Montezuma Waterfall

Tip

Start at the bridge just south of town (paid parking, no entry fee) and follow the riverbed to the lower falls; go in the morning and be out by 4:30 pm.

Be careful

The rocks are very slippery and the river rises fast after rain. Don't jump from the cliffs or climb around the upper falls — swim only in the lower pool, and ask the trail rangers about safe routes.

Places nearby

• Butterfly Brewing CoFood & CoffeeCraft brewery up the hill out of Montezuma, on the road toward the canopy tour and the upper falls, with a deck looking out over the jungle - a cold pint after the waterfall hike.
• Sun TrailsTours & AdventureMontezuma-based tour and transfer company covering Santa Teresa, Malpaís and Tambor, best known for its zipline over the Montezuma waterfalls.
• Soda Típica Las PalmerasSodas & Local FoodBudget-friendly soda in the center of Montezuma with a balcony over the beach where white-faced monkeys play in the trees.
• Zuma ToursTransfers & Rentals · takes 1 hMontezuma-based operator running the water taxi between Jacó and Montezuma, plus private transfers and boat tours.
• Sano Banano Restaurant & BarFood & CoffeeLong-running vegetarian-friendly restaurant a few steps from Montezuma beach, with a leafy patio, vegan and gluten-free plates and a mixed menu (mushroom pasta, tofu curry, seafood).
• Restaurante Montezuma Latino Beach FoodFood & CoffeeA casual beachfront spot in the center of Montezuma for fish and shrimp tacos, patacones with guacamole and whole fried snapper, with mojitos, coco locos and passion fruit margaritas and an ocean view.