Things To Do
in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a picturesque beach town located on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, renowned for its stunning surf breaks and laid-back atmosphere. It attracts a diverse crowd, including surfers, yogis, and nature enthusiasts. The town is characterized by its beautiful sunsets, vibrant local culture, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

With a plethora of restaurants, shops, and wellness retreats, Santa Teresa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Surf and Explore
morning
:

Start your day with a surf lesson at Playa Santa Teresa, one of the most popular surf spots in the area.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a beachfront café, then explore the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve for a hike and wildlife viewing.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local restaurant, followed by drinks at a beach bar.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the local farmers market to experience the community vibe and sample fresh local produce.

afternoon
:

Take a yoga class at one of the many wellness retreats, followed by some relaxation time at the beach.

evening
:

Dine at a popular eatery featuring traditional Nicaraguan dishes and enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10-20
Coffee$2-4
🏨Night at a Hotel$50-150
🚌Taxi Ride$5-15
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets.
  • Laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • Abundance of outdoor activities and wellness options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas can be difficult to access without a vehicle.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Santa Teresa

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa Santa Teresa

Known for its dramatic sunsets and surf culture, this beach is perfect for capturing stunning coastal shots.

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

Offers lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature photography and hiking shots.

The Tide Pools

Located at low tide, these pools offer unique rock formations and marine life, great for creative photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa offers a vibrant culinary scene influenced by local ingredients and international flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Santa Teresa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Nicaraguan dish made from rice and beans, often served with eggs and tortillas.

Must-Try!

Vigorón

A popular local dish consisting of yuca, pork, and a fresh cabbage salad.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Santa Teresa Farmers Market

A lively market held weekly where locals sell fresh produce, handmade goods, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santa Teresa enjoys a tropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season (November to April) brings warm temperatures averaging 28-32°C (82-90°F) and minimal rainfall. The rainy season (May to October) sees increased humidity and temperatures, with daily showers that typically occur in the afternoons or evenings. Overall, the region maintains warm temperatures year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm 'Hola' is common when meeting locals.

Dress Code

Casual beachwear is acceptable, but dress modestly when visiting local shops or restaurants.

Respect for Nature

Be mindful of the environment, especially at beaches and natural reserves, and avoid littering.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santa Teresa is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to travel in groups or use reputable transport services when exploring farther from town.

Tipping in Santa Teresa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though some may include a service charge.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many establishments accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. This is the peak tourist season.

Rainy Season (May to October)

While it rains more frequently, mornings are often sunny. This season is less crowded and offers lush landscapes.

Surf Season (June to September)

Ideal for experienced surfers, with larger swells and more challenging conditions.

Holiday Season (December)

A vibrant time with local festivities and increased tourism, making it lively and fun.

Nightlife Guide

Santa Teresa at Night

Santa Teresa offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with beach bars hosting live music and events. Many places have a casual vibe, encouraging guests to enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset. Popular spots include The Lazy Wave and Casa Zen, where you can enjoy a mix of local and international music. There's also a growing scene of DJs and themed events, especially during the high season.

Hiking in Santa Teresa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve Trail

A beautiful hiking trail that leads you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Nicoya Peninsula Trails

Various trails across the Nicoya Peninsula provide opportunities for hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems.

Airports

How to reach Santa Teresa by plane.

Nosara Airport (NOB)

Located about 30 minutes away, this small airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport to Santa Teresa.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santa Teresa is relatively walkable, especially around the main beach area where most restaurants and shops are located. However, some attractions may be spread out, and walking in sandy areas can be challenging. Renting a bike or scooter is a popular option for exploring the town more comfortably.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Nicaraguans

The majority population, engaged in agriculture, tourism, and small businesses.

Expat Community

A growing number of expatriates from various countries who have settled in Santa Teresa, contributing to the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

A major sport in Santa Teresa, attracting surfers from all over the world to its consistent waves.

Beach Volleyball

Commonly played along the beach, with many informal games taking place at sunset.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santa Teresa is generally light, with most locals and tourists getting around by foot, bicycle, or ATV. Public transportation options include shared shuttles and buses that connect to nearby towns, although they may not be frequent. During peak season, roads can become busier, especially near popular beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Teresa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's best to inquire about specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are available, they may be limited, so checking menus in advance is advisable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Santa Teresa are limited, with small clinics available for basic care. For more serious health issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Nicoya or Liberia, which have hospitals and more comprehensive medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Nicaragua

Read more in our Nicaragua 2025 Travel Guide.

Nicaragua Travel Guide