When it’s working, Pavones is considered by many to be the best wave in Costa Rica (other contenders to that title include Salsa Brava and Witch’s Rock). The trouble is that it isn’t always “working” and is thus inconsistent and remote enough that it hasn’t been ruined by over-development in the area.

Depending on what you read, the Pavones break is either the second or third longest left-hand break in the world, and definitely the longest in Costa Rica. Extending over a kilometer, a ride can last over two minutes, leaving even a strong surfer’s legs shaking. One friend of mine, who lives in Dominical and has surfed around the world, said it was the best wave he has ever surfed, and when it’s good, he drives almost four hours to get there, surfs it for six hours straight, and then drives all the way back.

In addition the area of Pavones is one of the most beautiful beach areas in Costa Rica, rivaled only by Santa Teresa/Montezuma, and Dominical/Uvita for being the unspoiled postcard-perfect tropical beach paradise that tourists fantasize about finding in Costa Rica.

Pavones Area Surf Spots

Here’s a list of the area’s surfing spots and beaches, listed from east to west, which is generally the layout you’ll find them as you drive to the area.

Zancudo

Zancudo means “mosquito” in Spanish, and this area was originally named for the buggy infestations of these biting insects from the large estuary and mangrove section to the east. What we find now in Zancudo is a long flat beach, with a classic beach break of smaller waves that can tend to close out. The entire beach is lined with lots and houses, mostly older Tico houses, a couple restaurants, and no big developments. It’s very beautiful, quiet, and remote… possibly a well-kept secret with the name keeping many people away. This isn’t a surf destination, but if you end up here you can try out the waves.

Playa Pilon

Between the Pavones and Zancudo areas is Playa Pilon, a long sandy beach with a river in the middle. Some people attempt to drive to Zancudo from Pavones along the beach. Some will make it and others will get stuck. A local told us it was impassible except to ATVs and motorcyles, but our hotel manager in Pavones said we’d probably make it in our 4×4 as long as it wasn’t high tide. People go this way to save the 25km / 45-60 minute drive up the mountain along the back route. Surfing? Yes, the whole beach has waves and you can find some nice points. Since it’s farther east, the waves are smaller than Pavones, but it’s a good option when the swell is higher, or good for beginners too.

Cocal Amarillas / Punta Saleas

Just before Playa Pilon is Playa Cocal, or Cocal Amarillas, which has more beach breaks and lined with endless coconut trees just like all the other beaches in the area. Like most of these secondary beaches, surfers often ignore these breaks and instead crowd into Pavones. Why surf an ordinary break when one of the world’s best breaks is nearby? Yet, when the swell is smaller, which is usually the case, you can find great rides here to rival what’s going on at Pavones. When it’s good the Punta Saleas / Pilon break is usually great too. While not as long, reports have it going from 500-800 meters… still one of the longest waves anywhere!

El Higo

El Higo means “The Fig” and this beach is named after the huge fig tree on the beach here. These giant strangler figs, also known as Banyan trees, or “higuerones” here in Costa Rica, can grow to be among the largest trees in the world. The beach here is just east of Pavones, and gets great waves, mostly heading towards the left since the swell usually comes from that direction as it wraps around Punta Burica.

Las Gemelas

From Pavones you can see some large boulders known as “Las Gemelas”, which means “The Twins”. Since it’s so close to Pavones, it gets nearly the same size swell and heading from the same direction. When Pavones is full of people, this can be a great option and a few will head here to avoid the crowding.

Pavones

What can one say about Pavones that hasn’t been said before? This left-side rivermouth break is undoubtedly one of the best and longest waves in the world. When it’s big, the various sections link up and the ride can last over two minutes! You might guess that it can get very crowded, since people come from all over when the swell is big and oriented right. A few of Costa Rica’s surf contest champs live here and surf daily. It’s no wonder they’re the best… living at this wave gives them more time on the board than their competitors elsewhere.

La Piña

This isn’t so much of a surf spot as a place to take photos of some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful rock formations. The La Piña restaurant is now an Italian pizzeria, and is the major landmark for finding this area. Nearby you will discover a large rock with concrete stairs leading up to a cement bench, from which to watch the waves or stare aimlessly into space. If you’re lucky, you can see some of the local kids surfing a super-dangerous rocky point in front of their house, while their parents sell fruit and pipas from their small stand. These kids literally weave in and out of very sharp boulders in the water, defying death on a daily basis.

