BEST SURF SPOTS IN COSTA RICA
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The Top 20 Surf spots in Costa Rica:
Playa samara
Playa Samara - Costa Rica
Playa Samara features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom and ordinary power. The spot is accessible via a paved road from Nicoya, with instant access available within 5 minutes. It primarily works at high tide during rising tide conditions.
Known for its beginner to intermediate-friendly waves, Playa Samara offers a unique surfing experience in Costa Rica, where heavy waves are more common. Located just 150 meters from the town center, in front of Bar Las Olas, it provides a relaxed atmosphere with few surfers during the week and weekends. For more adventurous surfers, boat trips to nearby Camaronal and other excellent waves in Samara Bay are available, making it a versatile destination for all skill levels.
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Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio - Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The surf is best at mid to high tide, primarily during swells from the South and South-West. The wave power ranges from ordinary to fun, making it suitable for beginners and casual surfers.
Located about 45 minutes south of Jaco, Manuel Antonio is a vibrant surf spot surrounded by lush jungle, ideal for new surfers looking for a relaxed atmosphere. Access is easy, with guarded parking near the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park. While the beach can get crowded, especially on weekends, the local vibe remains friendly. For those seeking larger waves, a short walk north can lead to more challenging conditions. Be mindful of local surfers, particularly in the nearby Playitas area, and enjoy the unique blend of surf and nature this spot offers.
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Camaronal
Camaronal - Costa Rica
Camaronal features a powerful beach break with hollow and fast waves, breaking both right and left over a sandy bottom. This spot can hold up to triple overhead and is surfable all day, although conditions can be affected by wind and strong currents. It works at all tides, making it a versatile choice for surfers.
Located in a remote area, Camaronal offers an unspoiled surf experience with no nearby services. Access is best from December through April, with a route through Samara and Carrillo, crossing a river at low tide. While the beach is often uncrowded, be cautious of rip currents and occasional wildlife such as sharks and crocodiles. The closest towns, Samara and Punta Islita, provide essential amenities, making the trip worthwhile for dedicated surfers seeking adventure in a pristine setting.
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Playa Guiones
Playa Guiones - Nosara, Costa Rica
Playa Guiones features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible via a short walk (less than 5 minutes) from the parking area, located about 1.6 kilometers south of Nosara. It works well at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides, particularly with an east wind.
Known for its consistent surf and beautiful surroundings, Playa Guiones attracts a diverse crowd of surfers year-round. The beach offers ample space for various board types, including shortboards, funboards, longboards, and bodyboards. While the area can get busy, especially on weekends, surfers can often find their own space. For those seeking more challenging waves, nearby beach breaks to the north provide additional options. With a laid-back vibe and nearby accommodations, Playa Guiones is an ideal destination for surfers of all levels.
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Dominical
Dominical - Costa Rica
Dominical features a powerful beach break with both right and left waves, set on a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, and powerful, making it suitable for experienced surfers. The spot works best at mid and high tide, with rising and falling tides, and is accessible within a 5-minute walk.
Playa Dominical is a laid-back surf town, less developed than nearby Jaco and Tamarindo, offering a mile-long stretch of beach that can handle serious swells ranging from 1.5 m to 3 m. The consistent surf is complemented by stunning tropical rainforest scenery. While the vibe is generally chill, surfers should remain aware of potential rips and undertow. The area is known for its clean water and exotic surroundings, making it an excellent choice for surf enthusiasts seeking reliable waves and a relaxed atmosphere. Just be cautious of stingrays while paddling out.
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Playa Coyote
Playa Coyote - Costa Rica
Playa Coyote features a powerful beach break with fast waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible via a 4x4 vehicle parked directly on the beach, allowing for instant access in under 5 minutes.
Located north of Punta Coyote, this surf spot remains largely uncrowded throughout the week and on weekends. The ideal conditions occur during mid to high tide with a rising tide, complemented by northwest winds. Surfers should be cautious of potential shark encounters while enjoying this hidden gem, which offers a unique experience away from the crowds.
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El Estero- Tamarindo
El Estero - Tamarindo
El Estero features a rivermouth wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The wave offers ordinary to fun power and is best surfed during mid to high tide, particularly on a rising tide. Access is straightforward, located in the heart of Tamarindo with instant access within 5 minutes.
Tamarindo is a vibrant surf destination on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, attracting a diverse crowd of surfers. The beach is surrounded by lush landscapes, providing a laid-back atmosphere. While El Estero offers consistent waves, it can become crowded, especially on weekends. In addition to the rivermouth peaks, nearby reef breaks like Pico Pequeño and Diria cater to various skill levels, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Timing your sessions is crucial to avoid the crowds and maximize your wave count.
