Mal Pais & Santa Teresa

These are both very small, very sleepy beach towns that are very popular for the more relaxed crowd and surfing crowd in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Mal Pais literally means 'bad country' for reasons that are unclear to this writer as there's nothing bad about this place. Located at the very southern point of the Nicoya Peninsula, this spot is a bit more remote than most, and the residents like it that way. This is a great beach to swim, snorkel and of course surf. The beach area is often compared to beaches in Hawaii and there are near by waterfalls, swimming pools, hiking trails and more for nature lovers nearby. There are several lodging options in the area including:

2 Star Hotel Options

Villas Monarka
Pachamama Bungalows
Frank's Place
Blue Jay Lodge
Zula Lodge

3 Star Hotel Options

Beija Flor Resort
La Hacienda B&B
Horizons Yoga Hotel
Vista Olas
Moana Lodge

4 Star Hotel Options

Tropico Latino Lodge