Mal Pais

Beach Coastal Beaches

Population: 1k

Cost of Living: High

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (Montezuma - San José, Cobano - San José)

Mal Pais is a serene and picturesque coastal village located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. This small town has a reputation as a surfers' paradise, with its long stretches of sandy beaches and consistent surf breaks drawing enthusiasts from around the world. The landscape of Mal Pais is characterized by its rugged coastline, interspersed with tide pools and rocky outcrops, which contrast with the lush tropical forests that extend inland. Visitors to Mal Pais can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and hiking in the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica's first national park. The town maintains a rustic charm, with dirt roads and a scattering of boutique hotels, yoga retreats, and local eateries that serve fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Despite its growing popularity among travelers, Mal Pais has managed to preserve its tranquil environment and remains a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

Nomad Lifestyle

Private Schools

Family Friendly

Single Friendly

Senior Friendly

B+

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

Cost of Living

Recreation

B-

Nightlife

Restaurants

Crime

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Mal Pais is considered high, especially due to its popularity among tourists and expatriates, which has led to increased prices for accommodations, dining, and services.

Weather

The weather in Mal Pais is typically tropical with a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November, offering warm temperatures year-round.

"I will be retiring within the next 12-18 months in WA .State. My wife (already retired), and I have travelled a bit to Costa Rica, Belize, Cambodia, and Honduras. Our most recent travel was to Costa Rica and we are planning another trip to do some property tours early 2025. As a long time member to International Living magazine we have read up on many of the locations that we traveled to in C.R. two years ago. The areas we are currently interested in doing a more in depth look at at Ojochal, Quepos, Jaco, and Nosara. We are now deciding if we want to maintain a residence in WA. and have a place back here. If we do, it will be outside of where we are now so we can get out of the snow belt." - Spokanesearcher

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Living in Mal Pais

Restaurants & Cuisine: Mal Pais is known for its laid-back atmosphere and has a variety of dining options that cater to different budgets and tastes. The Bakery Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, offering fresh pastries and healthy meals. For a more upscale dining experience, visitors can head to Caracolas, where the focus is on fresh seafood and local ingredients. A mid-range option is Mary's Restaurant, which is well-known for its farm-to-table approach and serves both local and international cuisine. For those looking for a casual meal, the pizzeria Trattoria Mal Pais offers a relaxed setting with a variety of Italian dishes.

Digital Nomads' Guide to Mal Pais

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"Hello, I have a lot in Avellanas.Im ready to build and have decided Cob/Straw bale would best for the environment and my pocket book. Do you know of anyone in Guanacasta who has done this? Or knows of what it is like living in one? etc....what permits if any I might need... I have found a Eco Institute near Jaco...am in contact with them. Happy New Year!" - hollyhj

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Mal Pais

Living in Mal Pais