SANTA TERESA, COSTA RICA

We have been traveling to this idyllic Costa Rican surf outpost for over fifteen years and it is still one of our favorite escapes. The surf is always warm and often pumping on the pristine white beaches of Santa Teresa. There is beautiful weather and fantastic places to stay. A group of international ex-pats who have made this town their second home have brought in healthy and innovative food making this a perfect, winter family adventure.

THE LOCATION

Located in the south of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa stands as one of Costa Rica’s most soulful beach towns. Funky, charming and off the beaten tourist path, this destination is a favorite for surfers, beach lovers and families seeking a tropical adventure.

Santa Teresa and its neighboring village Mal Pais are famous for their pristine white and beaches. The miles of protected and undeveloped beach front that connect these two towns are marked by numerous perfect sand-bottomed peaks that have been drawing surfers from around the world for over two decades.

As with all of Costa Rica, the Nicoya Peninsula is blessed with some spectacular natural assets ranging from turtle beaches to subterranean caves, birding hotspots and maritime riches. Santa Teresa is also known for its dreamy sunsets that draw locals and visitors back to the beach each evening to celebrate the close of the day with blankets, cocktails and guitars. The ‘Pura Vida’ vibe in this town that abounds from sunrise to sunset is hard to beat.

THE VILLAS

Since we have been traveling here, we have watched this picturesque surf town evolve into a very sophisticated and international destination with accommodations ranging from eco-rustic to chic and luxurious. This great diversity in lodging options is one of the top reasons we like coming here. We have several properties listed below that we love and highly recommend.

CASA DEWA

Casa Dewa is a very private, beachfront villa tucked in among lush tropical rainforest. This villa has plenty of indoor and outdoor space to host large or small gatherings and is set in an ideal location to explore. We love Casa Dewa for its open floor plans, Bali vibes, and ease of access to a pristine white sand beach with several peaks. There is no need to drive anywhere.

Casa Dewa’s construction is her most distinct feature. The owners salvaged the estate’s ironwood columns from the bottom of the Indonesian Ocean. The design of Casa Dewa then evolved around with the beams and a hundred year old rice barn with incredible teak paneling. These authentic features combine a one-of-a-kind destination. The open-air layout fills the interior with light and fresh ocean air that brings in the natural sounds of the Pacific.

Casa Dewa offers formal dining space for twenty in addition to other social and entertaining spots. This property is made for hosting gatherings. Casa Dewa can be rented by herself or with her sister villas Casa Capitan and Casa Java. All three properties can be booked for a total of 17 guest rooms at Casa Capitan Estate.

  • 6 air-conditioned bedrooms and 6 bathrooms
  • Large swimming pool
  • Beautiful beachfront location
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Concierge service

CASA JAVA

This villa was first built 400 years ago on the Indonesian island of Java and then transferred to Santa Teresa’s most exclusive Northern beach.

The original teak home teak house was then tastefully converted into a modern, super comfortable house while still retaining all the wonderful 400 years old original features of ancient hardwood, beautiful painted wooden balconies and stunning carvings on doors and window frames. The house sits several meters back from a pristine white sand beach and is engulfed by exotic plants and lush jungle. The manicured grounds are often visited by the local Iguanas, all sorts of tropical bird species and the beautiful Howler Monkeys famous for their loud barking.

Casa Java can be very romantic, perfect for Honeymooners, or for a small family that wants privacy and direct access to surf. It is also a perfect venue for small events.

  • 3 Master Bedrooms with King Size, Queen, and Double Beds. (Can Sleep 8).
  • 1 Single Sleeping Balcony
  • A/C in Bedrooms
  • Ceiling Fans
  • 3.5 Bathrooms
  • Daily Housekeeping
  • Concierge Service
  • Beautiful beachfront location

THE SURF

One hundred yards directly in front of the palm trees of Casa Capitan (and Casa Java) sits a majestic white sand beach that offers an endless supply of perfectly- shaped peaks. It is a mini surf heaven with tons of opportunity. Terry Simms favorite spot is the peak straight out in front of the house.

If you want to venture out in a 4×4 vehicle and discover the diversity in surf that the area has to offer, you won’t be disappointed. There are several secret reefs within short driving range. Or leave the beach behind and travel by boat to several right, rock points where you can surf by yourself. We love this area for its consistency and all day surf appeal. Beginners, intermediates and advanced surfers will all enjoy the fruits that this Costa Rican wave garden has to offer.

When coming to this surf-rich area you should always be prepared and bring booties for the reef, surf hats for the heat and lots of sunscreen!

DINING

With Santa Teresa’s recent growth fueled by creative ex-pats seeking the beach lifestyle, the dining options in the area are impressive. Most restaurants menus are designed around organically grown local produce and cater to the desires of the more sophisticated and health conscious traveler.

There are also several amazing chefs for hire in the town. We are able to arrange for special catered meals in your villa or we can organize a cook for your entire stay. When staying at Casa Java or Casa Capitan there is an onsite concierge that can help facilitate restaurant reservations and/or meal planning.

Our favorite go-to spots are Umi’s for sushi, Marys in neighboring Mal Pais for the chicken dishes and farm to table produce and Alma’s for the Peruvian inspired cuisine and lively bar scene.

THINGS TO DO

Outside of the outstanding surf there are many other physical activities to explore in this region. Yoga, pilates, horseback riding, hiking, scuba, snorkeling, boat excursions, zip lining and nature tours of the preserves are easily accessed from Santa Teresa.  If you are wishing to indulge and experience some of the world class health practitioners that Santa Teresa has drawn in there are a vast range of massage and spa services offered on beach side pavilions or inside some of the more luxury hotel establishments that are in the area. Beach walking and sunset watching are among the most popular activities for those who just want to keep it simple and easy.

GETTING HERE

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Santa Teresa is by air. The recently renovated San Jose International Airport (SJO) is Costa Rica’s largest international hub that services most major airlines from the the US and Europe. The domestic airport is a short taxi ride and is serviced by the regional airlines, Sansa and Nature Air. They offer daily flights that are approximately twenty minutes to Tambor, the local airport that sits about 45 minutes outside of Santa Teresa.

Private charter flights can easily be arranged to Tambor from SJO as well. Taxis to town or car rentals are also very easy to come by. We are happy to assist in planning any travel arrangements that are needed.