Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

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.

Nearby destinations include Montezuma, Nosara and Sámara.

Where is Santa Teresa?

Map of Costa Rica

What's the climate in Santa Teresa?

Climate Type: Tropical Savanna

The climate in Santa Teresa is generally tropical with high temperatures ranging from 31°C (88°F) to 35°C (95°F) throughout the year. The warmest month is March with an average maximum temperature of 35°C (95°F), while the coolest is December with an average maximum of 31°C (89°F). To avoid the rainy season, the best time to visit Santa Teresa is during the drier months of January, February, March, and December.

How do I buy a house in Santa Teresa?

While Nuevo Arenal has a range of housing options — condos and single-family homes available for rent or purchase at various budgets — we believe you should shift your focus when considering life in Costa Rica: buying real estate in Nuevo Arenal shouldn’t be your first step!

Investing in Nuevo Arenal property can offer fantastic opportunities, especially if you’re seeking residency, however it’s crucial to determine your lifestyle preferences beforehand. Many rush into property purchases only to realize that their decision does not fully meet their real estate needs in Costa Rica once the vacation mentality wears off.

Your Pura Vida operates differently.

We collaborate with a diverse network of trusted realtors in Nuevo Arenal and nationwide. Our approach emphasizes exploration without the pressure often associated with realtor relationships.

Our sole priority? Your contentment and sustained enjoyment in the country. When you’re ready to buy or rent a home in Nuevo Arenal, we’ve got you covered! When you’re ready, let’s talk.

Santa Teresa Weather

loader-image
Paquera, CR
7:52 am
weather icon 26°C | °F
L: 26° H: 26°
overcast clouds
Precipitation: 0 inch
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 5:53 am
Sunset: 5:26 pm

At a Glance

Population: less than 3000

Popular Expat Neighborhoods: Santa Teresa

Largest Regional City: Nicoya

Vibe: beach, ocean, rural, tourist, blue zone, meditative, locals town

Distance to Nearest International Airport

Liberia International Airport – 208 kilometers (129 miles) – approx. 3 hours and 45 minutes without heavy traffic

Juan Santamaria International Airport – 174 kilometers (108 miles) – approx. 4.5 hours without heavy traffic



Rankings

Ready to make your dreams in Santa Teresa come true?

City Lead

We won't sell your information to anyone, promise! Pura vida!

We'd love to talk!

City Lead

We won't sell your information to anyone, promise! Pura vida!