Surfer stands in ocean watching sunset on beach
Why visit Mal País & Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a wonderful surfing town, though no longer a secret one, and there are plenty of great places to eat and a modicum of nightlife. The entire area unfurls along one bumpy coastal road that rambles south from Santa Teresa through Playa El Carmen and terminates in the relaxed fishing hamlet of Mal País.
Meet your new travel partner
Stay connected in Mal País & Santa Teresa
Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.
Take your Costa Rica trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.
bookable trip
Wild Whitewater and Rugged Rainforests: Adventurous Costa Rica
8 days / 7 nights
highlights
- 1 Whitewater rafting down the rushing Pacuare River on an exciting and exhilarating guided tour
- 2 Searching for elusive and colorful quetzal birds during a San Gerardo de Dota birdwatching hike
- 3 Visiting the archaeological ruins of Guayabo National Park to uncover the secrets of the past
from $3,845
per person
Explore more trips
Explore more trips

12 days / 11 nights
Daring Adventures and Cultural Gems: Costa Rica's Rainforests, Volcanoes, and Coastal Oases
FROM $3,914
per person
Top places to visit in Mal País & Santa Teresa
Discover the best attractions in Mal País & Santa Teresa from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide

