert the resort staff, and seek medical attention.
- Seek Professional Inspections: For added peace of mind, consider hiring a qualified inspector to assess the ventilation and gas-burning appliances in your resort room before your stay. This step can help identify any potential risks and ensure the room is safe for occupancy.
🧳 Stay Safe Wherever You Go
Protect yourself before you travel. Grab my Travel Safety Guide and shop my curated list of safety essentials I never leave home without.
Get the Safety Guide – $19.99 Shop My Amazon Safety PicksBest Things to Do in Santa Teresa
There is so much to do while staying in Santa Teresa; it’s a great destination for those who are seeking action-packed adventure days, as well as for those who are seeking a more zen-like escape complete with yoga, massages, and long sunset walks.
Maybe the perfect Santa Teresa day is complete with action and relaxation. Whatever you are seeking on your Costa Rica trip, it is likely that you will be able to achieve it in Santa Teresa.
Go surfing in Santa Teresa.
There are three main surf breaks in Santa Teresa and several more just south in Mal Pais. Playa Santa Teresa has a variety of beach breaks and point breaks.
The waves here tend to be faster, hollower, and more powerful. Playa Santa Teresa is great for experienced surfers, especially when there is a good swell.
Just north of Playa Santa Teresa is Playa Hermosa, which is a gentler wave and perfect for beginners, especially when the waves are on the smaller side.
Do yoga in Santa Teresa
There is no shortage of yoga available in Santa Teresa and the setting couldn’t be any more ideal. While there are several different options, one of the best is yoga at Florblanca Resort.
The yoga shala is a beautiful open-air space where the ocean is just steps away. There are daily classes offered here by a variety of teachers.
A real treat, though, is signing up for a yoga and spa retreat at Florblanca along with a few excursions which include horseback riding, ziplining, ATV, and a Montezuma waterfall excursion.
Not only is Florblanca an incredible place to stay, but a week of yoga, surfing, delicious food, and new friends will have you returning to Florblanca year after year.
Hike to the waterfall in Santa Teresa.
Just a short ATV or car ride away is the entrance to the Montezuma Waterfalls. This is a great day activity for those looking to hike to and swim beneath a giant cascade.
The hike can be a bit hot, so make sure to bring water and wear sunscreen, but the cool pool at the end is a wonderful and refreshing reward.
For the daredevils out there, you can actually climb up the waterfall and jump off of it. Be careful of the rocks below though.
Explore a nature reserve in Santa Teresa
Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is one of the oldest nature reserves in Costa Rica and is a spectacular place to visit.
Cabo Blanco is home to a large variety of birds, mammals, and other animals, among which are anteaters, white-tailed deer, capuchin monkeys, coyotes, and elusive wildcats.
There are also over 150 different types of trees that have been identified here. Don’t miss this beautiful reserve when planning your vacation to Santa Teresa.
🧭 FAQ: Visiting Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
If it’s your first visit, stay near Playa Carmen or Playa Santa Teresa — both are close to restaurants, beach bars, and surf schools. For quieter vibes, Playa Hermosa or Mal País offer a slower, more romantic pace surrounded by jungle and ocean views.
Yes — Santa Teresa is generally very safe, especially compared to larger cities. I’ve visited for years without issues, but like anywhere, use common sense. Don’t leave valuables unattended, lock your villa, and always trust your gut. You can also check out my full Costa Rica Safety Guide for detailed tips on solo and couple travel.
You’ll definitely want wheels. The roads are bumpy, dusty, and spread out — but that’s part of the charm. Renting a 4×4 is the easiest way to explore beaches, cafés, and neighboring towns at your own pace. I always rent through Discover Cars for the best local options.
The dry season (December–April) is ideal for beach days, sunsets, and surf. The green season (May–August) brings lush scenery, fewer crowds, and great hotel deals. I’ve visited both — the vibe is magical year-round, just pack accordingly.
You can fly into Tambor Airport (about 25 minutes away) or drive/ferry from San José. It’s a bit of a journey, but worth every minute. For convenience, I always book transportation through this local transfer service.
Lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, and something for cool evenings. Don’t forget bug spray, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof bag. I created a full Costa Rica Packing List to help you plan exactly what to bring.
A little of both! You’ll find five-star resorts like Nantipa and Florblanca alongside cozy boutique hotels like Otro Lado and Blooma. Santa Teresa has mastered “barefoot luxury” — where you can sip a craft cocktail in your swimsuit and nobody blinks.
Final Thoughts on Santa Teresa
Every time I return to Santa Teresa, I’m reminded that it’s not just another beach town but a feeling.
The kind that sneaks up on you when you’re sipping coffee barefoot at sunrise or watching surfers chase waves until the sky turns pink.
Even though Santa Teresa isn’t the “hidden gem” it once was, it still holds onto its magic, that mix of rugged roads, jungle energy, and barefoot luxury that makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper.
It’s the perfect escape for anyone who wants equal parts adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re here for yoga, surf, romance, or just to do absolutely nothing at all, Santa Teresa rewards you for showing up dusty, sun-kissed, and fully present.
If you’re planning your trip, here are a few guides to help you make it unforgettable:
More Costa Rica Travel Resources
- 🇨🇷 Is Costa Rica Safe for Travelers? – Real talk about what to know before you go, plus my personal safety tips.
- 🧳 Costa Rica Packing List – Everything I packed (and wish I hadn’t forgotten).
- 🏝 Best Luxury Resorts in Costa Rica – Where to stay if you want that five-star jungle-meets-beach experience.
- 🐒 Best Luxury Resort in Santa Teresa– From volcano hikes to beach-hopping itineraries.
- 🚗 Costa Rica Safety Guide – My go-to safety advice for solo travelers and couples alike.
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Wow I love all this information so much. I own a boutique travel agency and I always try to find the most on unique and boutique hotel accommodations for my clients. Your post was very helpful for me to plan my client’s one-of-a-kind escape to Costa Rica.
I was curious what the name if of the waterfall is?
Thank you so much,
Kim
It is Montezuma Waterfall and below is a link to the fall. It is stunning and there are some great luxury hotels in Santa Teresa, It is really undeveloped so guests shouldn’t expect to see a starbucks.
https://goo.gl/maps/SEVgUCEydruabyH98
Wow I love all this information so much. I own a boutique travel agency and I always try to find the most on unique and boutique hotel accommodations for my clients. Your post was very helpful for me to plan my client’s one-of-a-kind escape to Costa Rica.
I was curious what the name if of the waterfall is?
Thank you so much,
Kim
It is Montezuma Waterfall and below is a link to the fall. It is stunning and there are some great luxury hotels in Santa Teresa, It is really undeveloped so guests shouldn’t expect to see a starbucks.
https://goo.gl/maps/SEVgUCEydruabyH98