A Guide to the Nicoya Peninsula’s Best-Kept Secret: Cabuya, Costa Rica
Tucked away on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Cabuya is Costa Rica’s best-kept secret — a peaceful beach town blending natural beauty, longevity, and rising real estate value. In this guide, you’ll discover why Cabuya is becoming a smart investment hub for buyers seeking oceanfront homes, eco-retreats, and long-term lifestyle potential.
Summary: Is Cabuya a Good Place to Buy Property?
Yes — Cabuya, Costa Rica is an emerging real estate hot spot in the Nicoya Peninsula. If you're looking for peace, nature, and investment potential, this quiet village offers land, eco-properties, and beachfront homes — all with long-term growth potential and low entry costs compared to nearby tourist towns.
What is Cabuya, Costa Rica?
Cabuya is a peaceful coastal village at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, known for nature, spirituality, and slow living. Unlike Santa Teresa or Montezuma, it’s not overrun by tourism — and that’s what makes real estate in Cabuya so attractive right now.
Why is Cabuya a hidden gem for real estate in Nicoya?
Cabuya is gaining quiet attention from real estate buyers for these reasons:
Undervalued property prices compared to nearby towns
Strong appeal to expats, retirees, and eco-conscious investors
Zoning options for eco-lodges, Airbnb, and yoga retreats
Walkable access to nature reserves, beaches, and wellness hubs
Low crime, high quality of life, and part of a Blue Zone region
This makes Cabuya ideal for:
Buying ocean-view land or jungle lots
Building eco-homes or off-grid retreats
Launching small-scale tourism or rental businesses
How to get to Cabuya from San José or Liberia?
Getting there is part of the adventure:
Drive or bus to Puntarenas
Take the ferry to Paquera
Drive/bus to Cobano, then to Montezuma
Cabuya is 7km southeast of Montezuma
Travel time:
From San José: 6–7 hours
From Liberia: 5–6 hours
Bonus: The scenic route makes it worth the trip.
What are the top things to do in Cabuya, Costa Rica?
Cabuya is for people who love nature, wellness, and simplicity:
Walk to the Cabuya Island Cemetery at low tide
Hike in Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve
Join yoga classes or wellness retreats
Explore tide pools and local beaches
Watch howler monkeys swing past your rental porch
Eat fresh fish and Gallo Pinto at local sodas
Surf or snorkel just 20–30 minutes away
All of this makes vacation rentals and long-term stays in demand here — which is great for real estate investors.
When is the best time to visit — or invest in — Cabuya?
Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Best for visiting and property tours
Green Season (May–Nov): Better deals, fewer people, lush scenery
Cabuya offers year-round rental potential, especially for digital nomads and long-term expats
FAQs
Is Cabuya good for real estate investment?
Yes — Cabuya is still affordable and full of potential. Land is cheaper than in Santa Teresa or Nosara, and the eco-tourism trend makes it ideal for future growth.
Can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. Foreigners have the same ownership rights as locals in most cases. Beachfront and concession lands may require extra steps, so work with a trusted real estate lawyer.
What kind of properties are available in Cabuya?
Ocean-view lots
Jungle villas
Eco-homes
Land for development
Turnkey Airbnb properties
Is Cabuya part of Costa Rica’s Blue Zone?
Yes! Cabuya is in the Nicoya Peninsula, one of five Blue Zones in the world. People here live longer and healthier — a major plus for wellness-focused buyers.
Is there good internet in Cabuya for remote work?
Internet is improving but not as fast as in cities. It's good enough for email, calls, and remote work, but streaming or uploading large files might be slow. Nearby Montezuma offers faster Wi-Fi.
Conclusion: Why Cabuya Should Be on Your Property Radar
If you’re looking to invest in Costa Rica real estate, Cabuya is a true hidden gem. It offers a rare mix of:
Low prices
Strong growth potential
Eco-lifestyle appeal
Peace and safety
Untouched natural surroundings
Now is the perfect time to buy before it becomes the next Santa Teresa or Nosara. Whether you're investing, retiring, or starting a wellness business — Cabuya, Costa Rica welcomes you with open arms.
