Things To Do
in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa, Nicaragua is a laid-back Pacific coast town known for its long white-sand beaches and warm, swimmable waters. The town centers around surfing, beachside cafés, and jungle vibes with a mix of locals and travelers. Eco-conscious lodges and yoga studios line the coast, while fishing boats share the shoreline with surfers.
Visitors come to unwind, ride waves, and explore nearby natural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Santa Teresa and settle into your beachfront accommodation, soaking in the serene atmosphere. The morning sun casts shimmering rays on the ocean, inviting you for a refreshing swim. Grab a fresh breakfast at a local café, savoring tropical fruits and rich Nicaraguan coffee.
Spend the afternoon exploring the pristine beaches or taking a surf lesson from one of the local professionals. With perfect waves and stunning views, you'll find yourself captivated by the experience. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious seafood dishes as the horizon turns into a palette of colors. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere, mingling with locals and fellow travelers. End the evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories under a starlit sky.
Begin your day with a visit to a nearby local marketplace, where you can experience Nicaraguan culture first-hand. Sample traditional breakfast items and interact with friendly vendors who are eager to share stories about their crafts. Afterward, visit an artisan workshop to learn about local crafts and perhaps try your hand at pottery or weaving.
Take a guided tour through the surrounding nature reserves, where you can witness the incredible biodiversity of the region. Hike along scenic trails and be on the lookout for unique wildlife such as monkeys and tropical birds. Pause for a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery.
Return to Santa Teresa in time for sunset, watching as the sky transforms into brilliant hues of orange and pink. Dinner tonight could feature traditional Nicaraguan dishes at a local eatery with an inviting ambiance. After dinner, consider a short walk to a beach bar for live music and a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or smoothie | $1-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back vibe and friendly locals
- Great surf and beaches
- Affordable cost of living for travelers
- High-quality seafood and fresh produce
- Compact town with everything within easy reach
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale amenities
- Limited healthcare facilities in town (travel to bigger cities)
- Seasonal rain can affect travel plans
- Unpaved or rough roads during the wet season
- Fewer direct international flight options than larger destinations
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Con permiso" - Excuse me / with permission
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I’m lost
Places to Visit in Santa Teresa
Visit one of these nice places.
Long stretch of palm-fringed beach with soft morning light and little crowd.
A cliff or hilltop vantage point offering panoramic Pacific views and dramatic sunsets.
Pastel-painted boats and nets along the shore provide colorful compositions.
A scenic walking path with rows of swaying palms ideal for compositions and silhouette shots.
Food in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried fish served with rice, plantains, and a lime wedge at beach shacks.
Must-Try!
A classic plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein of your choice.
Herbed rice and beans typically eaten for breakfast or with most meals.
Raw fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and spices.
Fried yucca pastries stuffed with cheese or meat, perfect as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood stalls, fruit stands, and street vendors offering ceviche cups, arepas, empanadas, and tropical fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' and a handshake or cheek kiss among close acquaintances; speak politely and be patient in conversations.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children or communities; respect private property and sacred sites.
Light, casual clothing; cover shoulders when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Teresa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-15% if service is not included. For guides and drivers, small tips are common.
Cash is widely accepted; US dollars are commonly used in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, mostly sunny days with minimal rain; excellent for beach days and consistent surf; humidity remains high.
Frequent tropical showers mainly in the late afternoons; lush landscapes and quieter beaches; surf remains good but travel can be slippery.
Shoulders between dry and wet seasons offer fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Santa Teresa at Night
Hiking in Santa Teresa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal reserve with forest trails, birdwatching, and ocean views.
Short hikes along cliff edges with panoramic views of the Pacific.
Airports
How to reach Santa Teresa by plane.
Managua, Nicaragua – primary international gateway; 3-4 hours drive to Santa Teresa area.
Liberia, Costa Rica – alternative regional gateway; about a 3-4 hour drive with border crossing.
San José, Costa Rica – major international hub; transfers through Costa Rica are common for regional trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Nicaraguan residents who form the base of the community, including fishermen, shopkeepers, and families.
A growing community of international travelers attracted by surfing and the laid-back lifestyle.
People in town for the waves, some of whom stay for extended periods.
Visitors seeking a relaxed beach getaway.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The coast is renowned for surfing with options for all levels; surf schools are widely available.
Sport and traditional fishing along the shore; fresh seafood markets reflect this activity.
Popular local pastime and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Teresa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based plates, rice and beans, plantains, and salads; ask for dairy-free or egg-free options and avoid fish gravies.