Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys
Visiting the beaches of the South Nicoya Peninsula
Today you'll set out on a relaxed journey to the breathtaking Pacific beaches of Mal Pais and Santa Teresa on Costa Rica's heavenly Nicoya Peninsula. Families, couples, adventurers, celebrities, and surfers alike are all drawn to this distinctive destination. To reach the Peninsula you will cross the Bridge of Friendship. Along the way you will have amazing views over the Gulf of Nicoya. Then continue your road trip to the southern tip of the Peninsula, passing through the mountainous and sparsely populated interior. The real pull of Nicoya is its spectacular coastline - the beautiful beaches and dramatic coastal scenery will win you over the moment you set eyes on it.
Mal Pais and Santa Teresa are two adjacent fishing villages, both with a lovely relaxed and elegant atmosphere that sort of blend together as one, since there is only one main road that runs along the coast. It is easy to see why these beaches were named the Top Ten Most Pristine Beaches in the World by Forbes magazine. The small, picturesque, sleepy seaside town of Mal Pais with its jagged, rocky coastline and volcanic formations is surrounded by unspoiled nature. The slightly larger Santa Teresa is busier with a scattering of surf shops, cafes and some great restaurants. A comment we find very well placed here is: it is as if all great cooks decided to retire here'. Even so, it's still a farming community at heart and you'll see chickens crossing the road and farmers trotting through town on horseback or herding cattle along the beach. Both places are known for their stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets and delicious, international cuisine. Because the two places are a little far apart, it is common to see people moving around by ATV. You can rent one yourself as well!