Question 1

What is the "Drug Entrapment by Fake Police" scam in Montañita?

Accepted Answer

Street dealers openly sell drugs along Montañita's main strip, particularly at night. Plainclothes individuals posing as police then approach and demand bribes or threaten arrest. The setup is coordinated — the dealer and fake officer work together to extort tourists caught holding. Victims are often threatened with jail unless they pay several hundred dollars. Refuse all drug offers immediately and walk away. If approached by anyone claiming to be police, insist on going to the official police station and call your embassy. Never pay a bribe.

Question 2

What is the "Beach and Bar Pickpocketing" scam in Montañita?

Accepted Answer

Montañita's beach and open-air bars are high-risk zones for pickpockets, especially during the busy tourist season from December to April. Crowded conditions at beach parties and nighttime bars give thieves easy access to bags, pockets, and chairs where belongings are left unattended. GoPros, phones, and wallets are the most commonly stolen items. Leave valuables locked in your accommodation. Use a waterproof money pouch for essentials. Never leave bags unattended on the beach while swimming.

Question 3

What is the "Friendship Bracelet and Unsolicited Gift Scam" scam in Montañita?

Accepted Answer

Vendors on Montañita's beach approach tourists and tie a friendship bracelet or place a shell necklace on their wrist before asking for payment, relying on social pressure to collect money for items the tourist did not request. The same tactic is used with small craft items placed in hands or laps. Those who try to refuse are met with angry or guilt-laden responses designed to make refusal uncomfortable. Refuse firmly before any item is placed on or near you. You are not obligated to pay for anything given to you without your consent. Say "no thank you" clearly and maintain eye contact — a confident refusal is usually enough.

Street Scams in Montañita

Drug Entrapment by Fake Police

Beach and Bar Pickpocketing

Friendship Bracelet and Unsolicited Gift Scam

Experienced a scam here?