Fun things to do in Montezuma Costa Rica.
After an awesome few days in Tamarindo, I couldn’t wait to see what Montezuma had to offer!
A completely different vibe, much quieter, much more peaceful,
And the perfect place to chill out!
However, there are many fun things to do in Montezuma, so your stay will be aligned with your travel style
This blog details the most popular activities in Montezuma, along with some scenic hiking recommendations, and quirky spots in the small town centre.
One thing is for sure, you will hear the howls of the local monkey communities echoing around the forests as you explore.
This was a distinct memory which will always remind me of the beautiful bohemian town.
I have started by explaining what sort of vibe you can expect!
A very colourful town.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Where is Montezuma, and what is the vibe like?
Montezuma is a small town located on the Pacific coast on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, which is one of the popular areas of Costa Rica for international visitors.
My first impressions of the town was noticing its artistic flair, which stands out with giant colourful graffiti murals in different spots in the centre of town.
The nature themed art reminded me of the street art in San Jose, however, in Montezuma some dense nature surrounds the art, which definitely wasn’t the case during my time in the capital.
In terms of vibe, in one word - Bohemian!
As soon as I arrived in the small town centre I could feel the laid-back atmosphere, which was manifested through hippie looking locals selling jewellery and crafted goods on the market stalls.
Montezuma does have its adventurous side also though, which I found out as I zipped through the canopy next to the howler monkeys!
Activities such as surfing, snorkeling, horseback riding, and hiking are enjoyed on a daily basis.
Montezuma has managed to maintain its unique charm through small, independent businesses which still have a Hispanic feel, similar to San Jose, especially the beautiful soda restaurant in town.
Local singers performing in a bar in town.
The perfect spot for a Yoga or Wellness Retreat.
The town’s immersion in beautiful nature makes it an ideal location for visitors to chill out, therefore, I wasn’t surprised to see many wellness retreats advertised in the town.
As Montezuma is celebrated for its tranquil ambiance, it is no surprise that its guests want to keep the paradise secret from the outside world!
The locals and short term visitors share a strong focus on sustainable and mindful living, so if this sounds like you then you should book one of the famous wellness retreats or yoga themed holidays!
The town is home to several eco-lodges and wellness centers offering holistic therapies such as meditation, reiki, massage, and plant-based detox programs.
I noticed that many establishments prioritise natural healing practices, through integrating the region’s abundant resources and a connection to nature.
I recommend ‘Anamaya Resort’ as it has an awesome reputation, with different retreats on a weekly basis to suit all different styles of wellness. Some friends that I met in Montezuma had a great time there!
Nature and art are a big part of Montezuma.
Visit the Montezuma Waterfalls.
One of the most popular spots in the coastal town are Montezuma falls, which make for a very scenic and fun hike, and a great free activity for visitors.
The three-tiered waterfalls are stunning, with cascading water surrounded by lush jungle, making them a breathtaking natural attraction.
It is an ideal activity for adventurous travellers as the trails run through dense forests, across rivers, and over rocks, making for an exciting challenge.
Also being located within walking distance from the centre of town, makes the falls convenient for visitors who don’t want to venture far from their accommodations.
Completed the challenging hike to the falls.
While still scenic, Montezuma falls are not as picturesque as Rio Celeste Waterfall, however, the natural beauty spot offers tranquil settings, other than some very loud monkey howls!
They were definitely watching me!
The start of the hiking trail.
Is the Montezuma waterfall hike safe?
The Montezuma Waterfall hike is generally safe, but it does require some caution and preparation due to the natural terrain and varying conditions.
I visited in May and it was a little slippery in places.
I advise wearing some sturdy shoes, and bringing water and snacks with you, as you can always break the hike up in different places and relax for a while.
Guides are also available, and you will find some ‘unofficial guides’ offering assistance along the way in return for a small tip.
Can you swim at Montezuma waterfall?
Yes is the answer!
As with La Fortuna Waterfall, tourists are allowed to swim in the pools at all three levels of the waterfalls.
I enjoyed swimming in the natural pools at the base of the waterfalls over two separate days.
