Where To Stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica

Santa Teresa is one of the best and most popular beach towns in Costa Rica. Every year thousands of tourists and expats come here to surf, enjoy a laid back and relaxed time and even have fun with friends and family. The most important thing to do before coming here is figuring out the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.

If you can’t decide where to stay between Tamarindo or Santa Teresa, my guide on which is right for you is a good place to start.

If you want more information on how to get to Santa Teresa or learn about the things to do here, a good place to start is my guide on: is Santa Teresa worth visiting?

In this article I am going to tell you exactly where to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica. I’ll cover the best budget accommodations, hostels and the best hotels in Santa Teresa in general.

A lot of people see Santa Teresa and many other beach towns in Costa Rica as white washed and having lost its cultural charm. Because of that, many of the hotels in Santa Teresa and even the restaurants, are mostly owned by expats from the US and Europe. This means that prices can be expensive, especially in the peak tourist season.

Before you choose a place from this list to stay at in Santa Teresa, you should understand how the town works a little bit. Santa Teresa used to be one long dirt road stretch that runs parallel to the beach. But now, the road is in pretty good condition, still very busy and there are no sidewalks. But the main thing is that it’s not dirt until the end of town near Playa Hermosa. There is no real town center. Instead, the area is split into zones like Playa Carmen, central Santa Teresa, and the quieter northern end.

Hostels in Santa Teresa Costa Rica

Hostels are one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa if you want to keep costs low, meet people and if you’re staying a long time. The standard here is high compared to other parts of Central America. The hostels are honestly not that bad compared to other places in the world I’ve been.

Salty’s Enthusiasts Hostel

Salty Enthusiasts Hostel is one of the most well-known and upscale looking hostels in Santa Teresa. It is close to the beach and you get an opportunity to meet new people and just vibe. The layout encourages people to hang out. There is a shared kitchen and lounge area that helps keep costs down. If you are traveling solo, this is one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica. You can walk to the beach in minutes and meet other travelers easily. Here are some of the best beaches in Santa Teresa, if where you stay depends on that.

Salty’s Enthusiasts hostel check in time is between 2pm and 8pm. Check out time is 11 am. The rooms are huge and spacious. Some rooms have a separate cooking area right outside them. Most people say the rooms are always clean and people come to clean it every single day. The hostel is located in a really central area that’s very safe.

The women’s house, is really praised. There is free access to yoga equipment, it’s spacious and calm. The place is always clean, the staff is great and help you a lot. You can ask the staff for recommendations on things to do, best places to eat and they’ll help you out any time.

The only negative thing about this hostel is that there is no hot water to shower with in some dorms. It’s so easy to install electric warm showers. If it wasn’t for this inconvenience, I would say this could be one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.

It costs $30 USD a night to stay here.

Zeneidas Surf Garden

Zeneidas Surf Garden is probably what every surfer’s dream hostel is. Just a bunch of young surfing enthusiasts living and breathing pura vida and surfing together. It feels more laid back and less social, which works well if you want to surf early and rest after. The garden setting also gives you a very nature like feeling.

This hostel is located right on the beach. Staff are helpful and friendly. There is a party place right opposite the street, which most backpackers really love. Surf instructors are also really accommodating and easy to work with. One of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa if you want to learn surfing and party at the same time.

Zeneidas Surf Garden sits in a very convenient part of Santa Teresa, close to the southern end where everyone is hanging out. You can walk to Playa Carmen, grab food nearby, and pick up basics from small supermarkets without needing a car.

The shared space is well set up and has a relaxed feel, which makes it easy to spend time there between beach sessions. Some of the more unique stays, like the van, add character to the experience and suit travelers looking for something different. One thing to keep in mind is that its location near the beach also means mosquitoes can be an issue, especially at night. If you are staying in more open-style rooms or the van, bring or purchase some mosquito repellent or a mosquito net.

Somos Hostel

Somos Hostel is probably the highest rated Hostel in Santa Teresa. The way this hostel looks and feels make it seem like a boutique hotel rather than a hostel. Full wood design and modern style really makes it stand out as a top of the line stay despite it being a hostel.

