Tucked away on the remote western edge of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa has evolved from a laid-back surf town into a full-on boho chic destination for Left Coasters, Ticos, and Euros craving the perfect blend of surf, yoga, and superfood smoothies, all set to the chill house vibe of Café del Mar. With its golden beaches, consistent surf breaks, and buzzing scene, Santa Teresa is the place where the Pura Vida spirit collides with globetrotting hipsters — with an enjoyably blissful result.

World-class surf breaks

Santa Teresa is synonymous with surfing. Whether you’re a seasoned vet or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, the town’s surf breaks cater to every level. Surf lessons proliferate, and it’s the perfect place for kids to learn. Playa Carmen, situated on the southern end of town, is known for its forgiving waves and sandy bottom. Advanced surfers flock to Playa Santa Teresa, where powerful swells and barreling waves create nectar rides. Further north, Playa Hermosa offers a more serene experience, with long, playful waves set against the backdrop of lush, jungle-covered hills.

The vibe

Life in Santa Teresa moves at a blissfully unhurried pace. The town’s dirt roads are lined with boutique shops, yoga studios, and open-air cafes filled with surfers, yogis, and sun-seekers. The vibe is a captivating mix of rustic charm and barefoot luxury, where flip-flops are the norm, and sunsets mark the unofficial end to every day’s adventures. The great equalizer – no matter who you are or where you’re from – is that everyone drives a dusty ATV to get around town.

Where to eat

Start the day with breakfast at The Bakery, a local institution that serves up freshly baked bread, hearty pastries, and excellent coffee. The menu includes everything from flaky croissants to smoothie bowls packed with tropical fruit. For lunch or dinner, Koji’s is the place to go for some of the best sushi in Costa Rica. This intimate, jungle-set restaurant sources the freshest local fish and offers a wide selection of traditional and creative rolls, sashimi, and tempura. As the day winds down, head to Rocamar on Playa Hermosa for sunset appetizers and cocktails. Sink your feet into the sand as you sip a mezcal margarita and nibble on tapas while watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon.

Where to shop

Head to Santa Swimwear and Dkoko Bikinis for bathing suits à la mode. Hit Studio Colectiva for handcrafted, indie clothing from regional designers. Try Calm & Co for handmade jewelry, natural sunscreen, and skin products exclusively from Costa Rica. Take home a chic souvenir while supporting local artists.

Where to stay

Tropico Latino is a serene beachfront retreat offering rustic yet comfortable bungalows surrounded by lush gardens. The property also features a wellness center with yoga classes and a spa, perfect for unwinding after a day in the surf. For an upscale stay, Nantipa delivers a luxurious experience with personal villas, infinity pools, and its beachfront restaurant, Manzú.