The main natural pool at the base of the largest cascade was a refreshing reward after the hike, but I also enjoyed some cliff jumping and swimming in the top pool after completing the canopy tour.
There are also opportunities to climb up to the higher tiers from the main pool at the bottom, if you want to enjoy different scenery, and make the most of your chill time after a fairly challenging hike!
Enjoy the quirky little town centre.
As much as I enjoyed chasing waterfalls and tackling the beautiful hiking trails, there is something just as special about chilling the little picturesque town centre of Montezuma!
The colourful centre is full of personality, with street art, surfy cafés, handmade jewellery stalls, and small local shops.
And what really stands out is the strong sense of community you feel as you wander through town.
I was greeted by the locals everywhere I went, which made me feel at home straight away. I could see how people decided to stay there long term.
Can’t beat a nice local coffee in one of the gardens after a nice walk on one of the nature trails.
My favourite food spot in town.
Some central accommodation options!
Wandering through town.
Despite its small size, Montezuma’s town centre is full of charm, with plenty of quirky cafés and themed restaurants that blend effortlessly into the lush, jungle surroundings
Some of the eateries reminded me of the quirky ones in Tamarindo, minus the surf town buzz, and with more raw nature all around.
It's a unique mix of laid-back dining and tropical adventure!
Another quirky dining option.
An adventurous couple of hours on the Suntrails canopy tour.
Imagine flying through the canopy with the monkeys… Well the two hour activity with Suntrails gives you the opportunity.
The zip-lines route in the Montezuma canopy includes 9 scenic zipline cables, all of different gradients and lengths, so you get the chance to see an abundance of nature as you enjoy some adrenaline.
An interesting fact about the wildlife in Costa Rica which I learnt on the tour is that howler monkeys, which you’ll often hear (and maybe spot) in the canopy around Montezuma, are one of the loudest land animals on Earth.
I got lucky and spotted some, but either way, you will definitely hear them as you zip across the dense jungle.
Arrived for my canopy tour.
Here’s my recommended packing list for your zip-lining adventure in Costa Rica:
Lightweight, breathable shirt that wicks away sweat
Quick-drying shorts or hiking trousers.
Supportive sports bra or moisture-wicking underwear (essential in the humidity).
Light jacket or layer for chilly mornings or breezy evenings.
Closed-toe footwear — hiking shoes or sturdy trainers work best.
Spare socks — handy if your feet get wet on the trail.
Loving life in the treetops.
Find the outdoor activities in and around the town.
This little beach town has a surprisingly lively outdoor scene, with plenty of spots in town offering fun sports.
I spotted an awesome football pitch with beautiful tropical nature surroundings… It really would be a great place for a kick about!
A very scenic spot for football.
Then at night, I came across this little beach volleyball court just off the shore, nothing fancy, but it was all lit up and had a great vibe.
It felt like one of those places you wouldn’t know existed unless you were actually walking past.
I didn’t get a chance to play myself (one of those solo trip things), but I stuck around for a bit and watched the locals having a great time.
Night time beach volleyball?
Some famous scenic hikes.
Beautiful untouched nature is a big draw to Costa Rica, and Montezuma is abundant with hiking spots, with some being famous also.
The area is packed with hiking trails that take you through jungle-covered hills, past waterfalls, and out to coastal viewpoints.
One lesser known but incredible trail leads north along the coast to El Chorro Waterfall, where freshwater spills straight into the ocean, which is one of the few places in the world where it occurs.
It’s a bit more off the beaten track, but I found it worth the effort to enjoy the mix of beach, jungle, and total seclusion.
Montezuma sign.
When is the best time for hiking in Montezuma?
The best time to visit Montezuma for outdoor activities such as hiking is in the dry season, which runs from December to April, as the trails are less muddy, so easier to navigate, especially in Montezuma, where it is less touristy.
I actually visited in May though, and it was still really nice conditions, but you are more likely to encounter rain as it is the start of the rainy season!
Anytime of the year is still awesome to visit Costa Rica, as the rainfall periods turn nature lush and green, and it also means fewer crowds.
