Mal Pais, Santa Teresa, Mar Azul, Carmen, are some of the best known surfing beach breaks from this area. There are a variety of world-class breaks with ideal conditions and water temperatures throughout the year. The waves tend to get heavier, faster and steeper as you head north towards Playa Santa Teresa. Along with Montezuma, the area has become the home of many looking for a laid-back relaxing life stile. The crowds at these beaches are fairly young, with tanned-and-buff surfers walking or bicycling their boards to wherever the surf is up.

Mal Pais has largely retained its quiet atmosphere with large areas of unspoiled nature. Even though the place keeps the dirt roads, which in the rainy season get pretty bad, a group of investors are building nice hotels and international cuisine has become more popular. These facts are attracting older, more upscale visitors that are drawn to the tranquility of luxury retreats that cater to mind and body.