Somos is one of the most social places to stay in Santa Teresa. It has a pool and a restaurant on site. This coupled with its shared spaces outside will allow you to meet people easily. Most nights here would have events and a DJ playing, especially on weekends. The music ends at midnight so others around do not get disturbed. This is really one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.

The designs of the bathrooms are sort of en-suite, which is rare for this price point if you think about it. Staff keep both rooms and shared areas clean always.

Somos is located in the northern end of Santa Teresa. It is quieter than Playa Carmen but still close enough to the beach, which is only a short walk away. Getting to the more central areas takes a bit more effort, either by walking, bike, or local transport.

Some of the downsides to staying here are the kitchen can get messy when it’s really busy in Santa Teresa. Also, the prices can get very expensive. Some people do not think this place is worth its price for the most part. But for most travelers, this hostel will be one of the best hostels in Santa Teresa and they will 100% return.

Budget Hotels in Santa Teresa

Now, we’re out of the shared spaces and dorm rooms type of places and getting into some proper hotels. If you want privacy like your own room and bathroom, a cheaper hotel or lodge is the best option for you.

Don John’s Surf and Yoga Lodge

Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Lodge is the hotel part of this entire establishment. There is also a hostel here too. But not to mix things up, this is not the hostel. This is for the tree house apartment.

Don Jon’s Lodge is one of the most centrally located budget stays in Santa Teresa, and that alone shapes the experience. You are about a three-minute walk from the beach, close to Playa Carmen, and within easy reach of restaurants, small supermarkets, and nightlife. If you want to stay somewhere where everything is within walking distance, this is one of the most practical places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.

The property offers a mix of accommodation styles, from shared dorms to private apartments and rustic cabins. One of the more unique options is the treehouse-style rooms, which sit further back on the property and feel more removed from the road. These spaces are simple but comfortable, with natural airflow, fans, and bug screens instead of full air conditioning in some units. The setting feels tropical, with gardens, hammocks, and wildlife like hummingbirds and monkeys adding to the atmosphere.

One standout feature here is the daily yoga. Sessions run throughout the day and take place in open spaces that fit the setting. For travelers who want to mix surfing with something slower, this adds real value. The overall vibe leans toward relaxed and social, with enough space on the property to either meet people or keep to yourself.

That said, this is still a budget stay, and it shows in certain areas. Dorm rooms and shared facilities are more basic, with limited storage and smaller bathrooms. The kitchen setup can feel under-equipped during busy periods, which matters if you plan to cook. Some guests also note that the online photos focus more on private rooms, so expectations should be set accordingly if you book a dorm.

The location is both a strength and a drawback. Being in the center of Santa Teresa means easy access to everything, but it also brings constant noise from traffic, especially ATVs and motorbikes. Even though parts of the property sit further back, you will still hear it. If you value convenience over quiet, this trade-off makes sense. Overall, Don Jon’s Lodge works best for travelers who want a central base, easy beach access, and a mix of social energy and flexibility without paying mid-range hotel prices.

Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach

Santa Teresa by the Beach is a very highly rated hotel. If you look at the interior, it looks like it could be from a luxury Caribbean island. I don’t know about the reviews for this hotel, but all of them seem overly positive and well typed out. Almost every single review gives it a 10/10 excellent rating. That’s kind of suspicious to me. I’ll just have to go with what I see with my own eyes.

Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach is one of the more polished looking mid range hotels. The location is really great. The Location seems to be a big part of what people consider when booking a hotel in Santa Teresa. You are just a short walk from the beach, close to Playa Carmen, with a supermarket across the road and restaurants nearby. It puts you right in the middle of Santa Teresa without needing to rely on your own transport.

The rooms here are very clean and large. They come with air conditioning, separate sitting areas and even small kitchen spaces. Compared to other places in Santa Teresa, this hotel feels out of place for how much it stands out and the level of comfort.

Breakfast is included. Breakfast is a full buffet with a good range of things to choose from. Many people that stayed here say it’s one of the best parts about their stay. Sitting outside in the morning, you may even spot monkeys in the trees, which adds to the experience without needing to leave the property. Although I highly recommend leaving the property and doing tours and stuff. There is also a small pool on-site for when the beach is too rough or if you just don’t feel like getting sandy.

The hotel also offers access to spa treatments like massages and facials. This is great for relaxing and unwinding after a long day of surfing or driving through mud on an ATV.

The only trade-off is that ocean views are limited in some rooms due to the surrounding trees, but given how close the beach is, is it really an issue? Overall, this is one of the best hotels in Santa Teresa if you want comfort, a generally good location, and reliable service without paying full luxury pricing.

Lua Villas

Lua Villas offers a more private and quiet stay compared to the busier parts of Santa Teresa. It is Located near Playa Hermosa, just a short walk from the beach. Things would be quieter here while still being close enough to visit Santa Teresa when you want. This area feels less crowded and more residential, which makes it one of the better places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica if you want space and a break from the main road. It’s surrounded by jungle and really gives an adventurous vibe.

The property itself is built around a tropical garden, with villas, apartments, and studios for people who want to stay a long time. Rooms come with full kitchens, air conditioning, and comfortable living areas, which makes a big difference if you plan to stay for a few days or more. Many travelers end up cooking here instead of eating out every night, because we all know how expensive these places are. Each unit is very private because of the layout of the hotel.

Shared spaces are really nice and big enough to stay separated if you don’t want to mingle with people. The pool area is well designed and easy to spend time in, while the yoga deck is just another bonus. This is one of the few places in Santa Teresa that feels set up for short stays, couples trips and things like yoga retreats or group trips. The overall setting leans more toward a small jungle eco lodge retreat than a typical hotel.

Service is generally helpful and hands-on. Staff will help you set up transport and tours, give local tips, and activity planning, which can make your stay smoother, especially if it is your first time in the area. Daily cleaning and on-site support is very convenient and many guests talk about how responsive the staff are in their reviews. It’s also very close to TP8 Pizza restaurant if you like pizza.

There are a few things to keep in mind. Because it is set away from central Santa Teresa, you will need transport if you plan to go back and forth often. Some rooms can also vary in comfort depending on their exact location on the property, and there are occasional maintenance issues around the hotel. Even with that, Lua Villas still offers good value for money and for travelers who want a quieter place to stay. Lua Villas is like a jack of all trades place to stay. It’s good for literally any type of experience you want to have.

Mid-Range places to stay in Santa Teresa

Hotel Tropico Latino

The best thing about this hotel is that it’s right up on the beach with an amazing pool and outside lounging area. This just makes it super cool for parties and having some fun night time vibes. On the other hand, the biggest negative about this stay is that it’s very close to the road. This means it gets very noisy and some people said they were unable to sleep very well because of that, even with earplugs. And, if you know Santa Teresa’s main road, it’s a dirt road for some of it and there are no sidewalks. The traffic is right up against the hotels and restaurants.

The property stretches along a wide section of beach, with tropical gardens and tall trees creating a natural barrier from the road, so this helps with the noise a little. Even though multiple guests stay here, a lot of guests find it to be very private.

The accommodation is made up of bungalows and rooms built with dark hardwoods. I find that really cool because it gives it a nature jungle feel. Some units feel more in line with that tropical setting, especially the ones closer to the beach, while others can feel more basic or a little old. Rooms are generally spacious, and some include small kitchen areas, which is always good for people staying a longer time.

This hotel has direct beach access, a pool, a spa, yoga sessions and an outdoor restaurant in the sand. The yoga in particular stands out, with experienced instructors and a great beach setting to do it at. The on-site restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients, including produce from its own garden. You can walk to nearby restaurants and shops, and there is a grocery store close by.

There are a few trade-offs to keep in mind. Some rooms could use updates, and Wi-Fi can be sketchy, which matters if you plan to work during your stay. Occasional maintenance issues have also been noted, especially during heavy rain. Even with that, the beachfront setting, all the cool activities offered, and overall layout make this one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.

