Visiting Santa Teresa and Mal Pais, Costa Rica
A Popular New Travel Destination on the Nicoya Peninsula
Feb 28, 2009
Mal Pais and Santa Teresa are remote old fishing villages located on the Southern Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica. The villages have gained in popularity over the past few years with eco-travelers and surfers looking for secluded beaches. The town of Santa Teresa exists as a string of hotels and local residences over a 5km dirt road. The area offers no real nightlife - just gold-grey beaches, budget lodging options, peace, and relaxation. Neighboring Mal Pais offers newer and more luxurious lodging options.
Things To Do In and Around Mal Pais and Santa Teresa
- Surfing in the Mal Pais and Santa Teresa Area: Surfing is the main reason that draws travelers to the area. The beaches in the Mal Pais area are thought to be one of the best surf spots in Costa Rica. Playa El Carmen, the main beach in the area, is a great place for beginners. The rip tides and breaks are less powerful than other beaches in Costa Rica. There are also plenty of more challenging surf spots in the area. Check in at the Mal Pais surf camp or any of the other surf shops in Santa Teresa for conditions and information on other beaches.
- Snorkeling and Tide Pool Exploration: Rent a snorkel and explore the tide pools in the Mal Pais end of the beach. The area has some reefs, corals and large schools of fish to view.
- Other Activities: Tour the beaches or surrounding hills with a guided horseback tour, go on a fishing trip with the locals, or just hike along the coast.
Mal Pais and Santa Teresa Lodging
Santa Teresa has the most options for the budget traveler, while Mal Pais offers more luxurious lodging. The area also has a few camping areas such as Zenelda's Cabanas and Camping with its convenient beachfront location.
- Mal Pais Surf School and Resort: The Mal Pais surf school offers both budget and luxury lodging options. The resort offers open-airs cabins and dorms and private rooms and cabins. The resort has a nice surfing atmosphere and it is only a walk away from some of the best surf spots in the area. The school also offers a variety of surf packages including rentals, lessons, and meals.
- Hotel the Place: Hotel the Place rents them decorated private bungalows with their own porch. Hang out on a hammock in the resorts perfectly manicured gardens and enjoy a margarita at the Mandela Bar located on site.
- Cabinas Charlie: Cabinas Charlie is a good budget option located on the road to Santa Teresa. Rooms are offered with shared or private baths.
Eating in Mal Pais and Santa Teresa
The road running through Mal Pais and Santa Teresa has many good dining options. Try the popular surfer hangout, Mary's, for pizzas and fish tacos or visit Soda Piedra Mar for their affordable casados. The Funky Monkey has fresh sushi and for Brazilian food visit Rancho Itauna.
Visit Mal Pais and Santa Teresa for the beautiful beaches, incredible surf, and laid-back atmosphere. For information on how to get to Mal Pais, see Costa Rica's Souther Nicoya Peninsula.
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