Montezuma, Costa Rica

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Montezuma (9.65° N, 85.07° W) is a town in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica which began as a remote fishing village and has gained popularity since the 1980s among tourists on a budget.

Montezuma Costa Rica is a long-time favourite for travelers in Costa Rica. The picturesque little town is famed for its bohemian flair and the stunning beauty of the surrounding nature.

The town's center feels like the cozy open-air living room of the community where a continuous mellow party takes place. Just sit down in some bar or eatery and watch the scenery: rastafarians, hippies, tourists and beauties with eccentric tattoos and piercings catwalk amongst the colorful stands of itinerant artists who are chatting and joking with their neighbours.

At night the most happening place is Chico's Bar right in the center of Montezuma where music, from reggae to salsa, is played until late in the night. But you might also opt for a tranquil cinema night with american movies, a live pianist play, or hang out at a bonfire on the beach.

Gourmets will certainly not complain about good restaurants in Montezuma where vegetarian fare, Mediterranean dishes or cutting-edge concoctions are served with class and style in a romantic atmosphere. Montezuma faces east, towards the Gulf of Nicoya, so that beachside dining may be graced by the moon shining over the water.

But there is not only night activity in Montezuma. Nestled into a landscape reflecting the tropical paradise, it also draws eco-tourists and beach lovers. The village of Montezuma is cradled by high rising cliffs overgrown with lush tropical jungle. Small streams flow down from the hills and form scenic waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Groups of capuchin monkeys live in the forests and are easy to spot.

Montezuma Falls

Those who are looking for beach and sun can throw down their towel on Playa Grande, a few steps from the center of Montezuma, or go for a walk along the beach to discover secluded coves and tidepools.

[edit] Bay of Montezuma

Tour operators in Montezuma offer a range of packages to nearby sights and activities. A day jaunt to the nearby Tortuga Islands includes snorkeling in crystal-clear water and a barbecue at night. One kilometer out of Montezuma you can go on a canopy tour through a verdant river valley topped off by a waterfall, maybe you go scuba diving, sport fishing, kayaking or horseback riding, the choices are endless.

To get to the mainland of Costa Rica you can go by speed boats to Jaco. During the 45 min trip towards the rising sun you may sometimes see dolphins, manta rays or whales. And the must-see for nature lovers is the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, located 9 km south of Montezuma.

Hotels in Montezuma offer accommodation for every taste and budget. In high season however, Dec - March the little town fills up and it is advisable to make advanced reservations.