Hello, my name is Julia and I’m a travel influencer and content creator from Germany. In this article, I would love to share with you my experience in Santa Teresa – a place where you can really enjoy the simple things in life.
My passion for travel was passed down in my genes. My father was a pilot and my mother was an air hostess – so we were always traveling, pretty much since I can remember. After finishing high school, it wasn’t even a question that I would do a gap year. A year became two, then three and before I knew it I was working as an influencer and content creator.
Two Magical Months in Costa Rica
I have always wanted to visit Central America. It was one of the places that has been on my bucket list since forever. Last year, I started surfing and Costa Rica is a surfers paradise – so it seemed like the perfect destination.
Initially we planned to stay for three weeks. All it took was a few days in Santa Teresa and we were hooked. We ended up staying for two months. Before arriving, we planned to explore more of the coast but ended up staying in Santa Teresa the whole time. It was a truly magical two months.
Days Like These in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a surf town on the west coast of Costa Rica. Our days started early at 5:30am, just in time for a sunrise surf. After that, we would grab breakfast at our favorite spot for a delicious acai bowl at a place called Ani’s.
It gets hot during the middle of the day, so it’s a great time to explore Montezuma Waterfalls to cool down – which is a 20-minute drive on the quad from Santa Teresa. Of course, the most important travel rule – never miss a sunset. There are lots of beach bars to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset. Carmen is a great spot in the south to enjoy a sundowner.
If you love the ocean and are looking to connect with amazing people Santa Teresa is the place to be. Pura Vida in Costa Rica means ‘pure life’ – it’s lived by everyone in this town. Enjoying the simple things like a sunset surf, delicious food and taking in the local culture is a given in Santa Teresa.
Top 7 Things To Do in Santa Teresa
- Take a Surf Lesson: Santa Teresa is famous for its amazing waves. Getting on a surfboard at some point is an absolute must-do.
- Drive to Montezuma Waterfalls: Just a 20-minute drive from Santa Teresa, you get to experience nature at its finest.
- Relax at Playa Hermosa: One of my favorite beaches in this area. Playa Hermosa could easily be on the cover of any Costa Rican postcard.
- Find the Tidal Pools: If you are lucky and it’s low tide for sunset, the tidal pools at the north and south end of Santa Teresa are worth a visit.
- Enjoy a Yoga Class: Santa Teresa is a spiritual place and Yogis from all over the world find themselves in this little coastal town.
- Visit Tortuga Island: An excursion to Tortuga Island is a great way to explore Costa Rica’s marine life. If you are lucky you might even spot a turtle or group of dolphins while snorkeling in the beautiful waters.
- Watch the Sunset on Santa Teresa Beach: Grab a coconut and take in the view from the beach. Watching the sunset is a must every night!
Need to Know Before you Go
Something I wish I would have known before coming would have been to pack light. You don’t need much when you are relaxing at the beach and surfing every day! A bikini, board shorts and a summer dress and you are fully equipped for your stay in Santa Teresa
To get there from San Jose, the capital, you can either take a bus that goes on a ferry and can take up to six hours or a 20-minute plane ride. After a long journey to arrive in Costa Rica, taking a bus can be quite strenuous. So taking the plane is definitely more comfortable (but more expensive). Plus, they only have a small baggage allowance – making extras a bit pricey.
There are many amazing hotels to book for your accommodation in Santa Teresa. But I find Airbnb to be a great way to find a good spot. They have everything from affordable to luxury stays in the jungle.
In summary, Santa Teresa is a little slice of heaven. Like most of my travels, the people I meet on my journey make my trip that much more wonderful. Not only meeting fellow travelers from all over the world but also the locals. In Santa Teresa, locals are some of the kindest and friendliest people I have come across. These people helped shape my experience.
