The beautiful beaches of Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen, and Mal Pais are renowned for their excellent surf breaks, making them ideal spots for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Every year, these shores attract professional surfers from around the globe. Whether you're an experienced surfer or someone who's never touched a surfboard, our comprehensive lessons will cover all the essentials, from waxing your board to mastering the waves.
If you've never tried surfing and are hesitant about its difficulty or safety, rest assured that it's more accessible than it seems. Even kids often find it surprisingly easy to learn. Under our guidance, most beginners are able to stand up on their board and catch waves on their very first day in the water. So, don't let uncertainty hold you back – come and experience the thrill of surfing in some of the world's best locations!
Yoga
Yoga seamlessly unites the mind and body, offering an energizing start to your day or a calming way to unwind in the evening. It's a wonderful practice for stretching your body, soothing your mind, and broadening your awareness. Accessible to everyone, yoga welcomes men, women, and couples alike.
For a more personalized experience, we offer private, English-speaking yoga instructors who can conduct custom sessions right on your villa’s terrace, available from the first light of sunrise to the calming hues of sunset. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, our instructors will customize your yoga session to meet your unique goals and level of experience. Alternatively, if you prefer the communal energy of group classes, Santa Teresa boasts numerous elegant yoga studios, offering classes in both the morning and afternoon.
Additionally, yoga serves as an excellent complement to surfing, enhancing flexibility, balance, and mental focus, which are essential for riding the waves.
Zipline Canopy Tour
Costa Rica is celebrated for its lush rainforests, teeming with vibrant tropical flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in the exhilaration of bird-like flight as you glide over the jungle's core. Our Mal Pais Canopy adventure is ideally situated adjacent to the famous Cabo Blanco National Park.
So, what is a canopy tour? It's an adventure that uses zip-lines to traverse the tropical forest, offering a unique and breathtaking perspective that's otherwise unattainable. Participants are securely harnessed to a robust steel cable and whisked from one treetop platform to another, traversing extensive stretches of the forest. These zip-lines are both strong and safe. Throughout the journey, you'll be accompanied by English-speaking guides who are there to address any questions you might have and to ensure your utmost safety.
Spa Treatments
Following an exhilarating day of surfing, trekking, or ocean swimming, you've earned the luxury of a soothing massage in the privacy of your own terrace, with views of either the serene ocean or our lush garden oasis. Our skilled local massage therapists offer their services right at your villa, perfect for individual sessions or couples massages.
Depending on what your body needs and your personal preferences, you can choose from a variety of massage styles, including sports massage, relaxation massage, and deep tissue massage. We collaborate exclusively with the finest local therapists to ensure your massage experience is exceptional. Indulge in this relaxing treat for yourself, or surprise someone with it as a thoughtful gift. Our concierge team is ready to arrange your massage appointment at your convenience.
ATV Tours & Rental
Renting an ATV, or a "quad" as we refer to it, highlighting its four-wheel feature, is an exhilarating way to explore the Nicoya Peninsula. This adventure allows you to venture off the beaten path and delve into the jungle. Our service providers will guide you on how to operate the ATV and supply helmets for your safety. This thrilling ride enables you to traverse small rivers, ascend hilly green landscapes offering spectacular ocean vistas, or even embark on a day trip to Montezuma, where you can hike to the breathtaking waterfall.
Alternatively, you can simply ride to the quaint neighboring villages to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a drink at sunset. When you're on a quad, the sense of freedom is unparalleled – it's an opportunity to experience our beautiful region at your own pace and preference.
Fishing
Our region boasts a diverse and abundant fishery, offering a wide range of species. After a successful day of fishing, you can bring your catch back to your villa and prepare it in the fully-equipped kitchen. Alternatively, you might opt to grill your fresh seafood on your villa's charcoal grill for a delightful dinner.
