Top 5 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Santa Teresa

The slippery but sharp rocks and the waves constantly breaking on them make it for a dangerous playground. But it doesn't stop fishers to try their luck with a simple line until dark. Shot in Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.
Christopher Crouzet, Wikimedia Commons

Santa Teresa's drinking and nightlife revolves around beachfront bars and vibrant venues, offering a relaxed atmosphere for sunset drinks and opportunities for lively evenings with music.

Entertainment and Music:

Santa Teresa offers a lively, laid-back music and entertainment scene, often centered around beachfront venues and local bars featuring live music and DJ sets.

Visitors can experience live music at venues such as La Lora Amarilla, known for its late-night disco atmosphere with reggae, trance, salsa, and merengue music. Banana Beach is another popular beachfront spot, frequently hosting live music from DJs and bands, particularly around sunset. House of Somos also provides live music, especially on Thursday nights, creating a vibrant social setting.

1. Banana Beach

Type: Beach Bar & Restaurant

Banana Beach is a popular spot perfect for watching the sunset with a drink in hand. It offers a laid-back atmosphere with diverse seating options, including swings and daybeds. They frequently host live music and surf competitions, especially on Monday afternoons, and Saturday nights are known for good music and vibes.

Getting There: Located on Villa Bonita Drive, it is often within walking distance from many areas. Taxis are recommended for late-night travel in Santa Teresa.

2. Ranchos Itauna

Type: Beachfront Restaurant & Party Venue

During the day, Ranchos Itauna operates as a beachfront restaurant. On Tuesday and Saturday nights, it transforms into a lively party spot with cocktails, tapas, and often features full-moon parties and electronic music by the beach. It's also a great location for sunset views.

Getting There: It is a beachfront location, likely accessible by walking from nearby areas. Taxis are advisable for getting around at night.

3. La Lora Amarilla

Type: Disco Bar

La Lora Amarilla is a disco bar known for its late hours and a lively, dive bar experience. It's a local dance hall where you can mix with tourists and locals, enjoying reggae, trance, and live music, including Costa Rican bands playing salsa and merengue on Saturday nights.

Getting There: Located in Puntarenas Province, San Isidro, Santa Teresa, it is often a short walk from Kika. Taxis are recommended for late-night transportation as walking alone at night can be unsafe.

4. Kooks

Type: Sports Bar

Kooks is the only sports bar in Santa Teresa, making it a popular gathering spot during sports seasons. It offers good cocktails and beers, alongside a food menu. It can be a vibrant place for dancing, especially on Thursday and Saturday nights.

Getting There: Kooks is centrally located and generally within walking distance of the main area. For late-night returns, taxis are a safer option.

5. House of Somos

Type: Bar & Restaurant

House of Somos is a bar and restaurant located on the north side of Santa Teresa, known for its surfer's atmosphere. It offers delicious cocktails and an easy-going vibe, often featuring live music and a fun dancing area at night.

Getting There: Located on the north side of Santa Teresa, it is likely walkable from nearby accommodations. Taxis are recommended for getting around after dark.