Chucuaco

Like La Piña to the north, Chucuaca, which is named after a local bird, has a lot of rocky spots mixed in with small sandy coves. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the area, with few hotels or houses… great for romantic strolls on the beach or surfing waves without crowds.

La Nicaragua

Before you get to the end of the road, you’ll find the Rio Nicaragua and a series of nice beach breaks near the river, with little development and great waves to avoid the crowds at Pavones to the north. The river here isn’t so big and not the type to host crocodiles as the larger estuaries in Costa Rica usually do. Also, because it’s farther around the corner, it catches better and bigger swells than Pavones.

Punta Banco

Punta Banco is a small village at the very end of the road. From here on, the only way to go further towards the tip of the peninsula is to take a boat or go by horse. At Punta Banco, you can stay at the amazing beachfront hotel Rancho Burica, and surf a great beach break right in front, which works at all tide levels. Up the hill from here is the popular Yoga Farm, a popular yoga retreat center.

Pavones Town and Activities

Photo Gallery

SUP Video of the Wave: 2:15 minutes and 1.05Km!

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Montezuma Surf Spots (Pick One)

Los Cedros
Playa Grande
Montezuma Bay
Montezuma Surfing Video
Surf Report

There are three main, well-known surf spots in Montezuma, and then a few more just south in Cabuya. Of course, like any place in Costa Rica, there are many other secret spots here too, which break in just the right conditions, such as a fast pipeline-like beach break that forms from time to time, or other point breaks between Montezuma town and Playa Grande.

Montezuma itself is known as the cutest beach town in Costa Rica, with over a dozen great restaurants, tons of yoga, small inexpensive beachfront hotels, and spectacular rental villas up on the hill. For more information, visit: Montezumabeach.com

Los Cedros

Playa Los Cedros is said to be one of the most spectacular beaches in Costa Rica. It is situated on the southern side of Montezuma, about halfway to Cabuya, on the southern Nicoya Peninsula. Playa Los Cedros is a fantastic rocky beach with a lot to offer. Hang out, have picnics, go horseback riding, sportfishing or surf the beautiful waves, Playa Los Cedros is an ideal holiday destination. It features a left handed reefy rocky point break that works only during the high tides. Although the spot is full of rocks, the break is great for beginners. The waves break in a consistent fashion very smoothly. The rocks can be easily seen and hence avoided when you ride the waves. However, if you do wipe out and fall, it is better to cover your head. Because the Gulf of Nicoya does not get big waves, the waves at Playa Los Cedros are fairly short riding up to 50 meter. The waves also require a good swell from the south. It usually receives good swells from North, Northwest, East and Northeast directions. The size of swells starts working at 1 meter to 1.5 meters. Due to its short waves, the surf spot is usually ignored by experienced surfers, so beginners and intermediate surfers have the spot to themselves most of the time. Be it a weekday or a weekend, the break almost never gets crowded. When the tide is low, the break is all rocks and small sea creatures. During a high tide, Playa Los Cedros becomes one of the best breaks to surf.

The beach is very close to Montezuma, approximately 4 to 5 minutes drive away. You can find the spot just past a bridge. You will see a small waterfall on the right side and a huge banyan tree on the left side of the beach.

Playa Los Cedros offers various other activities to its visitors. It has several beautiful tide pools perfect for chilling and taking a swim. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding, snorkeling, sailing and nature exploration.

Playa Los Cedros

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is a sublime beach in Montezuma, in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. The beach is a superb holiday destination for tourists who are looking for a serene yet fun getaway. The beach has a great surf spot that works best during mid and high tides with swells coming from the south. It is about 30 minutes walk away from Montezuma to the north. The spot has ideally consistent waves suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Playa Grande is a huge beach which get even bigger during a the low tides. It is blessed with scenic vistas of silvery white sands, swaying tropical trees and sparkling shorelines. You can surf, swim, hike, leisure and have picnics with your loved ones. Some popular places such as Montezuma waterfalls, Ylang Ylang Resort, Piedra Colorada, Nicolás Wessberg Natural Reserve and Romelia Wildlife Refuge are located nearby the beach. From Playa Grande, you can access many other beaches of Montezuma.

