Welcome to Montezuma, Costa Rica, on the southern Nicoya Peninsula. This remarkable beach town is undoubtedly the coolest place in Costa Rica. Since the early 1970′s, people from all over the world have visited this area to discover the beauty of Central America, and many have ended up discovering themselves. Some have stayed permanently, creating this thriving community of artists, conservationists, musicians, chefs, and creative visionaries. While there are many types of people of all ages, colors, and backgrounds, they all share a common desire to live near a beautiful jungle beach with a sense of purpose and style.
From the moment you arrive in Montezuma, you’ll know that you’ve discovered a very magical place, which is quite unlike other towns in Costa Rica. The area has been compared with Maui 50 years ago, or Santa Cruz, California, but with monkeys and warm water.
Montezuma is famous for its breathtaking beauty and vibrant international culture and cuisine. Backpackers and celebrities looking for an exotic locale to avoid crowds have visited Montezuma and its beaches for years, making it a world famous destination for seasoned travelers “in the know” about the best places on earth to visit. Dozens of Italians have moved to Montezuma to open pizzerias and other restaurants, including one of the best restaurants in Costa Rica, “Playa de los Artistas“. Montezuma is very close to a large natural beach reserve, easy to walk to from town, called Playa Grande. On the way, you’ll will find tidepools, white sand beaches for swimming and surfing, and few people even on the busiest days.
This town is also known for its famous waterfall “Montezuma Falls”, which is shown on postcards sold all over the country. The waterfall has three large pools, and daredevils regularly jump into them from great heights. The water flows all year, and its a quick walk from town to the first pool. See our section on waterfalls to learn more.
Montezuma is the only tourist town in the area that really has a town center. It has a small village feel, and people often remark that they haven’t ever seen a place like it. It’s not like other towns in Costa Rica, and has somehow managed to develop its own culture that is very unique, without being overdeveloped. You will not find condos, casinos, or Burger King here. If you’re looking for that, head for Jaco or Tamarindo instead.
Despite its popularity, Montezuma and Malpais still have beautiful beaches that you can often find almost deserted, many beautiful waterfall hikes, and secret surf spots where you can have a great wave to yourself. This website will serve as your guide to what’s best here, and how to find it.
Check out these Montezuma Videos on YouTube:
