Carmen Beach

Located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Carmen Beach is approximately 4 miles from Santa Teresa, accessible by a single road that connects the two areas. It is known for its wide expansive beach and tropical surroundings. The area offers a relaxed vibe, ideal for travelers seeking surf, relaxation, with easy access to the conveniences of Santa Teresa. Visitors who stay in this area can easily pop over to Santa Teresa for dining and nightlife, and return to Carmen Beach to enjoy a calmer setting to relax afterwards.

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is a captivating mix of nature and surf culture, framed by lush hills and a less-developed, relaxed vibe. The beach is a 5-mile stretch with strong currents that make it an attractive spot for advanced surfers. It’s uncrowded, making it easy to enjoy the beach in a peaceful and authentic setting. The beach lies within a protected wildlife refuge where Olive Ridley and other species of turtles nest. This is a rare opportunity to experience nature at its most untouched. Overall, it is a friendly, welcoming area with a slower pace of life. However, because it is remote, you are limited to conveniences other than the basic services. Beware that the strong currents here sometimes make swimming a bit risky.

Mal Pais (Coast)

Mal Pais boasts a laid-back setting surrounded by white-sand coves, rocky outcroppings, and tropical forests teeming with wildlife. It’s renowned among the surfing community and nature lovers with consistent waves and easy access to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s first protected area. It offers a relaxed pace and friendly locals. It’s an ideal location for visitors seeking a slower pace and authenticity in a small, welcoming coastal village. However, it does not offer modern conveniences, just basic amenities. It’s an easy drive (just over 1 mile) to the nearby hub of Santa Teresa, so an easy ATV or scooter ride of about 5 to 10 minutes.

Santa Teresa Beach

Santa Teresa Beach is a lively surfer town with a laid-back bohemian vibe. The area has grown into a well-developed hub, offering a vibrant mix of food and wellness experiences. Visitors can enjoy yoga retreats, diverse international cuisine, and casual beachside cafés and bars. It’s also an excellent base for adventure and nature, with tropical jungles, waterfalls, wildlife reserves, zip-lining, and more all nearby. That said, the popularity and development of recent years have brought some crowding and noise, which may take away from its once-sleepy charm.