Pavones Surf Guide
One of the most famous waves in Central America, Pavones is a legendary left that is often cited as the second longest in the world.
Quick Facts
One of the best lefts in the whole world
Nice, glassy waves that offer long rides
Relatively remote location
Swells can range from 3-10 feet
Introduction to Pavones
Zihuatanejo is a rad little city that has gone through a lot. It experienced rapid growth in the mid and late 90’s after it’s cameo in The Shawshank Redemption. It experienced some high crime rates in the following decade, only to be revitalized in the last 10 years or so. It’s a fun place with some solid waves. There’s consistent swell hitting the area, and access to some amazing surf spots in places like Ixtapa, Troncones, and La Saladita. The waves are not empty, but there are far fewer crowds than the Riviera Nayarit.
Pavones Surf Season
The best swells from the south arrive in Pavones in the summer, or wet months from May to October. This is when the waves will be biggest and strongest, pushing into the nearby Golfo Dulce. In the offseason (dry months), the wave will be much smaller and less crowded. However, it still is a rideable wave that offers a lot of fun rides. To get the most out of a trip to Pavones, we definitely recommend going in rainy season and seeing this wave in all its glory!
Where to Surf in Pavones
There’s really one main spot to surf in Pavones known simply as Pavon or Pavones Point, but there are other breaks nearby. The main break is the star of the show though. On good days, the wave breaks for over a kilometer. The wave is only about 100 meters from shore through generally calm waters. There’s one open face at the beginning, and then you’ll find a straight left for hundreds of meters. It sometimes barrels, but even when it doesn’t it is an awesome ride. Although the average wave size in the image above is accurate, it often pumps up to the 5-8 foot range.
Crowds - During rainy seson
Surfer Level - Intermediate+
Ideal Swell - SW/S
Ideal Wind - E, light
Break Type - Point
Consistency - 80%
Be Aware: Some rocks on bottom
Surf Camps, Classes, and Lessons in Pavones
Pavones Surf Camp - Pavones Surf Camp and Pavones Surf School. Known as Rancho del Mar, they offer both lessons and camps right outside their doors on this amazing wave.
Surf House Pavones - A hostel-style surf camp right there in Pavones. Maybe 50 feet from the wave, Surf House is a chill atmosphere with laid-back vibes and great company in the relaxed travelers.
Coco Drone - Surf lessons and photography, but they can help you find somewhere to stay and make it into a surf camp. He offers private lessons and group lessons, and has been teaching around Pavones for quite some time!
From the Store
Other Things to Do in Pavones
Pavones is rather remote, so there isn’t a ton to do. You’re not too far from the Osa Peninsula if you want to go check out Corcovado National Park. Here are a few other things to do:
Tube down the Rio Claro - This is an awesome hike and tube ride for those who love adventure. The whole thing takes about 4 hours, but it’s well worth it. You can check out this guide for more details.
Fish - The nearby Golfo Dulce is super rich in marine life. You can take half day tours to find dorado, yellowtail, snapper, sea bass, and more.
Where to Stay in Pavones
If you don’t want to stay at one of the many surf camps in Jacó, don’t worry! We have you covered. There are seriously a ton of hotels in town. The town can get rather rowdy with parties at night. This may be what you’re looking for, or not, so keep that in mind.
Tiskita Jungle Lodge
Nearby jungly hotel
Super Costa Rican hotel. Just south of the break in the jungle, you’ll see plenty of monkeys here! They have a lovely little splash pool, delicious healthy food, and nice jungly vibes.
Pavones Point
Surf condos close to the waves
Pavones Point is a collection of several condos. You can rent an awesome place here right at the point. The hotel, like many in the area, is built specifically for surfers and groups!
Piña Hills
Beautiful private modern home
Piña Hills is a private residence located about 10 minutes from the break. With 3 bedrooms, a beautiful stone pool, and an incredible jungle vibe, it’s a great place for groups or families!
Surfhouse Pavones
Surf hotel that overlooks the break!
If you want to be as close as possible to the surf, this is your place. They have 6 rooms right at the beach. They offer various private rooms with air conditioning and different bed options.
Getting to Pavones
Pavones is remote, there’s no doubt about it. But there are several relatively cheap ways to get there:
Local Flights - You can take a domestic flight from Juan Santamaria International Airport to Pavones for around $150 USD each way via SANSA. Golfito is about an hour away from Pavones in a taxi from there. Check Expedia for more local flights.
Car or Transfer Service - It will cost more, but you can rent a car or get a private transfer from San Jose to Pavones. It’s a 6.5 hour drive minimum, so prepare yourself if you’re going this route! You definitely can stop over on the way in Dominical or Uvita and break it up into a two-day drive.
Public Transportation - By far the most economical option to get to Pavones to surf! You can take the bus or an Uber from the airport to the Tracopa bus terminal in San Jose. From there, you can take a bus straight down to Pavones. We recommend the coastal route, as the Cerro de la Muerte road is wild!
Restaurants in Pavones
Jolly Roger - A little Mediterranean restaurant with good lunches and dinners. They have lovely tapas, as well as $2 cocktails during happy hour!
Soda TicoMex - A blend of traditional comida tica and comida mexicana, this soda is a great place to eat on a budget. You’ll find great burritos that are sure to fill you up, delicious fresh fish tacos, and comfort food like burgers.
Cafe de la Suerte - For your breakfast and juice needs. They have baked goods, vegetarian food, and fresh smoothies and juices! Great way to start the day.
Be sure to check out our Resources page for tips on traveling, spending money, support, and more.
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