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Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula is located on the north-central pacific slope of Costa Rica. The upper two thirds are administered by the province of Guanacaste, while the more exotic southern third belongs to the province of Puntarenas. Our focus is the southern region, not only because we know it well, but more so because we believe that it has the most beautiful nature, coupled with the most thriving international community in all of Central America.
From secluded beaches to sophisticated five star beach resorts with golf courses, the southern Nicoya Peninsula has become the most inclusively diverse area for tourism in all of Costa Rica. It's coastline is studded with an extraordinary variety of beaches, all of them bathed by the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. People from all over the world come here to surf, scuba dive, snorkel, fish and sail.
Surrounded by contrasting volcanic hills and mountain ranges with breathtaking views, visitors are amazed by the beauty and diversity of the flora and fauna of the pacifc forest. It is a veritable paradise for bird and butterfly watchers. Monkeys, Coatis, Agoutis, Anteaters, Deer, Jaguarundis and many other animals live in these forests, decorated by flowering trees and plants.
An early morning or late afternoon horseback ride along the beaches or along lush tropical forest trails is a tempting thrill for every nature lover. Then relax on your veranda and enjoy the rich variety of tropical fruit, or sip a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Montezuma, Cabuya, Malpaíand Santa Teresa offer a variety of good restaurants, some of them outstanding even by international standards. Make sure to at least once dine at "Playa de los Artistas", a restaurant in Montezuma, where exquisite Italian cuisine is served in an exotic and romantic atmosphere. Another place worth mentioning is "Luz de Mono", which features a great bar and nightly entertainment. It is also an architectural and artistic landmark that graces downtown Montezuma. There are many fiestas throughout the year, but regardless of the occasion, there are bars and discos with nightly music and dancing.
If you prefer quiet surroundings, the sleepy hamlet of Cabuya is just down the road. From there you enter the Cabo Blanco National Park, with it's lush tropical rainforest and pristine beaches. On the other side of the Cabo are the villages of Malpaí Santa Teresa and Manzanillo. Malpaíand Santa Teresa are a favorite with surfers. Miles of beautiful sandy beaches that are never crowded. There are a variety of excellent hotels and restaurants. The nightlife in Santa Teresa emulates the groove of places like Goa and Ibiza. Don't miss the full moon parties!