You’ll find that Santa Teresa is a vibrant surf town with a cool carefree surfer vibe. Mal Pais just one-minute to the south, is a quaint destination away just far enough away from the craziness, making Mal Pais a quieter place if you want to sleep and chill. Both destinations are primarily known for their world-class beach and surf activities and sunny days drawing vacationers from all over the world. There are as many Europeans as Americans here which makes it a lot of fun to hang out and mix with other people from other cultures. One common thread, is everyone is relaxed and just going with the flow…Pura Vida. From the stunning landscapes to the warm waters of the Pacific and an array of mouth-watering restaurants, there is so much to do and see in this little sliver along the southern Nicoya Peninsula… so, we have put together a list of our favorite must-do activities!
1. Go Surfing!
Whether you are just starting out (never tried it) or a pro at shredding the waves, there is a spot for you in Santa Teresa/Mal Pais. There are various peaks up and down the long stretch of beach, making it much easier to catch a bunch of waves. If you want to find some secret spots or want to try surfing for the first time, inquire with us at the front desk to ensure an unforgettable surfing adventure! If you are just learning, it’s a great place to take your first lessons…in a matter of hours you’ll be surfing, really surfing!
2. Visit Cabo Blanco Nature Preserve
Nestled on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula is the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, one of the most scenically beautiful areas in all of Costa Rica. Cabo Blanco holds a special place in Costa Rican history, as it was the country’s first protected area for nature conservation, later on becoming the first National Park in 1963. The National Park provides refuge to a large variety of animals such as the white-tailed deer, pacas, armadillos, anteaters, howler and capuchin monkeys, porcupines and over 240 species of birds…the list goes on. So put on your sneakers and be sure to bring your camera to capture some of Costa Rica’s rare tropical wildlife.
3. Enjoy an Ocean View Massage
Here at Cielo del Mar, we offer unique massage services with outstanding views of the Pacific. Listen to the waves crash onto the shore as you indulge in a calming massage from your private suite balcony or our loft. We offer a variety of massages from Deep Tissue, Surf, Thai, Sports, Couples and more.
4. Seaplane Scenic Flight
Whether you want a scenic flight over Costa Rica’s majestic ocean looking for whales and dolphins or buzzing just above the Pacific in search of the most remote surf breaks, our new Seaplane service can make it happen! Seaplanes Costa Rica is the only seaplane tour operation in the entire country, making it a truly one of a kind experience…and we pick you up just a half a mile from Cielo del Mar. It’s also an easy way to transport from the airport to the hotel or to another destination down or up the coast.
5. Fishermen’s Beach and Market Mal Pais
Whether you would rather surf cast from the beach of Mal Pais’ fishing village, try kayak fishing or go on a deep-sea sport-fishing tour for Marlin, Mahi Mahi or Tuna, Mal Pais’s fishing village offers a variety of options for an incredibly fun angling day on the water! It’s also the best place to buy the freshest fish in Costa Rica…can you say “Sashimi on my Veranda please”!
6. Montezuma Waterfall Adventure
Just a short drive from Santa Teresa and the hotel, you will discover Montezuma’s picturesque waterfalls, cascading along the Montezuma River. To reach the waterfall, start at the main beach road just outside the village center, there will be signs as well as a parking area. A rough trail leads up the river for approximately 20 minutes. Be sure to wear sturdy, water-resistant shoes as you will wade through the river and climb over slippery rocks and roots.
The tallest part of the falls is the lowest tier, tumbling 79 feet (24 meters) into a large pool at the river bottom that is perfect for a refreshing swim after you hike the falls!
7. Zip Line Through the Jungle of Mal Pais
The Mal Pais Canopy Tour is based on a quiet farm in Mal Pais with more than 200 different tree species. The entire area is completely surrounded by rich tropical forest and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a thrilling treetop journey as you discover the tropical forest from new heights, all while admiring the Pacific Ocean that lies below you in the distance. This exciting canopy experience is nearly a mile long and has 11 platforms set high in the gigantic trees!
After you book your room or suite at Cielo del Mar, email or call our front desk for local tour and experience information or to set up something special in another part of Costa Rica through our partners at www.PureLuxuryCR.com
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