To spot wildlife, you want to be setting off on your hike really early in the morning, as that is when the howler monkeys, and rare birds make more appearances.
Picture perfect beaches.
Jungle meets the Pacific.
I found the untouched coastline of Montezuma to be one of the best photo spots in Costa Rica, as nature is literally bursting out of the coastline meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Every corner feels like a hidden gem, with jungle vines spilling onto the sand and tide pools that catch the light just right.
Rainforest meets the Pacific.
A popular hiking trail.
Visit Cabo Blanco National Park.
If jungle trails appeal to you more than beach days, then a visit to Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve needs to be on your Montezuma itinerary.
Tucked away at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, this hidden gem is Costa Rica’s very first protected area, as it was established back in 1963.
It covers over 3,000 hectares of both land and ocean!
Cabo Blanco is about a 25-minute drive from Montezuma. You can drive yourself or book a tour through local operators in town—many include transportation, park entry, and a guide for added value.
Entrance Fee:
Expect to pay around $12 USD per person for entry.
What to Expect at Cabo Blanco.
There are two main hiking trails which are popular with visitors:
Danes Trail – A gentle 2 km loop through scenic forest; perfect for a short, easy walk.
Sueco Trail – A challenging 5 km trek (each way) through dense jungle, ending at the remote and beautiful Playa Cabo Blanco.
Cabo Blanco is home to some white-faced capuchin monkeys, however, I didn’t get lucky enough to see any on my visit!
Miles of untouched beaches.
There are plenty of warning signs around.
Enjoy some surfing and snorkelling.
If you’re after a day of ocean adventure, a snorkelling tour to Tortuga Island is a must.
It really is fun cruising through the Gulf of Nicoya with a beer in hand!
Exploring Isla Tortuga’s marine life is a different way of appreciating the amazing ecosystem of Costa Rica, and 45 minutes of snorkelling is plenty of time to see so much of it.
All equipment is provided, as is a nice lunch, some fruit and several drinks.
If you prefer to enjoy the Pacific in a more adrenaline filled way, then grab a surfboard and head to the beach!
This 2 hour surf lesson is ideal for any ability and includes one-2-one coaching on the water.
A quirky surf shop in town.
Explore the surrounding area by ATV.
With the surrounding area of Montezuma being filled with bumpy roads, it makes driving more difficult, however, this increases the fun in terms of ATV exploration.
I went searching for hidden waterfalls, remote beaches, and jungle trails with my tour guide ‘Luis’.
If you're confident navigating rough terrain on your own, renting an ATV gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Just be aware that rental prices can be steep, especially during peak season, so it’s worth comparing a few options in town before committing.
You can be looking at close to $200 per day.
My number one tip is to wear sunglasses, as the dirt flicks up and covers you in mud if you gather some speed on the muddy tracks!
Carts and quads available for rent.
How long do you need in Montezuma?
The amount of time you need in Montezuma depends on your travel style and flexibility.
I met a fellow traveller who had been in Montezuma for two months and was still loving the environment and community.
Three days was enough on my trip to see everything, have some down time, and to try out some of the beautiful food establishments.
I would suggest something similar to this:
Day 1: Arrival and town exploration.
Depending on your travel method, you will likely be travelling in the morning and not arrive until after lunch, so your first day is well spent in and around the town centre.
Enjoy the local cafes.
Sunset at Playa Montezuma (main beach).
Drinks and a meal in Chico’s Bar (usually live entertainment in the evening).
Day 2: Hiking - beaches and waterfalls.
You will learn really fast when you arrive that you don’t need much money to have a fun time in Montezuma.
Spend the morning trekking to and enjoying Montezuma Falls.
Visit nearby beaches like Playa Grande or Playa Cocal.
Enjoy a zip-lining canopy tour.
Day 3: Day trip options.
On a 3 day trip to Montezuma, there will be enough time to explore beyond the town. This is aimed more at active visitors who prefer to keep busy. A day relaxing by the pool or ocean is a great alternative for other guests.
Here are three awesome options for day 3:
Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve - A nearby reserve with incredible wildlife and hiking trails.
Isla Tortuga Tour: Enjoy a boat tour to Isla Tortuga for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on a pristine beach.
