Where to Stay in Santa Teresa: Best Areas Explained

Choose the area before you choose the hotel

Two beautiful hotels can give you completely different trips depending on where they are.

Playa Carmen

Choose Playa Carmen if you want convenience. It is close to restaurants, shops and the main entrance to the area, and it is one of the easiest bases if you do not want to depend on a vehicle every day.

Central Santa Teresa

Choose central Santa Teresa if restaurants, nightlife and being close to the main action matter most. You can walk to a lot of what you need if your accommodation is close to the main road.

Playa Hermosa

Choose Playa Hermosa if you want a wider beach and a quieter rhythm. There are cafés and places to eat, but transport becomes more useful if you want to move around a lot.

Manzanillo

Manzanillo is quieter and more remote. It suits travelers who want space and do not mind having a vehicle.

Malpaís and Mar Azul

This side feels more local and quieter than the center. It is good for travelers who care about surf, fishing and a more relaxed atmosphere, but having transport helps.

Montezuma

Montezuma has a very different feel from Santa Teresa, with the waterfall, a compact town and a more bohemian atmosphere. Choose it if that is the trip you want.

Cabuya

Cabuya is quiet, green and close to Cabo Blanco. It works best if you want nature and a slower base, and we recommend having transport.

The hills

Hillside properties can have beautiful views and privacy. Always ask how the final access is. Some roads are steep enough that a 4x4 is recommended.

If it is your first trip

If you are unsure, start with Playa Carmen, central Santa Teresa or Playa Hermosa. Choose the other areas when their specific atmosphere is one of the reasons you are coming.

Compare the three most common bases in our Playa Carmen, Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa guide, or see where to stay without a car.