Packing Guide for Santa Teresa Costa Rica: Pro-Tips Before You Visit the World’s Best Jungle Surf Town

This is an AI generated image - but it's exactly how I felt the first few times I was packing for Santa Teresa!

Hey guys, Chelsea here! In this post I'm going to give you some tips on what I've learned coming back and forth from Santa Teresa, and what I wish I had of known before my first few trips.

So you’ve booked your trip to Santa Teresa. You’ve got your bathing suit, flip flops, a hat, sunglasses, and maybe a few jean shorts ready to

go, but there are a few things about this little beach town that you can’t quite know until you arrive.

We’ve all been there, showing up sun-dazed and stoked, only to realize there are a few not-so-obvious things that can make life here way easier (and a lot more comfortable). So here’s our local, honest, slightly dusty list of what we wish we’d known to pack before our first time in this magical corner of Costa Rica.

A Bandana or Scarf for Dusty Adventures

If you’re planning to explore beyond the beach say, hopping on an ATV for a day trip, or jumping on a friend’s scooter to check out Montezuma waterfalls, you’ll quickly learn that Santa Teresa has one signature accessory: the dust mask (also known as a scarf you love).

The roads here are rustic and charming… and very dusty. A lightweight bandana or scarf is a simple lifesaver. Wrap it over your nose and mouth, and you’ll instantly go from coughing up road grit to feeling like a bohemian adventurer cruising through paradise. Romantic, whimsical, and breathable... way better than swallowing earth on your ride.

Lightweight Long Pants

We know — it’s hot. Really hot. But trust us: a light, comfy pair of long pants is key. They’re perfect for evenings when the mosquitoes come out, for lounging without sticking to chairs, and for that extra layer when the ocean breeze picks up at night.

Bonus tip: look for a loose, natural fabric that breathes. Something you can pull on after a surf session and still feel beachy, not bundled.

Headlamp or Small Flashlight

Power outages happen. It’s part of the pura vida rhythm — and once you’ve experienced the whole town glowing under candlelight, you’ll see it’s actually kind of beautiful.

That said, a flashlight is handy for getting around at night or finding your way to the outdoor shower.

4-Bed Dorm Rooms at Cafecito Surf. See the USB light above the pillow! It's attached to the wall with magnets, so you can walk around with it. Book your dorm with Cafecito Today.

If you’re staying with us at Cafecito Surf, you’re already covered: every bed comes with its own rechargeable USB reading light, perfect for those peaceful late-night reads or early morning surf checks. So you can skip packing a light altogether — we’ve got you.

A Small Bluetooth Speaker

Santa Teresa is a music town. The kind where sunsets beg for background beats, and late nights call for spontaneous dance parties under the stars.

Bring a small, portable speaker if you can — something that fits easily in your beach bag. Electronics are notoriously expensive in Costa Rica, so packing your own saves a headache.

At Cafecito Surf, we’re all about community and good vibes. We have a bluetooth speaker at the house, but we ask that it stays there. Having your own tunes for those solo beach mornings or mellow hammock hangs is a game-changer.

Sunscreen from Home

This one’s practical and worth the suitcase space. Sunscreen is pricey here — and you’ll go through a lot more than you think. If you have to pick one toiletry to bring from home, make it this.

The good news? At Cafecito Surf, we provide you with premium local shampoo and conditioner from Leffas, a Costa Rican brand that uses natural ingredients and smells like heaven. So leave your haircare at home — your bag will thank you.

Reusable Water Bottle

Costa Rica’s tap water is generally safe to drink, but the mineral taste isn’t for everyone. Bring a reusable bottle — ideally one with a built-in filter if you want to play it safe.

At Cafecito Surf, we’ve just installed a brand new 15UB under-sink filtration system, so you can refill anytime with fresh, filtered water — totally free and plastic-free. Staying hydrated here is easy peasy, and it’s a small way to travel lighter on the planet.

*** Super Pro Tip: Soft sided mini cooler

If you have a soft-sided mini cooler, bring it — it’s one of those small items that feels like a huge luxury once you’re here.

In Santa Teresa, there’s a daily ritual: as the sun begins to set, everyone drifts toward the beach to soak in the magic. Locals and travellers alike show up with a few cervezas, fresh coconuts, or snacks to share, ready to watch the sky turn to gold.

Having a compact cooler makes it easy to join in, keep your drinks cold, your fruit fresh, and your sunset hang extra comfortable.

At Cafecito Surf School & Guesthouse, we’ve got a few of these coolers available for our guests to borrow, so you’re always sunset-ready. 

Quick-Dry Towel

Ditch the traditional bulky towel for a quick-dry version. These towels are not only lightweight but also designed for fast drying.

Perfect for beach lounging, quick swims, or post-surf sessions, a quick-dry towel saves space in your bag and makes life easier. You can easily fold it up without taking much room.

Cafecito Surf School & Guesthouse provides our guests with a bath towel - but this is for showers at the house, not for beach use. So a quick dry beach towel is super helpful.

Reusable Tote or Market Bag

Once you settle into life here, you’ll quickly find yourself wandering into local fruit stands, bakeries, or beach markets. A reusable tote makes it effortless to grab some fresh mangoes or a loaf of pan casero without relying on single-use bags.

Plus, it doubles as a stylish beach bag. One of those little practical items that just makes sense once you’re here.

Lightweight Rain Jacket (April–December)

All smiles despite the rainy weather in Santa Teresa this week.

If you’re visiting between April and December, pack a lightweight rain jacket with a hood or even one of those compact ponchos you can toss in your day bag. Santa Teresa’s rainy season is beautiful and lush, but it’s also full of surprises. Most days bring a mix of sunshine and sudden tropical downpours, usually just for an hour or two before the sun returns.

Having a rain jacket with you means you can keep exploring, scooter around town, or chase waves without missing a beat. It’s one of those small items that makes you feel like a local, always ready when the sky decides to switch things up.

Order Local Currency from your bank if you have time

If you have time before your trip, it’s worth ordering a bit of Costa Rican currency from your bank. There are ATMs all over Santa Teresa, but depending on your home bank’s policies, the fees can add up quickly — and it’s always nice to have some cash on hand.

Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept all major credit cards, but for those spontaneous moments, grabbing a cold drink at Coco Loco on the beach, tipping your surf instructor, or picking up a snack from a roadside fruit stand, a few Costa Rican colones in your pocket go a long way.

A little local cash helps you move with the rhythm of the town. No Wi-Fi or card machine needed, just pura vida transactions under the palm trees. 

packing guide for santa teresa: Final Thoughts

Packing for Santa Teresa isn’t just about preparing for the beach — it’s about preparing for how this place makes you feel. You’ll live barefoot, fall asleep to the sound of waves, and meet people who feel like old friends within minutes.

At Cafecito Surf, we’ve built our space to feel like a home base for your adventure — comfortable, easy, and full of good energy. So pack light, bring your smile, and come ready for a week (or a lifetime) of salt water, sunshine, and connection.

Thanks for reading our packing guide for Santa Teresa. We hope to see you soon!

💛💛💛 Chelsea at Cafecito

One trip I made from Denmark through NYC to Santa Teresa on my own with luggage and a giant board bag!!! I have packed for ST so many times, I wish I could say I am an expert, but every year brings a new challenge and adventure!