Montezuma

Montezuma is small, artsy and easy-going, with waterfalls a short hike from the beach. It’s reached via the Paquera ferry and Cóbano; the final hill into the village is paved but very steep.

About Montezuma

Montezuma is a small, bohemian village at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, about 40 minutes from the Paquera ferry dock. The town is just a few streets of cafés, guesthouses and yoga studios between the jungle and a rocky shoreline. It’s quieter and more relaxed than Santa Teresa, which is a 30–40 minute drive over a hill.

Things to do

• Montezuma Falls: a short but slippery river hike from town. Never jump from the upper cliffs; accidents happen every year.
• Isla Tortuga: boat trips for snorkeling and white-sand beaches, roughly US$60–90.
• Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: the country’s oldest protected area, near Cabuya.
• Playa Grande (Montezuma): a long, wild beach 20–30 minutes on foot north of town.

Where to stay

Budget hostels and guesthouses are in the village center, and quieter lodges sit along the road toward Cabuya. Expect about US$40–150 a night.

Practical tips

• Parking in the village center is very limited; choose lodging with parking.
• The hill road to Santa Teresa via Cóbano is paved in sections and steep in others. The coastal shortcut through Cabuya is rough and has river crossings.
• Swimming off the town beaches can be dangerous because of rocks and currents.

Top things to do in Montezuma

• Montezuma FallsA short river hike from the village.
• Cabo Blanco ReserveTrails to a pristine beach.
• Tortuga IslandBoat trips for snorkeling.

Driving, parking & safety notes

• Use low gear on the steep hill from Cóbano.
• Limited parking in the village center.