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Islita
Islita - Costa Rica
Islita features a beach break with both right and left waves, set over a sandy bottom. This spot is ideal for beginners looking to enhance their skills, particularly during mid and high tide when the waves can become fun. Caution is advised during high tide due to the potential for larger waves.
Accessing Islita requires a 4x4 vehicle from Samara Beach, with two routes available. The beach is relatively secluded, offering a relaxed atmosphere with few surfers, especially during the week. A notable landmark is a stick marking underwater rocks to the east, which should be avoided. While the beach is short, it provides a unique opportunity for novice surfers to practice in a tranquil setting, making it a hidden gem for those willing to make the trek.
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Bajamar
Bajamar - Costa Rica
Bajamar features left-breaking waves over a rocky reef with a bottom of flat rocks and sand. The spot is best during the September-October storms, attracting experienced surfers. It works at mid and high tide, particularly on a rising tide, and is generally uncrowded during the week.
Accessing Bajamar is straightforward; from Orotina, drive to Caldera, take the La Ceiba exit after 10 km, and continue for another 8 km. The area is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for a chill surf day. However, surfers should be cautious of local dangers such as urchins, rocks, and pollution. While the waves can be decent, it's crucial to be aware of the local wildlife, including crocodiles and sharks, especially near the nearby reefs. Always scout the area before paddling out to ensure a safe and enjoyable session.
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Barrigona
Barrigona - Costa Rica
Barrigona features a point break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for being fast, powerful, and fun, particularly during mid tide with a rising tide. Strong currents can be present, making it essential for surfers to be cautious of rips and undertow.
Nestled in a stunning natural setting, Barrigona is a hidden gem that remains uncrowded, even on weekends. Accessible via dirt roads requiring a 4WD, the beach is located near the village of Esterones. Visitors can park near the river mouth, but should avoid leaving valuables in their vehicles. The beach offers a serene atmosphere, with clear blue waters and a backdrop of lush jungle. Nearby, Playa Buenavista provides accommodation options, and the beach can be reached on foot during low tide. With minimal crowds and a picturesque environment, Barrigona is perfect for those seeking a tranquil surf experience.
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Playa Avellana
Playa Avellana - Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Playa Avellana features a beach break with both right and left waves, set on a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible via a short walk from a parking area about 10 km south of Tamarindo, though the journey is more like 20 km on dirt roads. It works well at all tides, with fun wave conditions.
This surf spot is renowned for its diverse breaks, including rocky reef sections and a rivermouth, stretching approximately 2 kilometers. Avellana often receives more swell than nearby Tamarindo, making it a prime alternative when conditions are flat elsewhere. The atmosphere is a blend of expats and tourists, with manageable crowds due to multiple peaks. While not beginner-friendly, it offers options for various skill levels. Be mindful of the local pig that frequents the surf, and watch out for rocks in the water.
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Pelada
Pelada - North of Playa Guiones, Costa Rica
Pelada is a reef break characterized by both right and left waves, with a bottom consisting of coral and sharp rocks mixed with sand. The spot works well at all tides, particularly with a northwest swell during incoming high tide. Access is easy, with less than a 5-minute walk from parking.
Nestled between Playa Guiones and Playa Nosara, Pelada offers a laid-back vibe, though it can become crowded under optimal conditions. The spot provides decent protection from southern winds, making it suitable for intermediate surfers. While the take-off area is limited, the waves can be hollow and ledgey, presenting a fun challenge. Be cautious of the rocky bottom, especially when riding close to the reef. Local eateries like "La Luna" and "Olga" enhance the experience, making it a great place to relax after a surf session.
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Junquillal
Junquillal - Costa Rica
Junquillal features a beach break with hollow, fast, and powerful waves breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with flat rocks. This spot works at all tides and is best with a southwest swell and northwest winds.
Located south of Tamarindo and north of Nosara, Junquillal is a remote surf destination that often sees minimal crowds. A short walk from Hotel Iquanazul leads to multiple peaks that provide thrilling rights and lefts, especially during higher tides. The waves jack up quickly off the sandbar, offering an exhilarating drop-in experience. Surfers should be cautious of stingrays while entering the water and remain aware of rips and undertow. With its serene atmosphere and consistent conditions, Junquillal is a must-visit for those seeking a more secluded surf experience in Costa Rica.
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Playa Langosta
Playa Langosta - Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Playa Langosta features a rivermouth wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for its fast and fun waves, particularly during low and mid tides with rising tide conditions. Access is via a dirt road south of Cala Luna Resort, with instant access to the beach within 5 minutes.
