Be as adrenaline filled or as laid back as you like while visiting Santa Teresa beach community on the Costa Rican Pacific Coast. Here is our list of top ten must dos during your stay at Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat.
The area is known for its yoga retreats, and certified and experienced instructors, such as Nancy Goodfellow, one of the owners at Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat. So take in a class, you’ll find yourself coming for more when you discover the benefits of this millenary discipline.
Surf
World-class breaks and ideal conditions all year round make Santa Teresa and Mal Pais beaches heavenly spots for surfers of all experience levels. El Carmen surf spot is a good place for beginners to take lessons. Experienced surfers head out to the Punta Barrigona and Sunset Reef spots in Mal Pais, or Playa Hermosa and Manzanillo in Santa Teresa for point breaks and high swells.
The spa at Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat offer different treatments that can increase flexibility, reduce stress and improve breathing capacity. So accompany these to your visit for a well- rounded wellness experience.
There are several waterfalls in the Santa Teresa area. We love the hike up to the multi-level one up the Montezuma river where you will be rewarded by a dip in their fresh water. You can also walk down Cocolito Beach until you find El Chorro Waterfall which falls straight down to the ocean.
Visit one of the most exceptional trees in Costa Rica, a decades old Banyan Tree on the road from Montezuma to Cabuya. The beautiful root formations completing its giant trunk will help you understand why this species is called the “Tree of Life” in many cultures.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding tours can be arranged to go up the surrounding hills through open fields with ocean views, on the beach at sunset. Another viewpoint from which to experience the beauties of the area.
ATV Tour
For visitors seeking adrenaline filled experiences, book a tour where you can drive an ATV (Quad) through streams, pastures and beaches.
Zipline
Ziplining has become a popular way to enjoy tropical forests in Costa Rica. There is a zipline in the Santa Teresa area with 9 cables and 13 platforms, and includes a stop at the Montezuma waterfall. Relax your grip on that cable and look around a bit before you start putting the brakes on, and enjoy the view!
Eat
Culinary options in the Santa Teresa area have multiplied in recent years, influx of international chefs have brought their flare to the area. Sushi, burgers, vegan fare and more. Try Luc’s Seafood Grill and Chapa, where Argentinian born chef Luciano Riotti combines local fresh ingredients in an innovative way.
Shop
Street vendors in Santa Teresa and Mal Pais will offer their handmade jewelry on the town’s main roads, and quaint shops in town offer swimsuits, silkscreened t-shirts and more.
So visit Santa Teresa and Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat and create your own list, and why stop at 10! Hire a Fishing Charter, practice paddle boarding, check out nightlife and dance the night away, so much to do, so little time!
Article by Katie Widdowson