The beach is in a very remote area and people usually have difficulty locating it. If you are lucky, you may come across it by chance. Amazing for rejuvenation and hideaways, the tropical beach of Montezuma is one of the best beaches of Costa Rica

Playa Grande of Montezuma

Montezuma Bay

Montezuma Bay is a pretty spot from where sport fishermen, boat charters, sailors and water taxis take off. The waves are mostly short and gentle allowing easy launch. However, on rare occasions the waves can get pretty big and surfable. Only the most advanced surfers and daredevils ride the waves. The water is very polluted so a long bath is strongly advised afterwards.

Video of Surfing at Los Cedros

Los Cedros Surf Report

More Info about Montezuma Area Surfing

MontezumaSurfing.com – Website dedicated solely to Montezuma area surfing

MontezumaBeach.com – Montezumabeach.com’s surfing section

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Southern Pacific and Osa Peninsula Surf Guide

The South Pacific region of Costa Rica is a bucolic oasis of Costa Rica featuring the biggest prehistoric rain forest, a diverse peninsula, a number of nature reserves and many urbanized and tourist friendly cities. The Osa Peninsula is also found in the southwestern region, in the Puntarenas Province on the Pacific Coast. Considered as one of the most ecologically diverse and beautiful places in the country, the peninsula has become an ideal tourist destination. It is simply a wonderful platform for sports, wildlife viewing, nature exploration and luxurious retreat. When it comes to surfing, the Osa Peninsula again impresses its visitors with its diversity.

Surf breaks found in the South Pacific region are:

Punta Burica

Punta Burica is located on a far off location on the border of Panama hidden away from the rest of the world. It presents powerful reef breaks with best conditions when a swell is from the south. The surf spot can be accessed through a boat ride.

Punta Banco

Punta Banco is located on the southern side of Pavones and can be accessed by a boat. It features a reef break with both rights and lefts. Surfers come to surf here when the surf spot of Pavones get too crowded. The best condition to surf occurs when the tide is mid or high with swells from the south or west.

Pavones

Pavones is a perfect place for surf enthusiasts who want to pick up and ride long waves and large swells in seclusion. The waves are sectioned in numbers that allow a surfer to carry out various maneuvers. The waves provide a long, continuous euphoric ride of two to three minutes. Best time to surf in Pavones is during the rainy season, from April to October, when the waves are at their peak. Often, the swells from Golfo Dulce block the waves and there are no surfs for weeks, but as soon as the swell hits, the long waves lure plenty of surfers.

Playa Zancudo

Playa Zancudo is a small village in Puntarenas Province nearby Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica. It features a very consistent beach break with a large rivermouth that go left and right breaking over a sandy bottom. The spot is great for all levels of surfers. The waves are gentle, fun with ordinary power providing a good base for beginners. The beach break of Playa Zancudo remains secluded most of the times

Playa Carate

Playa Carate is a beach break present in Golfo Dulce working best when offshore winds blows from the north northeast. Groundswells are much more common than windswells. The swells are best from the southwest direction. Be cautious around rips and rocks.

Playa Matapalo

Playa Matapalo is found in Cabo Matapalo, a coastal town located at the outermost point of the Osa Peninsula. The beach is also known as Hog Hole among the locals. It boasts consistent waves for surfers of all levels. One of the best things about the beach is that it is mostly secluded even on weekdays. Watch out for rips, undertows and rocks.

Backwash Bay

Backwash Bay features a large and slow reef break present in the center of Backwash Bay. The waves are quite steep and not as consistent as the breaks in Matapalo, but the sectioned waves are great for long boarding sessions. Surfing is best when the tide is mid to low with swells from the west or southwest.

Pan Dulce

Pan Dulce, or sweet bread, is the smallest break. It is a long beach break that breaks to the right and often requires a larger swell. Best time is during the mid tide with a large swell from the south. It is a great area for beginners.

Eclipse

Eclipse is a rivermouth break found in Golfo Dulce. The break is fairly consistent offering both right and left handed breaks. Groundswells are more common than windswells and the best swells rise from the south and southwest. Low tide offers perfect condition to surf. The break is hardly ever crowded. Watch out for rocks and jellyfishes.

Rio Sierpe Rivermouth

Rio Sierpe Rivermouth provides a perfect challenge for advanced surfers. It features fast, long and hollow that break to both left and right powerfully. The break can be accessed by renting a boat from Dominical. The break is mostly uncrowded.

