Santa Teresa Photo Spots
Nestled along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast on the Nicoya Peninsula, the small beach town of Santa Teresa checks all the boxes of a tropical paradise: beautiful beaches, lush jungles, vibrant surf culture, and much more! Once a sleepy fishing village, this gem in the Puntarenas province has transformed into a tourist hotspot while maintaining its laid-back vibes and rustic allure with untouched jungle-backed shores and lovely dirt roads. In simpler terms, this is the perfect place to feel and capture the essence of the Costa Rican catchphrase “pura vida.” 🇨🇷 Today, we asked our local photographers to show us all the best places to take photos in Santa Teresa!
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TLDR
- Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to the aptly named Playa Hermosa.
- Find a lesser-known natural wonder at El Peñon.
- Discover a slice of untouched paradise at Playa Manzanillo.
- Hit the most popular stretch of sand in town at Santa Teresa Norte.
- Wander through the secluded and rocky shores of Playa La Majagua.
1. Playa Hermosa
A stone’s throw from the bustle of Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa is a pocket of serenity and natural splendour. The name means “beautiful beach” in Spanish, and once you step onto its shores, you’ll understand why: the wide stretch of white sands and clear waters offers tidal pools and is backed by swaying palm trees and dense vegetation, forming the most perfect coastal scenery you can imagine. 🌴
The beach is also a surfer’s paradise in the most literal sense. While snapping away, you’ll capture a bit of the surfing vibes in your photos. After your photoshoot, what better way to enjoy this tropical paradise than by catching some waves with a surf lesson? 🏄♀️
2. El Peñon
One of the most dramatic backdrops and beautiful places to take photos in Santa Teresa? The off-the-beaten-path wonder of El Peñon! The name refers to a prominent rock formation set against a beautiful beach, and together they offer a breathtaking view. Besides the rugged rocks, the pristine beach itself is filled with incredible photo opportunities, and a stroll along its uncrowded shores will allow you to capture El Peñon from different angles. You’ll also find lovely sea grapes and a diverse range of coastal flora, all adding to the charm of this hidden gem. 😍
Fly tip: Want a thrilling way to explore Santa Teresa? Leave the car in the parking lot and find one of the many ATV rentals around! An ATV is perfect for getting off the main roads and discovering unpaved paths that will lead you through jungles and even across rivers. Just remember to stick to marked trails to protect wildlife habitats and vegetation. 😉
Photo: Raisa in Santa Teresa for Flytographer. Kaleigh and family capture memories in Santa Teresa with an anniversary photoshoot.
3. Playa Manzanillo
Just a short drive from Santa Teresa, Playa Manzanillo boasts all the natural beauty the Puntarenas province is known for: crystal-clear and calm waters, tidal pools, white sands, and swaying palm trees. This beach is the tropical wonderland we all dream about and one of the most stunning places to take photos in Santa Teresa!
The best part is that this Costa Rican paradise still lacks the development and large crowds of other parts, making it feel like a private oasis. 😌 This location is ideal not only for immersing yourself in nature and some snorkelling and swimming but also for – you guessed it – amazing beach photo sessions.
Fly tip: Want to make the most of these beachy surroundings for your pics? Read these incredible tips on how to slay your beach photoshoot. 👌
Photo: Raisa in Santa Teresa for Flytographer. Kaleigh and family capture memories in Santa Teresa with an anniversary photoshoot.
4. Santa Teresa Norte
The most popular stretch of beach in Santa Teresa is Playa Santa Teresa, not only considered one of the best beaches in Costa Rica but also one of the best places to take photos in Santa Teresa. Its northern end, Santa Teresa Norte, has fewer crowds and is nothing short of postcard perfect. 🤩
For a livelier spot, walk south until you reach the nearby Playa Carmen, home of the Banana Beach Restaurant and Resort. You can soak in Santa Teresa’s trendy vibes and admire the scenery with a delicious smoothie in hand. 🍹
Fly tip: For more beach bliss, don’t skip a visit to the village of Mal Pais, just a 20-minute drive from Santa Teresa. There, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and fantastic canopy tours where you can explore a verdant haven. 🌳
5. Playa La Majagua
Even though it’s close to Santa Teresa Beach, Playa Majagua offers a distinct backdrop with its rocky shores, blue waters, and lush jungle, making it one of the most picturesque spots on the Nicoya Peninsula. 👍
The rocky shores provide refreshing tidal pools during low tide, and along the beach, you’ll find exuberant vegetation. This beach has the perfect recipe: sea, shade, and a dash of pura vida magic! 🏝️
Fly tip: Planning a few day trips while visiting Santa Teresa? Be sure to include Playa Tambor on your itinerary. Located in the small community of Tambor, this unique beach sits in a large, secluded bay and features grey-coloured sands.
Photo: Raisa in Santa Teresa for Flytographer. Kaleigh and family capture memories in Santa Teresa with an anniversary photoshoot.
Capturing Memories in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is also the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning Puntarenas province further.
🚨 Here are some must-visit spots:
- Montezuma: This small beach town is a nature lover’s paradise with pristine white-sand beaches, jungle trails, scenic waterfalls, and top-notch animal reserves.
- Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: Costa Rica’s first nature reserve, featuring fantastic trails through tropical forests and a quiet beach.
- Tortuga Island: Known for its Caribbean-like beaches and unspoiled nature. For a better experience, visit outside of the rainy season.
And some gems beyond Puntarenas:
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: A must-visit spot and one of Costa Rica’s seven wonders. It features a lush forest with constant mist due to high humidity – truly a sight to behold!
- San Jose: The capital of Costa Rica, brimming with historical sites, incredible architecture, and vibrant markets. Forget Google Maps and get lost in downtown San Jose to fully experience the local culture.
While we’re at it, here’s a gentle reminder to practice sustainable tourism. Leave no trace, respect the wildlife, local customs, and culture, and support local artisans and businesses. Remember the motto: Wander wisely, impact positively! 💚
For more Costa Rican inspiration, check out our blogs on the best places to take pictures in Guanacaste and Tamarindo. 😁 Wherever you go, connect with our local photographers and let them work their magic capturing some of your most special moments while on the road. ✨
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