Bohemia Experience

Bohemia Experience hotel is a place located on a hillside that leans more toward a quiet retreat than a typical hotel experience. From here you can get wide views of both the ocean and the jungle, which makes sunrise and sunset a special thing here. The design focuses on natural materials and simple comfort, with bungalows that include air conditioning, private patios, and a clean, minimal layout.

The setting is one of its biggest strengths. Some people think it’s a good thing that it’s removed from the busy main road, which gives you a quieter place to stay compared to central Santa Teresa. This makes it a strong option for couples or solo travelers who want to disconnect and slow things down. The staff is also great, with many guests noting how helpful and welcoming they are throughout the stay.

That said, getting here is not easy. The property sits up a steep dirt road, and access can be challenging without a 4×4 or ATV. Even once you arrive, there are lots of stairs and uneven paths to reach your room. It is not the most convenient place to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica, especially if you plan to move around often. I read online that some people left because of how difficult it was.

Overall, Bohemia Experience works best for travelers who value views, quiet, and a more remote setting. Honestly, I don’t think this place is worth it because of how expensive it is and how much effort it takes to move around. I’d rather choose one of the other cheaper options.

Casa Marbella

Casa Marbella is a really highly rated boutique hotel in Santa Teresa. It has great ratings and good reviews and it’s cheaper than a lot of places on this list.

Casa Marbella is one of the best places to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica if you want views without losing access to town. It’s located on a hillside, the property looks out over the ocean, and the infinity pool is the main drawing point at the front. It is the kind of place where you end and start your day, because it feels so homely and cozy.

The layout is small and well planned, with only a handful of units, which is great for those of you who don’t really like crowds and the party scene. Rooms follow a simple, tropical style with comfortable beds and clean finishes. It feels more like a private villa than a hotel, especially if you are traveling with a group. At the same time, solo travelers and couples fit in just as easily.

One of the strongest points here is the balance between location and privacy. You are only about a five to seven minute walk from the beach, restaurants, and shops, but you are far enough above the main road to avoid dust and noise because you’re on a hill. That small elevation shift makes a big difference in Santa Teresa, where the main road can get busy during the day and loud and annoying at night.

The experience goes beyond the rooms. There is a yoga deck with ocean views, free coffee and tea available, and small touches like filtered water and local guides that help you settle in. Staff are very helpful with helping guests with anything they need.

There are only minor downsides. Service details like towel changes are not always consistent unless you ask, but this is a small trade-off for the setting and space you get. Overall, Casa Marbella is one of the best hotels in Santa Teresa if you want a quiet and calm place.

Luxury places to stay Santa Teresa Costa Rica

Hotel Nantipa

Hotel Nantipa is a beachfront boutique hotel near Playa Carmen where you can walk to restaurants and have a quiet stay.

This hotel is a lot more expensive than most places in Santa Teresa. But, is it that much better than one of the regular hotels in the area? I don’t think so or at least not by a $300 difference.

Nantipa – A Tico Beach Experience is one of the most high-end beachfront stays in Santa Teresa and it’s actually quite fancy. The property is built directly on the sand, with lush tropical gardens leading straight to a wide stretch of clean, swimmable beach. It is one of the few places in town where you actually feel like you’re in a resort.

Rooms are spacious, modern, and well maintained. Even the entry-level rooms feel upscale. Housekeeping is consistent and detailed, with rooms often serviced more than once per day. The overall standard here is high, especially compared to most hotels in the area. But, do you need all these services while staying in Santa Teresa and does it warrant that price? Make sure to ask yourself these questions.

The pool is a standout. It is large, well designed, and always at a comfortable temperature. Even travelers who usually skip pools tend to spend time here. The beachfront setup is really good, with loungers, umbrellas, and direct access to the ocean. Out of all the places in Santa Teresa, Nantipa probably has the most wide open space.

Service is always good here. Staff are attentive, personal, and proactive. Small touches like welcome surprises, farewell gifts, or arranging early breakfast boxes make a real difference. The team also handles reservations at Manzú Restaurant, which is one of the best sunset dining spots in Santa Teresa. Sitting at a table on the sand at sunset is an amazing experience.

