What to do in Malpais

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal landscape with a beach, rocky shoreline, and residential buildings.
Panoramic view of Mal Pais beach during sunrise
A coastal landscape with a clear blue sky, turquoise sea, and green hills.
Beautiful beach near Mal Pais. Pacific coast, Costa Rica.
A sandy beach with gentle waves, a forested island, and a clear blue sky.

Things to do

Day trip Tortuga Island - From San José

Day Trip to Tortuga Island from San José

฿3,252
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Day Trip to Tortuga Island from San José
3 Hours of Whale and Dolphin Watching in Puntarenas

Whale and Dolphin Watching in Puntarenas

฿3,449
per adult
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Puntarenas
Bioluminescence and sunset

Bioluminescence Experience from Curú Wildlife Refuge

฿1,971
per adult
Bioluminescence Experience from Curú Wildlife Refuge
Surf Lessons, Santa Teresa North, Costa Rica

Surf Lessons, Santa Teresa North, Costa Rica

฿1,971
per adult
Surf Lessons, Santa Teresa North, Costa Rica
Turtle Island, from Puntarenas, snorkeling and lunch included!

Turtle Island, from Puntarenas, snorkeling and lunch included!

฿2,792
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Turtle Island, from Puntarenas, snorkeling and lunch included!
Paquera: Sunset and Bioluminescence Evening Kayaking Tour

Paquera: Sunset and Bioluminescence Evening Kayaking Tour

฿1,314
per adult
Paquera: Sunset and Bioluminescence Evening Kayaking Tour
Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour

Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour

฿2,300
per adult
Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour
Private Surf Lesson in Playa Hermosa Santa Teresa

Private Surf Lesson in Playa Hermosa Santa Teresa

฿2,464
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Private Surf Lesson in Playa Hermosa Santa Teresa
Welcome to our table!

Experience Costa Rican Private Local Cuisine

฿2,267
per adult
Experience Costa Rican Private Local Cuisine
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What to do in Malpais

Stay near popular Malpais attractions

Playa Mal País

9.0/5 (27 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Mal País during your trip to Malpais? Stroll along the beaches or discover the sunsets in this relaxing area.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Malpais worth visiting?
Renowned for its views and surfing, discovering awesome things to do in Malpais is easy. Don't forget to add Santa Teresa Beach to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Malpais?
Santa Teresa Beach and Montezuma Beach are two great places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Malpais while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Malpais?
The top tourist attraction in Malpais is Santa Teresa Beach, so make sure to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Malpais?
Three days in Malpais is plenty of time to enjoy the city's leading attractions. Many travellers stay for four days on average. Santa Teresa Beach, Montezuma Beach and Hermosa Beach are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Cóbano.
What are some activities to do in Malpais with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Malpais with kids.

What to do in Malpais for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor explorer, there's lots of things to do in Malpais for adults including Montezuma Gardens.
Are there free things to do in Malpais?
In Malpais, Santa Teresa Beach is a popular spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Malpais.