Peaceful Coves & Surf Beaches in Montezuma

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Montezuma
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 323.- per person (excluding flights)

The village of Montezuma, at the southern end of the Pacific Coast, enjoys a relaxed and laid-back vibe. The waves roll gently onto the palm-lined beaches and howler monkeys sit in the trees and loudly greet new visitors. It is no wonder that quite a few Europeans and North Americans have settled here, far from the hustle and bustle of the capital, and the tourist hotspots. Relax on one of the numerous bays or take a hike to the nearby waterfalls.

Day 1 – Arrival in Montezuma on the Nicoya Peninsula

Montezuma is located at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and has been able to preserve its original charm to this day. If you drive from Samara to Montezuma during your Costa Rica holiday, we recommend that you do not drive along the Pacific coast, but through the interior to Montezuma. The last part of the drive is a bit bumpy, but the sight of the green forests, the beaches and the blue sea will quickly make you forget the journey.

You will stay in a comfortable hotel just outside the city centre with a large garden and a direct view of the sea. All rooms have air conditioning and a private bathroom. The hotel features a restaurant (you can have breakfast here, for an extra charge), but in the town you’ll discover numerous places to eat, serving particularly good fresh fish and Mediterranean style cuisine.

Day 2 – Exploring Montezuma & surroundings

Today is at your leisure, and even though Montezuma is quite a small place, there is plenty to do. Head to the waterfalls to enjoy a refreshing dip or if you prefer to swim in salt water, head to the coast in search of the natural pools that form at low tide.

About 45-minutes away by car you will discover the long beaches of Malpais and Santa Teresa, where surfers flock during the day and where the sun sets in the sea in the evening. Once the sun has gone down, the few bars in Montezuma and Santa Teresa come to life.

Day 3 – Optional visit to Cabo Blanco National Park

In the morning you will be woken up by monkeys playing in the mango trees. Today you can decide for yourself if you prefer to spend the day at the nearby beach or if you want to explore the surrounding area.

If you decide to visit Cabo Blanco National Park, it’s best to pack a backpack with enough water and snacks, put on sturdy walking shoes and don’t forget your swimsuit. After about 30 minutes drive you will reach the entrance of the park. From there, the trail leads up and down hill for about five kilometres through the tropical forest. Your efforts will be duly rewarded, as a bright beach and clear water await – perfect for a refreshing dip! After a leisurely picnic and multiple dips in the sea, you can return back to your hotel.

Day 4 – Farewell to Montezuma

Today you say goodbye to Nicoya Peninsula and Montezuma.

If you drive back to San José with your rental car, you can cross the Gulf of Nicoya from Paquera with the public ferry and continue your journey from Puntarenas. Alternatively, if you would prefer not to be dependent on ferry times, you can take the scenic route with a drive around the Golf de Nicoya.