# Things to do in Santa Teresa: surf, nature, boats and day trips > Most days in Santa Teresa revolve around the ocean: surf in the morning, a slow afternoon and sunset on the beach. Beyond that, the top things to do are hiking Cabo Blanco reserve, swimming at Montezuma Waterfall, a boat day to Tortuga Island, ziplining in Mal País, an ATV tour and a fishing trip from Mal País harbor. Source: https://www.santa-teresa.com/activities/ Last checked: 2026-10-20 Ocean: Surfing, tide pools, sunset, fishing, boat trips Nature: Cabo Blanco reserve, Montezuma Waterfall, monkeys and birds Adventure: Ziplining, ATV tours, sport fishing Wellness: Yoga classes, retreats and spas Closed days to watch: Cabo Blanco is usually closed Monday and Tuesday ## 1. Surf, or learn to Surfing is the reason Santa Teresa exists as a destination, and it's worth trying even if you've never stood on a board. Beginners learn at Playa Carmen and Playa Hermosa, while more experienced surfers head for Playa Santa Teresa and the points and reefs. Our [surf guide](/surfing/) covers the breaks, seasons and schools. ## 2. Watch the sunset from the beach It sounds too simple to list, but sunset is the main social event of the day. Head to [Playa Santa Teresa](/playa-santa-teresa/) around 5 pm, find a spot on the sand or the rocks, and watch half the town do the same. For a quieter version, try the rocks in [Mal País](/mal-pais/). ## 3. Explore the tide pools At low tide, the volcanic rock shelves in Mal País and along Playa Santa Teresa turn into pools full of small fish, crabs and anemones. Check a tide chart, wear sandals that grip, and keep an eye on the incoming tide. ## 4. Hike Cabo Blanco reserve [Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve](/cabo-blanco-national-park/), at the tip of the peninsula south of Mal País, is Costa Rica's first protected area. The main trail crosses forested hills to a wild beach, and monkeys are a common sight. Start early, carry plenty of water, and remember it's usually closed on Monday and Tuesday. ## 5. Swim at Montezuma Waterfall The falls just outside Montezuma village drop into a big pool that's perfect on a hot day. It's a short but rough walk up the river. Combine it with lunch in Montezuma. [More on Montezuma Waterfall](/montezuma-waterfall/). ## 6. Take a boat to Tortuga Island For calm water, white sand and easy snorkeling, take a day trip to [Tortuga Island](/tortuga-island/) in the Gulf of Nicoya. Most tours leave from Montezuma, and local operators such as [Tiko Tours](/tiko-tours/) offer pickup from Santa Teresa. See our [snorkeling guide](/snorkeling/). ## 7. Zipline through the forest [Canopy Mal País](/canopy-mal-pais/), near the Cabo Blanco entrance, runs a guided course of 11 platforms through the trees, including a long canyon crossing. It takes a little over an hour, so it fits easily around a beach day. Our [canopy tours guide](/canopy-tours/) compares the options. ## 8. Ride an ATV ATVs are how many people get around here, and guided tours take you along back roads to waterfalls, viewpoints and quiet beaches. [Pacific Dirt Road Adventures](/pacific-dirt-road-adventures/) and [Savannah X-Treme Tours](/savannah-x-treme-tours/) rent quads and run guided trips. Read our [ATV guide](/atv-tours/) first. ## 9. Go fishing Local captains run inshore and offshore fishing trips from Mal País, where the fishing fleet still works from the beach. [Jason Tours](/jason-tours/) offers both. See our [fishing guide](/fishing-tours/). ## 10. Do yoga, then get a massage Yoga is everywhere, from drop-in classes to full retreats. Our [yoga guide](/yoga/) lists the studios, and the [spa guide](/spas-in-santa-teresa/) covers massage and treatments for surf-sore shoulders. ## 11. Eat your way along the coast road The food scene has grown fast, from beachfront dinners to sushi and simple Costa Rican sodas. See [where to eat](/restaurants/). ## 12. Take a day trip Montezuma, Cabuya, Cabo Blanco and Tortuga Island all make easy days out. Our [day trips guide](/day-trips-from-santa-teresa/) helps you plan them. ## Planning tips - **Mornings are best** for anything active. It's cooler, the wind is lighter and wildlife is more active. - **Mind the tides** for tide pools, some surf spots and beach walks. - **Rainy season** afternoons often bring storms from about May to November. Plan outdoor trips for the morning. See [the best time to visit](/best-time-to-visit-santa-teresa/). - **Book tours a day ahead** in high season, especially boat trips. ## Frequently asked questions ### What is Santa Teresa known for? Surfing, sunsets and a relaxed, international beach-town feel, with yoga, good food and nature reserves close by. ### What can I do in Santa Teresa if I don't surf? Plenty: hike Cabo Blanco, swim at Montezuma Waterfall, take a boat to Tortuga Island, zipline, ride an ATV, go fishing, do yoga or simply enjoy the beaches. ### What's there to do when it rains? Rain usually comes in the afternoon in the green season. Try a yoga class, a massage, a long lunch, or a zipline tour between showers. ### Is Santa Teresa good for families? Yes, especially if you stay near Playa Hermosa or Playa Carmen, where the waves are gentler. Tortuga Island and the zipline are family favorites.