Montezuma Activities for Adventure Enthusiasts

I’ve set foot on my fair share of beaches. My ten little toes have grazed some of Thailand’s most pristine sand, roamed through the Italian coast and shuffled through the shores of several Carribean islands.

While those experiences were incredible, there’s one thing that sets Montezuma, Costa Rica apart from them all. Its undeniable Pura Vida energy! From the moment I cruised up to the beach, hopped out of the boat and tucked my toes in the sand – good vibes were plentiful.

While the town itself is incredibly small, there’s no shortage of adventurous Montezuma activities. Keep reading to check out my ultimate list of things to do in this Bohemian beach town!

1. Surf Lessons at Playa Grande

Surfing was HANDS DOWN my favorite Montezuma activity! My friends and I booked our surf lesson through Zuma Tours, which I highly recommend. We met at their office and headed out for an easy 30 to 40 minute trek (with the guides) to Playa Grande.

It was my first encounter with a surfboard, and I have to admit – I was a bit nervous! However, the instructors at Zuma Tours did a fantastic job coaching the group before we hopped in the ocean. They also assisted each of us in the water by pushing our boards so we were able to catch the waves. It was truly an experience I’ll never forget!

2. Isla Tortuga Tour

If you’re interested in getting your scuba or snorkel fix, you can do so at Isla Tortuga. This full day excursion can be booked through Zuma Tours as well. They provide transportation, lunch and all of the equipment necessary for an adventurous day out.

3. Beach Soccer

So many of my favorite memories while traveling involve meeting new people. My friend noticed some locals chilling on the beach with a soccer ball and struck up a conversation. Before I knew it, we were in a full-blown fútbol game and the former soccer player in me soaked up every second.

4. Turtle Release

It wasn’t until I saw hundreds of baby sea turtles inch their way towards the ocean that I realized a turtle release was on my bucket list. This all takes place at the Romelia Sea Turtle Conservation, which is a volunteer program for nature enthusiasts. You can be a part of this remarkable experience from August to January during turtle hatching season!

5. Montezuma Falls

This adventurous beach town offers a variety of hikes, but the trek to Montezuma Falls is by far the most popular. I foolishly wore flip flops and for the record, it was brutal! I suggest wearing hiking sandals because your feet will get wet. 

There are three falls along the river – the third being the most breathtaking. Once you arrive at the last waterfall, you can swim and/or partake in some good ol’ fashioned cliff jumping. CAUTION: Be careful of slippery rocks when hiking and cliff jumping! Click here if you’d like to check out some other hikes Montezuma has to offer.

6. Mariposario Butterfly Garden

I didn’t have a chance to check out the Mariposario Butterfly Garden, but I heard it’s incredible! Its location makes it a stellar stop before or after your hike to Montezuma Falls. You can indulge in a variety of craft beers, delicious food and explore a butterfly exhibit! The butterfly garden is open seven days a week from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. and the entrance fee is $4.

7. Playa Montezuma

Want to add beach bum to you list of Montezuma activities? Well, Playa Montezuma is the place to do it! Throw down a towel, put on some tunes and relax. If you feel like grabbing a drink or a bite to eat, the town is steps away.

8. Chico’s Bar

If you’re looking to party, Chico’s is your best (and only) bet. It’s the lone bar in town, but it definitely gets the job done! I said Montezuma was small, didn’t I? In my opinion, this makes it rather easy to make new friends because you run into the same tourists and locals day in and day out.

9. Yoga

I’m a big yoga fan, so I was bummed when I didn’t get the opportunity to practice in such a gorgeous and peaceful place. If yoga is your thing, you can check out all the studios the town has to offer here. I had my eyes on Montezuma Yoga simply because of its yoga deck, which has all the nature vibes AND an amazing view of the ocean!

So all my thrill-seekers out there, if Costa Rica is on your travel radar – do yourself a favor and add these adventurous Montezuma activities to your to-do list. I’m certain you’ll thank me later!