That said, this level of comfort comes at a price. Nantipa is one of the most expensive hotels in Santa Teresa, and some travelers feel the value does not fully match the cost. Extras like yoga classes are not always included, which can feel out of place at this price point. Pool seating can also be limited when it’s really busy in Santa Teresa.

Food at the restaurant is well presented, but reviews are mixed on taste compared to the overall standard of the hotel. It is good, but nothing special.

Overall, Nantipa is best for travelers who want a true beachfront experience with high-end comfort, and everything you’d expect from that price tag. If your budget allows, it is one of the most complete luxury stays in Santa Teresa, especially for a short, relaxing part of your trip.

Airbnbs

Airbnbs are one of the most common places to stay in Santa Teresa and the all over the world nowadays. They give you flexibility, space, and often better value for large groups.

Many Airbnbs sit on hills above the main road and are quieter. This means better views but harder access. You will often need a 4×4, especially in the rainy season. I learned this the hard way after booking a place that looked close on the map but took 20 minutes to reach on a rough road.

The best Airbnbs usually include a private pool, open-air living spaces, and good Wi-Fi. In far out places like Santa Teresa, it’s hard to get all these in one. These are ideal if you plan to stay for a week or more. They also work well if you want to cook some of your meals.

If you are deciding where to stay in Santa Teresa Costa Rica for longer trips, Airbnb is often the best choice and what I usually recommend for everyone.

Casa Khoisan Ocean View Jungle Villa – $172 USD a night

This place is really inside the jungle here and gets lots of animals, especially early in the morning. The design is modern but still feels tropical, with natural materials and open spaces. You also get a private pool overlooking the ocean. It’s only a short drive to the main beach and town, so you get both privacy and convenience. The host is praised by all the reviews and is really accommodating. This is a great pick for couples or anyone who wants a quiet stay with strong views

Milla La María Beachside Villas – $500 USD a night

This is the best Airbnb in Santa Teresa and one of the most expensive. This place boasts very fast and reliable Wi-Fi and just 3 minutes’ walk to the beach. I really only recommend staying here if you have a large group and you all want to stay for a short while. If there are enough of you it can actually be really affordable for each person.

The setup feels more like a small boutique complex, with a shared pool, fast Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchens. You still get privacy, but with extra services like cleaning and optional concierge help if needed.

Places to stay in Mal Pais Costa Rica

Mal País sits just south of Santa Teresa and is a really nice and quiet alternative. It feels less developed and more local. The coastline is rockier, but there are just so many less expats and tourists here.

Hotel Vista de Olas

Hotel Vista de Olas is one of the most unique stays in the area. It’s high above the coast and some great wide ocean views. The road up is steep, but that’s fine because I think it’s worth it. The pool is probably the most loved aspect of this hotel. The bar by the pool also serves really good cocktails that you can have while swimming in the pool.

Ocio Villas Mal Pais

Really great place here. All 10s for reviews online too. Ocio Villas Mal Pais is a good choice if you want privacy, views, and a quieter stay just outside Santa Teresa. Located in the hills of Mal País, the villas are cozy and tucked away in the jungle, with ocean views and private plunge pools in some units. The design is clean and modern, and the overall setup works well for couples or small groups looking for a more secluded, upscale experience. Staff here are really responsive and helpful to arrange tours and other stuff.

The main trade-off is location. You are not within walking distance of the beach or town, so you will need a 4×4, ATV, or taxis to get around. That said, many travelers see this as part of the appeal, since you get a calm, quiet base away from the dust and crowds. It is best suited for those who value space and privacy over convenience, especially for a short, relaxing stay. I think the main reason to stay in Mal Pais and away from Santa Teresa is to get away from noise and crowds of party goers.

If not and you still want to visit Mal Pais, it makes for one of the coolest day trips from Santa Teresa.

Check out my my guide on the best things to do in Santa Teresa since you’re already looking at places here.