Costa Rica’s tropical paradise gives a large range of options to enjoy and get immersed in an unforgettable experience, staying out of the typical tourist traps. Trying to find off the beaten track beach destinations, Santa Teresa beach came to my mind.
Unlike most other beach towns in the country, this town has the charm and unique characteristics to make it a very special place: the jungle beauty, beautiful uncrowded beaches, stunning sunsets, secret waterfalls, warm water and excellent surf spots.
This area has been increasing its popularity during the past years, started as a remote fishing village, with some cattle ranching and logging, and it wasn´t until the 90´s that was discovered as a touristic place, and started growing from there. It is located 150 kilometers west of San Jose, and the easiest way to get there is heading Puntarenas, taking the ferry to Paquera and then drive to Mal País.
Santa Teresa is a bio diverse beach, the area is surrounded by many species of flora and fauna, lots of birds and monkeys can be seem around along with a large number of flowers and trees.
Many of the surfers and tourists that once came to visit fall in love with the town and settled down here. That is why the cultural mix is wide; in the area you can find Europeans, Americans, Canadians and South Americans, along with the ¨ticos¨, giving a nice vibe and adding its flair to the town.
This settlement has increase the opening of a variety of hotels and restaurants. Good restaurants offering incredible fusion cuisine prepared by quality chefs coming from different countries. In terms of lodging, the beachfront hotels are the most popular, for example Tropico Latino, which offers bungalows along with spa services, yoga and surf classes. However, any type of accommodation with different price ranges can be found in the place.
The area also offers surf schools, Spanish schools, yoga retreats, spa services, some nightlife and different recreational activities during the weekends, for example the arts and crafts market as well as the organic market. Small shops, internet cafes and art galleries, are some of the complementary features on this town. Tour and activities near the area are very easy to find, the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, fishing tours, canopy in Montezuma or the Tortuga Island tour, to name a few examples.
Santa Teresa has become an interesting and different destination, mixing the good surfing; gold-grey beaches and relaxing atmosphere. This may be the reason why Forbes Magazine voted it as one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world, being also awarded in the list of the 2011 Tripadvisor Travellers Choice.
Lately has been positioned as honeymoon/wedding destination, gaining a good image from the potential visitors, which usually find all they want in one place, a secluded, romantic, non-crowded, amazing beach place to enjoy during their trip. The unique sunsets and warm weather of this town are waiting for its guests… Check out the map, so you don´t get lost!!
