For over three decades, the Asociación de Desarrollo Integral de Mal País y Santa Teresa—better known as A.D.I.—has quietly but powerfully guided the evolution of our beachside community. Born in 1992, this association was founded by neighbors. People who saw the beauty here, the potential, and the need to protect both.
Through changing tides, dusty roads, and several booms in tourism, A.D.I. has stayed grounded in its mission: to support sustainable growth, preserve the natural world we live in, and uplift the community that calls this slice of Nicoya home.
If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind that newly painted speed bump, the community clean-ups, the meetings with government agencies, or the steady pulse of projects happening behind the scenes—the answer would include A.D.I.
What A.D.I. Does: Projects With Purpose
A.D.I.’s projects are varied, but all share a common goal: long-term well-being for the land and the people of Santa Teresa and Mal País.
- Traffic Safety & Road Improvements: Speed bump installations, improved signage, and road safety initiatives for all.
- Environmental & Wildlife Conservation: Partnering with Somos Congos and others to protect local species and educate the public.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Co-creating the “Plan de Gestión de Destino” with the ICT for responsible tourism.
- Community Clean-Ups & Green Spaces: From trash pickups to park installations, preserving the charm of our jungle paradise.
- Public Safety Collaboration: Studying successful models in Tamarindo to implement best practices here.
Protecting the Río Arío: A.D.I.’s Environmental Advocacy
In response to escalating environmental concerns, A.D.I. has taken a firm stand against the extraction of materials from the Río Arío. This river—vital for drinking water and ecological health—faces serious threats. A.D.I. is part of a coalition that has filed a constitutional appeal to stop potentially devastating extraction plans. Stay tuned—ST Dirt Road Newspaper will spotlight this story in the coming weeks.
How You Can Join A.D.I.?
Yes, you can become a member. A.D.I. is powered by local residents. If you live in Santa Teresa, Mal País, or nearby, you may qualify to join. Here’s how:
- Reach out via Instagram or attend a community event.
- Verify you live in the area (land ownership not required).
- Fill out a membership form (A.D.I. will help you through it).
- Pay the membership fee—this funds vital community projects.
- Get involved: attend meetings, vote, lend your voice and skills.
Support Beyond Membership: Volunteer or Donate
- Join a beach cleanup or support event logistics.
- Donate funds to support larger initiatives.
- Offer your skills—engineering, art, education, organization, media—all welcome.
Why This Matters Now
Santa Teresa and Mal País aren’t sleepy surf towns anymore. Growth is happening—fast. A.D.I. helps us shape that growth wisely. From safer roads to greener parks, this association channels local energy into real results.
So ask yourself: Do you want clean beaches, community unity, and respect for nature? If yes, A.D.I. is calling you in.
Ready to Join the Movement?
Follow or contact A.D.I. to take action:
- Instagram: @adi_malpaisysantateresa
- Facebook: Asociación de Desarrollo Integral Malpaís y Santa Teresa
- Email: adimalpaisysantateresa@gmail.com
Let’s build the future of Santa Teresa and Mal País together. From the dirt roads to the starlit skies—this is our home, and we’re the ones who shape it.
