Sun, Sand, and Secret Waterfalls: The Ultimate Montezuma Beach Family Hike
If your family is staying in Santa Teresa and you are looking for a change of scenery, a short drive over to the well known hippie beach town of Montezuma is a must. While Montezuma is famous for its main town waterfall, playground, farmers market and hippie vibes, there is an even more magical, sun-drenched coastal hike that takes you through sea turtle nesting grounds, hidden beaches, and refreshing river pools.
Best of all? It’s completely flat, highly customizable, and packed with fun milestones to keep the kids excited every step of the way! Here is your step-by-step guide to the ultimate Montezuma beach trek:
To start this adventure, head into Montezuma and park on the parking lot right by the beachside playground. Let the kids burn off some initial energy on the swings and slides while you prep your gear. From here, pack up your things (*see packing list at the end of this blog entry) and look for the path/road that you arrived from heading south along the coast.
As you begin walking along the coastal road, keep your eyes peeled. The trail starts with some incredible local landmarks: You will pass the local sea turtle hatching sanctuary. Depending on the season, you might see the protected nursery areas where volunteer conservationists protect vulnerable olive ridley nests. And a bit further down, on your left, you will spot the beautiful beachfront grounds of the Yin Yang Resort. Shortly after you pass the resort, you will stumble upon a local vendor's hut. He sells fresh, ice-cold pipas (coconuts) in the area. Let the kids drink the sweet water right out of the shell, and enjoy a quick shaded break.
After your coconut break, follow the path as it weaves through a beautiful, shady passage of trees right along the edge of a stunning, secluded beach. Eventually, the trail meets the ocean line, and you'll arrive at a clear mountain river flowing directly into the sea. If you look just inland, you'll find a gorgeous, hidden beachside waterfall! This is the perfect spot to unburden your packs. The freshwater pools below the falls are incredibly refreshing after the beach walk. It’s an absolute paradise for kids to splash around in, hunt for smooth river stones, or explore the calm river pool. Active families can even adventure a short way up along the riverbed.
For most families with younger kids, the waterfall is the perfect place to set up for a picnic, enjoy and turn around when you feel ready to do so. If the kids still have gas in the tank, you can continue walking along the coastline to the next secluded beach, where you will regularly find absolutely no one else around. It feels like having your own private island!
Pro Packing Tips from Santa Baby Rentals:
Picnic Blanket, Water bottle & snacks
Baby carrier or a hiking backpack, if you are traveling with kiddos under 3,5yo
Insect repellent, sunscreen and/or sun hats
Swimwear and towel
SANDALS, flip flops or any comfy shoes