Montezuma is a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, known for its beautiful beaches, rich biodiversity, and vibrant art scene. Every corner of the beach town has a Rasta-bohemian vibe and the city streets are decorated with colorful paintings that embody the bohemian concept. The beauty and the charm of the region along with top things to do in Montezuma attract tourists, adventurers, and those looking to relax in a tropical paradise. That’s why in this article we give you a little guide to help you get the most out of your trip whoever you are.
Most Popular Things To Do In Montezuma
Exploring Montezuma’s Beaches
- Playa Montezuma
Montezuma beach is the main beach of the city and many local and foreign tourists flock to this beach in the afternoon. The beach is a great place to watch the sunset in the evening and spend some free time alone. At night, the beach comes alive with bonfires and parties that last until the wee hours of the morning.
The beach is separated into two parts by a rocky cape and the part south of the town is a calm beach with a small bay and great for swimming. The other part is rough with big ripples and beginners who do not know how to swim well should stay away from those beaches. Montezuma is not suitable for surfing as the bottom of the beach is made up of rough rock formations. There are many other places in Costa Rica perfect for surfing.
- Playa Grande
Playa Grande attracts tourists with its golden sands and blue waters. The beach is a haven for surfers and is suitable for all levels due to consistent waves. Adventure-seeking souls can explore the underwater world via snorkeling or go on a kayak excursion. If relaxation is high on your agenda can sip refreshing cocktails at beachside restaurants while watching the sunset.
- Playa Las Manchas
Playa Las Manchas’ charming tide pools enchant visitors with their secluded charm. The beach is a haven for photographers and the colorful marine life and unique rock formations provide the perfect backdrop for amazing photos and, adventurous souls can explore the tidal pools teeming with fascinating creatures like starfish and hermit crabs. Moreover, the calm waters off the coast allow for snorkeling adventures to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Montezuma Waterfalls
There are 3 waterfalls in Montezuma which have their own beauty due to their different height and location. A visit to these majestic waterfalls, cascading down rocky cliffs amid lush foliage, is highly recommended among things to do in Montezuma. Tourists have full freedom to cool off with a refreshing swim in the natural pools below each of these waterfalls or climb the rock pool and jump into the pool below.
Activities In Montezuma Costa Rica
- Hike in Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco
The Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is Costa Rica’s first national park and the area is a great place for hiking, wildlife viewing, and beautiful deserted beaches.
Danes Trail and Sueco Trail are two popular hiking trails in the park. Whichever trail you choose there is a chance to see wildlife such as white-tailed deer, monkeys, agotis, and birds. A visit to the reserve costs $12. open only from Wednesday to Sunday and easily accessible from Montezuma.
- Surfing
Surfing in Montezuma offers a thrilling adventure for all levels of wave lovers and provides an ideal environment for catching waves year-round. Playa Montezuma’s beaches are not suitable for surfing due to rough seas, but nearby Cabuya and Santa Teresa along with Playa Grande offer the best surfing opportunities.
- Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is an activity not to be missed when looking for things to do in Montezuma. Tortuga Island is the best place for this and can be reached in a short distance. You can find many places in the city that offer guided tours as well as equipment rentals and remember that the rainy season is the best time to see a lot of marine life.
Suggested Read – Scuba Diving In Costa Rica
- Yoga classes
Montezuma is a great place to connect with nature with its scenic landscapes and peaceful places. To get a little push for this, you can find various yoga places around the city and you can learn Spanish, surf, zumba, or belly dancing in their daily yoga classes.
- Whale watching
Montezuma is one of the best destinations in Costa Rica for whale watching. Between December and April, it is possible to see whales coming to Costa Rica from the Northern Hemisphere and from July to November it is possible to see whales traveling in the Southern Hemisphere. Guided tours are available in the city and safe and experienced guides lead the tours and share their years of whale-watching knowledge and experience with you during the tour.
- Zip-lining
During your time at Montezuma, you may find an opportunity to go ziplining on its canopy at sun trails. You may see wild animals like monkeys while speeding through the canopies. Not only that, the tour also offers access to Montezuma Falls and Ziplining operates 7 days a week.
