Santa Teresa and Mal Pais, located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, were once remote fishing villages that now rely on tourism as the main source of income. Visitors can enjoy surf camps, yoga retreats, and a range of accommodations from luxury to budget. Mal Pais offers a quieter vibe, while Santa Teresa attracts a younger and livelier crowd with more small hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars. The area’s consistent surf is a major draw for both experts and beginners, and other activities include fishing, snorkeling, canopy tours, and nature hikes in Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve.