15 Best Things to Do in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Quick answer

The best things to do in Santa Teresa include surfing, sunset watching, yoga, tidal pools, waterfall day trips, hiking and wildlife spotting. Mix active mornings with slow afternoons, and check tides, weather and local conditions first.

Santa Teresa is known for surf, but the list of things to do goes much further: forest walks, waterfalls, wellness, sunsets and unhurried meals. This list mixes active adventures with slower pleasures so you can build a trip that fits your pace. Availability, schedules and conditions change, so confirm details locally before you commit, and give yourself some flexibility around weather and tides.

Beach and Ocean

1. Learn to Surf or Improve Your Technique

Surf lessons are the classic first activity. Beginners typically do best with an instructor who picks the beach and tide for the day, while experienced surfers can explore different breaks. The dry season often brings cleaner, gentler conditions for learning, and the green season can bring bigger swell. Read our Santa Teresa surfing guide for more on levels and etiquette.

2. Watch the Sunset on the Beach

Sunset is a daily event. Walk to the shoreline an hour or so before dark, find a spot on the sand or at a beachfront bar, and watch the sky change over the Pacific. Bring a light layer, because the breeze can pick up, and keep an eye on the tide.

3. Explore the Tidal Pools

At lower tides, rocky stretches reveal pools where small fish, crabs and shells are visible. Go with an eye on the tide table, wear shoes with grip, and never turn your back on the surf. Look, but do not collect or disturb marine life.

4. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

On calm mornings, paddleboarding can be a peaceful way to see the coast. Choose a guided session if you are new, since currents and swell vary. Wear a properly fitted buoyancy aid and check conditions with a local operator.

5. Take a Boat Trip or Go Fishing

Boat outings can include coastal cruising, snorkeling or sport fishing depending on the season and operator. Look for operators who prioritize safety and responsible practices, and ask about what is realistic for the conditions on your date.

Nature and Adventure

6. Visit a Waterfall Near Montezuma

A day trip across the southern tip of the peninsula leads to the Montezuma area, known for its waterfalls and natural pools. Go early to avoid the busiest hours, wear sturdy footwear, and respect any posted safety rules about jumping or swimming. See our guide to the Montezuma waterfalls day trip.

7. Hike in a Nature Reserve

The southern tip of the peninsula protects a notable stretch of coastal forest. Hiking there offers birdlife, forest scenery and, with luck, other wildlife. Check current access rules and opening days, carry water, and stay on the trails.

8. Ride an ATV Through the Countryside

ATVs are a popular way to explore back roads and viewpoints. Wear a helmet, ride within your ability, keep your speed sensible around pedestrians and dust, and read the rental terms. You can compare options on the ATV rental page.

9. Go Horseback Riding

Guided rides through the countryside or along the beach suit many levels. Choose an operator whose horses look healthy and well cared for, tell them honestly about your experience, and wear closed shoes.

10. Look for Wildlife, Respectfully

Howler monkeys, colorful birds, iguanas and other creatures are often seen around town and in the forest. Keep your distance, never feed animals, and avoid flash photography at night. A local guide can help you understand what you are seeing without disturbing anything.

Wellness and Culture

11. Join a Yoga Class

Santa Teresa has a well-established yoga scene, with open-air studios offering drop-in sessions of different styles. Check class schedules in advance, since they shift with the season, and bring a mat if you have a preferred one, although many studios supply them.

12. Book a Massage or Spa Treatment

After surf or hiking, a massage is a popular reset. Many hotels and independent therapists offer treatments, from relaxing to sports-focused. Book ahead in busy periods.

13. Take a Cooking Class or Eat Like a Local

Food can be an activity in its own right. Try a casado at a local soda, taste fresh seafood, and sample tropical fruit and Costa Rican coffee. Some operators run cooking classes that introduce local ingredients, so ask your accommodation what is currently available.

Slow Days and Day Trips

14. Take a Day Trip to Montezuma or Cabuya

A relaxed excursion to nearby villages gives you a different atmosphere, with small shops, cafés and scenery. Pair it with a waterfall hike or a beach stop. Consider hiring a driver or renting a vehicle, and look at the car rental and transfers pages to compare ways of getting around. For lesser-known stops, see our guide to hidden gems near Santa Teresa.

15. Do Nothing on Purpose

Perhaps the most underrated activity is an unscheduled afternoon: a hammock, a book, a smoothie and the sound of waves. Santa Teresa suits this beautifully. Build at least one unplanned day into your trip so that you can follow the weather and your energy.

Tips for Choosing What to Do

With so many options, it helps to plan around a few principles:

• Match activities to the season. Dry-season days are typically sunnier, while green-season afternoons may bring rain, so schedule outdoor adventures for mornings.
• Check tides and swell. Tidal pools, beach walks and swimming all depend on them.
• Balance busy and quiet days. Pair one active day with a slower one.
• Book popular items early during holidays and peak months.
• Be honest about your level when booking surf, riding or ATV activities.
• Respect the environment. Avoid littering, keep to paths and use sun protection.

You can see ideas for arranged activities on the experiences page, and if you want a day-by-day structure, our 7-day Santa Teresa itinerary shows how to combine many of these. For an overview of the area, the Santa Teresa travel guide covers essentials.

Safety Reminders

Many beaches here have strong currents and rip currents, and lifeguards cannot be assumed. If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm, do not fight it, float or swim parallel to the shore, and signal for help. Apply sunscreen often, drink water and wear insect repellent in the evening. Keep valuables out of sight, and lock vehicles. When in doubt, ask a local operator or your accommodation for current advice.

Putting It Together

A balanced trip might include one morning of surf, one day trip, a yoga session, a sunset every evening and one long, lazy lunch. You do not need to do all fifteen items; choose the few that match your interests and leave the rest for another visit. If you would like help organizing logistics, ZAYA can be a useful planning resource alongside local operators and your own judgment.

Santa Teresa rewards curiosity and patience. Go with an open schedule, an eye on conditions and a respect for the place, and you will find plenty to fill your days.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most popular thing to do in Santa Teresa?

Surfing and beach time are the most popular, followed by yoga, sunset watching and day trips to nearby waterfalls and reserves.

Is Santa Teresa good for non-surfers?

Yes. Non-surfers can enjoy yoga, hiking, tidal pools, horseback riding, wildlife spotting, dining and day trips.

Do I need a car in Santa Teresa?

Not always. You can walk, use an ATV, taxis or transfers, but a car adds flexibility for day trips. Road conditions vary by season.

What can I do on a rainy day?

Try a yoga class, spa treatment, cooking class or a long café lunch. Rain in the green season often comes in the afternoon, so mornings may stay free for outdoor plans.

Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

Take care. Many beaches have strong currents and rip currents, and lifeguards should not be assumed. Ask locals about conditions and avoid swimming alone.

Conditions, access rules and schedules in Costa Rica change. Always confirm current details locally before you go. Spotted something outdated? Tell us.