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Dominical Region Surf Spots

Dominical is a beach town located in the province of Puntarenas, on the South Pacific region of Costa Rica just south to Quepos. The coastal town is widely recognized for its huge, powerful waves that lure surfers from all over the globe. Dominical used to be a remote fishing community which gradually became a very popular holiday destination. The main pursuit of Dominical is surfing but it is also famous for its sublime beaches, tropical jungles and a wide variety of sport opportunities. The surf condition of Dominical stays perfect throughout the year. The weather is mostly sunny and waves are consistent and strong. The beach rarely gets crowded because it features multiple breaks. Surf breaks found in the area are:

Playa Matapalo

Not to be confused with a beach area of the same name in the Osa Peninsula, Matapalo is just north of Dominical. It’s a small beachside village with dark brown sand, and little development. Many of Costa Rica’s most popular beach towns such as Jaco, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa, now covered with development, used to look like this. Matapalo has a nice beach break with lefts and rights on a sandy bottom.

Playa Dominical

Dominical boasts a beach break that ride to left and right. The break has fast, hollow and powerful waves breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are somewhat tall and their height hardly ever drops below waist high. They often reach the height of 10 feet. Near the Rio Baru rivermouth, the surf gets bigger. There is a number of well positioned sandbars that create fun some demanding lefts and rights along with strong barrels. As the waves are very powerful with currents and rips, there have been few incidences of drowning. To ensure safety, lifeguards are always present on the beach. Dominical is only suitable for experienced surfers. Lots more info: Playa Dominical Surf Spot

Dominicalito

Dominicalito is found is located just south of Dominical. The beach features perfect waves for a beginner surfers, hence it can be crowded with surf camp novices. It is a protected surf break that breaks left and right over a sand bottom. It also has some rocks, but people seem to be able to avoid them well enough. Perhaps it’s best to check it out at low tide to see what you’re dealing with. The best time to surf is at higher tides for this reason.

Punto Dominical

Cambutal, or “The Point”, is another spot worth mentioning. It is a long, left hand reef break. Sometimes the swells are small and perfect for novices to ride, however most of the time they are too big, and it holds to double overhead and above. Out on the point is a great restaurant. Check it out on Trip Advisor here: La Parcela Restaurant

Playa Uvita

Playa Uvita is part of the Ballena Marine Park, and requires a $6 entry fee. The waves are smaller, but consistent and this spot is appropriate for beginner to intermediate surfers. It’s also a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, SUP, and of course, whale-watching. Scuba diving trips to Cano Island are launched from here too.

Playa Ballena

Playa Ballena is a sublime beach located in Puntarenas Province on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Featuring a range sport activities and luscious nature, the beach is one of the greatest tourist attractions. Playa Ballena is a superb surfing platform for beginners and intermediate surfers. It has a very consistent beach break. The beach breaks over a sandy bottom to both directions. The beach break is mostly secluded with no potential dangers except stingrays and jellyfishes. Due to tropical storms, the months between June to September are the best.

Playa Ventanas

Playa Ventanas is 35km or so south of Dominical, past Uvita and Playa Ballena. Considered by many to be one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica, it gets its name from the beach caves (“ventanas” means “windows” in Spanish) that get slammed and filled by the waves, creating a blow-hole like spray of water and mist. To find it, look out for road marker 176KM and then park to walk down around 300 meters to the beach. Once there, you’ll find a pretty grassy area lined with palm trees. The waves are small and gentle, since it’s a protective cove with a gently-sloping bottom. It’s more suited to swimming and sea kayaking than to surfing, but could be a good spot for beginners on foam longboards.

Further Reading about Dominical Surfing

Puntadominical.com – Great descriptions of the area’s various breaks
Sunsetsurfdominical.com – Great description of “the point.”
Wannasurf.com – Description of Playa Dominical etc

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Manuel Antonio Area Surf Guide

Manuel Antonio is a coastal city situated in the Central Pacific part of Costa Rica. The town has become a popular holiday destination because of Manuel Antonio National Park. The park features a beautiful beach, Playa Espadilla, diverse wildlife and offer many adventurous activities such as sportfishing, snorkeling and hiking. Manuel Antonio is not a major surfer’s town but it does have some good breaks to offer. If you happen to be in the town and want to surf, you can have quite a fun time.

Surf Breaks in Manuel Antonio

Playa El Ray

Playa El Rey is located south of Manuel Antonio. It closely resembles Playa Hermosa and delivers breaks left and right that close out with the presence of a big swell. The surf spot is very clean and deserted. The pretty sun kissed beach is a perfect place for a non-surfer as well.

