Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–18 | $30–60 |
| Food | $10–18 | $20–40 |
| Transport | $3–8 | $15–30 |
| Activities | $10–20 | $35–65 |
| Board Rental | $12–15 | $15–20 |
| Daily Total | $45–80 | $115–215 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities receive 90 days visa-free on arrival
- You may need proof of onward travel — a bus ticket out of the country satisfies this
- Keep your passport safe and dry — the salt air and humidity can damage documents
Health & Safety
- The nearest hospital is in Cobano (30 minutes). For serious injuries, evacuation to San José is necessary
- Surf injuries are the main risk — reef cuts, jellyfish stings, and occasional board-fin lacerations. Carry a basic first aid kit
- The sun is fierce — apply reef-safe sunscreen before every session. Rash guards prevent chest rash from wax
Getting Around
- The town runs along one main dirt road — walkable for the central area, but a bicycle or motorbike helps for day trips
- ATV and motorbike rental available everywhere ($25–80/day). Helmets required by law — insist on one
- The road to Montezuma and Cobano is paved. Side roads are dirt and can be rough in rainy season
Connectivity
- WiFi at most cafés and hostels — quality varies. Some co-working spaces have reliable high-speed internet
- Mobile data works in town but drops in the surrounding forest and hills
- Santa Teresa has a digital nomad community — co-working spaces offer day passes for $10–15 USD
Money
- Currency: CRC (Colón). US dollars accepted everywhere but change given in colones
- ATMs in Cobano (30 minutes away) and a few in Santa Teresa — they can run out of cash, so carry enough
- Credit cards accepted at most restaurants and shops. Cash needed for sodas, taxis, and smaller vendors
Packing Tips
- Surf wax and rash guard if you have favourites — both available locally but at markup
- Reef-safe sunscreen is essential — Costa Rica is phasing out harmful sunscreen chemicals
- Lightweight clothing, sandals, and one pair of hiking shoes for Cabo Blanco. A rain jacket for green season
Cultural tips
Surf Etiquette
Respect the lineup — the surfer closest to the peak has priority. Do not drop in on other surfers, paddle around the break rather than through it, and be patient. Local surfers have right of way and will appreciate respectful visitors.
Protect the Ocean
Use reef-safe sunscreen only — chemicals in regular sunscreen damage coral and marine life. Do not leave any rubbish on the beach. Participate in beach cleanups — they happen regularly and the community takes ocean health seriously.
Respect the Vibe
Santa Teresa attracts people seeking a slower pace. Respect the laid-back atmosphere — do not be the loud tourist in a quiet café. The blend of surfers, yogis, and digital nomads creates a unique community that values presence over performance.
Spanish & Pura Vida
English is widely spoken in the surf and yoga community, but Spanish remains the local language. Basic Spanish is appreciated and opens doors beyond the tourist bubble. "Pura vida" works as hello, goodbye, thank you, and you are welcome.
Support Local Business
Many businesses in Santa Teresa are foreign-owned. Seek out Costa Rican-owned sodas, tour operators, and surf schools to ensure your money supports the local community directly.
Turtle Season
From July to December, olive ridley and leatherback sea turtles nest on the beaches. If you see nesting activity, maintain distance, do not use flashlights, and never touch eggs or hatchlings. Report nesting to local conservation groups — they monitor and protect nests.
