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Santa Teresa · Nicoya PeninsulaSanta Teresa is the laid-back-luxury capital of Costa Rica's Pacific coast: world-class surf, jungle that runs to the sand, and a food scene that draws people from across the country. Here's how to make the most of it.
Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen deliver some of the most consistent surf in Costa Rica — beach breaks that suit complete beginners in the morning and reward experienced surfers as the swell builds. Quieter Playa Hermosa, just north, is a favourite for longer rides and emptier line-ups.
Sunset on this stretch of coast is something of a local institution; the whole town drifts to the sand as the sky turns.
For a place this small, Santa Teresa eats remarkably well — beachfront seafood, wood-fired pizza, acclaimed open-kitchen restaurants and fresh-pressed everything. Many of the best tables book up in high season, so our concierge is happy to reserve ahead.
Prefer to stay in? A private chef can cook for the group at the villa, often using fruit straight from the estate's own trees.
The Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve — Costa Rica's oldest — sits at the tip of the peninsula, with trails through dense forest down to a wild beach. Montezuma's waterfalls are an easy excursion, and catamaran trips to Tortuga Island make for an unforgettable group day on the water.
Fly into San José (SJO), then a short domestic hop to Tambor airstrip followed by a scenic 45-minute drive.
A drive from San José via the Puntarenas–Paquera ferry — about five hours door to door, and a beautiful one.
Tanit has its own private heliport — the fastest, most seamless arrival straight from the capital.
Our concierge arranges every transfer, whichever route you choose.
Our journal goes deeper on group travel, surf trips and the best time to visit.