Playa Manuel Antonio

The beach of Manuel Antonio features a beach break perfect for all kinds of surfers. Surfing in Manuel Antonio is best suited to novices and intermediate surfers. The waves are gentle and fun to ride. Advanced surfers will not find the breaks challenging enough but on some days, when swells are large, even veterans can have fun. The best time to surf in Manuel Antonio is from May to November

Playitas

On the northern tip of Manuel Antonio a small beach break is found called Playitas. It is a semi consistent break which is best surfed at a mid to high tide when the swells are large. The waves break to the right and left over a rocky bottom. Watch out for the crocodiles!

Boca Quepos

Boca Quepos is a rivermouth break presenting fast and hollow waves with a long left riding up to 100 to 200 meters. The spot requires a solid and large swell to break which comes from the northwestern and southwestern hemispheres. The best time to surf is at a low tide when the swell is headed from the west and northwest. When the waves are powerless, the swell is great for long boarders and beginners. The water of Boca Quepos is very polluted so do take a long bath afterwards.

Boca Damas

Playa Isla Damas is a small island located north of Quepos. The 6 kilometers long stretch of island is a remote area that offers a great surfing platform. The island is only accessible by a boat. It features a beach break that peels to the right. The waves are very powerful and strong with hollow rights. The waves are consistent throughout the year and have an average length. The beach break is only recommended to seasoned surfers. Watch out for rips, currents and crocodiles.

Surf Forecast

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Jaco’s Regional Surf Spots Guide

Jaco is a coastal city located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Puntarenas Province. Lying by the coast,
Jaco is blessed with a cluster of sandy beaches, imposing mountains and a diverse wildlife. Herradura and Playa Hermosa, two renowned tourist beaches are on northern and southern sides of Jaco respectively. About 15 miles north to Jaco, a nature reserve by the name of Carara National Park is situated which is famous for having one of the world’s largest populations of Scarlet Macaws. There are plenty of shops, private beach points, accommodations and many activities to do, especially water sports. Surfing is quite big in Jaco. Surf enthusiasts from all the world come to the town for a dose of its fun waves.

Surf Breaks in Jaco

Playa Esterillos

Playa Esterillos is a vast banana shaped golden sand beach situated on the southern side of Playa Hermosa, only a short drive away from Jaco, in the Central Pacific region of Costa Rica. The beach is separated into three parts, Esterillos Este in the east, Centro in the middle and Esterillos Oeste in the west.

Esterillos Oeste

Esterillos Oeste is regarded as a great platform for beginners and novices while the central portion of the beach, Centro, is perfect for veterans. The beach break waves have rights and lefts between 50 to 150 meters in length which can go up to 300 meters on a good day. The best time to surf is when the tide is mid range.

Esterillos Este

Esterillos Este boats faster and stronger waves that break pretty nicely over a sandy bottom during upcoming tide. However, the spot is least popular of the three.

Esterillos Centro

The middle portion of the beach, Esterillos Centro, is perfect for seasoned and professional surfers. It is found right in front of the hotel called La Felicidad. The powerful waves of Centro can be compared to those of Playa Hermosa’s. The beach break waves have good rights and lefts riding from 50 to 150 meters in length which can go up to 300 meters on a good day. The best time to surf is at a mid to high tide.

Playa Agujas

Playa Agujas presents a point break with a left peak offering quite an entertaining ride. The waves are fun with a fairly good length best ridden at a mid to high tide. The spot is great for all levels of surfers and mostly deserted.

Playa Escondida

Playa Escondida, the hidden beach, features a reef coral waves with fast and powerful world class waves. The waves break to the left over a sharp reef bottom. It is only suitable for experienced surfers. The spot can be reached by renting a boat from Isla Herradura.

Playa Jaco

The long beach of Jaco features a small beach break with lots of peaks. The waves break over a sandy bottom to the right and left. Although the waves have an average quality with an ordinary power, they remain consistent throughout the year and provide a great base for all sorts of surfers. Most of the time, the waves are short reaching about 50 meters in height. However on a good day, the waves can even reach the length of 300 meters. The best time to surf is two hours before a high tide. During a low tide, beginners can learn to surf in the whitewater

Playa Hermosa

Playa Hermosa is a 8 kilometers long stretch of beach boasting a number of consistent beach breaks. The beach features huge waves and swells hit the shore with full on power as it has no protection. The beach break features fast, powerful and hollow waves that break to the right and left over a sandy bottom. The waves are short riding up to 50 meter on a normal day while on a good day it can go up to 150 meters. Good swells are raised from Northwest, West and Southwest and wind blow from Southeast, East and Northeast. The best tide movement is at rising and falling tides during a mid tide. There are different kinds of sandbars that result in a creation of pounding and tubular beach breaks.

