Attractions

Area Information

Santa Teresa and Mal Pais are rather remote beach towns, and that’s what makes them so special! Thankfully, even though we’re a little off the beaten path, there are still quite a few services available to visitors. At the crossroads between Mal Pais and Santa Teresa (locally known as “the cruce,” pronounced “crew-say”) where buses and cars arrive into town, there are two banks with ATMs. These are the only ATMs in town, so to make sure to get your money while you’re at the cruce!

There is also a pharmacy, a dental office, a small clinic and an emergency lifeguard at the crossroads. For medical emergencies, doctors are available at a clinic in nearby Cobano, a public hospital in Puntarenas and several private hospitals in San Jose.

There are a surprising number of supermarkets throughout Santa Teresa, and one is conveniently located directly across the road from Casa Zen. Most supermarkets open at 7am and close at 10pm. There is also an organic market held at the beach every Saturday afternoon, which is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Both US dollars and Costa Rica colones are accepted everywhere. Cash is always the preferred method of payment, and many restaurants and shops do not accept credit cards.

What’s Happening in Santa Teresa and Mal País

Surfing is by far the main attraction in Santa Teresa today, with consistent waves year round in warm, tropical waters. Beach breaks are found in Playa Carmen and Santa Teresa, and when the swell is right the point breaks down in Mal País (Mar Azul and Sunset Reef) or up near Playa Hermosa (Suck Rock or El Peñon) can go off. On the other side of the peninsula, you can also find the breaks at Rio Lajas and Los Cedros can be perfect at times when the swell is not hitting right in Santa Teresa.

With the growing popularity of the area, the water can get a bit crowded during the high season. For this reason we ask beginners or novice surfers to always have a surf lesson first. Surf etiquette is essential for the safety of yourself and others in the water, and a properly trained surf instructor will help teach you the ins and outs. Knowing how to control your board (not to mention knowing how to fall!) keeps you and everyone around you safer, plus you will have more fun! Even uber-athletes will tell you that surfing is the hardest sport they’ve ever tried, but getting out in the water, surrendering to the power of the ocean, and (come hell or high water) standing up(!) can be one of the most amazing feelings in the world!

What if I don’t surf?

Casa Zen offers yoga classes daily on our open-air deck, and whether you are a practicing yogi or a beginner, yoga will help you find balance and serenity.


Attractions

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