Costa Rica Surfing: Catch the Country’s Best Waves

Famous for its surf breaks, Costa Rica is a world-class surfing destination for both beginner and advanced surfers. With great surfing on both coasts – including point and beach breaks, lefts and rights, reefs and river mouths – surfers from around the world come to surf Costa Rica and enjoy the warm water and year-round waves. Fun fact: one of the longest left breaks in the world can be found here! Experience the best Costa Rica surfing with these Expert picks:

Tamarindo | Guanacaste

Tamarindo is likely the most famous Costa Rica surfing destination. The town hosts several national competitions every year, and the booming local development of restaurants and nightlife is an added bonus for surf fans. Tamarindo surf lessons are easily booked as part of your custom Costa Rica vacation package, or with the help of your hotel concierge. Check out the surf shops in town for board rentals and other surfing needs.

Playa Espadilla | Manuel Antonio

Espadilla Beach is a great beach for beginning surfers. Espadilla is the main beach of Manuel Antonio in the Central Pacific region.  The southern end of the beach at high tide is a good starting spot for beginning surfers. The northern end of the beach can offer more of a challenge for experienced surfers. Surf lessons can be arranged in advance as part of your custom vacation package.

Dominical & Uvita | South Pacific Coast

The South Pacific Coast offers long stretches of relatively unspoiled beach, popular with surf enthusiasts. Playa Dominical is a laid-back beach town known for its epic surf breaks and bohemian vibe. Famous for its consistent waves and powerful swells, Dominical attracts surfers from around the world looking to ride some of the country’s best waves. The beaches near Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita are another great choice for riding waves in the warm waters of the South Pacific coast.

Santa Teresa | Nicoya Peninsula

Santa Teresa is a long-time hot spot for surfers in search of endless waves from sunrise to sunset. The breaks are usually best for experienced surfers, but plenty of wannabe riders catch their first waves in Santa Teresa, too (usually with the help of a qualified instructor). Supplement your surf experience with a therapeutic spa massage or a relaxing yoga session – Santa Teresa is not only a surfer paradise, it’s home to Costa Rica’s most dedicated wellness communities.

Playa Guiones | Nosara (Nicoya Peninsula)

Nosara’s long, sandy Playa Guiones attracts solo surfers, group retreats, families, and all sorts of travelers who want to try their hand at wave-riding in a friendly, laid-back environment. Nosara is about 2 – 2.5 hours south of the Liberia international airport, making it a more off-the-beaten path option than bustling Tamarindo. Surf lessons and board rentals are easy to come by, both from the hotel concierge and independent surf shops in town. Beginners can learn how to pop up, paddle out, and catch a wave while avid surfers can practice more advanced techniques. Surfing not your thing? Grab a boogie board for the full Playa Guiones experience!

Costa Rica Surf Lessons

New to surfing? Lessons are a great way to learn the basics and gain confidence. Whether you’re 7 or 70, being able to ride the perfect right point break is something to write home about! With water temperatures around 80°F, or mid-20 C, special wetsuits are usually not required.

Costa Rica Surfing FAQs: