A Guide to the Nicoya Peninsula: Cabuya

Discover Cabuya: The Nicoya Peninsula’s Best Kept Secret

If you’re searching for a slice of authentic Costa Rica—where the rhythms of daily life still echo with the Pura Vida spirit —look no further than Cabuya. Nestled at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, just 20 minutes over the hill from Playa Carmen and a short drive from the buzz of Santa Teresa, Cabuya remains one of the last true fishing villages where Costa Rican culture flourishes alongside breathtaking natural beauty.

Authentic Tico Charm

Cabuya stands apart from its more developed, flashy neighbors. Here, the village’s roots as a traditional fishing community are still strong. Locals greet you with genuine warmth, and it’s common to see fishermen returning with the day’s catch, ready to sell fresh fish right on the beach or take you out to sea for your own adventure The pace is slower, the vibe is chill, and the pura vida lifestyle is a way of life.

Nature and Adventure at Your Doorstep

• Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: Cabuya is the gateway to Costa Rica’s very first nature reserve, Cabo Blanco, a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who loves wild, unspoiled landscapes. This 1,270-hectare reserve is home to over 150 species of trees and a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including pelicans, frigate birds, ospreys, and Costa Rica’s largest colony of brown boobies.

• Wildsun Rescue Center: Just outside the village, Wildsun has made headlines for its successful reintroduction of scarlet macaws to the region. Watch these vibrant birds soar overhead—a sight not seen here for decades—and know that you’re in a place where conservation and community go hand in hand.

• Cabuya Island (Cemetery Island): Accessible by foot at low tide, this pre-Columbian burial ground is still in use today. The surrounding reefs offer some of the best snorkeling in the area, teeming with marine life and offering a unique window into local history and ecology.

• Rio Lajas: This serene river is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a perfect spot to cool off in freshwater pools. The area is famed for its shorebirds, monkeys, and tranquil scenery—a hidden gem for nature lovers.

• Surfing: Cabuya boasts a point break and a river mouth wave at Lajas, offering clean, uncrowded surf—especially when the winds are onshore at Santa Teresa and Mal Pais. It’s a favorite for those who want quality waves without the crowds.

A Lifestyle Investment

Cabuya is not just a destination—it’s an opportunity to build your dream life in Costa Rica. Property values here offer more for your money compared to the more hyped-up areas of the peninsula. Wish you had invested 10 years ago in Santa Teresa? Well Cabuya offers you the opportunity to get your slice of heaven. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront retreat, a rustic home, or a commercial spot, Cabuya’s real estate market is diverse and accessible, with options ranging from cozy homes to ocean-view lots at attractive prices. Its strategic location allows you to enjoy the tranquility of village life while being just minutes from the vibrant scenes of Montezuma and Santa Teresa.

Who Will Love Cabuya?

• Those seeking a quieter, more authentic Costa Rican experience

• Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and conservation-minded buyers

• Surfers and water sports enthusiasts looking for uncrowded waves

• Foodies eager for fresh, local seafood and farm produce

• Investors searching for value and long-term growth potential

“Cabuya is a beautiful coastal town in Costa Rica with a rich history and culture, beautiful beaches and natural views, and a friendly and welcoming community. Despite the challenges it faces due to the growth of tourism, it remains a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.”

Why Cabuya is the Peninsula’s Best Kept Secret

While Santa Teresa and Montezuma draw the crowds, Cabuya quietly preserves the soul of the Nicoya Peninsula. Here, you’ll find the rare blend of untouched nature, authentic culture, and genuine community—a place where you can truly live the pura vida. For those ready to invest in a lifestyle as much as a property, Cabuya is the secret you’ll want to share… but only with those who truly appreciate the real Costa Rica.

Ready to explore Cabuya and find your perfect property in paradise? Let’s connect and make your Costa Rican dream a reality. Get in touch.

Exploring the Nicoya Peninsula: Montezuma

Montezuma, Costa Rica: Your Gateway to the Pura Vida Lifestyle on the Nicoya Peninsula

Nestled on the southeastern edge of the Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma is a charming town famous for its stunning waterfalls, bohemian vibe, and pristine beaches. Once a remote fishing village, Montezuma has blossomed into a vibrant community beloved by eco-conscious travelers, artisans, and expats seeking the authentic "pura vida" lifestyle.

Why Montezuma Stands Out

Montezuma’s natural beauty is unmatched. The town is renowned for the Montezuma Waterfalls—a series of three cascading waterfalls where visitors can swim in refreshing natural pools, surrounded by lush jungle. The hike to the falls is an adventure itself, crossing rivers and forest trails, offering a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility.

The town’s bohemian spirit is palpable, with a thriving community centered around yoga, healing arts, and organic living. Weekly organic farmers’ markets, art festivals like the Costa Rica International Film Festival, and the Festival de Arte Chunches de Mar celebrate Montezuma’s creative and alternative culture.

Eastern Nicoya Peninsula: Sunrises, Rivers, and Surf

The eastern side of the Nicoya Peninsula, where Montezuma is located, is famous for spectacular sunrises that paint the sky over the Pacific Ocean. This area offers pristine rivers and freshwater swimming spots, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. When the swell hits just right, surfers from around the world flock here to catch some of Costa Rica’s best waves. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with abundant marine life supporting both recreational and commercial fishing.

Real Estate Opportunities in Montezuma

For those interested in investing in Costa Rica or retiring in paradise, Montezuma presents a unique opportunity. The real estate market here has been lively, with properties ranging from eco-friendly homes nestled in the jungle to beachfront villas. Montezuma’s blend of natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and growing community makes it an attractive location for property for sale.

Investing in Montezuma real estate means embracing a sustainable, relaxed way of life while capitalizing on the increasing demand for homes in this sought-after region. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, retirement haven, or rental investment, Montezuma offers a diverse portfolio of options to suit your needs.

Why Choose Montezuma?

• Access to breathtaking natural attractions like Montezuma Waterfalls and nearby Torguga Island, ideal for snorkeling and wildlife encounters1.

• A vibrant community focused on wellness, yoga, and organic living.

• The true pura vida lifestyle—embracing simplicity, nature, and happiness. Holding on to it’s bohemian vibe.

• Opportunities for surfing, fishing, hiking, and river swimming on the eastern Nicoya Peninsula.

• Growing real estate market with eco-friendly and sustainable property options.

• Destination restaurants like Playa de Los Artistas restaurant, Chelo Pizzaria, and Cocalores.

Montezuma is more than just a destination; it’s an invitation to live the pura vida dream—where nature, culture, and community come together in perfect harmony. Whether you are looking to invest in Costa Rica real estate, retire in a tranquil paradise, or simply experience the magic of the Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma offers an unparalleled lifestyle opportunity.

This guide is the first in a series exploring the Nicoya Peninsula’s unique towns and real estate potential, helping you discover why this region is one of Costa Rica’s most desirable places to live and invest. Stay tuned for deeper dives into neighboring towns and more expert insights on property for sale and living the pura vida lifestyle.