There’s something special about seafood in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula it’s not just the freshness of the catch, it’s the heart and pride that go into every dish.
From family-run marisquerías tucked in quiet villages to sunset restaurants overlooking the Pacific, the Santa Teresa area offers some of the best ocean-to-table meals in the country.
At Costa Casual Retreats, we’ve spent years exploring these hidden gems — from Cabuya to Manzanillo — and we’re excited to share our favorite spots where the sea’s bounty shines brightest.
https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gfx4fBqQw/?mibextid=wwXIfr
If you’re looking for a true local experience, Marisquería Soemi in Las Mangos de Cobano is a must-visit.
Family-owned and full of charm, this spot serves up authentic Costa Rican seafood made the traditional way simple, flavorful, and fresh.
Their ceviche is legendary among locals and travelers alike, perfectly balanced with lime, chili, and just the right amount of kick. And if you’re lucky enough to chat with the owner “Macho”, ask him about his secret ingredient you’ll be surprised (and impressed).
What to Try:
💡 Insider Tip: Go during lunch hours when the day’s catch is freshest.
https://www.facebook.com/share/17Ncb4UK6Z/?mibextid=wwXIfr
For a slightly more contemporary vibe, head to La Cevichería right in downtown Santa Teresa.
This stylish yet relaxed spot offers a wide variety of ceviches with creative twists — think mango-lime shrimp, tuna with coconut milk, and spicy octopus. It’s also one of the few places in town where you can pair your ceviche with handcrafted cocktails that rival the best beach bars in Costa Rica. They have killer hot sauce, and they typically ask you how spicy you want your meal on a scale of 1-10, and they’re always right on point! The owner Mario really knows what he’s doing and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to flavor and service!
What to Try:
💡 Pro Tip: Great spot for people-watching and pre-dinner drinks — the energy of Santa Teresa is right outside your table.
https://www.facebook.com/share/19fhERM6vf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
If you’re chasing both flavor and views, make your way to Atardecer Dorado in Manzanillo.
This cliffside restaurant overlooks the ocean and serves some of the most authentic coastal dishes in the region. It’s laid-back, open-air, and the perfect spot to end a day at the beach. Super authentic and killer prices. It’s an adventure to get to it as well, slow nice cruise through the mountains or along the beachside road and you come to this place out of nowhere.
What to Try:
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset the golden hour light makes the whole place glow.
https://www.instagram.com/arrecife_cabuya_seafood?igsh=ajJ1M2Mzd3VkZjZk
Down in Cabuya, this restaurant is the definition of fresh. Arrecife Cabuya serves fish caught right off the shore that same day often by fishermen you can see unloading their boats nearby. Lau the owner knows everyone in the town and is guaranteed the freshest pick of seafood each day.
It’s casual, cozy, and the perfect stop after exploring Cabuya Island or the Montezuma falls. Great place for live music!
What to Try:
💡 Pro Tip: Pair your meal with one of their house margaritas they’re some of the best in the area.
https://www.instagram.com/productcmalpais?igsh=MTUyOTkwaWRidzJlaQ==
If you’ve been around Santa Teresa long enough, you’ve probably heard of Product C the seafood institution that once had one of the best brick-and-mortar restaurants in town. The owner Cito always is serving up the fish tacos with a smile.. he’s also a good guitar picker as well!
While the original shop closed about four years ago, Product C has been making waves again with pop-up events around the area.
Keep an eye out for their appearances at Qué Mae Brewing Co. or The Iguana & The Coconut, where they bring back their signature dishes and fresh, inventive seafood flavors that locals still rave about.
What to Try (if you catch them):
💡 Insider Tip: Follow their social media or ask locals — when a Product C pop-up happens, word spreads fast!
From hidden marisquerías in Cobano to sunset restaurants in Manzanillo, the seafood around Santa Teresa is as diverse as it is delicious.
Each spot offers its own flavor of Costa Rican from the humble fisherman’s recipes to the creative twists of new-wave chefs.
At Costa Casual Retreats, we celebrate that ocean-to-table lifestyle every day. Whether you’re here for a yoga retreat, music session, or culinary getaway, you’ll taste the same freshness, authenticity, and love that make this region so unforgettable.
📧 Contact us: booking@costacasualretreats.com
🌎 Learn more: www.costacasualretreats.com
Rise and Shine in Santa Teresa If there’s one thing Santa Teresa does as well as surf, it’s breakfast. From ocean-view cafés to roadside sodas
Planning a group retreat in Costa Rica sounds like a dream — until you start juggling logistics, schedules, and sign-ups.The good news? With a little
Ocean Flavor, Local Soul There’s something special about seafood in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula it’s not just the freshness of the catch, it’s the heart