Playa Santa Teresa Surf Spot Guide

Playa Santa Teresa is well known for its clean waves that break on the beach.

The two towns, Mal Pais and Santa Teresa, are located next to each other. It’s one long beach, with the towns separated by Playa Carmen. Sometimes, people talk about Santa Teresa, but they’re actually referring to a place in Mal Pais, and vice versa.

In recent years, the area has become very popular among expats, surfers, and tourists—it’s definitely not a hidden gem anymore.

How to get to Santa Teresa

Despite all the hype, some of the access roads are still gravel, and during the rainy season, you absolutely need a 4x4 vehicle. Having higher ground clearance is especially important so you don’t get stuck. If you’re coming from the north, you’ll have to cross the Ario and Bongo rivers, which isn’t always possible depending on the amount of rainfall.

If you’re searching for the perfect costa rica waves, this region is almost a must-visit. The consistent surf draws wave enthusiasts from all over the world, making Mal Pais and Santa Teresa famous for their laid-back vibe and incredible surfing conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the costa rica waves here offer something for everyone.

Surf Conditions and Waves Characteristics at Playa Santa Teresa

You won’t surf alone at this beach! The lefts and rights break good at lower tides.

In October and November, when the big swells from the South hit the coast, the waves tend to close out at this beach. But it still can hold swell of 8 feet. The waves usually break good when the swell is around 4 to 7 feet high. The swell should com from the North, Northwest or Southwest. Swell from the Southwest shapes nice lefts.

The waves break over sand, but there are some rocks along the beach.

Photos of Playa Santa Teresa