Surf's Up! Best 5 Places to Surf in Costa Rica

If you're a surfer, you've probably heard that Costa Rica is one of the best surfing destinations in the world. With its warm waters, consistent waves, and beautiful beaches, it's no wonder why people worldwide flock to this Central American paradise. 

In this guide, I'll give you a closer look at surfing in Costa Rica, including why people come here to surf, where to go, and how to plan your adventure. I'll also discuss Costa Rica surfing tours and companies for you to consider, safety tips, and valuable items to bring with you.

If you're already used to standing on a surfboard and balancing down the waves, there are dozens of spots and beaches to explore. And if you're learning how to surf, there are plenty of classes, courses, or the good old school of life to teach you how to glide down the water.  

Why Go Surfing in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a prime destination for surfing because of its warm waters, consistent waves, and beautiful beaches. The country's Pacific coast is trendy among surfers, thanks to its consistent swells and various breaks. 

It's also a great place to learn to surf, with many surf schools and beginner-friendly waves. On the other side of the country, you have the Atlantic coast, and the ocean is more mellow, but you can still find a few surfing spots to enjoy! 

Another reason people surf in Costa Rica is its natural beauty. Many of the country's surf breaks are in or near national parks, so there's plenty to explore in Costa Rica when you're not in the water. 

Just imagine resting between waves and looking out into amazing greenery and birds flying up and down. It's paradise on earth or the closest thing to it. 

Where to Go Surfing in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a variety of surf breaks, from beginner-friendly to expert-only. Some places are known for having amazing waves and are the country's most famous surf spots. Here are a few of the must-visits.

Playa Jaco 

Jaco is a bustling beach town located on the central Pacific coast known for its consistent waves and lively nightlife. If you like to exercise and want to enjoy a night of partying and drinks in Costa Rica, then this is the place to go. 

Tamarindo

This famous beach town on the northwest coast has a variety of breaks, making it an excellent spot for surfers of all levels. You can find professional-level waves with some left-hand breaks or mellow ones perfect for simply standing up. 

Santa Teresa 

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is a laid-back beach town with some of the best waves in the country. Surf in the morning and nap under a palm tree in the afternoon. You've got yourself the perfect day.

Playa Hermosa 

Just south of Jaco, Playa Hermosa is a long, sandy beach with consistent waves that break over a sandy bottom.

Pavones 

This remote surf spot on the southern Pacific coast is known for its long left-hand break, which can sometimes run for over a minute. It is ideal for more experienced surfers already comfortable with more challenging waves. 

Surfing Lessons in Costa Rica

If you're looking to book a surf trip to Costa Rica, plenty of tour companies and surf camps exist. Most of them will take you in as a beginner, so don't worry about looking clumsy in front of your classmates. Here are a few options to consider:

• Witch's Rock Surf Camp: This popular surf camp is located in Tamarindo and offers all-inclusive surf packages for all levels of surfers.
• Surf Simply: Based in Nosara, Surf Simply is a luxury surf resort focusing on coaching rather than just guiding. It is a bit pricier, but if you have extra cash to spend, this is an immersive experience. 

Is Surfing in Costa Rica Safe?

Like any water sport, surfing can be dangerous without proper precautions. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when surfing in Costa Rica:

• Always surf with a buddy: Even though you can safely travel solo in Costa Rica, surfing alone is never a good idea. Make sure you have a buddy with you at all times.
• Know your limits: Avoid surfing waves that are beyond your skill level. Stick to breaks that you feel comfortable with.
• Check the conditions: Check the surf report and talk to locals before entering the water. If the weather is iffy, save the surfing for some other day. There's plenty more to do in Costa Rica, after all.
• Wear sunscreen: Costa Rica's sun can be intense, so wear and reapply sunscreen frequently.
• Respect the locals: Like anywhere else, respecting the locals and their customs is essential. Don't drop in on someone else's wave and always be courteous in the lineup.

How to Plan Your Surf Trip to Costa Rica

When planning a surf trip to Costa Rica, there are a few things to remember. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

• Determine your skill level: As mentioned earlier, Costa Rica has surf spots for all levels of surfers. Determine your skill level and choose a break that's appropriate for you.
• Choose your destination: Decide which part of the country you want to visit and which surf spots you want to check out. It is better to plan it out, so you can enjoy your time to the fullest. 
• Book your accommodation: There are plenty of options for accommodations in Costa Rica, from surf camps to hostels to luxury resorts. Book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability.
• Rent or bring your surfboard: Depending on where you're staying, you can rent a surfboard. Check beforehand when booking your stay. If you have a board, consider bringing it to save on rental costs.
• Consider taking a surf lesson: Even if you're an experienced surfer, taking a lesson can be a great way to get familiar with the local breaks and conditions. Also, it may help you find the best spots for waves and how to catch them with style. 

Useful Items to Bring on Your Surf Trip to Costa Rica

When packing for Costa Rica, there are a few items that you can bring with you. Here are some valuable things to consider for your surf trip:

• Surfboard wax: While you may be able to buy wax in Costa Rica, bringing your own can save you time and money.
• Rashguard: A rashguard can protect your skin from the sun and prevent irritation from your wetsuit.
• Water shoes: Some surf spots in Costa Rica have rocky bottoms, so water shoes can be helpful.
• Waterproof phone case: If you plan on taking photos or using your phone while in the water, a waterproof phone case can protect your phone from the elements.
• Portable charger: A portable charger can ensure your devices stay charged if you plan to spend long days in the water.
• First aid kit: While you can buy basic first aid supplies in Costa Rica, bringing your own can be helpful in case of an emergency.

For a good reason, Costa Rica is one of the world's top surfing destinations. With its warm waters, consistent waves, and beautiful beaches, it's a paradise for surfers of all levels. 

For experienced surfers, the country offers some of the best places and waves to explore. And for those who are only getting started, this is an opportunity to entirely fall in love with it. 

Following the tips and guidelines outlined here, you can have a safe and enjoyable surf trip to Costa Rica. Remember to respect the locals, know your limits, and have fun! 

Plan Your Costa Rica Surf Trip With Pilot!

If you're ready to plan your surfing adventure in Costa Rica, remember to use Pilot.