Other beach breaks found along the beach are:

Terraza

Terraza is a fast, hollow right break fronted by a large group of visible rocks. There are few other breaks just south of it which are less potent and break over a sandbar. The best time to surf is during the mid tide coming from a west or southwest swell.

Backyard

It features a very regular and clean sandbar present right at the opening to the dirt road in Hermosa. The waves are hollow breaking nearby the beach with lefts and rights.

Almendro

Almendro is located in front of a tall Almond Tree breaking in deep water and featuring a sand bottom with rights and lefts.

Tulin

Tulin is in front of the Soda Tulin south of the Backyard. The break is consistent and a bit bigger than other breaks. Surfers will also find a rivermouth break on the southern end of the beach.

Isla Herradura

Playa Herradura is not a major surf beach and does not offer any big waves for surfing. However, the beach is quite popular among the locals. A bit out to the sea Isla Herradura is present. It features a reef rocky break with a long left breaking over a rocky bottom. The break is inconsistent running up to 500 meters on a good day. You can reach the surf spot by paddling out or through a boat ride. Due to the presence of many rocks, the break is potentially dangerous and is only recommended to experienced surfers. Surf enthusiasts will be happy to know that the spot is almost always deserted.

El Gato

The waves of El Gato break right in front of Punta Guapinol just south of Jaco. The best time to surf the spot is at an upcoming tide. The break has a rocky bottom so be careful.

Roca Loca

Roca Loca is reef rocky break with powerful waves. Advanced surfers should head out to Roca Loca, which is quite a challenging point with clean breaks in deep water over the reefs.

Surf Forecast

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Caldera Regional Surfing Guide

Puerto Caldera is a major port of Costa Rica located in the Central Pacific Coast close to the Golfo de Nicoya, Puntarenas. While playing a very important role in the country’s trading system, Puerto Caldera has also become a popular tourist attraction. It sits in a beautiful, unspoiled location decorated with clean shorelines, swaying trees and tall cliffs. From the port, you can go on a cruise, wave riding or simply leisure around on the beach with a chilled drink in your hands. Surf breaks found in Caldera are:

Playa Caldera

Puerto Caldera features a protected jetty break with a fairly consistent surf. The surf breaks in both directions over a sandy bottom butfavors lefts more than the rights. The break at Puerto Caldera is suitable for all levels of surfers. On weekdays, the spot is deserted however on weekdays it can get super crowded. The water is polluted with frequent rips and undertows so be careful.

Playa Bajamar

Playa Bajamar is a secluded beach found a few kilometers away from Caldera. It features a very consistent reef rocky break perfect for experienced surfers. The waves break to the left over a flat sand rocky bottom. The surf best works during mid to high tide. The water is polluted and packed with urchins and rocks so be careful.

Playa Valor

Playa Valor is a grey sand beach that features a rocky point break with many lefts that can get quite good at a low tide. To access the beach, you will have to paddle across the river. The break is ideal for all levels of surfers. Watch out for rip currents, sharks and rocks. Playa Valor gets super crowded on weekends.

Tivives

Tivives is a port and bay located in the canton of Esparza on the Southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Puntarenas Province about 5 miles south of Caldera. The port town has a small grey sand beach that joins the river which then flows into the Pacific Ocean. The beach features a consistent point break that breaks to the left and right in a gnarly fashion at a rivermouth over a sandy bottom. The waves can be surfed by all levels of surfers. Playa Tivives is very crowded on weekends but you will the break deserted on weekdays.

Coralillo

Corralillo is located 15 to 30 minutes away from Puntarenas just south to Boca Barranca. It is left handed point break with a sandy bottom and regular waves. The surf point is a fun destination for all levels of surfers. The best time to catch the waves is at a mid to high tide with swells coming from the south and southwest. The break is deserted most of the times.

Playa Dona Ana

Playa Doña Ana is in North Puntarenas on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Travelers who want to have a taste of everything the tropical country is famous for should head to Dona Ana. The waves of Playa Dona Ana are rather demanding luring numerous surf enthusiasts from all over the globe. The beach features a point break that goes to the left breaking over a flat rocky sand bottom. The waves are very consistent, fast and create ledges frequently. Only experienced surfers should ride here. The beach is super crowded most of the time.

