You’re dreaming of living barefoot by the sea, watching howler monkeys swing past your balcony, and maybe even growing your own bananas. But let’s get real. Can you actually live safely and sustainably in this part of Costa Rica?
Absolutely! You’re not alone. A growing wave of international buyers is choosing Santa Teresa and Mal País not just for the surf and sunsets, but for a lifestyle that blends personal wellbeing with conscious living. Let’s break down what this means for you and your future property.
How Safe Is It to Live in the Nicoya Peninsula?
The short answer: very safe, especially compared to urban areas back home.
- Low crime, tight-knit communities
Santa Teresa and Mal País are small, locally connected towns where neighbors look out for each other. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty theft can be minimized with basic precautions. - Peaceful culture
Costa Rica abolished its army decades ago and has a national identity rooted in peace. Locals tend to be warm, welcoming, and genuinely community-minded. - Healthcare access
There’s a reliable private clinic in nearby Cóbano for day-to-day needs, and top-tier hospitals are accessible in San José and Liberia. Emergency services are improving with the area’s steady growth.
Why Sustainability Is More Than a Trend Here
Mal País and Santa Teresa have evolved into a haven for those who want to live in harmony with the earth, not just near it.
- Eco-conscious development
Many new homes are built with renewable materials, solar energy, and water-saving systems. Off-grid villas and jungle retreats are common for those wanting to reduce their footprint. - Community-driven conservation
Locals and expats alike are invested in protecting their paradise. Beach cleanups, sea turtle programs, reforestation projects, and plastic-free markets are just the beginning. - Sustainable food culture
From organic farms to vegan cafés and permaculture gardens, your plate can reflect your values here. Even better? Many properties include space for home gardens and fruit trees.
What a Safe & Sustainable Home Might Look Like
If you’re serious about this lifestyle, here are some features to look for:
- Solar power and rainwater catchment systems
- Native landscaping for water efficiency
- Composting toilets or gray water recycling
- Natural ventilation and passive cooling
- Materials like bamboo, teak, or reclaimed wood
REMAX Pura Vida currently features several listings that check these boxes. Jungle-chic villas with minimal impact, hilltop homes with ocean breezes instead of A/C, and gated communities with eco-covenants are all available.
What to Know Before You Buy
- Legal safety = peace of mind
Foreigners can legally own property in Costa Rica, with the same rights as citizens in most cases. Just make sure your title is clean and your due diligence is tight. We can help with both. - Sustainable doesn’t mean primitive
Many eco-luxury properties offer high-end finishes, infinity pools, and strong Wi-Fi. It’s possible to live luxuriously and lightly at the same time. - Choose the right location
For families or those wanting more access to services, Playa Hermosa and the hills above Santa Teresa offer a great balance of privacy, proximity, and peace.
Final Thought: Safety and Sustainability Can Be a Way of Life
Choosing Mal País or Santa Teresa isn’t just about where you live. It’s about how. You’ll wake up to birdsong instead of traffic, raise your kids where nature is their playground, and rest easy knowing your home, and your lifestyle, reflects what matters most.
And isn’t that what Pura Vida is really all about?
Let’s Find Your Eco-Friendly, Peace-of-Mind Paradise
Whether you’re craving an off-grid retreat or a solar-powered luxury villa, REMAX Pura Vida is your guide to living well and living wisely in Costa Rica.
Explore sustainable and safe properties now.