Montezuma might not be the first (or even the second or third) choice for people to visit when going to Costa Rica. Lucky for the travelers who actually choose to go, because the authenticity of this town is genuine. While tourism has increased rapidly in Costa Rica in general, Montezuma remains relatively unexplored and has that off-the-beaten-path vibe with a laid back atmosphere. The locals live the Pura Vida here and everything seems so easy-going. The town center is minimal, meaning you really get that small town feeling. Although there are several things to do in the area.
How to get to Montezuma
Montezuma is located on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, only a 30-minute car ride from the more famous and hip surf town Santa Teresa. Many people go to Santa Teresa during their Costa Rica visit and if you plan on doing the same I highly suggest clearing the travel schedule for 2 days in Montezuma. There are shared shuttles departing from Santa Teresa to Montezuma daily.
If you are traveling from San Jose the most convenient and fastest way is to share a shuttle bus. You will have to take a ferry of approximately 1.5 hours to get to the Nicoya peninsula. Most shuttle services drop you off at the ferry and then they will have another shuttle pick you up when you arrive. The travel time will in total be around 6 hours and cost around 50 dollars per person. If you are on a budget, the public bus is the best choice.
To do in Montezuma
Go swimming in the Montezuma Waterfalls
A 30-minute walk from Montezuma town centre you’ll find Montezuma Waterfalls. There are three cascades making up the Montezuma Waterfalls. The lowest cascade is the most easy accessible one, and it stands 24 meters tall. If you wish to see the upper cascades as well you need to climb upwards along a small trail. For this it is highly recommended to have proper hiking shoes, no flip flops!
Hike to Playa Grande
If you walk along the trail Sendero Verde (the Green Trail) you will eventually reach Playa Grande. The hike takes about 30 minutes from Montezuma town center. Playa Grande is a huge beach, both long and wide, and it is nearly deserted. Due to its accessibility – it is not possible to go there by neither car nor scooters, you have to walk – very few people tend to visit. If you want some alone time to sunbathe topless, this beach is perfect.
Watch the sunrise on the rocks by Playa Montezuma
If you head to Playa Montezuma and look across the ocean you might spot some lights on the horizon. This is the town Jaco on the mainland Costa Rica. Eventually you will also spot the sun, because this is where it will rise. Watching the sunrise is a magical activity in Montezuma. I can highly recommend to head to the beach really early when it’s still dark to witness the entire sunrise process.
Have a beach day at Playa Montezuma
Playa Montezuma is the main beach in town. The beach is divided into two parts, separated by rocks. It is however possible to walk between the both of them. I would recommend to visit the left part (seen if you are facing the water). This section is larger and more beautiful.
Take a Yoga Class
Costa Rica is perfect if you want to immerse yourself into wellness and yoga. Starting the day with a morning yoga class will make you ready for whatever adventures the rest of the day has to offer. The best place for this is at YU Wellness Studio located in a beautiful jungle scenery.
Where to stay in Montezuma
The best place to stay in Montezuma is definitely Luz en el Cielo, which is an Eco B&B/Hostel. The owners were absolutely amazing and got to know every guest. It’s a different feeling when you are greeted with your name and not just a hello or good morning. The price is very affordable and breakfast is included where you got three different options.
Luz en el Cielo is not in the town centre but just a few minutes away and a bit up a hill into the jungle. This means having monkeys as your neighbor.
If you want to stay right in the town centre another accommodation option is Hotel El Jardin. This hotel is more mid-range while Luz en el Cielo is budget.
Best restaurants and bars in Montezuma
Cocolores – A romantic restaurant with an international infusion menu.
Cafe Organico – Vegan and vegetarian restaurant with a great vibe.
El Sano Banano – Have dinner at the outdoor terrace and enjoy live music and beer from a local brewery.
Ice Dream Gelato & Coffee Shop – The best ice cream in town.
Chico’s Bar – Perfect for some drinks and karaoke.
