Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa is a destination in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Best time to visit: December to April is dry; roads are dusty. May to November is green with consistent surf.

Key facts

RegionPuntarenas, Costa Rica
Best time to visitDecember to April is dry; roads are dusty. May to November is green with consistent surf.
How to get thereTake the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera (1 hour) and drive 1.5 hours, or fly to Tambor.

Santa Teresa is a laid-back surf and yoga village on the Nicoya Peninsula, with long beaches, Montezuma waterfalls nearby and some of the best sunsets in Costa Rica.

Best time to visit

December to April is dry; roads are dusty. May to November is green with consistent surf.

How to get there

Take the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera (1 hour) and drive 1.5 hours, or fly to Tambor.

New places are on the way.

Questions travelers ask

How do I get to Santa Teresa?

Ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera, then 1.5 hours by road. Shuttles include the ferry.

Do I need a 4x4?

Recommended, especially in rainy season. Roads are partly unpaved.

Is there an ATM?

Yes, but bring some cash in case they're empty on weekends.

What's near Santa Teresa?

Montezuma waterfall, Cabo Blanco reserve and Tortuga Island boat tours.

Is it good for beginners?

Playa Carmen and Hermosa have beginner-friendly waves with local schools.

Nearby destinations