Contact Today
Don’t wait until everyone else finds out about this hidden paradise.
Whether you're dreaming of a jungle retreat, a beachfront bungalow, or an eco-investment with serious growth potential — Cabuya has what you're looking for.
Let us help you find your piece of paradise.
👉 Contact Our Real Estate Team Today »
Exploring the Nicoya Peninsula: Montezuma – Real Estate Opportunities with Cabuya Realty
Discover Montezuma, a bohemian paradise on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, famous for its stunning waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and vibrant pura vida lifestyle. Montezuma offers unique real estate opportunities for those investing in Costa Rica or retiring in paradise.
If you're curious about life in Costa Rica, begin by exploring the Nicoya Peninsula Montezuma. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Montezuma is a peaceful town where tropical beauty, local charm, and property potential come together. It’s the kind of place people visit once—and never want to leave.
At Cabuya Realty, we offer personalized support for property buyers, sellers, and owners. From staging homes to managing rentals, we’re your go-to real estate partner in Montezuma and across the Nicoya region.
Why Montezuma is Worth Discovering
Montezuma has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a vibrant, close-knit community that welcomes locals and foreigners alike. It's perfect for those looking for a slower pace of life without compromising on connection or opportunity.
● Ocean Meets Jungle: A mix of beaches, waterfalls, and tropical wildlife.
● Inclusive Community: Expats, creatives, and locals live side by side.
● Sustainable Living: Many residents focus on eco-friendly habits and natural health.
This balance of nature and community creates a lifestyle many property seekers are drawn to.
Property Options – Exploring the Nicoya Peninsula Montezuma
When you’re exploring the Nicoya Peninsula Montezuma for property, you'll find a wide variety of listings that suit both lifestyle buyers and investors:
● Clifftop Villas with Ocean Views – Ideal for luxury living or retreats.
● Tucked-Away Jungle Lots – Affordable spaces for building your dream home.
● Turnkey Rental Properties – Ready-to-go homes with rental history.
● Eco-Conscious Designs – Featuring solar panels, composting, and rainwater collection.
Cabuya Realty makes the process seamless by ensuring legal clarity, local compliance, and solid value.
Montezuma Living – Simple, Natural, and Well-Connected
Easy Access to Essentials
Montezuma is about a 15-minute drive from Cobano, where you’ll find banks, supermarkets, and schools. Travel to and from Montezuma is easier than it seems thanks to regional flights and ferry connections.
Medical & Educational Services
Basic clinics are available locally, with larger medical centers in Nicoya or Puntarenas. International families will also find bilingual schooling options expanding in the area.
Nature, Art, and Community
Whether you're hiking to waterfalls, swimming in tide pools, or joining a local beach clean-up, Montezuma is all about meaningful connection—to the land and each other.
Why Cabuya Realty Makes a Difference
At Cabuya Realty, we live where we work. We understand local laws, hidden gems, and what it really takes to succeed in the Montezuma property market.
Here’s what we offer:
● On-the-Ground Expertise
● Complete Real Estate Services – Buying, selling, staging, and management.
● Reliable Guidance – From property titles to zoning permits.
● Investor-Friendly Options – Including remote purchase support and ongoing care.
When you work with us, you gain a committed team focused on your long-term success—not just the transaction.
FAQs – Property Buying in Montezuma
1. Can non-residents buy property in Montezuma?
Yes, foreign buyers have the same legal rights as locals when purchasing titled land.
2. Is Montezuma a smart place for rental investment?
Yes, it's popular with tourists year-round, offering strong potential for vacation rental income.
3. What kind of medical services are nearby?
Montezuma has access to local clinics, with major hospitals a few hours away by road.
4. What's the difference between titled and concession land?
Titled land grants full ownership, while concession land is leased from the government, mostly near the beach.
5. Should I use a property manager if I live abroad?
Absolutely. Cabuya Realty provides full property management to protect your investment while you’re away.
Start Your Montezuma Journey with Cabuya Realty
Whether you're searching for a peaceful retreat or a smart property investment, Montezuma has much to offer. Cabuya Realty is here to guide you from your first inquiry to long after the sale is done.
