Here are the best day trips from Santa Teresa.

Santa Teresa is renowned for its surf, yoga, and vibrant energy, but it’s also surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes Costa Rica has to offer. If you’re looking to step beyond the beaches, there’s plenty to explore. From waterfalls to pristine islands and wildlife reserves, below are the best day trips from Santa Teresa to make the most of your time in this paradise. The front desk team at Fermata Hotel can help arrange any of these day trips, from waterfall hikes to wildlife tours and island escapes.

 

Montezuma Waterfalls
– Location: About 40 minutes from Santa Teresa, followed by a short hike.
– The Experience: One of the most iconic waterfalls in Costa Rica, Montezuma Falls is a dramatic three-tier cascade, with the largest drop plunging into a swimmable pool. It’s a refreshing reward after the walk and a picture-perfect spot to cool off.
– Wildlife: Keep an eye out for howler monkeys in the canopy and tropical birds along the way—the trail is as much a nature walk as it is a path to the falls.

Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island)
– Location: Around 1 hour by boat from the mainland.
– The Experience: For a true island getaway, Isla Tortuga offers white-sand beaches and vibrant turquoise waters. Most tours offer lunch and drinks, making for an easy, all-inclusive day trip.
– Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, lounging on the beach, or kayaking through the surrounding waters.
– Wildlife: Snorkel to see marine life like turtles, rays, and abundant fish.

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve
– Location: About 1 hour from Santa Teresa, near the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.
– The Experience: As Costa Rica’s first protected reserve, Cabo Blanco offers a glimpse into some of the most pristine and untouched nature on the Nicoya Peninsula. With a variety of hiking trails winding through tropical forest and leading to a secluded white-sand beach, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
– Activities: Hike through the reserve’s lush terrain, pause for wildlife sightings, and reward yourself with a quiet moment on the beach. The trails range in difficulty, so there’s something for both casual walkers and more avid hikers.
– Wildlife: Expect to spot white-faced monkeys, coatis, and a wide range of bird species, including pelicans, frigate birds, and parrots.

Curú Wildlife Refuge
– Location: About 1 hour from Santa Teresa, on the southeast coast of the Nicoya Peninsula.
– The Experience: For a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, Curú Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to explore tropical forests with minimal crowds. Unlike more rugged reserves, Curu is well maintained and easy to explore, with clearly marked trails that range from coastal walks to deeper forest loops. Bring binoculars, and take your time—this is one of the best spots in the area for wildlife viewing.
– Activities: Hike through the refuge, birdwatch, kayak along the coast, or simply relax on the beach.
– Wildlife: Keep an eye out for howler monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds, including toucans and parrots.

El Chorro Waterfall
– Location: North of Montezuma, accessible by boat or a long beach hike from Montezuma.
– The Experience: Tucked away where the jungle meets the sea, El Chorro is one of the few waterfalls in Costa Rica that flows directly into the ocean. It’s best seen during the rainy season or just after, when water levels are high.
– Tip: This trip is ideal for adventurers looking for something off the beaten path. Wear proper footwear and plan for the tides if hiking in.

After a Day of Exploring… Come Back to Fermata
There’s nothing better than returning to comfort after a day of discovery. Back at Fermata Hotel, you can settle into a luxury room just steps from the ocean, rinse off the trail dust, and ease into the slower rhythm of the hotel. Whether you’re craving a massage, planning your next adventure, or looking for the perfect dinner spot, our front desk team is here to help you make the most of your stay.

Unwind with a treatment, enjoy dinner at Fermata Kitchen, and reset for whatever tomorrow brings. Whether you’ve spent the day chasing waterfalls or spotting wildlife in the jungle, Fermata is the perfect place to land, rest, and recharge.

Ready to plan your adventure-filled getaway? Contact us to book your stay at Fermata Hotel, your home base for exploring Santa Teresa and beyond.