Sport-fishing here is particularly thrilling, with sailfish and marlin being popular catches. During the summer months, from November to April, there's an abundance of dorado (mahi-mahi) and yellowfin tuna. Additionally, species like snook, snapper, grouper, and more are available throughout the year. Your fishing excursion will be guided by a knowledgeable local expert, who will lead you to the best fishing spots for a memorable day at sea. We offer both half-day and full-day trips, accommodating groups of up to 4 people (for larger groups, please feel free to inquire).
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a vital aspect of Costa Rica's cultural legacy, and we provide a variety of equestrian adventures. With an experienced, English-speaking guide, you'll journey to the beach and ascend into the cool, shaded hills, where stunning vistas of the landscape and ocean await.
Your guide will also be delighted to share insights about the local flora and fauna you encounter along the way. For those new to horseback riding, we ensure a comfortable experience by pairing you with gentle horses. Meanwhile, seasoned riders will relish the exhilarating experience of galloping along the beach. We offer both morning and sunset tours. Please feel free to contact our concierge, who will happily arrange your horseback riding adventure.
Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddle (SUP) surfing is rapidly gaining popularity as an exhilarating new trend in water sports, and Mal Pais is a prime destination for it, boasting a thriving local SUP scene. This area is well-equipped with experienced instructors and high-quality, well-maintained equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The calm and inviting waters near the Cabo Blanco National Reserve provide the perfect backdrop for trying out this fun yet challenging activity. SUP surfing is an excellent option for those who have never surfed before, as well as for seasoned surfers looking for a novel adventure on the waves. It combines the thrill of surfing with the tranquility of paddling, offering a unique way to enjoy the ocean.
Golf
For those passionate about golf, you're in for a treat! The Delfines Golf Course, a challenging 9-hole course located in the nearby area of Tambor, offers more than just a game. This unique course also serves as a sanctuary for wild macaws and deer, providing a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat as you play. The vibrant colors of the macaws and the gentle presence of the deer add an extra layer of enjoyment to your golfing experience.
The Delfines Golf Course has got you covered with on-site rental clubs, making it convenient for you to enjoy a round of golf without any hassle. Additionally, our concierge team is on hand to provide you with easy-to-follow driving directions to the course and insider tips on securing the best tee-times. They are dedicated to ensuring your golf outing is as enjoyable and smooth as possible.
Diving
Diving is an exceptional way to intimately engage with the ocean and its fascinating inhabitants. Santa Teresa, renowned for its rich marine life, presents a unique and captivating diving experience that appeals to anyone eager to explore the underwater world. Whether you're a complete novice or a seasoned dive master, the opportunities for discovery and adventure are boundless.
Iguana Divers, a reputable diving company based in Santa Teresa, caters to divers of all skill levels. They provide a comprehensive range of services and equipment, ensuring that every diver, regardless of their experience, has a safe and enjoyable time under the sea. Their knowledgeable staff are dedicated to making your diving journey memorable, offering guidance and support throughout your adventure.
Whale Watching
Witnessing a whale breach is an absolutely thrilling experience! While whale watching isn't available throughout the entire year, it is truly a remarkable sight when the season is right. In the Santa Teresa area, the prime times for whale watching are from August to October and then again from December to April. These periods offer the best chances to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
If you're interested in finding out whether there are any whale watching tours available during your stay, we recommend visiting the Iguana Divers website. They provide up-to-date information on tour schedules and can help you plan an unforgettable whale-watching adventure during the appropriate seasons. Don't miss the chance to witness these magnificent marine giants in action if you're visiting during these months!
Tortuga Island
If you're in search of a delightful day soaking up the sun, consider a day trip to Tortuga Island from Santa Teresa. It's a fantastic escape for a day, offering both relaxation and adventure. Your journey begins with a serene boat ride to the island, which includes pauses at some of the finest snorkeling spots en route. These crystal-clear waters are perfect for exploring the vibrant underwater world.
Once you arrive at Tortuga Island, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and then spend some time swimming in the peaceful waters that envelop the island. Don't forget to greet the friendly wild pig who calls the island home – it's a unique encounter that adds charm to the experience. This trip is sure to be a memorable highlight, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and a touch of wildlife interaction.
