The 8 Best Coffee Shops in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica (2026 Guide)
Looking for the best coffee shops in Santa Teresa Costa Rica? You’re in the right place. This tropical surf town has evolved into a paradise for coffee lovers, offering everything from beachfront espresso bars to jungle-style brunch cafés. Whether you prefer a cold brew after surfing or a cozy spot with Wi-Fi for remote work, Santa Teresa delivers a world-class coffee scene.
Getting around to discover them all is simple. With Bimba shared e-bikes, you can cruise between cafés quickly and affordably, without the noise or dust of ATVs. It’s the best way to experience Santa Teresa’s laid-back lifestyle while enjoying top-quality coffee along the way.
Why Coffee Culture Thrives in Santa Teresa
The coffee scene in Santa Teresa has grown rapidly in recent years. The mix of international visitors, local farmers, and health-conscious travelers has created a unique blend of specialty cafés serving Costa Rican beans and creative brunch menus.
Most cafés here use single-origin beans from Tarrazú and Naranjo, two of Costa Rica’s best coffee regions. Combine that with fresh ingredients, ocean air, and surf-town vibes, and you have the perfect place for café hopping.
How to Get Around the Best Coffee Shops in Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Santa Teresa stretches along one long coastal road connecting Playa Carmen, Playa Santa Teresa, and Playa Hermosa. The distance between coffee shops can be long, and the roads are often dusty.
Bimba e-bikes make it simple to move between cafés. Download the Bimba app, scan to unlock a bright yellow bike, and ride anywhere along town. It’s quiet, fast, and eco-friendly — the best option to explore all the best coffee shops in Santa Teresa Costa Rica in one day.
1. Café Social
Location: North Santa Teresa
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Why visit:
Café Social is often mentioned as one of the best cafés in Santa Teresa. Set in a tropical-modern space with light wood furniture and relaxed music, it’s ideal for breakfast or an afternoon break. The café serves fresh Costa Rican coffee roasted locally and pairs it with a full brunch menu that includes smoothie bowls, toast, and sandwiches.
The friendly staff and calm environment make it a favorite for travelers who want both quality and comfort.
Highlights & suggestions:
Try the iced latte or flat white, and pair it with avocado toast or an acai bowl.
Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful setting before it fills up.
If you plan to work on your laptop, choose one of the shaded indoor tables.
2. El Somos Café
Location: next to BAC bank
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why visit:
El Somos Café combines design, surf culture, and specialty coffee into one beautiful experience. Partnering with Bocanegra Roasters, they brew some of the most refined coffee in Santa Teresa, including pour-over methods like Chemex and V60.
The café’s atmosphere is bright and social, attracting both travelers and locals. It’s also an ideal stop before or after a surf session at Playa Carmen.
Highlights & suggestions:
Order a single-origin pour-over to taste the richness of Costa Rican beans.
Pair your coffee with banana bread or a smoothie bowl.
It’s also a great place to meet other digital nomads or travelers.
3. Kaukau Café & Beach Food
Location: Plaza Royal, Central Santa Teresa
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Why visit:
A cozy café run by a local couple, Kaukau is located in the heart of town at Plaza Royal. It’s known for its specialty coffee, vibrant breakfast and lunch menu, and friendly service. The café’s minimalist design, air conditioning, and smooth playlist create the perfect environment for remote work or a relaxed brunch.
Kaukau has earned consistent five-star reviews from travelers who love its fresh ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights & suggestions:
Order a cappuccino or espresso with oat milk, and try the tuna poke bowl or vegan wrap.
Visit mid-morning for a quieter vibe if you plan to work on your laptop.
The café also offers takeaway if you want to enjoy your coffee at the beach.
4. The Bakery
Location: Playa Carmen crossroads
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why visit:
One of Santa Teresa’s landmarks, The Bakery is the go-to spot for early risers. Known for its fresh croissants, bagels, and hearty breakfasts, it also serves strong, high-quality espresso. It’s always busy in the morning, with a mix of locals, tourists, and surfers stopping by before heading to the beach.
The casual outdoor setting makes it a great place for people-watching and soaking up the town’s energy.
Highlights & suggestions:
Try a cappuccino with a chocolate croissant or smoked salmon bagel.
Arrive before 8:00 AM for the freshest pastries and shorter lines.
It’s also a reliable spot for takeaway if you’re catching the morning surf.
5. Cafca Café
Location: Central Santa Teresa
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Why visit:
Cafca Café is a favorite for digital nomads and brunch lovers alike. It offers a balanced menu of espresso drinks, smoothies, and light meals in a calm, open-air setting. The Wi-Fi is reliable, and the atmosphere encourages you to stay and work for a while.
Their staff is known for being attentive and consistent, and the ingredients are always fresh.
Highlights & suggestions:
Order a cold brew or iced latte with a breakfast burrito or açai bowl.
If you plan to work, sit at one of the shaded outdoor tables with outlets.
Visit between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM for the best light and fewer people.
6. Ani’s Bowls & Salads
Location: Calle Cobano Galeria Zeneidas, Santa Teresa.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
Why visit:
A relaxed café surrounded by lush greenery, Ani’s offers smoothie bowls, fresh salads, wraps and strong coffee in a chilled jungle-vibe setting. According to one review, it’s “our favourite smoothie bowls but also other dishes … this cute little café has the best breakfast in paradise vibes.
Highlights & suggestions:
Order a hot espresso or flat white paired with their signature smoothie bowl or tuna poke wrap.
Visit mid-morning (10 AM-12 PM) when the café is less crowded and the light filters through the foliage nicely.
The outdoor patio with natural shade is ideal if you want a break between beach sessions.
7. House of Somos
Location: North Santa Teresa
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why visit:
House of Somos is one of the trendiest places in town—a boutique hostel, café, and community hub that blends surf culture with modern design. The coffee program here features locally roasted beans and precision brewing by experienced baristas. The setting combines an airy layout, natural light, and upbeat surf-lounge music, making it one of the most stylish spots for coffee in Santa Teresa.
Highlights & suggestions:
Order a flat white or cold brew with banana bread or the signature brunch bowl.
Arrive mid-morning for a lively but not overcrowded vibe.
Ideal for people who appreciate design, surf culture, and premium coffee together.
8. BOLT Protein Coffee Bar & Laundry
Location: Across from the Lifeguard Gym, Santa Teresa.
Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 8 AM – 5 PM; Sunday 9 AM – 2 PM.
Why visit:
BOLT offers something different: specialty coffee, vegan/gluten-free pastries, protein smoothies and even laundry services—all in one. It’s a practical stop for someone looking to combine caffeine, healthy food and chores. Instagram+
Highlights & suggestions:
Try a strong iced americano or “protein latte” alongside a gluten-free pastry or smoothie.
Ideal time: Mid to late morning (10 AM-1 PM) when you might drop off laundry and stay for a coffee break.
The hybrid setup is friendly and efficient for travellers with limited time.
Coffee Crawl Itinerary with Bimba E-Bikes
If you want to make the most of your time, you can plan a half-day coffee crawl using Bimba e-bikes. The following route lets you explore town from south to north, stopping at the best cafés in order:
- The Bakery – early breakfast and espresso
- El Somos Café – second coffee and light snack
- Kaukau Café – late breakfast and air conditioning break
- Cafca Café – mid-morning iced coffee
- Zwart Art Café – artistic afternoon stop
- Café Social – relaxed lunch coffee
- Zeneidas Beach Café – sunset by the sea
- Earth Café – calm, nature-filled finish
This route covers the entire town, takes about half a day, and keeps you fueled and refreshed throughout.
Tips for Coffee Lovers Visiting Santa Teresa
- Early morning (7–9 AM) is the best time for fresh pastries and quiet cafés.
- Always ask if the café serves Costa Rican single-origin beans, as many do.
- Bring a reusable cup if you plan to take your coffee to the beach.
- Respect local “Pura Vida” culture. Service is friendly but never rushed.
- Use Bimba e-bikes instead of ATVs to reduce dust, noise, and parking issues.
- Carry sunscreen and water, especially if you plan a coffee crawl under the sun.
FAQ
What is the best coffee shop in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica?
Café Social and El Somos Café are the top-rated spots for specialty coffee and atmosphere.
Where can I find good Wi-Fi and coffee in Santa Teresa?
Kaukau Café and Cafca Café are popular among remote workers for reliable Wi-Fi and great coffee.
What is the most convenient way to visit coffee shops in Santa Teresa?
Use Bimba shared e-bikes. They are electric, easy to park, and the fastest way to explore cafés along the main road.
Is there coffee with an ocean view?
Yes, Banana Beach and Uma offer beachfront tables with direct sea views.
Final Thoughts – The 8 Best Coffee Shops in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa may be known for surf and sunsets, but its coffee culture is equally special. Each café in this list brings its own flavor, community, and charm to the experience. Whether you prefer a quiet pour-over in the jungle or an espresso by the sea, you can find it here.
Using Bimba shared e-bikes makes exploring simple, affordable, and sustainable. So grab your helmet, charge your phone, and start your caffeine adventure along the most beautiful beach town in Costa Rica.
Pura Vida, and enjoy your coffee journey through Santa Teresa.