Montezuma
Montezuma is located on the eastern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
Montezuma Beach is one of the best Costa Rica beaches for budget travelers, especially those of the bohemian persuasion. The center of the smallish town is a people-watcher’s paradise, thronged with funky international backpackers, permanent ex-pats, and open-minded locals such as artists, surfers, and the people who love them.
What to Do:
Montezuma’s abundance of liberal influence makes for diverse and delicious cuisine in the town’s numerous restaurants. It also creates the perfect nightlife hub for Costa Rica’s biggest partiers, most notably at Chico’s Bar. Arts and crafts galleries are fun to peruse, but don’t overlook the artisans selling their wares streetside.
What else? Take a snorkeling tour to Tortuga Island. Zipline through the jungle with Montezuma Canopy Tours. Rent a sea kayak or bicycle and explore. Volunteer at the new Rainsong Wildlife Sanctuary. Or head to another beach near Montezuma:
* Playa Grande: Just thirty minutes north of Montezuma, vast Playa Grande is a favorite surf spot. Nude beach seekers, listen up: rumor has it, clothing is optional on Playa Grande.
* Playa Cocolito: Montezuma Beach claims everyone who hikes the two hours north from Montezuma to Playa Cocolito calls it “one of the best things they did in Costa Rica.” Keep an eye out for a striking waterfall, El Chorro, that tumbles directly into the ocean.
The 20-minute waterfall hike south of Montezuma Village is popular with travelers—no tour guide necessary. Of the three waterfalls you’ll pass, only the second falls into a pool deep enough for jumping. Warning: The rocks atop the second waterfall are slippery. Several people have been killed attempting to jump, so use tremendous caution if you choose to partake.
When to Go:
The dry season (also the busy season) in Montezuma is between December and April. Rain falls with relative frequency the rest of the year, though the vegetation is far more green and lush, and prices are lower.
