Surfing in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is probably my favorite country to visit in Central America (sorry to everyone else). It’s nature is absolutely astounding, it has a variety of incredible waves, and I’ve found the local ticos to be super friendly. Also, I lived there for 3 years as a teenager :) The surf scene in Costa Rica is well-established both for locals and tourism, and there are plenty of options to catch some amazing waves. The surf towns in Costa Rica are super fun, varied, and offer something for everyone. There are also plenty of surf and yoga camps in the country if that is what you are looking for. Find your next wave or surf camp with our guide to surfing in Costa Rica.
Overview
One of the top surf destinations in the Americas
Beach, point, and reef breaks around the country
Plenty of schools, classes, and beginner-friendly waves
Swells all year long depending on location and skillset
Beginner Waves
Advanced Waves
Surf Camps
Surf Season in Costa Rica
One of the benefits of surfing somewhere like Costa Rica is the presence of waves year-round. If you’re looking for the bigger waves in some of the big-wave spots, you’re going to have the best luck in the summer months (June-August). However, beginner surfers can find plenty of waves all year long. One thing to note is that the winter months are often more crowded with beginners, especially in the beginner-friendly surf havens like Tamarindo. Also, the water is notably colder in the winter months, but still not wetsuit-worthy.
Other Things to Do in Costa Rica
This isn’t a general travel blog, but if it were we’d have a post of “100 Things to do in Costa Rica.” There are so many amazing things to see and do in this country. You can go visit one of the many beautiful volcanoes, like Poas or Arenal. Check out the amazing hiking in Corcovado National Park, my absolute favorite place in the country. Head inland to see the coffee plantations and mountain life. Go rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, ziplining, SCUBA diving…. Basically any outdoor activity you could possibly imagine. You can check out Trip.com for tours and activities to do while visiting this amazing Central American country.
Surf Spots in Costa Rica
Dominical
Uvita
Jacó
Nosara
Tamarindo
Pavones
About the Surf Spots
Dominical
Dominical is a relatively small little town in Puntarenas that centers on surf. There are incredibly consistent waves here. The beach is over two miles long, starting at a rivermouth. The wave has been firing every time we’ve been there, and we’ve been there a bunch. During wet season (summer) the waves can really pump. There are plenty of beginner opportunities with inside waves, and you’ll find no shortage of surf schools and surf shops. To get the most out of Dominical, we’d say go in the summer if you’re at an intermediate level.
Jacó
Jacó straight up isn’t our favorite place to surf in Costa Rica, but it’s there. When I lived in Costa Rica, Jacó was the nearest place to surf and we’d often make the trip. We always had fun. You’ll find a touristy and party-centric town with surf shops on nearly every block. The waves here are simply not the best Costa Rica has to offer, but they are indeed surfable. It’s super accessible from the airport, which makes it a top choice for many travelers. For us, it’s perhaps seen as a good place to learn to surf or learn to catch green waves. If you’re headed to the area, Playa Hermosa is just a few minutes south and offers one of the best intermediate/advanced waves in the country.
Nosara
Nosara is definitely growing in popularity with international surf tourists. There are seriously endless waves here. It’s deep, but worth it. There are several breaks to be found, like Playa Guiones, Playa Nosara, Playa Garza, and Playa Ostional. As it’s a bit remote, there isn’t a ton to do outside surfing. There is a wildlife sanctuary and another reserve for the nature lovers. In our opinion, Nosara is best for people looking to surf during the day and take it easy at night. If you’re looking for something remote, chill, and in nature, put it on your list!
Pavones
Maybe the most famous wave in Costa Rica? Probably. I don’t know if it’s technically true, but it’s often called the second longest left in the world. Pavones is a super long, glassy ride that can go from 3-10 feet. It is rather remote way down south, but worth it for the serious surfer. It’s definitely a one-wave spot, but that one wave is all you need. The wave can break for a kilometer, with open faces and then a straight left. It can get crowded during rainy season, but because it’s so remote it won’t get overly crowded.
Santa Teresa
This place has changed a bunch. When I lived in Costa Rica back in the 2005-2008 range, Santa Teresa was a bit quieter. It’s not quite as busy as Tamarindo, as it’s still quite remote. There are some incredibel waves to be had here for all surfer levels. It’s probably one of the best intermediate spots in our opinion, as you’ll find beautiful waves to practice really turning on. Waves can get hollow, the town is cute, and it’s a fun time.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo is (I think) the tourist capital of Costa Rica. Well, maybe not the actual tourist capital, but it’s the most touristy place I’ve been in the country. This is where you’ll find all the luxury and all-inclusive resorts. There are plenty of breaks nearby, almost too many surf schools and rentals to handle, and plenty of other things to do. You’ll definitely spend a little more money going here as it’s more expensive than the rest of the country, but the tradeoff is luxurious accommodations, delicious food, and access to some of the best waves in Central America especially for beginners and intermediates.
Uvita
Uvita definitely doesn’t have the best waves, but they do have solid ones. There’s a big whale-tail that pokes out at Parque Nacional Marino Ballena and the south side can really pump on the right days. There are also plenty of beach breaks up and down the beach. The town itself is a strange mix that we love. Up on the hill, you’ll find more luxurious hotels and resorts, many centering on wellness and yoga. Down near the beach, there are more budget-friendly options with smaller hotels and hostels. We love the town, love the food, love the vibe, and love the people.
Surf Camps in Costa Rica
Bodhi Surf and Yoga - Located in Uvita, Bodhi is one of our favorite surf and yoga camps in Costa Rica. Their grounds are absolutely beautiful, and in addition to solid surf instruction you’ll be offered plenty of yoga and meditation classes. They offer one week camps and two week camps year-round!
Safari Surf School - Located in Nosara, Safari is a great option to be close to some solid waves. They offer budget-friendly options in their backpacker’s special, as well as an 8 day surf camp.
School of the World - With two decades of experience in Jacó, School of the World is a solid option. They’re one of the only surf camps we know of that offers double surf camps, with two guided sessions a day. You really get your money’s worth here. They have a 7 day double surf camp, as well as a surf and photography camp.
Iguana Surf Camp - Another fantastic option and one of our favorite surf camps. They’re well-established in Tamarindo and have a full surf shop as well. They offer 6 day and 7 day camps, as well as a school for kids and adults.
From the Store
Posts About Costa Rica
Things to Know About Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a relatively small country in Central America, which is awesome for the ability to see a lot of the country in one visit. The Costa Rican Colon is a relatively stable currency, leading to a solid economy for Central America. One of the safest countries in the Americas, you’ll find incredibly nice and friendly people, always happy to stop and have a conversation with a stranger. Like much of Latin America, driving can be a bit chaotic for foreigners, but the roads are some of the best you’ll find in the region. If you’re planning on visiting Costa Rica, we highly recommend taking a day off from surfing to visit some of the natural wonders and beauty they have to offer.