- ATV excursions
Renting an ATV can be fun as a great way to explore Montezuma. ATVs make it easy to explore the attractions, waterfalls, and beach destinations around the city and are also capable of traveling to breweries just a short distance from the city. ATV rentals in Montezuma are available for $80 for 24 hours.
Suggested Read – ATVs In Costa Rica
- Daily Turtle release
Another popular things to do in Montezuma is attending baby turtle releases. Every year a large number of turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs and conservation organizations like ASVO take the eggs from the laid places to their conservation institute and take care of them until they hatch. After hatching, they are released into the sea daily between 3 to 5 pm.
- Visiting local markets
Every Saturday a small organic market comes to life near the beach in Montezuma and the market runs until lunchtime. The market offers fresh organic fruits and vegetables, healthy treats, fresh coconuts, and jewelry and clothing, and the products are almost all local.
Day Trips from Montezuma
- Isla Tortuga
one of the most popular things to do in Montezuma is to take a day trip to the Isla Tortuga island. Even though a trip to Tortuga Island can be made from San Jose, Jaco, or Santa Teresa, it takes only 45 minutes by boat from Montezuma.
Snorkeling is the first activity of the tour and as one of the best places for snorkeling in Costa Rica, It allows you to see turtles, rays, sharks, and thousands of colorful fish swimming with them. The tour can be enhanced to include scuba diving as the second activity of the tour. The tour includes island exploration and lunch and all cost around $80 for the whole tour.
- Cabuya Island and cemetery
Cabuya is a small town south of Montezuma and its main attraction is its cemetery located on an island. The Cemetery is only accessible during high tide when the shale road to Isla de Cabuya emerges. The cemetery is still used from the 1700s and a walk around this tiny island is a strangely fascinating activity. However, if you do visit here, make sure to get out before the entrance to the island is flooded again by the tide.
- Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is the busiest tourist town and is about 40 minutes from Montezuma. Accommodations are often completely reserved, although You need to stay there. So, as an alternative, you can visit Santa Teresa for a day trip from staying in Montezuma.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Montezuma’s nightlife is mixed with bohemian concepts. Every day as the sun goes down, restaurants on the beachfront light up the beach with bonfires, and by midnight the nightlife comes alive with the warmth of the bonfires. Beachfront restaurants organize and host night parties that last until dawn as one of the best things to do in Montezuma.
Local Cuisine and Dining In Montezuma Costa Rica
- Seafood specialties
As a beach town, Montezuma has many types of seafood options. Fresh grilled fish, ceviche, and seafood platters made from the daily caught fish can be enjoyed at the beachfront restaurants along with cocktails.
- Vegetarian and vegan options
Many restaurants have menu options for vegetarian and vegan fans. They will offer you vegan options based on sea plants or fresh vegetables sourced from organic farms.
Accommodation in Montezuma
When it comes to accommodation in Montezuma, there are plenty of options to suit every traveler’s taste and budget, from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy eco-lodges nestled in the jungle. Apart from this, Montezuma is also open for camping in a scenic campsite on the beach.
Safety Tips
As a country located in the tropical climate zone, weather fluctuations can be expected frequently in Costa Rica. Therefore, it is better to be equipped with suitable clothes to face the conditions including sudden rains and exposure to strong sunlight.
And due to the wet environmental conditions, you have to face frequent attacks from the grubs like mosquitoes. For this
Be sure to keep an insect repellant handy and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants during the morning and evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Conclusion
The town has become a tourist attraction with its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich bohemian culture. Whether you’re looking for adventure or peaceful moments in nature, things to do in Montezuma offer endless possibilities for everyone.
FAQs
1. Is Montezuma safe for tourists?
Montezuma is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
2. What is the best time to visit Montezuma?
The best time to visit Montezuma is during the dry season, from December to April when the weather is sunny and dry.
3. Are there ATM machines in Montezuma?
Yes, there are ATMs in Montezuma, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially when visiting more remote areas.
4. Can I drink the tap water in Montezuma?
It’s recommended to drink bottled water in Montezuma to avoid stomach upset, as the tap water may not be safe for consumption.
5. Are there vegetarian and vegan dining options in Montezuma?
Yes, many restaurants and cafes in Montezuma offer vegetarian and vegan dining options, including fresh salads, plant-based dishes, and tropical fruit smoothies, catering to diverse dietary preferences.