Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
4 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Santa Teresa: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Santa Teresa: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.5 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Playa Santa Teresa: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Santa Teresa: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 4 000 metres.
Playa Santa Teresa: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January. It ends in April, May. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Santa Teresa: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Santa Teresa: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Sharks (bull, tiger — rare), Jellyfish, Mosquitoes. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Santa Teresa: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Santa Teresa: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Santa Teresa: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Santa Teresa, Café Santa Teresa. Cuisines available: Seafood, Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Santa Teresa: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat.
Playa Santa Teresa: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. For surfing, the best time is morning or evening.
Playa Santa Teresa: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming only in patrolled areas. Take your rubbish with you.
Playa Santa Teresa: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Santa Teresa: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. Suitable for active holidays, yoga and sunset watching. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong waves and currents.
Playa Santa Teresa: what makes this beach unique?
One of Costa Rica-s best surf beaches with powerful waves for experienced surfers, yoga studios and boutique hotels. Famous for its sunsets.
Playa Santa Teresa: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Powerful surf waves, Yoga studios and boutique hotels, Scenic sunsets, Developed infrastructure: restaurants, cafes, shops, Surf schools, Free entry. Cons: Strong waves and currents, Not suitable for small children, Crowded in high season, No lifeguards, Limited parking.
Playa Santa Teresa: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Cabo Blanco Reserve, Montezuma Waterfalls, Playa Hermosa. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Santa Teresa: how do I get to the city of Santa Teresa?
The beach is located near the city of Santa Teresa. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Santa Teresa.