Squeezed between the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica boasts one of the most biodiverse and well-preserved natural environments in the world – the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Spend a day at the capital, San Jose, to learn more about the country’s Pre-Columbian past, then shoot to the coast to discover the essence of Pura Vida in the charming hippie town of Santa Teresa: a place that breathes simple living. 

Wake up to the sound of the waves and head out to a mellow sunrise session in one of the best beach breaks in Costa Rica. At sundown, gather at the beach and mingle with locals, expats, and international travellers over beers and jam sessions to feel the laid-back atmosphere which captivates so many people. 

A hallmark of Costa Rican tourism is the quality of accommodation – and Santa Teresa lives up to its international recognition. Groups of expats who fell in love with the aura of the country set up hotels and lodges that showcase a mix of sophistication and simplicity in their design and business philosophies.

If an ocean view is what you seek, sit back and relax in Sandy Lane’s three-sided infinity pool while watching the waves roll in across the road. At Hermosa Beach Villa, take an early morning dip at Playa Hermosa only a few steps from your room, then lounge at the poolside deck and let your troubles drift away with the breeze. Groups of friends and families have everything within reach at the four-bedroom Luxury Chill House: comfort, a view of the ocean, sounds of the forest, and restaurants only a few minutes away.

Costa Rica’s beaches are a delight on their own – but the quality of their waves make them so much better. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, the breaks in and around Santa Teresa offer the consistency, accessibility and perfection for at least two sessions per day. Looking to bring your surf skill and your trip to the next level? Jump in a VIP tour and charter a yacht to take you on your private surf mission to renowned spots such as Ollies Point and Witches Rock. Experienced surf coaches and guides will lead the way to ensure you find the best waves and leave with the brightest memories.  

One of the beauties of a trip to Santa Teresa is that the whole place revolves around keeping the body, mind and spirit connected and balanced. To recharge your energies after a surf, pop into one of the cafes and restaurants and discover a dynamic cuisine that merges local ingredients with international tendencies to create amazing dishes to give your health a boost. 

Healthy living goes beyond the table. Take the afternoon to re-connect with body and mind in customised yoga or Pilates practises, or simply relax with a massage session in one of the local spas. If you wish to keep the adrenaline pumping, join one of the daily horse riding and zip-lining tours, or visit the wildlife-rich nature reserves around Santa Teresa.  

Indeed, Costa Rica is all about nature – so why not see what else is there besides the sea? Either before or after reaching Santa Teresa for a surf binge, take a detour to La Fortuna and stop by the Arenal Volcano National Park. Slump into one of the hot springs at the foot of the active Arenal Volcano, then hike through the rainforest surrounding Chato Volcano for a plunge into the natural pool of La Fortuna Waterfall. 

Head up the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range to Monteverde and find refuge from the coastal heat by going on a guided trail in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, where you will encounter the exuberant flora and fauna that makes Costa Rica so famous. And since the country is also celebrated for its coffee, don’t forget to pop into one of the farms along the way for a guided tour and tasting.