Boca Barranca

Located just north of Puerto Caldera, about 100 kilometers from San Jose, Boca Barranca is a left point break with world class waves. Boca Barranca is regarded as one of the best long-boarding waves in the world. After Pavones, it is the second longest left in Costa Rica making it a third longest wave in the world. Long boarders who desire to pick up and ride a long left should visit the tapering estuary of Boca Barranca located in El Roble. Even though the waves are excellent for long boarders, they won’t disappoint other surfers as well.

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North Guanacaste Surf Spots

Surf spots found on the northern part of Guanacaste are:

Playa Brasilito

Playa Brasilito is a beach town located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica on the North Pacific Coast. It used to be a small fishing community
which has now become tourist friendly and affordable holiday destination. Playa Brasilito features very easy and fun beach break to surf. Be it beginners or experts, anyone can have an awesome time here. To the delight of many visitors, the beach is isolated most the times. Watch out for the sharks.

Flamingo Point

The crescent shaped beach of Flamingo is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches of Costa Rica. Located on the Pacific coast in Guanacaste Province, Playa Flamingo boasts a sparkling white sand colored beach with pristine shores. Although it mainly pursues deep sea fishing, scuba diving and golfing, its point break called Flamingo Point attracts a good number of surfers. The break remains devoid of any crowd so surf enthusiasts can enjoy a surf session in peace.

Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja)

All hardcore surfers must have heard about the mysterious Witch’s Rock commonly known as Roca Bruja among the locals. The popular surfing destination is located close by Playa Naranjo in Santa Rosa National Park in the Guanacaste province. Featuring world class waves, Witch’s Rock creates powerful, fast and hollow waves during mid and high tides that break in both directions. It is one of the few locations where surfers of all skills can pick up the waves. The waves are forgiving to the beginners yet powerful enough to give a good challenge to a seasoned surfer. Witch’s Rock is mostly devoid of any crowds offering surf enthusiasts a perfect opportunity to surf in peace.

Ollie’s Point

Ollie’s Point is a popular surf spot located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica near the Nicaraguan border in Santa Rosa National Park. The hollows waves of Ollie’s Point first become popular when the surf destination was shown in a famous surf movie, Endless Summer II. Ollie’s Point is a right-hand point break at a river mouth featuring fast and hollow waves that break over a rocky bottom on the beach.. The platform is said to be ideal for long boarders and surfing condition is great throughout the year. The waves are excellent and smooth with superb consistency all year round. It has a moderate difficulty level with a number of dangerous rocks hence it is recommended that only experienced surfers ride the waves.

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Tamarindo Surf Spots Guide

Tamarindo is a popular beach town located in the province of Guanacaste on the Nicoya Peninsula on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The coastal town is a beautiful, quiet place but attracts plenty of tourists during the holiday season. The main pursuits of Tamarindo include eco tourism, sport fishing and surfing. There are clean sun kissed beaches offering various water activities against a scenic background of tropical greenery. On your first visit to Tamarindo, you will definitely be impressed by its stunning, deserted beach with perfect and consistent waves.

Surf Breaks

Playa Tamarindo

Playa Tamarindo is a long white sand beach with superb waves near the tidal river mouth also known as an estuary. The currents are really strong particularly when the tides fall. There are two main surf breaks here; Pico Pequeno and El Estero. These surf breaks are more or less geared towards the advanced surfers. Beginners and novices can practice surfing on rest of the beach. The waves are quite challenging and they can rise up to 12 feet during the months of November and December! The estuary is relatively unsafe for swimming because there are just too many rocks offshore which often become exposed at a low tide.

El Estero

El Estero is situated a short walk away from Tamarindo. It is an exposed rivermouth that breaks over a sand bottom. The break is known to offer consistent surfs throughout the year. It receives offshore winds from the east and good wind direction is from southwest and west. The spot is suitable for all surfers. Beginners can learn to ride the forgiving waves while experienced surfers can have a fun surf session especially when the swell is big. The break is crowd-free during the weekends. However, the beach gets jam packed on the weekends. The water is often very polluted.

