Funky Monkey Lodge is a relaxed surf and yoga lodge in the heart of Santa Teresa, a short walk from the beach, with options from small budget rooms to treetop apartments with ocean views. It suits surfers, families and groups who want a fair-priced, friendly base, as long as they don't mind stairs.
What it's like
Funky Monkey started life as a surf lodge, and it still has that easygoing, barefoot feel. It's a fenced, guests-only property in central Santa Teresa, close to the beach but set back in the trees where it's quieter than the main road. The heart of the place is a big pool and the Jungle Yoga Studio, and many of the units climb the hillside behind, which is where the ocean views come from.
It also goes by Funky Monkey Surf & Yoga Lodge, which sums up who comes here.
Rooms
The lodge has a wide spread of options, which makes it handy for groups who want to stay together on different budgets:
- Treetop apartments: an upper apartment with a jacuzzi and a lower one, both with ocean views, equipped kitchens, air conditioning and floating balconies. Both are about 200 steps up.
- Ocean-view rooms: a room for up to 4 and a large room for up to 7, both about 100 steps up.
- Luxury apartment: garden view, kitchen and air conditioning.
- Bungalows: 3 private garden bungalows for up to 4, plus a loft-style large bungalow for up to 7 with a kitchen.
- Private suite and 2 budget rooms: fan-cooled, simpler options; the budget rooms are small.
A cot for 1 child under 2 is free on request.
Yoga, food and facilities
All guests can use the pool and the Jungle Yoga Studio, which is free for guests to use whenever no class or event is booked. The lodge also runs retreats, and the team can point you to beach yoga classes in town. Our yoga guide has more studios nearby.
Breakfast is included every day, and there's a communal kitchen for cooking. For dinner, you're a short walk from the town's restaurants. Parking is free, and some rooms are pet-friendly if you ask in advance.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
It's great for surfers, families, digital nomads and groups who want space, a pool and a kitchen without paying luxury prices. The range of unit sizes, up to 7 guests, makes it easy for friends to book together.
The big drawback is the climb. The ocean-view rooms and treetop apartments are reached by 100 to 200 steps, which isn't ideal with heavy bags, small kids or bad knees; choose a garden bungalow if that's a concern. Some units are fan-only, which can feel warm in the hottest months. Quiet time starts at 10:30 pm, so it's not a party spot.
Getting there
The lodge is in central Santa Teresa, north of the Playa Carmen junction along the main road, and a short walk from Playa Santa Teresa. Message the lodge for exact directions before you arrive. Our travel guide covers flights, shuttles and the ferry.
Frequently asked questions
How many stairs are there?
The ocean-view rooms are about 100 steps up, and the treetop apartments about 200. The garden bungalows don't list stairs.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, a daily breakfast is included, and there's a communal kitchen.
Is there yoga on site?
Yes. Guests can use the Jungle Yoga Studio when it's free, and the lodge hosts retreats.
Is it good for families?
Yes. There are units for up to 7, and a cot for a baby under 2 is free on request. Bear the stairs in mind with small kids.
Can I bring my dog?
Some rooms are pet-friendly. Tell the lodge in advance. Check current availability on the official Funky Monkey Lodge website.
