Can't decide: Montezuma or Uvita area?
 

This is a follow-up to my last post, asking whether beaches are more "beautiful" in the Montezuma or Uvita area. I have now realized the reality - that in late November in Uvita I could be risking rain, and less to do than in Montezuma. I was considering Oxygen Jungle Villas, but how will we get up the enormous hill if its down-pouring? However, now I am torn because I like the remoteness of the Southern Pacific coast (from what I've read). I like the idea that you can go hiking in the jungle, explore mangroves, day trop to Osa (I was considering staying here, but am even more concerned about weather and things to do if too much rain). I'm also trying to acheive a compromise with my husband, who is not a fan of total remoteness. It is actually a delayed honeymoon for us, and he likes some nightlife, as do I. However I have this nagging feeling that we will have future beach vacations, but perhaps not the opportunity to experience a unique jungle adventure like in Costa Rica. Can I experience any of this in the Montezuma area? There are certainly beaches, which is great, but what about jungle hikes and wildlife? Thanks in advance - you are all so helpful!

Ylang Ylang is a fantastic place to stay--honestly it's reason enough to make the trip. There are daily monkey sightings there as well.

For more wildlife, you can get a guided tour of the Curu reserve.

And you will feel completely remote--like you're on an island.

Cabo Blanco Reserve is near Montezuma and is a great day hike. Full day over the ridge and to the coast and back (or you can do the abbreviated version and loop back sooner). We saw a lot of wildlife on this tour. Get an early start, take plenty of water as it is strenuous. Great area to visit! We hiked from about 9:00 until 2:30 or 3:00. Stayed at the beach for an hour or so (you can shower/refill water bottles) before starting back. Enjoy and happy honeymooning!

I would like to weigh in with a slightly different option. Have you thought about Santa Teresa? This is about 10 to 15 miles north of Montezuma. You have to go back through Cobana to get between the two, so it is about a 30 minute drive.

I have been to both, and liked the beach and the culture at Santa Teresa. At both locations, you have to pick your spot to swim. The surf can be rough, and there are rocks to contend with. But the northern end of Santa Teresa is swimmable, and the new Pranamar Villas has rooms in several price ranges.

Montezuma is fun, but it really more of a backpackers kinda town. I think Santa Teresa is a more "grown up" place. Here is a link to my NON COMMERCIAL blog: www.TrueCostaRica.com. The first couple of postings have to do with our recent stay there, especially the food.

One of the coolest things about Santa Teresa is the international community that has taken root there. Everyone has brought their cuisine, and there are some talented chefs working in this area.

Lots of good nature tours are available too.

No matter if you choose Montezuma or Santa Teresa, this is one area that I think is better done with your own car (4WD).

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer any more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
Travel Professional

I agree with Pat there is some great food in Santa Teresa. I liked the beach there, could walk for miles and miles. Pat that Pranamar place looks very nice, where are they exactly? I don't see a map on their site. Are they closer to the Florblanca end or closer to the crossroads? Thanks as always.

Hey Tully,

Pranamar is actually the new brainchild of the former owners of the Flor Blanca. Apparently the hotel wasn't for sale, but a buyer popped up with a good offer so they took it.

They then built Pranamar. This is located past Flor Blanca, and is one of the last hotels on the beach as you drive north on the main road.

Pranamar is not as expensive as Flor Blanca. But they did a fabulous job here. It has a "river" that runs through the property. This is actually a swimming pool, and several of the rooms have little decks with comfy lounge chairs that open on to the pool. Very inviting.

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer any more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
Travel Professional

Always helpful Pat, thanks. Looks like a very nice place to consider and isn't so dear as FlorBlanca!

Montezuma has lots to do. Waterfall hike, hang out in town in the evening with vendors and kids kicking soccer balls, great hike psat the Ylang Ylang with exploration up a river and down the beach, and very recommended day boat trip to Tortuga Island (beautiful, great shoreline vistas, snorkel, lunch grilled on the beach). We chose Montezuma cuz we could fly there, take a taxi and then get around without needing a car.

Snorkelluvn - did you already do this trip? I am debating whether to rent a car in Montezuma or not. I don't think one is necessary for the immediate area - but what about exploring Mal Pais/St. Theresa or even further up the coast? Were you able to do all your activities without a car with ease?