Pico Pequeno

Pico Pequeño, also known as Little Peak, is a right handed beach break that breaks in front of the renowned hotel called Diria Hotel situated about 100 meters north to Tamarindo. Although, the waves seems gentle and forgiving but are actually quite strong and powerful. Beginner surfers should really stay away if they don’t to get ripped up

Playa Langosta

Located on the southern side of Tamarindo, there is small beach town called Playa Langosta. Playa Langosta is less crowded, more secluded and serene in contrast to its neighboring town. The white sand beach does not only have an exquisite locale but also boasts a powerful surf break at the southern end of the beach. The surf breaks left and right off the river mouth of Rio San Francisco. The classic waves of Playa Langosta put up a good fight against experienced surfers. Veterans aspiring to face a fun yet thrilling challenge will love the river mouth break.

Isla Capitan

Isla Capitana is a tiny island with an exposed reef break located right in front of Playa Tamarindo. The waves of the reef break on to this remote island. The surf breaks to the lefts on the north side and to the right on the southern side over a reef rocky bottom. You can reach the island by paddling out or by renting a boat. The distance is about 40 minutes long from Tamarindo. The waves should only be surfed at a low tide. The surf spot is only recommended to experienced surfers. Watch out for the rocks.

Capitan Suiza

Capitan Suzia is a regular and inconsistent beach break found on Playa Tamarindo perfect for all sorts of surfers.m

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is a spectacular beach located on the northern end of Tamarindo. eatures a beach break well known for its long rides and barrels. The waves are very regular breaking to the left and right. They are best surfed at mid to high tide. If you are a novice, you should hit the ocean when the tide is rising as it offers a perfect condition.

Surf Forecast

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Playa Negra Regional Surf Guide

Playa Negra is a gray sand surfing beach located in Los Pargos, in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica, just south to Tamarindo. The remarkable beach is a renowned tourist hot spot particularly among surfers. Moreover, visitors will find a string of surf camps and shops standing along the beach. Playa Negra is popular due to its consistent, clean waves and easy access. It is also close by other surf spots such as Playa Avellana and Tamarindo. Playa Negra instantly gained popularity when it was featured in a memorable surf movie called Endless Summer II.

Surf Breaks

Playa Negra

Playa Negra is a fabulous surf point for those who are seeking a thrilling challenge. For a hardcore surfer, the incredible surf break with its consistent right hand barrels is really fun to ride. Although the beach is easily reached, the take off zone is a very small area accommodating only about a dozen of surfers. To this date, the black beach is regarded by many veteran surfers to be one of the best surf points in Costa Rica.

Playa Callejones

Playa Callejones is a lesser known break located south to Playa Negra. It is a beach break with fantastic rights and lefts that break over a sandy bottom. It is great option for novices who are not yet ready for the powerful waves of Playa Negra.

Marbella

Playa Marbella is a pretty surfer’s beach sandwiched between Junquillal and Ostional. It boasts two spectacular spots for surfers: Playa Frijolar and Playa Coco. Playa Frijolar is a left hand point break featuring a superb set of waves ideal for beginners but veteran surfers can also have a fabulous time. Playa Coco is a beach break with huge, hollow A-frame barreling waves that breaks to left and right. Even though the break is optimum for all levels of surfers, the break is more suitable for experienced surfers especially when the swells are large.

Playa Lagarto

Playa Lagarto is a tranquil fishing village with superb marine creatures. The place is getting very popular among surfers. It is known to get amazing A frame waves that can create solid tubes when teamed up with offshore winds. Playa Lagarto is a widely remote area with no crowds. All sorts of surfers can ride the waves and have fun.

Playa Junquillal

Playa Junquillal is 4 km long strip of beach offering a wide range of sporty activities. Sportfishing, surfing, kayaking and many other fun activities are possible. As the waves are strong with frequent currents, swimming is not recommended. Playa Junquillal is a great beach for veteran surfers. Devoid of any crowds, seasoned surfers can have a lifetime of fun riding the powerful waves.

Avellanas

Featuring remarkable offshore waves, huge swells and a serene beach, Playa Avellanas is a sanctuary for surfers. There is a wide range of breaks on the beach. Even though most breaks are suitable for seasoned surfers, intermediate and beginners can also take a ride. Be it weekdays or weekends, the beach hardly ever gets crowded.

Little Hawaii

Across the rivermouth in Playa Avellanas, Little Hawaii is present. The spot is quite popular among the locals. It is a right handed rocky inlet that breaks over rocks. The best time to surf is at low to mid tide. Little Hawaii has challenging waves with shallow reefs and should only be ridden by experienced surfers.

Surf Forecast

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