# Santa Teresa travel tips: money, safety, health and packing > Bring a card and some cash, since there's a bank in Santa Teresa but ATMs can run dry on busy weekends. The main risks are rip currents, ATV accidents and petty theft, so swim on calm days, ride carefully and never leave valuables on the beach or in a car. For medical needs beyond basics, clinics are in Cóbano. Source: https://www.santa-teresa.com/santa-teresa-travel-tips/ Last checked: 2026-10-20 Currency: Costa Rican colón; US dollars widely accepted Banks: A Banco Nacional branch in Santa Teresa and more services in Cóbano Biggest risks: Rip currents, ATV accidents, petty theft Health: Clinic services in Cóbano; bring a first-aid kit Water: Many places filter it; ask if unsure ## Money - **Currency:** The Costa Rican colón is the local currency, and US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Change is often given in colones. - **Cards:** Most hotels, restaurants and shops take cards. Small sodas, market stalls and some taxis prefer cash. - **ATMs:** There's a Banco Nacional branch in Santa Teresa, and Cóbano has more banks. ATMs can run out of cash on busy weekends and holidays, so don't wait until your last bill. - **Tipping:** Restaurant bills in Costa Rica usually include a 10% service charge by law. Extra tips for great service, surf instructors and guides are appreciated but optional. ## Ocean safety The Pacific here is beautiful and powerful. Rip currents are the biggest danger to visitors. - Swim on calm days, near other people, and away from rocks and river mouths. - Don't count on lifeguards. - If you're caught in a current, don't fight it. Swim parallel to the beach until you're out of it, then head in. - Take a surf lesson before surfing on your own, and ask instructors about the day's conditions. - Wear sandals on rock shelves and in tide pools. Read our [beach guide](/beaches/) for more. ## Road safety ATVs, scooters, cars, bikes, dogs and pedestrians all share narrow, mostly unpaved roads, often without streetlights. - Wear a helmet on any ATV or scooter. - Avoid driving or riding at night where you can, and never after drinking. - Carry a flashlight when walking after dark. See [roads, dust and rainy season](/santa-teresa-roads-dust-rainy-season/). ## Theft and personal safety Santa Teresa is generally relaxed, but petty theft happens, especially from beaches, cars and unlocked rooms. - Bring only what you need to the beach. Don't leave bags on the sand while you surf. - Leave nothing visible in a parked car or ATV. - Use your room safe and lock doors and windows when you go out. - At night, walk in groups or take a taxi or shuttle. ## Health - **Clinics:** For minor issues, pharmacies in town can help. For anything more, clinic services are in Cóbano, and serious cases go further. Travel insurance with medical cover is essential. - **Surf cuts:** Reef and rock cuts get infected easily in the heat. Clean them well and keep them dry. - **Sun:** The tropical sun is strong all year. Use a rash guard, a hat and reef-safe sunscreen. - **Mosquitoes:** Use repellent, especially at dawn, dusk and in the rainy season. - **Water:** Many hotels and restaurants filter water. Ask if you're unsure, and drink plenty, especially after surfing. ## Respecting the place - **Wildlife:** Don't feed monkeys or other animals, and keep your distance. - **Beaches:** Take your trash with you and leave shells and coral where they are. - **Noise:** Many neighbors are families and long-term residents. Keep it down late at night. - **Spanish:** English is widely spoken, but a few words of Spanish go a long way. "Pura vida" works for almost everything. ## Phones and internet Coverage is good in town and patchier on some hills and in remote spots near Cabo Blanco. A local SIM or eSIM is easy to set up and handy for maps, messages and calling taxis. Most hotels and cafes have Wi-Fi, and fiber reaches much of town, but power cuts still happen during storms. If you're working remotely, read our [digital nomad guide](/digital-nomads-santa-teresa/). ## Shopping and supplies Several supermarkets sit along the main road, and they stock most things you'll need, from sunscreen to snacks. Larger shops, banks and a gas station are in Cóbano. Surf shops sell and rent boards, wax and rash guards, and pharmacies in town handle everyday needs. Prices for imported goods are higher than many visitors expect, so bring any specific brands you rely on. ## What to pack - Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses - A rash guard and a light long-sleeved top - Sandals that grip on wet rocks - A buff or bandana for dust in the dry season - A light rain jacket in the green season - Insect repellent and a basic first-aid kit - A flashlight or headlamp - A dry bag for boat trips ## Getting in and out Plan your arrival and departure carefully, since it takes most of a day to get here from San José or Liberia. Local shuttles such as [Tropical Tours Shuttles](/tropical-tours-shuttles/) connect town with the airports. See [getting to Santa Teresa](/travel/). ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Santa Teresa, Costa Rica safe? It's generally relaxed, but take normal precautions against petty theft, ride carefully, and respect the ocean, which is the biggest risk for visitors. ### Are there ATMs in Santa Teresa? Yes. There's a Banco Nacional branch in Santa Teresa and more banks in Cóbano. ATMs can run out of cash on busy weekends. ### Do I need to speak Spanish? No. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tour companies, though basic Spanish is helpful and appreciated. ### Can I drink the tap water in Santa Teresa? Many places filter their water. Ask at your accommodation, and use filtered water if you're unsure.