Montezuma

A charming bohemian village on the southern Nicoya Peninsula famed for its tiered waterfalls and artsy vibe. Visitors enjoy tide pools, jungle hikes and a relaxed, colorful beach-town atmosphere.

Things to do

• Montezuma Waterfalls — Hike a short jungle trail to the famous tiered falls where you can swim in natural pools beneath the cascades.
• Playa Montezuma Tide Pools — Explore the rocky tide pools along the main beach at low tide to spot crabs, small fish and sea creatures.
• Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve — Trek through Costa Rica's oldest protected reserve to secluded beaches teeming with monkeys, coatis and seabirds.
• Montezuma Waterfall Canopy Tour — Zipline across the jungle canopy with platforms offering views over the waterfalls and coastline.
• Isla Tortuga Boat Trip — Take a day boat tour to this palm-fringed island for snorkeling in clear turquoise waters.
• Playa Grande Walk — Stroll north along the coast to this quieter white-sand beach popular with surfers and sunset watchers.
• Montezuma Sunset Beach Yoga — Join a beachfront yoga session, a staple of the village's laid-back bohemian wellness scene.

Food to try

• Casado — A hearty plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and your choice of fish, chicken or beef, served at local sodas.
• Fresh Ceviche — Locally caught fish or shrimp cured in lime with cilantro and onion, ideal on a hot beach day.
• Gallo Pinto — The classic Costa Rican breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans served with eggs, tortillas and Lizano sauce.
• Fresh Fruit Batidos — Refreshing smoothies made from tropical fruits like mango, papaya and pineapple sold at village cafes.
• Fresh Grilled Fish — Day's catch such as red snapper or mahi-mahi grilled and served at oceanfront restaurants.
• Organic Vegetarian Fare — Montezuma's bohemian eateries offer plentiful vegan and vegetarian bowls reflecting the artsy expat community.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace Pura Vida — This national mantra means life moves slowly here, so expect relaxed service and unhurried locals.
• Bring Cash — Many small sodas, artisan stalls and beach vendors don't accept cards, and ATMs are limited in the village.
• Respect the Waterfall Safety — Avoid climbing to jump from the upper falls, where accidents have happened, and heed local warnings.
• Support Local Artisans — Browse the handmade jewelry and craft stalls that give Montezuma its colorful, artistic character.

Nearby

• Santa Teresa — 11 km
• Puntarenas City (Puntarenas) — 44 km
• Jacó (Puntarenas) — 49 km
• Carara National Park (Puntarenas) — 53 km