Chill Day: If you prefer, spend another day enjoying Montezuma’s beaches or waterfalls at a slower pace.
Near the centre of town.
Tips for visiting Montezuma.
Montezuma is still untouched relative to other destinations in Costa Rica, which means it isn’t as easy to visit, so here are tips which will make your experience in the bohemian town easier:
Plan your route in advance.
Montezuma is a bit remote, located on the Nicoya Peninsula. Most visitors take a combination of ferry and bus or drive from San José. The ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera is a scenic and popular option.
If you’re driving, consider renting a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads in the area can be bumpy or muddy, especially during the rainy season. There aren’t very many smooth roads.
Book accommodation in advance.
If you want the full Montezuma experience, then you will want to stay in a quirky spot, but the eco-lodges, beachfront accommodation, and boutique hotels fill up quickly, so make sure you book in advance.
You should plan to stay in nature to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural beauty!
Be aware of entering the water.
I noticed rip-currents warning signs and lack of lifeguards in some areas, so make sure you do thorough research before entering the water. It is far more secluded in and around Montezuma, so the danger is real.
Local Soda’s for dinner can stretch your budget further.
I dined in some local Soda restaurants in Montezuma, and they were very reasonable and a great way to help the travel budget. The Gallo Pinto dish I had was very enjoyable!
Living in the forest.
Staying with the howler monkeys at El Jardin.
There are a vast array of different accommodation options in Montezuma, ranging from budget hostels and surf schools, to rainforest lodges and highly rated hotels.
One thing which is a must when considering your options is factoring in the high humidity levels in Costa Rica.
Air-conditioning is a necessity if you want a comfortable stay, which is one of the reasons why I chose to stay at Hotel El Jardin.
The highly rated hotel is located a stone’s throw from the town centre, and offers guests a private pool, private air conditioned bungalows and scenic surroundings.
I found it to be the perfect setting to escape and relax after some busy active days exploring Montezuma!
✓ Central location close to the centre of town.
✓ A five minute walk to the beach.
✓ A private swimming pool.
✓ A private air-conditioned bungalow.
✓ A prime location to interact with Howler Monkeys.
You will be woken by the howl of the monkeys as the sun rises though, which makes for a very unique alarm clock!
An 8.8/10 rating from over 1000 reviews on Booking.com is aligned with my personal experience.
The bungalows fill up quickly and you don’t want to miss out on an awesome stay.
Hammocks are a common sight in Montezuma.
Two of my other favourite destinations in Costa Rica.
Montezuma was a nice experience, which was much more relaxed than my other favourite spots in Costa Rica.
These were my two favourite destinations on my last Costa Rica itinerary:
La Fortuna
A small jungle town full of adrenaline and adventure, overlooked by one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes… what’s not to love!
It will be a breeze to fill your La Fortuna itinerary with awesome activities, beautiful restaurants, and unique experiences.
When I think of Costa Rica, I always think of hanging bridges first, and La Fortuna is home to some famous ones!
Mistico Park should be your choice for a fun hanging bridge experience, with plenty of wildlife spotting. The awesome 90 minute trail is one of the best tours in La Fortuna, with the local guides knowing all of the secrets of the forests.
If you are on a tighter budget, then a free activity which I really enjoyed was chilling at El Salto Swimming Hole, which is an ideal spot for sunbathing, cliff jumping, or having a go of the iconic Tarzan swing.
Tamarindo.
The Pacific sunsets and world class surfing scene are just two of the awesome things to do in Tamarindo!
I loved my time in the Pacific coastal town.
Enjoying my first surfing lesson, renting a bike and exploring, and watching sunset with happy hour beers from one of the town’s popular bars.
It is fair to say it was a mixed itinerary!
If you want to learn some interesting facts about Costa Rica’s ecosystems, or spot some monkeys and crocodiles, then you can take the two hour Estuary tour.
Exploring the mangroves and wildlife in La Baulas National Marine Park with a knowledgeable local were fun, with my highlight being when a howler monkey came up to the boat to say hello…
After our guide had called it with his very own ‘howl’!
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.