At suitable low tides, rocky sections of Mal País reveal small pools where coastal life may be visible. Observe without handling animals or moving rocks. Stay on secure footing with an adult and keep watching waves and the incoming tide.
Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve
A longer outing from Santa Teresa leads to Cabo Blanco’s authorized visitor sector near Cabuya. The reserve protects forest and coastal habitat. Confirm current access, open trails and visitor requirements with SINAC before planning your day.
Cabo Blanco Forest Walks
Within Cabo Blanco’s visitor area, permitted forest trails offer opportunities to notice tree shapes, leaf litter and bird calls. Choose an open route suited to your group’s walking ability. Bring water and follow the ranger’s return-time and access instructions.
Playa Montezuma
The beach beside Montezuma village offers views of the sea, rocky sections and coastal vegetation. Compare its setting with the open-Pacific beaches near Santa Teresa. Follow permitted paths and ask locally about current sea conditions rather than assuming every cove is suitable for swimming.
Piedra Colorada
North of Montezuma, a small river meets the coast among colorful stones and woodland. Observe the meeting of fresh water and sea without moving or collecting rocks. Check access and recent rain locally; a natural pool is not automatically a suitable swimming spot.
Playa Santa Teresa
A long Pacific shoreline where surf, sand and coastal vegetation shape the scene. Use established beach entrances and enjoy watching the waves from dry sand. Ask locally about current surf and swimming conditions before entering the water.
Curú Wildlife Refuge
Toward Paquera, Curú is a longer day outing with forest trails, mangroves and coastal habitat. Ask the refuge which routes are currently open and appropriate for your group. Some trails may close, and wildlife sightings depend on conditions.
Isla Tortuga
A planned boat excursion into the Gulf of Nicoya can include Tortuga Island’s beach and nearby snorkeling areas. This is a longer outing, not a place within Santa Teresa town. Confirm the departure point, sea conditions, flotation equipment and participant requirements with the operator.
Cabuya Village & Shore
Near the Cabo Blanco entrance, Cabuya is a coastal community with fishing activity and a rocky shoreline. Include it as part of a planned outing through the Cóbano–Montezuma side of the peninsula. Check road conditions rather than relying on an unverified shortcut.
Isla Cabuya
Off Cabuya, an island cemetery becomes connected to the shore when the tide exposes a rocky crossing. It remains a place of remembrance. Confirm local access and tides, respect graves and ceremonies, and do not attempt a crossing when conditions are uncertain.