Santa Teresa en
Mal País

Santa Teresa (9° 39' 0" N, 85° 10' 59" W) is a small, but fast growing town in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica. Like other coastal villages on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa started as a remote fishing village. In the early 1990s, the town of Santa Teresa was „discovered“ by low budget tourists and started growing since then.

Santa Teresa, stretched over 5 kilometres (3 mi) of dirt road, is still a remote place with bad road conditions, basic infrastructure (few shops, some internet cafés), but with a substantial number of available beds. It is known for gold-grey beaches, good surf conditions and a relaxing atmosphere.

Although bars and pubs offer some night activities, Santa Teresa is more popular for its surfing potential. The coast along the town as well as south and north of it shows different breaks and a constant swell all year. Many hotels and surf instructors offer their surfing-related services.

Public transport in town exists and connects to the neighboring cities of Cobano, Montezuma and Mal Pais. Direct bus connections go as far as San José. Car and ATV rentals are also possible.

Medical services in town are limited and provides mostly first aid, if not closed. The next hospital is in Cobano, which is a 20 minute drive from town, depending on road conditions.

The recent construction boom raises concerns over environment and touristic issues. More tropical jungle is sacrificed for new hotel locations, and more tourists also mean more pollution