👉 Reach out to Cabuya Realty today to explore available listings and discover the beauty and value of Montezuma real estate.
Your perfect place in Costa Rica might be just around the corner—let’s find it together.
Top Mistakes Foreigners Make When Buying Property in Costa Rica – Avoid Them with Cabuya Realty
Buying property in Costa Rica as a foreigner can be an exciting adventure—but it also comes with unique challenges. From ensuring the property has a clean title to verifying utilities like water and electricity are in place, many buyers make costly mistakes by skipping crucial steps. Avoid common pitfalls and protect your investment by learning what to watch out for before signing on the dotted line. For expert guidance, visit www.cabuayrealty.com.
Buying property in Costa Rica can be a dream come true, but for many foreigners, it turns into a costly lesson. Navigating a new country’s legal system, cultural norms, and real estate practices is no small feat. At Cabuya Realty, we’ve spent years helping international clients sidestep these common issues and make informed decisions.
Let’s walk through the key mistakes foreigners make when buying property in Costa Rica—so you can steer clear of trouble and focus on finding your perfect home.
1. Not Fully Understanding Property Titles
Costa Rica has a unique property ownership system. Some land is fully titled, while others—especially beachfront areas—fall under concession laws. This often confuses first-time foreign buyers.
Pro Tip: Always confirm property title status through the National Registry and let a qualified local attorney review the details. Cabuya Realty ensures every property we list has clean, verified ownership.
2. Ignoring Local Zoning and Building Regulations
Just because land looks suitable for building doesn’t mean it’s legally allowed. Each region has its own regulations. Ignoring this can lead to fines—or worse, a forced demolition.
What to Do: Before buying, ask about zoning laws and approved land use. Cabuya Realty helps you navigate these local rules clearly.
3. Trusting the Wrong People
Unfortunately, not everyone advertising real estate in Costa Rica is licensed or trustworthy. Some buyers fall into scams or purchase overvalued properties.
How to Avoid It: Choose a registered agency with a physical presence and track record. Cabuya Realty is locally rooted and respected for putting client interests first.
4. Overlooking Ongoing Expenses
It’s easy to focus on the purchase price, but many forget about property taxes, utilities, maintenance, and security. Cabuya Realty offers full-service management to make owning property here worry-free.
Smart Move: Set a realistic monthly budget. Our team at Cabuya Realty offers full-service property management to help owners avoid costly surprises.
5. Rushing the Purchase Without Visiting Enough
We’ve seen buyers fall in love with photos or make emotional decisions during short visits. But neighborhoods can feel different depending on the time of year, traffic, and weather.
Reality Check: Spend time in the area during different months. If you're considering Cabuya, Montezuma, or Malpaís, we’ll help you explore the community lifestyle before committing.
Avoid These Common Pitfalls with Cabuya Realty
Buying a home abroad isn’t just about price or location. It’s about making a life change. At Cabuya Realty, we help foreigners navigate Costa Rica’s unique real estate market with local insight and integrity.
We guide you from property tours and legal checks to negotiations and post-sale support. Because your trust means everything—and your future home deserves more than guesswork.
FAQs
1. Can foreigners own property in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. Foreign nationals have the same legal rights as Costa Rican citizens when it comes to owning titled real estate.
2. What is concession property and is it risky?
Concession land—often beachfront—is leased from the government and involves additional regulations. It’s legal, but more complex—especially for foreigners.
3. Are real estate agents regulated in Costa Rica?
Not strictly. That’s why working with a reputable agency like Cabuya Realty is essential for protection.
4. Do I need to be in Costa Rica to close a property deal?
No. You can grant power of attorney to a local lawyer to handle the process, but visiting beforehand is highly recommended.
5. What costs should I expect beyond the purchase price?
Typical costs include legal fees, property transfer tax (~2.5%), annual property tax (~0.25%), and optional services like maintenance or rentals.
Ready to Buy Smart in Costa Rica?
Avoid rookie mistakes. Trust local experts. Cabuya Realty has helped hundreds of international buyers find their dream property safely and stress-free.
