Santa Teresa 1-day itinerary

Wake before dawn and paddle out for a sunrise surf at Playa Santa Teresa — one of the best beach breaks in Costa Rica. The consistent Pacific swell produces powerful waves that work at all tides, with the morning glass-off (no wind) creating perfect conditions. Beginners can take a lesson at one of the many surf schools lining the beach road, while experienced surfers will find hollow barrels and fast walls. The sand-bottom break is forgiving for wipeouts and the water is warm year-round.

After surfing, join the beach life that defines Santa Teresa. This is a place where the afternoon revolves around swaying hammocks, cold coconuts, beachside smoothie bowls, and open-air yoga. Drop into one of the many yoga studios for a class ($15–20) or simply lay out on the long stretch of white sand that runs for kilometres in both directions. The beach is never crowded — there is always space to spread out.

Santa Teresa's sunsets are legendary — the Pacific horizon turns from gold to crimson to deep purple as surfers catch their final waves in silhouette. Walk to the Playa Hermosa overlook or find a spot on the main beach. After dark, the beach bars come alive — Banana Beach, Kika, and other spots along the main road offer cocktails, live music, and a backpacker-meets-surf-bum atmosphere that is uniquely Santa Teresa.