Located about a mile south of downtown Tamarindo, Langosta offers a consistent beachbreak and a wide rivermouth, making it a solid option for surfers year-round, especially during Southern Hemi swells. While the main peak can attract a crowd, it remains more relaxed compared to nearby spots like Tamarindo or Playa Grande. The vibe can intensify during good surf, and although parking is limited, using a taxi is advisable for those not staying nearby. With a mix of local surfers and expats, Playa Langosta provides a unique surfing experience away from the busier beaches.
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raps
Raps - Costa Rica
Raps features powerful right-breaking reef waves over a sharp coral and rocky bottom. This surf spot is accessible by a 15-30 minute walk or by boat, with public access available. It works best at low and mid tide during falling tide conditions.
Located in a remote area, Raps is not for the faint-hearted, as it is known for its strong currents and the presence of marine life, including sharks. The waves are consistent, attracting a crowded lineup on both weekdays and weekends. Surfers should be cautious of urchins, rips, and rocks while navigating the waters. Ideal wind directions are Southeast, East, and Northeast, with swell coming from the West, Southwest, and South. This spot offers an exhilarating experience for adventurous surfers willing to tackle its challenges.
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Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa - Costa Rica
Santa Teresa features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves, breaking over a bottom of flat rocks and sand. The waves are known for being hollow, fast, powerful, and fun. This spot is accessible with a short walk (less than 5 minutes) from the center of Santa Teresa, making it convenient for surfers.
Playa Santa Teresa is a renowned surf destination on the Nicoya Peninsula, celebrated for its stunning white sand and vibrant atmosphere. The area caters to a mix of surfers and beachgoers, with various accommodations available. While the surf can be enjoyed by many, be cautious of local surfers, particularly at Suck Rock, where the crowd can be more competitive. Conditions are best during low to mid tides, so timing your sessions is crucial. Additionally, be aware of riptides and hidden urchins, which can pose risks while enjoying the waves.
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Jaco Beach
Jaco Beach - Costa Rica
Jaco Beach features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible via a two-hour bus ride from San Jose, with instant access within five minutes on foot. It works best during mid to high tide with rising tide conditions.
Known for its warm waters and vibrant atmosphere, Jaco Beach offers a mix of fun surfing and stunning sunsets. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can get crowded. The north side of the beach typically has larger waves, especially on big days, while the south side provides a more relaxed experience. Be cautious of rips and undertow, which can pose dangers for surfers. Overall, Jaco Beach is a great destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the surf and local culture.
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Playa Negra
Playa Negra - Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Playa Negra features powerful, hollow right-hand reef breaks over sharp rocks, making it a challenging spot for experienced surfers. The wave conditions are optimal during mid to high tide, with rising and falling tides enhancing the surf experience. Access is straightforward, with instant access available and parking at Hotel Playa Negra.
This renowned surf destination attracts a mix of surfers, but its challenging nature makes it best suited for experts. The beach's unique combination of uneven reef and sand creates a dynamic environment for wave action. While the ideal wind direction is northeast, which helps set up rides, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak surf season. The mellow atmosphere and beautiful surroundings add to the allure, making Playa Negra a must-visit for those seeking an authentic surfing experience in Costa Rica.
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Flamingo Point
Flamingo Point - Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica
Flamingo Point is a fun, infrequent left point break with a hollow wave that breaks over a sharp coral reef. It works best at low and mid tide during rising swell from the South and Southwest. Access is straightforward, with public parking available near the cliff house after a short walk.
Located near luxury hotels, Flamingo Point offers a more consistent wave for intermediates seeking to escape the crowds. The spot can deliver good form when conditions align, making it a worthwhile check. If the waves aren't cooperating, nearby Brasilito may provide better options with W-NW swells. Overall, Flamingo Point is ideal for surfers looking for a relaxing session in a less crowded environment, surrounded by the beauty of tropical fish and stunning scenery.
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Tamarindo
Tamarindo - Costa Rica
Tamarindo features both right and left-breaking waves over a sandy and rocky bottom, primarily at a reef. The spot is best surfed in the early morning and afternoon, as daytime conditions yield smaller waves. Access is straightforward, with public parking and beachfront hotels like El Capitan nearby. A short walk (5-15 minutes) leads to various surf locations, but caution is advised due to rocks.
This vibrant surf destination on the Pacific coast is renowned for its consistent waves and lively atmosphere, attracting surfers of all levels. Tamarindo offers a mix of surf spots, including the reliable rivermouth peaks at Estero and several reef breaks such as Pico Pequeño and Diria. While the waves cater to beginners and advanced surfers alike, weekends can see a surge in crowds, so timing your sessions is crucial for a more enjoyable experience.
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