👉 Contact Cabuya Realty Now to schedule a consultation or start your property search today.
Your Costa Rican journey starts with one smart decision—and that’s choosing the right guide.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Costa Rica?
Dreaming of Owning Property in Paradise? Here’s What You Need to Know
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about buying property in Costa Rica, from legal considerations to the best locations—so you can make your tropical real estate dreams a reality. ¡Vamos!
What International Buyers Need to Know before they buy.
Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes and welcoming culture have made it a magnet for international property buyers. If you’re considering real estate in Cabuya, Santa Teresa, Montezuma, or anywhere on the Nicoya Peninsula, understanding the rules for foreign ownership and the benefits of the Inversionista (Investor) Residency Program is essential.
Equal Rights for Foreign Buyers
Foreigners enjoy the same property ownership rights as Costa Rican citizens. You can purchase titled property outright in your own name or through a corporation, with no requirement for residency or citizenship. This makes purchasing property in Cabuya, Santa Teresa, Montezuma, or elsewhere on the Nicoya Peninsula straightforward and secure.
Titled vs. Concession Land
Titled Land:
Most inland and some select coastal properties are titled, meaning you own the land outright. This is the most secure form of ownership and is highly sought after by both locals and foreigners.
Concession Land:
Properties within the Maritime Zone (the first 200 meters from the high tide line) are concession land. Here, the first 50 meters are public, and the next 150 meters can be leased (not owned) for up to 20 years, renewable. Foreigners can only own up to 49% of a concession property unless they have resided in Costa Rica for at least five years. These properties are subject to additional regulations and taxes, so due diligence is crucial.
The Inversionista (Investor) Residency Program
Costa Rica offers a clear path to residency for foreign investors through the Inversionista program. If you invest at least $150,000 USD in real estate, shares, or a Costa Rican business, you can apply for temporary residency. Here’s how it works:
Minimum Investment: $150,000 USD in real estate, a business, or other approved assets.
Residency Benefits: Temporary residency for two years, renewable as long as you maintain the investment. After three years, you can apply for permanent residency.
Family Inclusion: Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your residency application.
Path to Citizenship: After seven years of legal residency, you may apply for citizenship.
Additional Perks: Residency holders can import household goods and a vehicle duty-free, and enjoy access to Costa Rica’s healthcare system.
Note: Inversionista residents cannot work as employees in Costa Rica but can earn income from their investments or work remotely for foreign companies.
Final Tips
Work with a reputable local real estate agent and attorney to ensure a smooth, legal transaction.
Understand the difference between titled and concession land, especially for beachfront properties.
Consider the Inversionista program if you plan to invest $150,000 or more, as it offers significant residency and lifestyle benefits.
Costa Rica’s property laws, combined with the natural beauty of Cabuya, Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and the Nicoya Peninsula, make it an ideal destination for your next real estate investment.
5 Ways Cabuya Embodies the Pura Vida Lifestyle
The magic of the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, perfectly encapsulated in the small fishing village of Cabuya, a town that still holds its authentic charm.
After an invigorating morning surf, I sip my coconut water.
Amid the soothing landscapes of Cabuya, Costa Rica, challenges arise when we yearn for balance in our fast-paced routines.
Many seek a retreat like Cabuya—a haven where the concept of 'Pura Vida' truly thrives, offering a reprieve from life's demands and a return to meaningful living.
Rediscover the essence of life.
1. Embrace Mindful Living
Cabuya perfectly embodies mindful living practices.
Nestled within Cabuya’s serene and lush confines, one finds the perfect opportunity to reconnect with oneself. The gentle whispers of ocean breezes and the soothing rustle of leaves become companions in your journey of self-awareness. Here, life slows to a rhythm that invites introspection and gratitude's gentle embrace.
Mindful living conveys the art of balance.
In Cabuya, mindfulness isn't a goal but a way of being—where the mundane transforms into a transformative experience, and every encounter becomes a source of reflection. Each decision, whether big or small, is infused with purpose and intention.
Such a mindful existence naturally impacts the community, enriching human connections and fostering genuine encounters. Promoting an environment where every resident is encouraged to relish the present fosters a unique camaraderie. By embracing mindfulness, Cabuya paves the way for a life that is not only lived but cherished in every moment.
2. Stay Active Outdoors
Cabuya is a natural playground.
Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this coastal haven offers a bountiful array of exhilarating outdoor activities. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or prefer tranquil pursuits, Cabuya encourages you to embrace life's vibrancy. Kayaking, hiking through verdant trails, or surfing the pristine waves allows residents to revel in nature's grandeur.
Explore the waters to uncover hidden aquatic wonders.
The azure ocean invites you to dive in—to swim, snorkel, or sail against the backdrop of stunning vistas. With each stroke through the water, a sense of freedom and adventure unfolds, keeping body and spirit robust and invigorated.
Peering beyond heart-pounding activities, Cabuya also invites you to embrace practices like yoga and meditation on the powdery sands or among the lush foliage. Embracing these exercises amidst nature's beauty doesn't just strengthen the body, but the spirit—a testament to the vitality that permeates this community. Here the outdoors becomes an extension of your living space, offering an ever-present invitation to live vibrantly, engaged, and in harmony with the majestic environment that is uniquely Cabuya’s.
3. Foster Community Connections
In Cabuya, forging profound connections with those around you is more than an aspiration; it's a way of life, a cherished tradition that enhances the fabric of this vibrant community, embracing a neighborly ethos that fosters genuine friendships.
Neighbors readily extend hands to support one another within this welcoming environment.
Shared experiences become the norm as community gatherings and events, where laughter (and occasionally delectable homemade tamales) are bountiful.
This close-knit bond fosters a network of like-minded individuals exchanging ideas, inspiring both collective problem-solving and personal growth.
From local festivals to beach clean-ups, opportunities abound to build camaraderie, deepening trust among Cabuya’s residents.
Ultimately, the heart of Cabuya beats stronger because of these connections. Community interactions manifest as daily affirmations strengthening individuals within a broader network striving together for a fulfilling, interconnected life.
4. Immerse in Nature
In Cabuya, nature isn’t just scenery; it’s an integral part of daily experiences and personal growth.
With verdant rainforests and pristine beaches at your doorstep, Cabuya gifts residents the tranquil embrace of lush landscapes, etching the enchantment of outdoor spaces into the everyday. Here, the confluence of land and sea crafts an intricate tapestry that invites both exploration and introspection. Enveloping oneself in Cabuya's verdant embrace unlocks a restorative connection, soothing and invigorating the soul while igniting a profound appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world.
Endlessly nurturing, these immersive experiences provide an abundant bounty of renewal. As residents wander through serene trails, kayak along serene waters, or simply bask under the embrace of sunlit foliage, Cabuya encourages them to retreat from the hustle and engage wholly with the earth’s bounty, reinforcing an essential element of the pura vida lifestyle.
This embrace, a testament to Cabuya’s deep-rooted harmony with nature, embodies living sustainably amidst untouched beauty, and coexists gracefully, providing not just visual satisfaction but also soul-nourishing contentment. The sheer vibrancy of Cabuya’s natural surroundings and the kinship it fosters within its residents are testaments to the enduring and life-affirming appeal that make nature’s embrace an irresistible call to those who yearn to live in synergy with the world around them.
5. Know Your Food Sources
In Cabuya, the connection between the plate and the land is palpable and celebrated as part of life.
In 2016, Oscar Ortega, a thriving local farmer, prominently highlighted how knowing your food's journey enriches your culinary experiences and fosters a sense of community. He believes that awareness adds depth to every meal, enhancing both taste and satisfaction.
Here, it's not uncommon for residents to make morning visits to the farmer's market to select from the bounty of freshly harvested produce that graces their kitchens. The rhythmic dance of seasons ensures a vibrant showcase of nature’s best offerings.
Residents who embrace this intimate knowledge discover it's not just about sustenance but also supporting land stewardship and local economies. Fresh fruits, vibrant vegetables, and sustainably caught fish underscore a holistic commitment to health and ethical consumption.
In Cabuya, living the pura vida lifestyle means relishing the inherent connection between nature, nourishment, and community.